Vacationing in the Maldives can be a beautiful experience. It often begins in Malé, with the newly-arrived international guests boarding a seaplane controlled by a barefoot pilot. Soon they find themselves soaring above the turquoise sea strewn by lagoons and islands, glimmering in the sun like green jewels. Which of these will be your destination? And which of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives will embrace you in their paradisiac surroundings and wow with top service? Take your pick from our Best Luxury Resorts in the Maldives list (updated for 2023).
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“It took over twenty years of setting the barefoot luxury trends for Soneva to re-focus on the Maldives. In their latest project, the philosophy and the aesthetics of the brand come together in shaping Jani to be a perfect escapist resort.”
— from our review of Soneva Jani.
The design of Soneva Jani is perfectly tuned to the idea of the barefoot beach holiday, with architecture and interiors celebrating Soneva’s unique brand style. The seamless service makes every day here special, and the location is as pure as they get. The resort is situated off a large island and is surrounded by vast, blue shallows of one of the largest lagoons in the country. It’s one of our favorite resorts in the Maldives.
We love it for: The massive overwater villas, each with a private infinity pool and a movable roof above the bedroom (wonderful for stargazing as you fall asleep). Many villas have water slides; they are great fun.
Pro tip: There is plenty of attractions for all, but Soneva Jani is ideal for couples.
See the review from our stay for more: Soneva Jani, Maldives.
Alternatively, book Soneva Jani via:
Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Soneva
“Quietly fabulous and effortlessly sophisticated, Joali Maldives introduced its own unique brand of luxury to a destination that has seen it all”— from our review of Joali Maldives.
It’s not easy for a new resort to truly stand out, especially in a destination teeming with some of the most attractive hotels in the world. But Joali managed to do it; it made a huge impression on us, earning a place among the few properties in the country we consider as having the wow factor. The resort emphasizes the essentials of luxury experience, craftsmanship, and service, honed to perfection. We loved the sophisticated interior design and the overall carefree atmosphere of the island. Also, picnic in a house-sized manta ray shack, anyone?
We love it for: Our over-water villa was enormous! The spaciousness felt like part of the physical design, contributing to the sense of beauty.
Pro tip: Joali is one of the most expensive hotels in the Maldives. It’s also relatively small and private. All of which is appreciated by people in the limelight (we did spot a celebrity).
See the review from our stay for more: JOALI Maldives, Maldives.
Alternatively, book JOALI Maldives via:
Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Joali
Soneva Fushi is the original desert island hideaway in the Maldives. It practically invented the “castaway chic” fashion all on its own, centered around the “no-news, no-shoes” concept (we went barefoot for the entire stay). The resort occupies one of the largest islands in the Maldives, covered with mature greenery and many beaches (check out our photos: here and here). The villas are beautifully designed and private; each is equipped with bikes (cycling around the island felt great!). The food is a highlight, and the free ice cream parlor (with a separate chocolate room) was our favorite indulgence.
We love it for: Honed-to-perfection service and the atmosphere of a fairytale stay. Our favorite hangout was the ‘Out of the Blue’, the overwater sunset bar, where we lounged on hammock-like nets hung above the waves.
Pro tip: Soneva Fushi is perfect for families with children. The Den, Soneva Fushi’s concept children’s club, is out of this world.
See the review from our stay: Soneva Fushi, Maldives.
Alternatively, book Soneva Fushi via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos (including the leading shot at the top of the article) © Soneva
“Six Senses Laamu has all the ingredients of the perfect holiday — not least of which is the resort’s genuine rustic luxury, presented in a pure atmosphere of carefree relaxation.” — from our review of Six Senses Laamu.
We are fans of the Six Senses‘ original concept of rustic chic. The chain’s Maldivian outpost is perhaps the best example of the philosophy that masterfully combines beautiful remote locations, eco-living, and uncompromising luxury. It’s a great choice for romantic vacations and honeymoons. Make sure you try the spa!
We love it for: Our accommodation. The Ocean Water Villa featured an outdoor platform with day beds, sun loungers, over-water netting, and a sunken dining area with a glass floor.
Pro tip: The island is quite big, and the resort is spread out, but all guests are given bicycles. You can also call an electric buggy.
See the review from our stay: Six Senses Laamu, Maldives
Alternatively, book Six Senses Laamu via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
Planning a five-star holiday in Seychelles? Start here!
