Maldives

Best Maldives resorts for luxury in paradise

If you’re looking for a well-deserved holiday, the Maldives is an obvious choice. From bungalows to villas, here's the best accommodation in the Maldives.

When was the last time you took a break and lapped your feet in crystal clear waters? If you’re looking for a well-deserved holiday, the Maldives is an obvious choice. This archipelago of palm-studded islands seduces even the most discerning traveller thanks to its idyllic white sands, blue lagoons, and coral reef.

When it comes to Maldives resorts, competition is fierce. From dreamy bungalows to beachfront villas, we’ve scouted some of the hottest hotels ideal for a honeymoon or even just a bit of R&R.

An adults-only resort in the Maldives

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The Anantara brand has well and truly established itself as a beacon of luxury accommodation across the globe, and Anatara Veli is no exception. This five-star, adults-only resort offers dreamy overwater bungalows that provide direct access to the famed Maldivian waters. For some added indulgence, opt for the deluxe overwater pool bungalow which boasts its own plunge pool and private deck.

The beauty of a stay at Anantara goes well beyond the comfort of your own bungalow though. Adrenaline junkies can sign up for diving, surfing or kayaking, while those wanting to take things down a notch can attend one of the morning yoga or meditation classes.

Otherwise get pampered at Ayurvedic & Spa, where the range of treatments promote health, vitality, and natural beauty.

Anantara Veli Maldives Resort

Top rated
South Male Atoll
9.5 Excellent (486 reviews)

A private island stay

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Positioned on a private island and enveloped by a jewel-coloured lagoon, sits Ayada Maldives. The coveted resort boasts a cluster of traditional thatched-roof villas, standing on stilts above the glistening water.

For something a little special, book the Ayada Royal Ocean Suite – we’re talking an upper floor terrace offering 180-degree views of the Indian Ocean, an indoor bathroom featuring a terrazzo bathtub, and an evening turndown service.

Dine at one of Ayada’s seven restaurants, which offer a mix of world cuisine all within the comfort of the one resort. If you like the finer things in life, you’ll fall smitten with the overwater open-air cheese and wine bar. Quaff one of the many eclectic wines, then dig into some specially imported hand-selected cheeses.

Ayada Maldives

Top rated
Maguhdhuvaa
9.6 Excellent (309 reviews)

Privacy and luxury at this Maldives resort

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Situated on the South Ari Atoll Island, Vilamendhoo takes luxury to the next level. Accommodation ranges from garden rooms to beach villas, but if you’re seeking that added touch of indulgence, you can’t surpass the Jacuzzi Water Villa.

Wake up in a four-poster bed, then retreat to a private wooden sundeck which offers direct stair access to the lagoon as well as a bubbling Jacuzzi. If that’s not enough, take a morning dip in the resort’s stunning infinity pool which melds seamlessly into the Indian Ocean. Then head to Duniye Spa, and float into tranquility with one of the many treatments that use HealingEarth and Pure product lines.

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

Top rated
South Ari Atoll
9.4 Excellent (3118 reviews)

The definition of luxury

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Are you ready to be seduced? Your beau or belle better fight for your love, because Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa is turning the heat up.

Affectionately referred to as the definition of luxury, this resort will woo you with its offering of private villas that boast a fusion of Middle Eastern and Indian design elements.

If you’re travelling in numbers, our pick is the Villa Laalu. Arguably the jewel in Villingili’s crown, this dreamy villa offers two large, high-ceilinged bedrooms, a private infinity pool, a textured stone tub, and a BOSE home theatre system that’s ideal for a lazy night in.

Come day time, find your inner tranquillity at CHI, The Spa. Aspiring to the philosophy of personal peace, enchantment, and well-being, you can indulge in a treatment that employs either Asian or Ayurvedic techniques.

Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa

Top rated
Addu Atoll
9.0 Excellent (102 reviews)

Indulge in an overwater bungalows in the Maldives

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Imagine a series of overwater bungalows, graciously suspended over azure waters with the backdrop of palms swaying in the breeze. At Taj Exotica, you can transform this idyllic fantasy into a reality. Just a 15-minute boat ride away from the Maldives’ main airport, Taj Exotica is a secluded haven steeped in opulence.

The 64 sea-view villas feature modern furnishings and a clean aesthetic of crisp white and coral linens. It’s the uninterrupted ocean views, however, that truly steal the show. Open your glass sliding doors onto a private deck that features dreamy sun lounges and an outdoor tub.

Any hungry tummies will be nursed at one of the resort’s four restaurants that certainly pack a punch as far as food is concerned. Our pick? 24-degrees restaurant, which serves Teppanyaki from a live, open kitchen.

Taj Exotica Resort And Spa

Top rated
South Male Atoll
9.5 Excellent (632 reviews)

A Maldives resort made for an island escape

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Looking for an island escape on two kilometres’ worth of pristine beach? Atmosphere Kanifushi may just satisfy your craving to a T. This coveted, all-inclusive resort has won countless awards, and it’s easy to see why.

The well-appointed villas are dotted between coconut palms, with each offering unparalleled ocean views. Fusing modern architecture with traditional accents, Atmosphere Kanifushi is the ideal Maldivian retreat.

Here seamless convenience is key: think little luxuries including direct check-in to your villa, complimentary dining at Specialty Restaurant, a welcome bottle of champagne with canapes, and two bottles of complimentary wine, replaced daily.

Villas feature whirlpool bathtubs, queen-sized beds, and over-sized day beds to lounge on. When you’re ready to dig into some tucker, choose from one of the five different restaurants that serve world cuisine.

Atmosphere Kanifushi - All Inclusive With Free Transfers

Top rated
Lhaviyani Atoll
9.4 Excellent (438 reviews)