The Top 10 Luxury Resorts In The Maldives
The Maldives is one of those destinations that wows even the most well-traveled jet setter with its impossibly clear waters, white sandy beaches and incredible marine life. Of course, it’s no secret among luxury aficionados that this is one of the most luxurious destinations in the world.
The Maldives is an archipelago, a group of islands located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. The country consists of 26 atolls and is a popular destination for luxury travel. The capital city Malé is known for its busy fish market, restaurants with coveted sea views, and scuba diving locales. The Maldives has long been high on the dreamy-honeymoon list, and for good reason. Overall, from powder-white beaches to sparkling turquoise waters, this island nation is a paradise found.
Best for Art Lovers | Patina Maldives
Imagine waking up to a picture-perfect postcard of a secluded island. One where turquoise waves kiss the soft powdery sand, and the ocean breeze scents the air with salt and sea. Make your dreams a reality at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands. This resort provides guests with a luxury boutique experience that celebrates the local culture and heritage, while offering personalized service and memorable experiences. The resort offers 90 villas, each with a private pool, on the unspoiled island of Fari in the Malé atoll. The design concept of Patina Maldives is built around a philosophy that embraces simplicity, authenticity, and luxury. Furthermore, the villas seamlessly blend the indoors with the outside surroundings and feature natural wood flooring and bamboo wall coverings.
Not only is there art installed throughout the resort, but Patina also collaborates with artists, architects, and other influential figures to enrich your soul during your stay. Indulge in the finest cuisine at one of 12 dining concepts, where the best ingredients and techniques take center stage. Enjoy Evening cocktails and canapés at The Portico and daily ice cream at Tuk Tuk Gelato. Overall, Patina Maldives is the ideal destination for travelers looking for a luxurious bespoke retreat.
Best for Families | Finolhu
Forget what you know about luxury resorts in the Maldives because this next resort is one-of-a-kind—introducing Finolhu. This fantastic, retro-inspired playground is located on Baa Atoll – a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. With villas dotted over water and sand, Finolhu redefines barefoot luxury as the ultimate throwback retreat. With a curated collection of vintage treasures from around the world, this fun-loving island is both vibrant and stylish. Furthermore, with this informal design approach, guests can enjoy their stay without feeling like they are in a museum.
This chic, retro resort also offers a variety of thrilling experiences. Guests can choose from beach sports and water-sports, to sunset cruises and island hopping by boat or seaplane. Of course, luxury is about having choices. Naturally, Finolhu embraces choice, providing an exciting line-up of food options. Try delectable local seafood, authentic middle-eastern cuisine, or choose from an impressive fine dining menu at Kanusan. Overall, Finolhu Maldives is a unique luxury destination with a retro twist, where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: natural beauty and absolute comfort.
Best for Foodies | Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences
Next we have the idyllic island of Amilla with one of the most stunning new luxury retreats in the Maldives. Located in the Maldives’ Baa Atoll, Amilla Maldives Resort is just 35 minutes by seaplane from Malé International Airport. Guests may choose from 67 villas and residences, with accommodations on the beach, treetops, or over the water. The resort is secluded with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic that creates a harmonious balance between indoor and outdoor spaces. Furthermore, Over 70% of the island remains a lush paradise, embracing the best features of the island’s natural environment. Of course, this means the stunning foliage has been preserved wherever possible, with private pools surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for idling away your days in absolute privacy.
Indulge in epicurean delights at Amilla’s eight all-inclusive restaurants. Amilla offers bespoke menus in every restaurant for guests with specific dietary needs while on vacation. Additionally, guests will find decadent cuisine choices that suit all eating lifestyles from vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, or low carb/keto/paleo. Treat yourself to a unique ‘Amilla Glamping’ experience on a stretch of private beach. Choose between one of three air-conditioned bubble tent experiences featuring Champagne, a personal chef, a sauna, and a plunge pool. Overall, Amilla offers a one-of-a-kind experience for discerning travelers looking for an undiscovered destination.
