How many beaches: I advise
three islands in 10 days. Transfers eat half a day each, and a new island adds little once you have found a good house reef. A fourth stop costs you a full day plus about US$20 to 60 in boat fares.
Which kind to prioritize: Snorkelers and divers get the most from a
local island with a house reef, where you walk into the water free. Sunbathers on a budget should choose islands with a
dedicated bikini beach, since the village shoreline is off limits for swimwear. A resort day pass at US$80 to 200 saves nights of resort prices but cuts into time and money, so do it once, not repeatedly. Sandbank and picnic-island trips of US$30 to 60 give the best value per hour.
Budget: Plan
US$80 to 150 a day: guesthouse US$60 to 120, meals US$15 to 30 at local cafés, and snorkel gear …
read more 👉 How many beaches: I advise three islands in 10 days. Transfers eat half a day each, and a new island adds little once you have found a good house reef. A fourth stop costs you a full day plus about US$20 to 60 in boat fares.Which kind to prioritize: Snorkelers and divers get the most from a local island with a house reef, where you walk into the water free. Sunbathers on a budget should choose islands with a dedicated bikini beach, since the village shoreline is off limits for swimwear. A resort day pass at US$80 to 200 saves nights of resort prices but cuts into time and money, so do it once, not repeatedly. Sandbank and picnic-island trips of US$30 to 60 give the best value per hour.Budget: Plan US$80 to 150 a day: guesthouse US$60 to 120, meals US$15 to 30 at local cafés, and snorkel gear rental at US$5 to 10. Public ferries cost about US$1 to 5, speedboats US$20 to 60. A guided snorkel excursion runs US$25 to 50, and a whale shark or manta trip US$50 to 90. A 12 percent service charge and the green tax of US$6 a night apply on top of many rates, so confirm what is included.Safety and culture: Cover up in villages, with shoulders and knees covered, and swim only in the designated area. Skip alcohol and public displays of affection. Currents at channel edges can be strong, so snorkel with a buoy or guide. Never touch coral or turtles, and use reef-safe sunscreen, since the equatorial sun burns fast, even under cloud.