After a few days at One&Only Reethi Rah, we felt we could stay here for a month and not get bored. With its fabulous style, glamorous atmosphere, and sheer wealth of attractions, Reethi Rah is like a cross between a spa resort, an exclusive country club, and a billionaire’s playground. Though it does not feel like it, the island is mostly human-made, and the beaches are vast and empty. The villas are well spread out and feel private.
We love it for: Accommodation. Our Beach Villa with Pool had a large beach just in front, a great swimming pool, a beach hammock, and plenty of roaming space. We also stayed in a massive over-water villa with a multi-level deck surrounded by lounging nets spread over blue shallows.
Pro tip: Reethi Rah is vast, but each villa has bicycles, and the on-call buggy service is efficient. You can also hire a buggy for a whole day.
See the review from our stay: One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives.
Alternatively, book One&Only Reethi Rah via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © One&Only Resorts
“This resort is a gem that wows with the astonishing contemporary design, set against the pristine beauty of its secluded lagoon location” —from our review of St Regis Vommuli
You should expect the unexpected from the Maldivian resorts, as they share one common trait: the desire to wow and enchant with something new or unique. That something at the St Regis Maldives Vommuli is its striking architecture by the Singapore-based WOW Architects. While we saw plenty of photos before visiting, seeing these sharp, sleek, bold, almost otherworldly structures with our own eyes was quite different. The most eye-catchy creations here are the beautiful spa, inspired by the shape of a lobster, and the bar evoking a whale shark.
We love it for: Other than the incredible architecture, we also have to mention our over-water villa. It was elegant and eminently comfortable, with a private deck and a swimming pool (see this video on our Instagram!). The food was also amazing and, in many ways, a true highlight of the stay.
Pro tip: It takes a 40-minute seaplane flight to get here from Malé, as the resort stands in a relatively remote atoll.
See the review from our stay: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort.
Alternatively, book St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort via: Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com | Marriott Bonvoy or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Marriott International
“Located on a dreamy coral island and surrounded by the shimmering ocean, Gili Lankanfushi turned out to be as beautiful and serene as we had anticipated”
—from our review of Gili Lankanfushi
Gili Lankanfushi is recognized as one of the finest water villa resorts in the world. This reputation is well deserved. Gili Lankafushi offers a truly serene experience that epitomizes a relaxed island luxury. It has lush nature, uncompromising standards of luxury and service, subtly refined design, and an intimate atmosphere.
We love it for: The celebrated villas-on-stilts have a real wow factor (see this video from our villa). A string of them are standalone, and you can only get to them by boat. Also, bamboo bikes!
Pro tip: Private, low-key, and tranquil, this resort is ideal for couples and honeymooners.
See the review from our stay: Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives.
Alternatively, book Gili Lankanfushi via:
Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © HPL Hotels & Resorts
Your ultimate go-to list for travel inspiration
Fari Islands in the North Malé Atoll, a fifty-minute speedboat ride from the Male airport (or a ten-minute seaplane hop), host a remarkable “integrated development” project with three new luxury resorts. One of them is the Ritz-Carlton. The resort has one hundred villas ranging from one- to three-bedroom, and it features two bars and as many as six restaurants, one helmed by a Michelin–starred chef. There is also a dive center, extensive health and wellness facilities, a kids club, a tennis court, and even a photography studio.
We love it for: Guests benefit from a dedicated aris meehaa (personal butler) for every villa.
Pro tip: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is the third five-star property from the Marriott group in the country, the first two being St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and W Maldives (both of which we stayed at and reviewed).
Alternatively, book The Ritz-Carlton Maldives via:
Expedia | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © The Ritz-Carlton
“Maalifushi encapsulates the spirit of an idyllic tropical life, serving the experience of barefoot luxury… and the pure escape-from-it-all” — from our review of COMO Maalifushi
COMO Maalifushi is all about peace and tranquillity; as such, it is as serene a destination as you can find. Restorative yoga, top-notch spa treatments, and excellent, healthy food are all parts of body-and-mind restoration. Even scents add to the experience — and this island smells good, thanks to Shambhala, COMO’s range of high-quality cosmetics in bathrooms.
We love it for: We enjoyed watching sunsets with a drink in hand at the overwater bar, and the seclusion and a laid-back feel all over the island, but the true highlight was our villa-on-stilts with a swimming pool.