Best for Divers | COMO Maalifushi
The COMO Maalifushi resort is a genuine tropical island escape, where white-sand beaches fade into crystal clear waters. The resort boasts 65 overwater suites and jungle villas on the Thaa Atoll, located an hour from Malé International Airport. Each villa combines modern design with traditional Maldivian elements and features stunning views of the Indian ocean and its bright turquoise water. Overall, guests can look forward to basking in luxury with a private terrace, infinity pool, and direct access to the beach or lagoon.
Additionally, other standout amenities include a 68 ft luxury yacht, an overwater spa, and a resort boutique. Guests can enjoy water sports such as windsurfing and snorkeling at the on-site dive center. For dining, the resort offers various options across three restaurants. Enjoy local seafood at Tai, a Japanese restaurant serving up fresh Sashimi every day. In short, COMO Maalifushi is an excellent choice for refined luxury as well as exploration and adventure.
Best for Wellness | Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Rising from the turquoise waters of the Maldives, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort is a stunning tropical island retreat. Located in the South Malé Atoll, this five-star luxury resort is just 45 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. The resort offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and sophistication with lush tropical vegetation, white sandy beaches, and an azure lagoon. Spend days unwinding on the powder-soft sand with a cocktail in hand.
For those looking to relax, head over to one of three spas this resort has to offer. The 22 treatment pavilions over water, on the beach, and on the mainland offer holistic treatments to guide guests on their journey toward wellness. Or, step into another world with an intimate romantic set up at any desired location on the island, just steps away from vibrant coral reefs. Additionally, the resort has three pools to choose from, including an adults-only infinity pool that never fails to impress. With outstanding cuisine, fantastic facilities, and a range of activities to enjoy, you’ll be spoiled for choice at this fabulous resort.
Best for Romance | Lily Beach Maldives
Nestled in an exclusive enclave of land and sea, Lily Beach Resort & Spa is located on a private island in the serene Indian Ocean. Located on the South Ari Atoll, approximately 25 minutes from Malé International Airport, this resort feels secluded from the outside world. The island includes extraordinary features such as a full-service spa, extensive water sports offerings, and excellent dining. The epitome of a luxury island resort, Lily Beach Maldives is surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches. Furthermore, breathtaking views, an exclusive island setting, the warm Indian Ocean, and an intriguing blend of tradition and modernity encompass every aspect of this unrivaled resort. Overall, Lily Beach Resort & Spa Maldives is an exotic destination for a truly unique tropical getaway.
Best for Honeymooners | You & Me Maldives
Picture yourself poised on a private deck overlooking the ocean, sipping on a chilled drink as you watch the sun make its dramatic descent toward the water’s edge. You & Me by Cocoon provides a romantic, intimate, adults-only experience in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Located in the Raa atoll, northern Maldives, transfers are just a 45 minute scenic seaplane ride from Malé international airport. With 99 overwater villas to choose from, You & Me by Cocoon is perfect for a relaxing, indulgent honeymoon.
The villas are built with natural materials and feature airy indoor-outdoor living spaces and private pools. The hotel offers four restaurants for dining, from Italian to Japanese fare. The main restaurant offers an international buffet for breakfast and dinner where you can try a variety of decadent dishes. Of course, you must experience the incredible underwater restaurant, H20, during your stay. Overall, You & Me Maldives is a unique resort where honeymooners can enjoy the simplicity and authenticity of the most beautiful islands in the world.
Best for All-Around Adventure | Ozen Life Maadhoo
A world of pure luxury awaits you at Ozen Life Maadhoo. A haven of tranquility and serenity, this private island resort is nestled within the unspoiled South Malé Atoll, offering a wealth of opportunities for life-changing experiences. The resort consists of 94 spacious villas in 5 categories, each with modern interior design and plenty of natural light. Enjoy private pools, king-sized beds, and so much more.
