The luxury hotels in the Maldives offer tropical style accommodation and warm hospitality at the world’s most stunning beaches. Laze your day away on a comfortable hammock, relish in an exotic cocktail from the comfort of your own private pool, or just contemplate the uninterrupted views over the Indian Ocean; these hotels are all about pleasure and decadence.
In this article, we’ve reviewed the best luxury hotels in the Maldives so you can pack your bags immediately and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
- Lankanfushi Island, North Male Atoll, Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi
You might have heard about Gili Lankanfushi – this luxurious resort is considered to be one of the top resorts in the Maldives and has been voted multiple times as one of the best hotels in the world. This impressive all-villa resort is located on the island of Lankanfushi overlooking a number of small islands. The area is peaceful and quiet; this is the ideal holiday spot for anyone who wants to forget about the world and just stare at turquoise blue waters.
Check AvailabilityIt’s worth mentioning that this is an eco-friendly resort that’s built only with sustainable materials. The 45 bungalows are charming with palm-thatched wooden floors and outdoor open desks. Popular among well-heeled travelers are the five overwater villas that spread across two floors and feature one spacious bedroom, open-air living room, bathroom, and a private rooftop terrace. As you might expect, the views from the rooftop terrace might induce tears of joy – they’re truly breathtaking.
Standard amenities include a Nespresso machine, Bose sound system, private water hammock, and free Wi-fi.
Aside from that, the resort features a myriad of facilities including an infinity beachfront pool, a small spa, open-air “Jungle Cinema”, and a jewelry boutique shop. Rent a bamboo bicycle, play some board-games, or take part in yoga and cooking classes – at Gili Lankanfushi fun is guaranteed. With four restaurants serving classic favorites from around the world, a private dining location tucked around the island, and an underground wine cellar with an extensive label collection, Gili Lankanfushi offers some outstanding dining experiences.
Did we mention that Novak Djokovic is a regular here?
Villas start at $1,400.
- Kunfunadhoo, Maldives
Soneva Fushi
Soneva Fushi is situated on the private island of Kunfunadhoo which is one of the largest resort islands in the Maldives. It’s hard to resist the charms of this luxurious resort with its impressive thatched-roof villas and world-class service, peaceful ambiance, and numerous facilities.
Check AvailabilityThe Robinson Crouse-style villas are just gorgeous. Built only with natural materials, these bungalows blend perfectly with the natural surroundings. Expect stucco and wooden walls, an earthy palette, and bright cushioned sofas. The four-poster beds feature a comfortable mattress and come with mosquito nets. All units have direct beach access, beach loungers, and a rope hammock. Plus, most villas at the resort have small private pools.
The spa is the main draw here with five indoor treatment rooms, two outdoor massage cabanas, a sauna, and a steam room. The menu is extensive and features a full range of massages and beauty services for both men and women.
The staff is welcoming, friendly, and very attentive. This dynamic team likes to spoil guests with a number of freebies including 24-hour chocolates, cheeses and cold cuts, exotic cocktails, and loaner bikes. Plus, the resort offers a stunning range of outdoor activities including water skiing, fun-tubing, wakeboarding, and snorkeling.
Vietnamese and Indonesian cuisine can be enjoyed in the elegant restaurant Out of the Blue overlooking the Bay, while exotic cocktails, spirits, and whiskey are served at By the Bar.
The Soneva Fushi Villa with a pool starts at $1,520.
- Cocoa Island, Maldives
Como Cocoa Island
Como Cocoa Island is a luxury resort situated on a private island in Kaafu Atoll. It takes 35 minutes with a speedboat to reach the island from the airport. This eco-chic jungle hideaway boasts 33 water bungalows equipped with high-end amenities.
Check AvailabilityThe ambiance is peaceful and quiet; the resort is particularly popular among couples and honeymooners. Guests can choose between five types of water villas: One Bedroom Villas, Dhoni Suites, Loft Villas, Dhoni Loft Suites, and Como Villas. The Como Villas feature a separate living area, two bedrooms, and are quite suitable for a family. The Dhoni rooms resemble the shape of a dhoni boat which are traditional vessels used by the local fishermen.