Pro tip: It was perfect for us — but guests looking for a happening atmosphere may find COMO Maalifushi too quiet and remote.
See the review from our stay: COMO Maalifushi, Maldives
Alternatively, book COMO Maalifushi via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © COMO Hotels & Resorts
Equally romantic and family-friendly, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru offers spacious luxury villas spread widely across a tropical island wilderness. Visitors can expect five-star facilities, world-class cuisine, pristine beaches, and the famous, impeccable service, for which we love returning to Four Seasons resorts.
We love it for: The beach or water villas are private, comfortable, well designed, and with private infinity pools. They feature thatched roofs, coral walls, and interiors set in turquoise and sand colors.
Pro tip: The seaplane ride is the only practical way of getting to the island from the international airport (it’s a 40-minute flight). You can hire a speedboat, but the journey would take more than three hours.
Alternatively, book Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru via:
Tablet Hotels | Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Four Seasons Hotels Limited
“COMO Cocoa has an atmosphere of a tiny uninhabited island, where ‘worry’ is not in the dictionary. All you need to remember is to pack the swimsuit… and maybe a couple of books.” — from our review of COMO Cocoa Island.
COMO Cocoa Island serves a pure tropical island experience with pared-down simplicity. A world-class spa, excellent food, warm sand between your toes, sun and turquoise ocean… there isn’t much more we would want from a small Maldivian resort.
We love it for: Great location, a 40-minute speedboat ride from Male International Airport. Vadhoo Channel, one of the best dive spots in the world, is only ten minutes away.
Pro tip: Combine the stay at COMO Cocoa Island with its sister property COMO Maalifushi (don’t miss our COMO Maalifushi review). Both resorts are great for spa devotees.
More in our review: COMO Cocoa Island, Maldives
Alternatively, book COMO Cocoa Island via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © COMO Hotels and Resorts
“Patina Maldives embraces our natural conflicts: desire for peace and party, for nature and design, technology and rusticity, self-indulgence and deep reflections.” — Marcio Kogan, Studio MK27
Designed by the celebrated architect Marcio Kogan, Patina Maldives offers twenty studios and ninety villas that exude warm, rustic simplicity. Patina’s restaurants focus on health and ethical dining with vegan menus. Guests will benefit from outdoor pools, Spa, and events such as movie nights, at the open-air cinema.
We love it for: Sophisticated, modern villas designed with pure creativity “to soothe your senses and soul.”
Pro tip: Book a stay at a villa — they are designed for serenity and privacy and are placed to face sunrises or sunsets.
Alternatively, book Patina Maldives, Fari Islands via:
Expedia | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Capella Hotel Group
Located only a boat ride from Male and the Velana International Airport, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi promises an experience of luxury from a well-established luxury brand. The guest accommodation includes expansive pool villas that stand out thanks to ample indoor and outdoor space. The resort features eleven specialty dining outlets.
We love it for: The Terra Restaurant dining. The seven exclusive “nests” built out of bamboo and elevated to the treetop level offer a unique experience.
What you need to know: The yacht transfer from the airport to the resort (approximately 40 minutes) is invoiced separately.
Alternatively, book Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi via:
Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts
“Positioned near the Equator, and far away from artificial light sources, the island is blessed with a truly amazing night sky, glittering with myriad stars” — from our review
Location 400 kilometers south of Malé means the hard part is getting here. Once you arrive, there is much to discover. Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa embodies luxury and relaxation, providing the Maldivian experience of turquoise waters, fine white beaches, and one of the most abundant and healthy house reefs. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts should find it a great base for underwater adventures.
We love it for: Exceptional architecture, driven by local concepts, of which the reception lobby resembling a huge upturned wooden Dhoni is the centerpiece.
What you need to know: This is a remote place. The transfer time between the international airport and the resort takes 1 hour 15 minutes by plane, followed by a 1-hour speed boat ride.
See the review from our stay: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, Maldives.
Alternatively, book Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Hyatt Corporation
Launched on the secluded island of Bodufushi, Joali Being is designed around a concept of transformative wellness. The resort offers a “fully immersive” well-being experience — personalized for each guest — and a range of wellness facilities are ready to realize this promise. Alongside thirty-nine treatment rooms, the spa complex has a salt inhalation room, hammam, water therapies, and even a Sensory Deprivation Room. The resort offers a whole spectrum of treatments and “alternative” health ceremonies; the focus on health also extends to cuisine.
