When my friends and I decided to go to the Maldives on a budget trip, the first Island that pops up all our mobile screens was Maafushi and the best place to stay in Maafushi, the Kaani Beach Hotel. Don't get confused with other 5 star properties by Kaani, this one is the affordable options, and it is a 4-star Hotel.
Trip to Maafushi from Mali airport will cost you around 18 -19 USD. We paid in Maldivian Rufiyaa, and it was 300 Rufiyaa per person. It took approximately 45 minutes on a speed boat, and the typical ship will take 2 hours to reach, which is a complete waste of time. Trust me; you don't want to miss anything in that precious 1 hour in this heaven.
Upon reaching the hotel, we were greeted well, and the staff seemed amiable. We have given welcome drinks, and it calmed us down after a sun-drenched walk on the Mali soil. The staff even hooked up us with a whole day snorkeling deal for a cheap rate. The room was very spacious, with one double bed and two single bed. Perfect for four people and since we were just three, it was plenty.
The hotel has a beach right in front of it with shallow water, and we were managed to walk a lot into the ocean. More than 500 m from the shore and it was still shallow. We spotted baby sharks and stingrays in the water. They have put some swings hanging from the coconut trees right outside the hotel near to the beach. You can enjoy a peaceful evening with your loved ones/friends on this shore.
The only problem we had with the room was the view. The balcony was on the side of the hotel, and there was construction going on the adjacent building. So, we missed out on the view. Better check with them before check-in to your room. Again, since it is a 4-bedroom, I don't think they have any of such which has a beach view.
There is a lovely restaurant which provides complimentary breakfast, and the buffet was terrific. In our four days stay here, we have tried many dishes, and some of them were authentic Maldivian food. The room service was stunning, and they did a great job of keeping the room and changing the sheets now and then.
If you are looking for a budget hotel in Maafushi, this is the best. We have walked almost around the whole Island, and we couldn't find any better place other than this to stay. The pricing was also excellent. 100% recommend this if you are on a budget trip. After all, the room is to sleep; all the fun is outside.