All units feature sunny decks with direct ocean access. As you might expect, the views are sensational. Bathrooms are cozy with deep soaking tubs and rain showers, and standard amenities include Nespresso machines, electric kettles, iPod stereo, and fully stocked minibars. At the resort, private beach dinners can be arranged as well as a number of fun excursions including culinary trips, snorkeling tours, and parasailing.
At Como Cocoa, guests can taste some local dishes consisting of both organic and vegetarian meals in a rustic-chic style restaurant overlooking the infinity pool and the beach. Breakfast is complimentary for all guests.
Dhoni Vater Villa starts at $570.
- Maldives
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa
This romantic resort is situated on one of the largest and coral-rich lagoons in the Maldives, the Emboodhu Finolhu Island. If you’re looking for a vacation spot where you can experience the original Maldives barefoot retreat – then this is it! Here, you can relax in your own private villa perched just above the blue waters. The surroundings are breathtaking with coconut-tree lined showers and white sand beaches.
Check AvailabilityVillas feature tropical style with hardwood floors, furniture in shades of blue, and thatched roofs.
The premium villa with a pool is particularly popular among high-end travelers. This sumptuous unit features a master bed, a spacious bathroom with a bathtub overlooking the ocean, and a private verandah. All units at the resort feature Nespresso machines, flat TV screens, and fully stocked minibars. Sunscreen and disposable underwater cameras are a nice touch.
Marble bathrooms are charming with rain showers, separate soaking tubs with spectacular views, bathrobes, slippers, and Molton Brown toiletries. Butler service is available to all guests.
Taj Exotica offers a myriad of excellent amenities including a fitness center with ocean views, a gift shop, a cozy game room, and a lavish spa with treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, and a beauty salon. You’ll be glad to know that the talented therapists working at the spa specialize in traditional Ayurveda techniques.
The Lagoon Ocean Villa starts at $830.
- Southern Ari Atoll, Maldives
lti Maafushivaru Maldives
Iti Maafushivaru is a boutique luxury resort situated in the South Ari Atoll. With lush vegetation, pristine white sand beach, and coconut-tree-lined shores, the resort’s location epitomizes all that one dreams when thinking of the Maldives.
Check AvailabilityAll 48 villas at the resort feature rustic and tropical decor, while the amenities are top-notch. All units are equipped with king-size beds, flat TV screens, iPod docks, espresso machines, electric kettles, and minibars. Bathrooms are commodious with stonewashed walls, walk-in indoor showers, and outdoor garden showers. Beach Villas feature sun decks and sun loungers facing the sea, while the Beach Pool Villas have private pools with a spacious sun deck.
Reef sharks, sandbags, and crabs are constantly visiting the lagoon and the resort’s location is ideal for spotting dolphins and white sharks.
One striking feature of the resort is the long white sand beach surrounded with crystal clear waters. Sip a cocktail, relax on the wide wooden loungers, and contemplate the infinite stretches of the Indian Ocean. Additionally, the resort boasts a myriad of facilities including a beachside infinity pool, pool bar, spacious overwater spa, modern gym, laser light shows, and a charming wine bar.
Mediterranean and Asian dishes are served at the outdoor pool restaurant Las Tapas overlooking the ocean. Classic favorites from the western cuisines with an accent of Italian flavors can be enjoyed in the elegant Cielo perched just above the lagoon.
The villas’ price starts at $340.
- Angsana, Ihuru Island, Maldives
Angsana Ihuru
Angsana Ihuru is an all-inclusive retreat situated in North Male Atoll. The resort can be reached within 20 minutes by speedboat that’ll take you directly from the airport. The resort comprises 25 Beachfront Jet Pool Villas and 20 Beachfront Villas surrounded by lush vegetation and the crystal clear waters of the lagoon.
Check AvailabilityWorld-class service is guaranteed at the resort. Guests are welcomed with a plate of fruit upon arrival, while honeymooners receive a bottle of red wine. Units at the resort feature a rustic-chic style with tile floors, soft furnishings, and four-poster beds. Bathrooms feature two skins, glass shower, bamboo showerhead, and eco-friendly toiletries. Each villa has a private patio with lounge chairs and direct access to the beach.
One striking feature of the resort is the private reef where guests can spot white sharks, colorful fish, and turtles. Guests can enjoy a number of water activities including windsurfing, tubing, wakeboarding, reef fishing, and Hobie-cat sailing. The snorkel gear is free for all guests.
