Is the Maldives sinking

Why the Maldives is more vulnerable than most

The Maldives is a country of extremes—stunning beauty and fragile geography. It’s made up of 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, all sitting on top of an ancient volcanic mountain range. The highest natural point is just 2.4 meters above sea level, making it the lowest-lying country in the world. Unlike continental coastlines, these islands are made of coral and sand, not rock. They’re dynamic—shifting with tides, storms, and currents. But they’re also vulnerable. Rising sea levels, erosion, and coral bleaching are real threats. Some islands have already lost land, and others are investing in coastal protection to keep the ocean at bay. The good news? The Maldives isn’t sinking like a stone. The process is gradual, and resorts are adapting. But the clock is ticking, and the islands you visit today may look different in 20 years.

What’s actually happening to the islands?

The Maldives faces two main challenges: rising sea levels and coastal erosion. Sea levels in the Indian Ocean are rising at about 3 to 4 millimeters per year, which is slightly higher than the global average. Over time, this erodes shorelines and increases the risk of flooding during storms. Erosion is already visible on some islands. Beaches that were once wide and pristine are now narrower, and resorts are spending millions on sand replenishment and seawalls. Coral bleaching—caused by warming ocean temperatures—is another concern. Healthy coral reefs act as natural barriers, protecting islands from waves and storms. But when coral dies, that protection weakens. Some islands are more at risk than others. The southern atolls, which sit closer to the equator, experience more rainfall and storms, accelerating erosion. The northern atolls, where many luxury resorts are located, are slightly more stable but still face long-term threats.

How resorts are fighting back

The Maldives isn’t sitting idle. Resorts are taking action to protect their islandsand their businesses. Here’s what they’re doing: First, coastal protection. Some resorts have built seawalls or installed sandbags to prevent erosion. Others are using artificial reefs—structures made of concrete or metal—to break waves and encourage coral growth. Second, sand replenishment. Many resorts regularly pump sand from lagoons onto their beaches to replace what’s lost to erosion. It’s an expensive process, but it keeps the shoreline looking pristine. Third, sustainability initiatives. Resorts like Soneva Fushi and Six Senses Laamu are leading the way in eco-friendly practices. They’re reducing plastic waste, using solar power, and even growing their own food in organic gardens. Some are also restoring coral reefs, which helps protect islands from waves and storms. Finally, new island development. As some islands become less habitable, resorts are opening on new ones. These developments are often built with sustainability in mind, using elevated structures and renewable energy. The message is clear: the Maldives is adapting. But it’s a race against time, and not all resorts are equally prepared.

Will your trip be affected?

If you’re planning a trip to the Maldives in the next few years, you won’t notice much difference. The resorts are still open, the beaches are still beautiful, and the marine life is still thriving. But there are a few things to keep in mind: First, some islands are more stable than others. The northern atolls, where many luxury resorts are located, are less prone to erosion and storms than the southern atolls. If you’re worried about the future, Fede recommends focusing on resorts in Baa Atoll or Noonu Atoll. Second, weather patterns are becoming less predictable. The dry season (January to April) is still the best time to visit, but even then, you might encounter unexpected rain or storms. The wet season (May to October) is more affordable, but it’s also when erosion and flooding are more likely to occur. Third, sustainability matters. If you want to support resorts that are taking action to protect the Maldives, look for properties with strong eco-credentials. Soneva Fushi, Six Senses Laamu, and Gili Lankanfushi are all great options. Finally, don’t wait too long. The Maldives you visit in 2025 won’t be the same as the Maldives of 2035. If you’ve been dreaming of these islands, now is the time to go.

What I’d actually book

If you’re looking for a resort that balances luxury with sustainability, my pick is Soneva Fushi. It’s one of the most eco-friendly resorts in the Maldives, with a strong focus on coral restoration and renewable energy. The villas are stunning—some with private pools, others with direct ocean accessand the house reef is concentrated with marine life. Soneva Fushi is also leading the way in sustainability. They’ve banned single-use plastic, use solar power, and even have their own organic garden. Plus, they’re actively restoring coral reefs, which helps protect the island from erosion. If you’re traveling with family, Fede recommends Gili Lankanfushi. It’s another eco-conscious resort, with a focus on marine conservation. The overwater villas are spacious and family-friendly, and the resort offers a range of activities for kids, from snorkeling to marine biology workshops. For couples, Six Senses Laamu is a fantastic choice. It’s one of the most romantic resorts in the Maldives, with private pool villas and overwater bungalows. The resort is also committed to sustainability, with a focus on coral restoration and reducing plastic waste. No matter which resort you choose, Fede recommends booking sooner rather than later. The Maldives is changing, and the experience you have today may not be the same in a few years.

The honest bit

Let’s be real: the Maldives isn’t perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you book: First, it’s expensive. The Maldives is one of the most luxurious destinations in the world, and the price tag reflects that. Resorts in the northern atolls—where the best weather and most stable islands are located—can cost thousands of dollars per night. Second, it’s remote. Most resorts are located on private islands, accessible only by seaplane or speedboat. If you’re prone to seasickness or don’t like small spaces, the transfer can be a challenge. Third, the weather isn’t always predictable. The dry season (January to April) is the best time to visit, but even then, you might encounter rain or storms. The wet season (May to October) is more affordable, but it’s also when erosion and flooding are more likely to occur. Fourth, not all resorts are equally sustainable. Some are doing great things for the environment, while others are just paying lip service. If sustainability matters to you, do your research before booking. Finally, the Maldives is changing. Some islands are eroding, and resorts are investing in coastal protection to keep the ocean at bay. The experience you have today may not be the same in a few years, so if you’ve been dreaming of these islands, don’t wait too long.

What’s next for the Maldives?

The Maldives is at a crossroads. Rising sea levels and coastal erosion are real threats, but the country is also taking action to protect its future. Here’s what’s next: First, more sustainable resorts. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, resorts are stepping up their sustainability efforts. Expect to see more solar power, coral restoration, and plastic-free initiatives in the coming years. Second, new island development. As some islands become less habitable, resorts are opening on new ones. These developments are often built with sustainability in mind, using elevated structures and renewable energy. Third, climate adaptation. The Maldives government is investing in coastal protection, including seawalls and artificial reefs. Some islands may even be elevated to protect them from rising sea levels. Fourth, marine conservation. Coral reefs are vital to the Maldives’ survival, and resorts are investing in restoration efforts. Expect to see more marine protected areas and eco-friendly diving practices. Finally, a shift in tourism. As the Maldives changes, so will the way people visit. Travelers may start to prioritize sustainability, choosing resorts that are taking action to protect the environment. The Maldives isn’t sinking overnight. But it is changing, and the decisions we make today will shape its future. If you’ve been dreaming of these islands, now is the time to goand to support the resorts that are fighting to protect them.