From the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, there are waves the colour of valuable sapphires and sparkling turquoises. There is the state of the Maldives, where over 1,000 coral islands constitute some of the very beautiful beaches and diving destinations in the world. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, ocean explorer, or simply love relaxing on a pristine beach, the Maldives offers something for everyone. With world class snorkelling, surfing and diving, each of those islands is home to scenic underwater realms. Because of this, the resorts that predict the Maldives home are some of the most lavish in the world. Prepare to clear your program and pack your bags. Here are the very best luxury hotels in the Maldives you are going to want to visit.
2. Cocoa Island by COMO
Powder white sand, a turquoise lagoon and private, submerged reefs are all part of Cocoa Island daily lifestyle. Together with 33 overwater suites, designed to resemble the regional dhoni boats, this tranquil hotel is the perfect intimate retreat. While there, indulge in the delicious fusions of Mediterranean and Indian cuisine, or nestle your toes in the sand in the beachside Faru Bar. From the early hours of the afternoon through the star-studded nights, then you will find a multitude of activities to make your experience unforgettable. For adventure lovers looking to learn more about the reefs, you will find turtle excursion snorkels, whale shark expeditions, diving and night snorkelling. Over the water, participate in parasailing, windsurfing or sailing, or see to your soul to a session of open-air yoga. Finally, for couples looking for that extra alone time, a personal catamaran snorkelling trip provides the ultimate escape.
3. Anantara Kihavah Villas
In the mysterious turquoise realm of the ocean below to the star-studded galaxies above, Anantara Kihavah transports visitors into other lands. While there, indulge in the ultimate sensory experience as you dine amongst the ocean’s exotic animals in the award-winning underwater restaurant. Then, on a second night, watch the night sky unfold at the only overwater observatory in the Maldives, the SKY BAR. Home to a study grade 16″ Meade LX200 telescope, this magnificent cocktail bar also includes a resident astronomer, Ali Shameem. Experience the wonder of the universe as he shows you that the rings of Saturn, the belts of Jupiter and the stars. By day, explore the surrounding UNESCO World Biosphere Reefs, which are home to colourful coral, lively turtles and fauna eels.
4. W Retreat & Spa Maldives
Whether you are there to relax, snorkel, dive sail, ocean lovers will find their paradise at the Maldives’ W Retreat & Spa. This 5-star hotel encompasses 77 private villas, each with its own sun-soaked deck and plunge pool. From that decking, dive in the surrounding ocean, where countless species of marine life are all waiting to be found. Charming turtles, giant tuna, exotic fish and mysterious rays are just a few of the aquatic creatures you may expect to discover. If, however, feeling brave, half and full day hammerhead and whale shark yacht trips are available. Eventually, are you looking to learn some abilities to take home for your family and friends? A personalised cooking class will have you making traditional Maldivian dishes and grilling fish such as an expert very quickly.
5. Six Senses Laamu
Pamper your senses whilst contributing to the sustainability and security of the environment at the Six Senses Laamu. Does this magnificent paradise offer world-class surfing and diving, film perfect coral reefs and tranquil palm-lined shores, but they also work to teach and safeguard their amazing environment and native creatures. Finally, sustainability is at the core of this hotel. While there, take part in guided snorkel tours with an experienced marine biologist. As you swim with turtles, manta rays, and maybe even a dolphin or too, gain expert knowledge on how best to protect the reef and its inhabitants. From May through to September, witness the extraordinary occasion of green and hawksbill sea turtles hatching on the beach by nightfall. Additionally, Six Senses Laamu also participates in energy conservation, water production, waste reduction and the support of local islands.
6. Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
Situated on a pristine private island, is the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. On this tropical oasis guests may relax in one of fifty private villas. Every one of these luxury spaces boasts floor to ceiling windows, private decks, and in a few, a private plunge pool. As a result, if you select a area that lies one of the lush greenery or is perched beneath the sparkling ocean, you’re destined for the ultimate, island escape. Spend your days scuba diving in one of the planet’s deepest atolls, or snorkel through shallow waters at the stunning coral reefs. As night falls, leave your shoes on your villa as you make your way to The Island Grill restaurant. There, watch the chefs make their culinary masterpieces while resting in swinging chairs and sinking your toes into the lush sand. If, this is not for you, don’t worry, many other amazing restaurants and personal experiences await.
7. Gili Lankanfushi
Rich with lush, natural greenery and surrounded by sparkling, sapphire lagoons, Gili Lankanfushi shines like a gem in the Indian Ocean. Encouraging visitors to keep the natural beauty of this environment and move towards a zero-waste lifestyle, the luxury over-water villas are made from eco friendly substances. While on the island, guests may get involved in a range of memorable experiences. Explore the colourful reefs full of turtles, rays, shimmering fish, and little sharks, directed by one of the resident marine biologists. Subsequently, as the sky turns gold, enjoy a spectacular sunset river cruise. For all those, however, who would rather stay on dry land, there are a myriad of options. A personal, deserted island picnic, Maldivian cooking class, or a journey through the markets and mosques of the capital of Malé all await you.
8. COMO Maalifushi
Whether you are travelling as a couple, a family with children, or with the grandparents in tow, then there is something for everybody in COMO Maalifushi. Fishing fans can take part in a day of traditional Maldivian sunset bottom fishing, whereas the kids embark on a splash internet and dolphin-watching cruise. If you’re looking to find out about the island’s amazing underwater world, marine biologists are ready to take you on a comprehensive coral reef safari. Furthermore, there are a range of watersport activities and classes, dolphin cruises, in addition to whale and turtle shark snorkels. If you’re searching for love, throw your beloved away into a private beach for the day with a romantic castaway picnic. Or, choose the household castaway experience and create some incredible, lifelong memories along with your kids, parents or siblings.