We love it for: We are huge fans of the accommodation design by Autoban, the celebrated Architecture Firm based in Istanbul. The villas inspire a sense of harmony and balance, and they come with private swimming pools.
Pro tip: Combine Joali Being with the stay at the sister resort JOALI Maldives Raa Atoll, which we stayed at and reviewed (it’s one of our favorite resorts in the Maldives!)
Alternatively, book Joali Being via:
Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Joali
Cheval Blanc Randheli brings to the Maldives the latest in glamorous luxury. The guest accommodation, in particular, stands out thanks to superb craftsmanship and detailing. Every villa has a massive 12.5-meter-long infinity pool, which feels like a natural extension of the villas’ open, airy interiors. The resort experience centers on spa rituals and well-being — the Cheval Blanc Spa spans an entire island, featuring Guerlain-branded rituals.
We love it for: The sleek, contemporary design of the resort, especially the guest accommodation.
What you need to know: Cheval Blanc Randheli was designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, the creative mind behind some of the world’s most stunning resorts (including the Chedi Muscat and many Aman Resorts).
See what others think about Cheval Blanc Randheli on TripAdvisor.
Photos © LVMH
“Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi has all the hallmarks of a perfect Maldivian paradise, with pearl-white beaches ringing a patch of tropical forest and a string of beautiful villas puncturing the island and the turquoise water shallows.”
— from our review of Fairmont Sirru Fen Fushi
The Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi has crafted everything to the last bolt, ensuring the guests leave with no other impression than that of a perfect tropical vacation. Certainly, it’s how we felt. An intelligent mix of chic luxury and boho style (featuring pillows, rugs, and swings) combined with the well-crafted architecture creates a sense of well-being. The excellent service, great food, and refined atmosphere take things up a notch, making the stay here special.
We love it for: Our Grand Overwater villa, located on the sunset side, had an inspired idea of an actual mini “beach” with sand surrounding the private swimming pool.
Pro tip: Consider booking half of your stay at a beach villa and half in a water villa, as both provide a different experience. Book jungle villas — tucked away in thick greenery — if privacy is the main thing for you.
See the review from our stay: Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi
Alternatively, book Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi via: Expedia | Hotels.com | Fairmont Hotels or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © ALL Accor Live Limitless
In the luxury hotels enigmatically called “W,” the Marriott Group emphasizes a confident, youthful brand focused on fun, recreation, and music. Truly to its brand, the adults-only W Maldives is perfect for nightlife enthusiasts — it even has an underground nightclub. But then, only after visiting the resort, we realized that what truly defines the W experience is the excellent service and attention to small things. Every detail here is thoughtfully designed and planned. The details include quirky names and design ideas.
We love it for: The stylish design of our villa and delightful sunset drinks at the over-water SIP bar.
Pro tip: Book the over-water villa if your priority is privacy (the courtyards of the beach villas can be easily seen from the neighbor’s upstairs lounge).
See the review from our stay: W Maldives, Maldives.
Alternatively, book W Maldives Resort via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com | Marriott Bonvoy or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Marriott International
Here’s our insider guide to the best hotels in Phuket.
“Serenity and adventure” is the premise behind this stunning five-star getaway in Raa Atoll. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has eighty villas. Roughly half are hidden among the tropical greenery for top privacy but with direct beach access. The rest stand over water on stilts, allowing guests to descend to the sea and enjoy the turquoise waves from the extensive private decking. Like many other resorts in this class, Alila Kothifaru Maldives offers a full range of facilities: recreation and water sports centers, spa wellness, and a spectrum of dining options.
We love it for: The island is surrounded by a beautiful house reef, promising satisfying snorkeling and diving experiences.
What you need to know: The resort is located some 45 minutes from Malé by seaplane.
Alternatively, book Alila Kothaifaru Maldives via:
Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Alila Hotels & Resorts
Located near the equator at the southern edge of Maldives, this is a debut in the Maldives for the world-famous Raffles hotel brand. The resort’s thirty-eight guest villas are accompanied by four dining outlets, a Spa, and a fitness center.
We love it for: The unique over-water villas, located away from the main island, standalone in shallows. They are seemingly afloat in the ocean — the only connection to the main island is by boat.