The Thai-themed outdoor spa offers Indonesian, Israeli, Chinese, and Thai treatments. Couple treatments are also available. At the resort’s restaurant, guests can enjoy Maldivian, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine in a romantic setting overlooking the blue lagoon.
Beachfront villas start at $560.
- Mirihi, Maldives
Mirihi Island Resort
Mirihi Island Resort is situated in the South Ari Atoll on the small Mirihi Island. The island is a popular spot for whale and shark sightseeing and has some good diving spots. Mirihi Island Resort is one of the smallest resorts in the Maldives which creates an atmosphere of isolation and seclusion where guests can feel like they are staying on their own private island.
Check AvailabilityAt The Mirihi Resort guests can choose between 4 types of villas: Beach Villas, Water Villas, Mirihi Maa Beach Suite, and Feruci Water Suite. Located on the sunset side of the island, the Beach Villas offer direct access to the hotel’s sandy beach. They are cozy and comfortable with polished wooden floors, soft furnishings, semi-air bathrooms, and a king-size bed. Amenities include Bose sound system, Nespresso machine, in-room safe, fully stocked mini-bar, Bluetooth connectivity, and free Wi-Fi.
The Water villas are ideal for savvy snorkels as they offer direct access to the lagoon. At the hotel’s white sand beach, guests can relax on hammocks, wooden loungers, and sean-bag style loungers for a truly relaxing day.
The hotel’s sand-floored restaurant Dhonveli offers stunning views and irresistible dishes. Don’t miss to try the lavish buffet for breakfast and for lunch go for some fresh seafood specialties. For late-night cocktails head over to Anba. This exotic bar boasts the largest wine selection in the Indian Ocean. The ambiance is vibrant with live saxophone and Maldivian music.
Beach Villa starts at $375.
- Vabbinfaru, Maldives
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru is a luxury resort located on Vabbinfaru in the North Male Atoll. It takes 25 minutes by speedboat to reach Vabbinfaru from Male International Airport. The area is known as one of the best spots for snorkeling in the Maldives.
Check AvailabilityThe resort has around 48 individual villas surrounded by pristine sandy beaches and shaded with palm trees. They feature tropical style with authentic thatched roofs, spacious sun decks, and beds with mosquito nets. The ambiance is romantic with elegant furnishings, French doors, and four-poster king-size beds. All rooms open to a large wooden patio equipped with sunbeds, outdoor showers, and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Additionally, all patios have direct access to the ocean and a private pool. Amenities include a flat TV screen, working desk, minibar, Nespresso machine, and Bose sound system.
Expect world-class service and tropical hospitality. Guests are greeted with traditional Maldivian drums, while honeymooners receive a bottle of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon.
Don’t miss to visit the Dive Centre where you can book some PADI and Nitrox courses. The area around the resort is ideal for snorkeling with butterflyfish, turtles, angelfish, and small sharks. You can also take part in a number of activities at the resort including reef cleaning, coral planting, boating, wakeboarding, waterskiing, windsurfing, canoeing, and catamaran island.
ILaafathi serves fine dining in a rustic-chic setting surrounded by tropical trees, while Naiboli Bar offers light bites and exotic cocktails 24/7. In-villa dining is also available.
Villas start at $600.
- Mudhdhoo, Maldives
Dusit Thani Maldives
Blissfully remote, Dusit Thani Maldives is located 120 kilometers of Male in Baa Atoll. The area has been recognized as UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve due to the striking marine life. A 10 minute ride by speedboat will take you to Hanifaru Bay, an excellent area to swim with whale sharks and giant manta.
Check AvailabilityThe resort offers six types of villas: ocean villas, water villas, ocean pavilions, beach villas, family villas, and beach residences. The Ocean Pavilions are particularly popular among well-heeled travelers as they are perched over the lagoons on stilts and provide mesmerizing views. Aside from that, pavilions feature 180-square-meters of indoor and outdoor space, an oversized soaking tub, an over-water pool, and direct ocean access.
All villas feature tropical decor with thatched roofs, colorful pillows, oriental paintings, bamboo-shaped frames, and hardwood floors. Standard amenities include flat TV screens, fully stocked minibars, wine chillers, Nespresso machines, electric kettles, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are cozy with separate rain showers, deep soaking tubs, slippers, bathrobes, and Molton Brown amenities.