Of course, the resort provides an array of exciting water sports activities. Explore the exotic marine life with complimentary twice-daily snorkelling trips to various nearby snorkelling sites. Additionally, the resort has its own house reef that guests can explore from the comfort of a semi-submarine called SUB-ZEN. Furthermore, whether you are a seasoned Diver or an amateur, the experts at Maadhoo can arrange that perfect dive for you.
Unwind at the spa, which offers an extensive range of treatments designed to relax your senses. Sip on a glass of chilled Champagne while taking in spectacular sunsets or enjoy exquisite dining experiences. All of this and more are waiting for you at the renowned Ozen Life Maadhoo.
Best for Barefoot Luxury | Anantara Veli Resort
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is undergoing an extensive renovation between 1st March and 30th November 2022.
Experience a sanctuary of barefoot luxury in the Maldivian paradise of South Malé Atoll. Discover untouched islands, local culture, and colorful marine life during your stay at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort. This island escape perfectly blends barefoot intimacy with adventures on land and sea. Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is where modern design meets Maldivian chic, along with the world’s most beautiful house reef.
Spend your days sailing, kayaking, diving, windsurfing, or simply lazing in your private over-water deck hammock. Feel sand between your toes as you stroll along pristine beaches and dive into crystalline seas. Of course, an array of dining options will tempt you from your seclusion. Dine on fresh seafood by candlelight as you watch the sunset over Anantara Veli’s picturesque island lagoon. Enjoy gourmet Mediterranean cuisine, or relax at our sunset lounge bar overlooking the ocean. Overall, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is a haven for those seeking a romantic escape or an exotic honeymoon destination with a laid-back barefoot vibe.
Best for Exclusive Luxury | Soneva Fushi by Six Senses
Finally we have our last resort selection: Soneva Fushi. Looking for a hideaway where every moment is secluded, luxurious, and romantic? Nestled on the private island of Kunfunadhoo in the Baa Atoll, Soneva Fushi is a true haven offering bespoke experiences that appeal to all senses. This all-inclusive oasis features 64 beachfront villas and eight overwater villas that provide privacy, luxury, and experiences beyond compare. Chill out in spacious living rooms where floor-to-ceiling windows open to invite the ocean breeze inside.
Guests can choose a villa on either the sunset or sunrise side of the island, each offering unique benefits. For snorkelers, check out the sunset side which features three house reef access points. For unimpeded views out of the sea and ultimate privacy, stay on the gorgeous sunrise side of the island. Combined with the finest dining experiences available as well as an unparalleled level of bespoke service – Soneva Fushi is a luxury dream come true.
FAQ
There’s no getting around it: the Maldives is an expensive destination. But if you’re looking for the best of the best, this island nation has a lot to offer. Of course, these resorts offer the highest levels of luxury and exclusivity. Expect to pay $2,000+ per night.
The Maldives offers year-round sunny weather, but the best times to visit are between December and April. During these months, the water temperature averages a comfortable 80 degrees and the skies are clear, with little rain.
Since there are no direct flights to the Maldives from the United States, the best route depends on your home city and where you would like your layover to be. Flights from the USA with one-stop to the Maldives are an average of 25 hours.
The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MRF), but US dollars are widely accepted across resorts and local islands as well.
The Maldives may be the most romantic honeymoon destination in the world—the traditional, thatched-roof bungalows are set on stilts over the Indian Ocean, providing unparalleled views of tropical fish and coral. The warm, clear water is ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. There is no doubt that this is a country where couples can have a fabulous honeymoon.
At Esprit Errant Travel we specialize in Idyllic Islands like Mauritius | Seychelles | The Maldives | Fiji | Bora Bora | Turks and Caicos | Tahiti | Bali | Hawaii. If you would like to book your next Island escape, you can contact one of our Idyllic Island specialists here!
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