What you need to know: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is accessible by an hour-long flight from Male to Kaadedhdhoo Airport in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll.
Alternatively, book Raffles Maldives Meradhoo via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Raffles Hotels & Resorts
This intimate private island resort with only 15 overwater villas is an exclusive slice of paradise. Every villa comes with a private pool, and the surrounding sundecks are flanked by screens affording frontal ocean views while providing a partition between adjacent villas. Responsible for the design of the resort is the Japanese-American architect Yuji Yamazaki.
We love it for: The large overwater residences with 44 m² swimming pools and terraces overlooking the ocean.
Pro tip: Take advantage of the facilities at the sister resort Hurawalhi Maldives (in the same Lhaviyani Atoll, a mere five minutes away by boat), where you can book a table at 5.8, the undersea restaurant.
Alternatively, book Kudadoo Maldives Private Island via:
Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
Huvafen Fushi provides a refreshing return to some true Maldivian basics. It’s small, low-key, with an understated luxury and atmosphere. It promises a relaxed island living at its best — where you are free to enjoy doing virtually nothing. But the resort does not lack in the department of cool ideas, with the famous underwater spa or the twinkling-stars infinity pool, which ranks among the most iconic in the country.
We love it for: We stayed at the Ocean Bungalow with Pool — and loved its style. Its thatched rooftop looks rustic, but the interior is anything but, with a touch of an urban-loft style and high-tech features to match.
Pro tip: Book if you’d rather avoid long travel between atolls and islands. The hotel is located very close to Male, so there is no need for a long boat ride or a seaplane journey after a long international flight.
See the review from our stay: Huvafen Fushi, Maldives
Alternatively, book Huvafen Fushi via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Huvafen Fushi
The Nautilus Maldives was conceived as a bohemian hideaway that offers a private island experience. This resort in the Baa Atoll embraces the philosophy of absolute freedom for its guests, offering a laid-back barefoot luxury where services are designed around the guests. The freedom principle extends to many activities and procedures. The resort occupies a tiny island with only 26 guest houses.
We love it for: The Nautilus designs the experience around you. There are no breakfast hours, opening or closing times — you can dine when you want, no matter the time of day or night. And spa treatments need no prior booking.
Pro tip: Take advantage of the free light snacks at the poolside Deli, available throughout the day.
Alternatively, book The Nautilus Maldives via:
Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © The Nautilus
“Exploring the picture-perfect island (with its mature greenery and lovely beaches) on bikes provided by the resort was always fun” — from our review of Vakkaru Maldives.
We were perfectly happy not to do much at Vakkaru other than relaxing by the pool, paying a visit to the overwater spa, or enjoying the beach and the intensely blue water of the lagoon. The creators of this resort artfully combined a simple Maldivian feel with contemporary style and sophisticated luxury with a down-to-earth feel. With white sandy beaches and excellent food, Vakkaru Maldives is a lovely island getaway that makes it easy to forget about the outside world.
We love it for: The villas are well-appointed and beautiful, with great attention paid to the smallest detail. The bedroom was our favorite, with a romantic four-poster bed and an overall open feel.
What you need to know: The resort is set up well enough for couples but is particularly popular with families with children.
See the review from our stay: Vakkaru Maldives.
Alternatively, book Vakkaru Maldives via:
Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Vakkaru Maldives
Kuda Huraa is the smaller of the two Four Seasons resorts in the Maldives. It focuses on families, with many activities and attractions for kids. Facilities include four restaurants arranged around a spectacular infinity pool and a spa, located on a separate island and accessible by boat.
We love it for: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is the home port of the luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer, which can be hired for exceptional sea journeys. During the cruise, the Explorer drops anchor at exceptional dive sites, visits tiny uninhabited beaches, and stops by remote island communities.
What you need to know: The resort uses speedboats to transport guests from Male airport to Kuda Huraa, which takes only half an hour.
Alternatively, book Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa via:
Tablet Hotels | Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Four Seasons Hotels Limited
“For the ultimate treat, go for one of the two Ocean Pavilions with Private Pool, packed with the best the top luxury can offer” — from our review of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Conrad Maldives Rangali is set on two idyllic islands. All the children’s facilities are confined to the larger one, while the romantic smaller island is reserved for couples seeking tranquility. This stylish resort offers glamorous luxury in chic surroundings, with some of the most exciting underwater attractions in the Maldives, which includes Ithaa, the restaurant located 5 meters below sea level (we visited it for afternoon champagne). Thanks to the transparent acrylic roof and walls, Ithaa creates the illusion of a full “immersion” in the marine life on the reef.