One striking feature of the resort is the infinity pool which is one of the largest pools in the Maldives. The pool is surrounded with comfortable sun loungers, shady cabanas, and has an attractive bar serving small bites and cocktails.
At Sea Grill, guests can enjoy some ocean-inspired dishes in a chic setting. A la carte Thai cuisine is served at Benjarong which is open only for dinner.
Beach Villas start at $528.
- Raa Atoll, Maldives
JOALI
JOALI is a luxurious resort situated on the island of Muravandhoo. It takes 45 minutes by seaplane to reach the resort from Male. With numerous facilities, spacious villas, and excellent service, JOALI is one of the most opulent resorts in the Maldives.
Check AvailabilityThe resort boasts 73 villas, including over-water villas and beach villas, which feature a modern design with some tropical accents. All units have thatched roofs, private pools, original artworks, and offer unobstructed ocean views. Bathrooms are spacious and feature separate rain showers, kimonos, extra-long towels, slippers, and bathrobes.
JOALI features a myriad of facilities that will keep you entertained during your stay. There’s a 24/7 gym, kid’s club, pool, and a dive center where you can jet ski or spend your day snorkeling, paddling, wakeboarding, and diving. The Espa spa encourages guests to discover the utmost relaxation. Guests can book a treatment in the relaxation lounge or the healing garden where talented therapists offer multiple treatments in a lush garden overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Dining-wise, JOALI is exceptional. At Vandahoo guests can enjoy a selection of Southeast Asian, Mediterranean, Chinese, and Levant cuisine. Theme dinners are organized every weekend and the restaurant boasts an excellent wine selection. Italian specialties are served at the elegant Bellinis, while Saoke offers a selection of sake and sushi.
Overwater villas start at $1930.
- Maldives
Milaidhoo Island
The ultimate romantic getaway, the resort is located in one of the smallest islands in the Maldives. The villas are surrounded by pristine white beaches and turquoise water and there isn’t anything nearby except unobstructed views over the Indian Ocean.
Check AvailabilityPrivacy and intimacy are guaranteed at the resort as there are only 50 villas on the entire island. The resort has two types of villas: Beach Pool villas and Water Pool villas. The Beach Pool villas are spacious and comfortable. They offer direct access to a private beach but they have smaller pools. The Water Pool villas feature a large pool deck that leads directly to the ocean. On the sundeck, guests can relax on swing chairs and sun loungers. All units feature separate living areas and bedrooms.
En-suite bathrooms feature tropical rain showers, separate deep bathtub, and toiletries by Acqua Di Parma. Nice touches include binoculars for dolphin watching, bug spray, flip flops, and beach bags.
At the Shoreline Grill, you’ll find freshly caught local fish and seafood. Guests have the option to dine barefoot on the sand or in a private beachfront pavilion. If you want to dine in the privacy of your own villa, the chefs at the resort are available 24/7. Choose something from the in-villa dining menu or tell the chefs what you fancy – they’ll be more than happy to fulfill your culinary wishes.
Water Pool Villas start at $1,625.
- Maldives
Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas Thudufushi
This is a modern resort equipped with the latest in contemporary accommodation, situated on Thudufushi. It takes 35 minutes by seaplane to reach the resort from Male International Airport. Thudufushi has a large lagoon which makes it one of the best spots for snorkeling in the Maldives.
Check AvailabilityThe resort comprises beach bungalows, beach suites, water villas, and jacuzzi water villas. The Beach bungalows are facing the ocean and are equipped with private terraces featuring armchairs, tables, and sun loungers.
The water villas are ideal for savvy divers as the large private terraces have direct access to the ocean. These villas are spacious and comfortable featuring a living area, a separate bedroom, and a corner bar. All rooms are decorated with elegant furniture, parquet floors, and contemporary Italian lighting. For an elevated experience, book the jacuzzi water villas which feature a private hydromassage jacuzzi tab. Soak in the comfortable jacuzzi, order in-room dining, and marvel at the turquoise waters surrounding the villas.
