Artificial Beach: Malé's Seaside Living Room

In a city built right up to the water's edge, Artificial Beach is the place to actually get in it. A short curve of sand protected by breakwaters on Malé's east side, it's busy with swimmers in the morning, families in the evening, and stages and crowds on public holidays. Cafés and kiosks line the road behind the beach, so grab a drink and stay for the sunset over the harbour. Tip: the water is calmest early in the day. Swimwear is fine here, but cover up when you walk back into town.