We love it for: Underwater bedroom! The Muraka residence is a unique accommodation featuring a fully integrated living space with a private infinity pool, a chef and butler — and the stunning master suite, located fully underwater.
Pro tip: There are seven dining venues here, but Koko and Ithaa are so popular that we recommend booking well in advance (weeks before your arrival!).
See the review from our stay: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Alternatively, book Conrad Maldives Rangali Island via:
Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Conrad Hotels & Resorts
Anantara Kihavah Villas seem to have everything: something on the water (spa), something underwater (a wine cellar and a restaurant), and something bigger and better than whatever other hotels Maldives might have — which in this case is the longest swimming pool. But what distinguishes Anantara is its eco-philosophy. The hotel was built on a former coconut plantation, and no tree was cut down during construction. Some palms have become integral parts of the villas, as the architects chose to build around them.
We love it for: The concept restaurants Sea.Fire.Salt.Sky, among which the most interesting is the Sea, an underwater marvel with a remarkable location.
Pro tip: If you are a diver, the resort has easy access to some of the best places in the Maldives for diving and snorkeling.
More in our review: Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, Maldives.
Alternatively, book Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas via:
Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com | Anantara Resorts or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Anantara Hotels
Designed to attract the world’s 1%, the ultra-luxury Velaa is one of the most expensive resorts in the Maldives, with extravagant attractions, experiences, and features. The guests can enjoy a stunning purpose-built yacht, the largest collection of wines in the Maldives, a roofed tennis court, a golf course, and a multi-level teppanyaki restaurant set up in an innovative building, said to be the tallest outside Male.
We love it for: When it comes to unique features and experiences, the spa at Velaa Private Island has two: a Cloud9 machine, designed to ensure the best naps, and a “snow room” with blocks of ice and snowdrifts.
What you need to know: The reputation as one of the most exclusive and luxurious resorts in the Maldives comes with a high price tag. The room rates (plus all the extras) make the stay at Velaa incredibly expensive.
Photos © Velaa Private Island
“Celebrated for its cutting edge style, Niyama Private Islands is a vibrant resort that balances tranquillity with a sense of discovery, stimulation, and fun” — from our review of NIYAMA
Not one but two idyllic islands, Embudhufushi and Olhuveli, are home to a glorious barefoot-in-paradise resort. NIYAMA balances stimulation and fun with cutting-edge design and plenty of quirky ideas, embracing elegance and tranquility. A range of fun activities includes a spa, an underwater nightclub, and weekly movie nights.
We love it for: The Edge, Niyama’s signature seafood restaurant and lounge located 500 meters offshore, with Subsix, an underwater restaurant and nightclub submerged eight meters below.
Pro tip: The one-bedroom and two-bedroom beach pavilions have the capacity for extra beds, so they are typically the best choice for families.
More in our review: Niyama Private Islands Maldives, Maldives.
Alternatively, book Niyama Private Island Maldives via: Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Niyama
Where to stay in Santorini
Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island occupies a six-hectare island only 45 minutes by speedboat from Male. Behind the resort’s design is the Singapore design studio Miaja, whose designers took inspiration from nautical forms and tones to create a sleek blend of luxury-yacht glamour with a beach-club vibe. In a departure from the typical Maldivian thatched-villa style, the resort comprises sixty-seven innovative penthouse residences, one-, two- and three-bedroom. They are spacious, too, offering a minimum living area of 350m2.
We love it for: Jumeirah is well-regarded for its attention to detail and top service levels. These high standards define the experience of Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island. The rooms are spotless, the butlers hospitable and caring, and all service efficient.
Pro tip: Look into the room categories to make an informed choice. The stylish villa residences are positioned on the beach or overwater; however, not all are well-spaced to ensure privacy.
Alternatively, book Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island via:
Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Photos © Jumeirah Group
Our 2022 guide to the top hotels on the island
The Maldives is a host to hundreds of resorts, but we think that only some belong to the above list. That said, there are a few runners-up which are worthy of at least a mention.
Author: Travel+Style. Last updated: 21/01/2023
One of the top resorts in the Indian Ocean