The Maakana Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The interior is chic tropical with elegant armchairs and tables overlooking the ocean. For breakfast, there’s a selection of pastries, homemade bread, and tropical fruits, while for lunch you can pick some local dishes, barbeque grills, salads, and pizzas. Every night there’s a dinner buffet with different themes offering Asian, Mexican, Italian, and Maldivian specialties.
Beach bungalows start at $1,120.
- Maldives
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
Four Seasons Resort Maldives is situated in Baa Atoll, an area listed as a Unesco World Biosphere Reserve. This is an excellent location for snorkeling as travelers have the opportunity to spot the largest gathering of manta rays.
Check AvailabilityThe traditional Maldivian architecture of the villas with thatched roofs and colored walls blends perfectly with the natural surroundings. Inside the villas, guests will find contemporary Italian furniture, cozy four-poster beds, and nice touches such as oriental painting and bed lamps. The bathrooms are commodious with separate deep soaking tubs, rain showers, double vanities, and toiletries by Ila. The sundecks are just stunning with private infinity pools and spiral staircases that have direct access to the turquoise lagoon.
The hotel’s spa was named “Most Meaningful Experience” by the renowned magazine Condé Nast Traveller in 2020. The luxurious spa overlooking the ocean offers an extensive menu featuring massages, beauty therapies, body wraps, and rejuvenating treatments.
Explore the flavors of Lebanese, Morocco, and Armenia at Al Barakat, the resort’s opulent restaurant featuring an indoor and outdoor-rooftop setting. At the Seabar you’ll discover a relaxing ambiance with comfortable cushions and live DJ music. Marvel at the beautiful ocean views while you take a sip from the signature frozen margaritas to give your evening that perfect end.
Villas start at $1,350.
- Maldives
Soneva Jani Noonu Atoll
The hotel is situated on a private island that’s a 45-minutes seaplane ride from the Male Airport. The resort represents a stunning piece of architecture with 25 over-water villas all connected with a wooden path. No boat traffic or noise, Soneva Jani invites guests to discover the utmost relaxation in the unobstructed ocean views surrounding the resort.
Check AvailabilityGuests can choose between Crouse residences, water retreats with slides, island reserves, and over-over water villas. The Crouse residences resemble elegant wooden cottages hidden away by a stand of mangrove trees. They feature two bedrooms, a separate living area, a swimming pool, and an expansive wooden deck, and are suitable for four adults and two kids.
The overwater villas are spread across two floors and come with a private pool surrounded by ample area for sunbathing. There’s a master bedroom, kids bedroom, walk-in minibar, bathroom, separate living area with sunken seats, a dressing room, and an outdoor shower. On the second floor, there’s a spacious dining area with a roof deck and a curved water slide. All over-water villas have glass panels that allow you to look at the fish below from the comfort of your living room.
The resort has four restaurants and a bar located on the beach. At the main restaurants in the Gathering building, you can have breakfast, lunch, and dinner on comfortable sunken tables or while sitting on overwater hammocks. The Crab Shack restaurant was recently voted as the “World’s Most Romantic Restaurant” on CNN.com. Here, you can try Sri Lankan mud crab curry while watching the most beautiful sunset over the Indian Ocean.
One-bedroom villas start at $1,940.
- Maldives
The Nautilus Maldives Baa Atoll
The Nautilus Maldives Baa Atoll is located in the mesmerizing Baa Atoll, a Unesco Biosphere Reserve. With thatched roofs, coral walls, infinity pools, and palm trees, the Nautilus Maldives provides guests with the ultimate “barefoot experience”.
Check AvailabilityThe resort comprises 26 private and ocean beach houses all equipped with the latest in modern luxury accommodation. All feature bedrooms, separate living areas, sundecks, and direct access to the house reef. The high ceilings, wooden bead chandeliers, and colorful rugs add to the tropical atmosphere. Additionally, all units offer unobstructed views over the Indian Ocean.
The overwater villas feature glass floors in the living area from where guests can look down and marvel at the rich marine life. Bathrooms are spacious in all units with tubs and separate showers. Overwater villas feature tubs with ocean views.
No opening or closing times, the restaurants at the hotel are available to guests 24/7. Discover the flavors of Mediterannean and Arabic cuisine at Zeytoun, explore simplicity with Japanese dishes at Ocaso, or savor an array of international specialties at Thyme.
Villas start at $2,440.
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