The Maldives, scattered across 500 miles of the Indian Ocean, is a tropical paradise made up of nearly 1,200 coral islands surrounded by pristine white sands and crystal-clear Tiffany blue waters. It’s no wonder this archipelago is a dream destination for many. However, with over 200 resorts to choose from, deciding where to stay can be overwhelming. As someone who has spent their career writing about the Maldives and has had the privilege of staying at 55 resorts across the country, I’ve seen the transformation of this destination firsthand. From its early days with just a handful of resorts centered around the peaceful capital of Malé to the current array of options stretching from the northern atolls near Sri Lanka to the southern reaches of the equator, the Maldives now offers something for every taste and style. Each resort is nestled on its own private island, ranging from A-list escapes to budget-friendly all-inclusive breaks and royal hotspots. Here’s a curated guide to the top 22 island resorts in the Maldives, along with a few to avoid.
For those seeking an A-list escape, Soneva Secret is the ultimate choice. This ultra-exclusive resort, part of the Soneva chain that has been wooing celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, and Leonardo DiCaprio for decades, is located in the untouched Makunudhoo Atoll, a 75-minute seaplane ride from Malé. With only 14 villas made from sun-bleached wood and coconut thatch, each featuring private chefs, retractable roofs for stargazing, and waterslides that plunge straight into the ocean, Soneva Secret offers the epitome of barefoot luxury. On the other end of the spectrum, Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi is a must for Instagram enthusiasts. This large island resort, just 30 minutes from Malé, features gleaming white villas with private pools, a stunning lagoon-shaped pool, and an array of activities like padel tennis, dolphin spotting, and night snorkeling. With 11 bars and restaurants, you’ll never go hungry or bored.
For a more inclusive experience, Amilla Fushi in the Baa Atoll stands out. This chic resort, which has hosted famous guests like Kate Winslet and Kate Moss, is certified for inclusivity, catering to wheelchair users, the deaf and blind community, and children on the autism spectrum. Its 59 stylish villas, inspired by St. Tropez, feature private pools, and the resort offers a variety of dining options, including Japanese, Italian, and Indian cuisine. The resort’s house reef and blue hole are additional highlights that make it a standout choice. Kudadoo, located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, is perfect for an all-inclusive splurge. This luxurious resort offers everything from private fitness classes to unlimited dives and gourmet meals, with villas designed in a Japanese aesthetic. The house reef teems with turtles and colorful fish, making it a snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise.
Wellness enthusiasts will find their haven at Six Senses Kanuhura in the Lhaviyani Atoll. This resort emphasizes slowing down with daily complimentary meditation, yoga, and sound baths, as well as non-motorized watersports like SUP and kayaking. The biohacking spa and sustainably sourced food further enhance the wellness experience, while the villas offer a serene retreat with leafy zen bathrooms. For romance, Milaidhoo in the Baa Atoll is a top choice. Its 50 villas, set on stilts over the ocean, offer private pools, complimentary Ruinart champagne, and stunning views of the marine life. The resort’s fine dining restaurant, the only one of its kind in the country, is a must-visit for a special occasion.
The Maldives is also home to unique experiences like swimming with bioluminescent plankton at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives in the Raa Atoll. This resort offers villas with minimalist designs and a treetop spa, perfect for those seeking a connection with nature. For a total wellness reset, Joali Being in the Raa Atoll is the only resort in the Maldives dedicated entirely to wellness. Its biophilic design, ocean-view yoga pavilions, and hydrotherapy hall create the perfect environment for a holistic retreat. For splendid isolation, Raffles Meradhoo near the Equator offers overwater villas and massive beach villas with private pools and direct beach access, making it worth the journey via a domestic flight and boat transfer.
Cheval Blanc Randheli, where the Prince and Princess of Wales enjoyed a babymoon, is ideal for a royal occasion. This private island resort features an exclusive estate with a four-bedroom villa, tennis island, and spa island, offering the ultimate luxury experience. COMO Cocoa Island, located in the South Malé Atoll, is a peaceful retreat with 33 overwater villas shaped like traditional Maldivian dhonis. With complimentary yoga and a sublime spa, it’s perfect for those who want to unwind. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a must for underwater adventures, featuring an underwater suite and the chance to see the Maldives Big Five—reef sharks, whale sharks, turtles, dolphins, and manta rays—in one day.
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru in the Baa Atoll is a beach lover’s paradise with pristine sands and a vibrant house reef perfect for snorkeling. W Maldives, after a recent refurbishment, offers stylish villas and a location known for its healthy coral reefs and excellent diving opportunities. Gili Lankafushi, just 15 minutes from Malé, offers a laid-back, Robinson Crusoe-like experience with villas over the water and activities like blindfolded dinners and coral planting. Jumeirah Olhahali Island is great for big groups of friends, with yacht-inspired villas and a vibrant beach club. Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort in the Raa Atoll is perfect for aqua adventures, with opportunities to dive with nurse sharks and snorkel with sea turtles.
Hurawalhi Island Resort in the Lhaviyani Atoll is one of the most generous all-inclusive resorts, offering premium drinks, themed dining, and villas perched over a glorious house reef. Anantara Veli, an adult-only resort, is ideal for detoxing with complimentary wellness classes and spa treatments, while Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a top choice for families, with a kids club featuring a pirate ship and complimentary babysitting. JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa in the Shaviyani Atoll offers a kids club with a pirate ship, splash zone, and over 100 activities weekly, making it perfect for families. Ozen Life Maadhoo in the South Malé Atoll combines style and affordability, with an vibrant beach club and all-inclusive perks like theme nights and an underwater restaurant. Finally, The Residence at Dhigurah offers brilliant budgeting with private pools and beaches, despite its remote location in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll.
While the Maldives is known for its high service standards, there are a few resorts to avoid. Kuda Villingili, with its severe beach erosion, and Taj Exotica, located on the flight path near Malé, offer less-than-idyllic experiences. Sun Siyam World, with its 472 villas and theme park-like amenities, feels more like a theme park than a relaxing island getaway. With so many incredible options to choose from, the Maldives promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