9. One & Only Reethi Rah
If you love sport, adventure, learning new skills, or simply relaxing, the One and Only Reethi Rah has you covered. Located on a few of the Maldives’ largest islands, you will find a plethora of activities anticipating guests of all ages. By learning to paint with famous artists, scaling challenging rock-climbing walls, or using a hit of tennis, this island has it all. Obviously, conventional Maldivian activities such as diving and snorkelling can be found in mystical reefs and mysterious wrecks. For action fans, there’s water-skiing, parasailing, and wake-boarding. Maybe the best feature, however, is the vast range of activities for children within their ‘Kidsonly’ club. Consequently, while you enjoy a sensuous massage at the spa, your little ones can learn how to cook, make pottery or swim with turtles. Furthermore, the resort respects all guests with one pool dedicated to adults and one for young families.
10. Huvafen Fushi
For travellers searching for an ‘adults-only’ holiday, this exclusive hotel is for guests aged 21 and over. What sets this hotel apart is, undeniably, its famous Huvafen Spa. There, you can expect to see clownfish, stingrays and tropical fish swimming past the volcano walls. Consequently, indulging in a couple’s or individual’s massage at this sunken refuge is truly ethereal. Following your spa visit, spring back into action on a catamaran or kayak. Next, if you’re motivated to explore the blue waters yourself, then let a marine biologist lead you through diving points such as Shark Point and Hambadhu Shipwreck. For lovers of this culinary arts, five, breathtaking restaurants are prepared to be appreciated. If you’re seeking relaxation, try the white sand and plush cushions of ‘Umbar’. Alternately, encounter an underground rare wine cellar at ‘Vinum’, Italian cuisine amongst coconut trees at ‘Forno’ or yummy Japanese at ‘Feeling Koi’.
11. Cheval Blanc Randheli
For accommodation options catered to each individual desire, Cheval Blanc Randheli exceeds expectations. If you think of sleeping to the sound of waves crashing, the Fireplace or Water Villas make dreams reality. Perched on stilts, they feature breathtaking views across the Indian Ocean or turquoise lagoon. On the flip side, should you wish to immerse yourself in the island’s character, the Garden Villas are nestled among the lush gardens. To get a personally tailored experience, you will find the Art de Recevoir villas. There, a team of expert ‘Alchemists’ are all set to make a special schedule of adventures for your stay. Whether that includes seeing a Manta Ray toddlers, dining table upon a hidden sandbar, or taking part in private meditation courses, these experts are there to make your perfect getaway. In the end, there is the Private Island Experience, where an exclusive four-bedroom villa with its own spa, outdoor pool, gardens and beach expects.
12. Soneva Fushi
Combining the five-star resort pleasures with the relaxed, barefoot experience of island life, Soneva Fushi is among the Maldives’ top destinations. By day, explore the reefs and diving websites of the encompassing Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. You can expect to find a remarkably diverse underwater encounter. Alternatively, embark on a Robinson Crusoe Castaway Picnic at a nearby, uninhabited island, or unwind in the resort’s spa retreat. By night, gaze at the galaxies above through the telescope in the Observatory. If under the light of the stars, you are feeling adventuresome, nighttime snorkelling is available to avid explorers. In the dark waters, expect to locate sleeping parrotfish, moray eels, lionfish, octopus and incredible, bioluminescent plankton. Contrarily, if you are looking to relax, enjoy a delicious dinner in the jungle, from the light of the moon, or onto a personal sandbar, before heading over to the hotel’s open-air theatre.
13. Shangri-La Villingili
At the Shangri-La Villingili, guests spend their nights in decadent villas resting atop either sapphire sea waves or the jade green jungle. While on the island, explore the natural beauties of this land, the sea and the local culture. Even though there is an extensive range of unique ocean experiences available, some of the most notable include deep sea fishing, glass bottom boat trips and charming holiday trips. On dry land, browse the luscious surrounding woods and neighboring villages with bicycle tours and nature walks. If, however, a little R & R is your main holiday goal, prepare for absolute peace. There, experience the tranquillity of this spa, the easy pleasure of coconut leaf weaving or a meditative morning of yoga.
14. Velaa Private Island
Embracing and showcasing its pristine natural environment, the hotel at Velaa Private Island is built amongst the sand, ocean and jungle. There, adrenaline-loving guests may play upon the sapphire waves on Weta trimarans, Topcat K1 catamarans and Sea Bobs. Alternatively, take to the skies with a parasailing or kitesurfing encounter. Down under, the tranquil waters supply an underwater oasis, filled with a number of the planet’s most fascinating creatures. In particular, the nearby magnificent dive sites are home to majestic grey reef sharks, nurse sharks, eagle rays and more.
15. Niyama
Luxurious, private and one-of-a-kind, Niyama offers something for every type of traveller. Specifically, there are a selection of incredible surf locations for enthusiastic surfers or beginners seeking to learn. For a southwesterly swell and quick, challenging waves, seasoned surfers can walk or paddle out to Vodi Point. When the wind blows northwesterly, the Kasabu Point provides fun-filled waves for surfers of all levels. Perhaps the surf spot is Hocus Locus. With a hard right-hander that creates a strong barrel over a shallow sea, this place is a fantasy for advanced surfers. If this is not enough to convince you to stop what you are doing and reserve flights to the Maldives, there is the dining locations. Concerning restaurants, two words suffice; submerged restaurant. We’ll see you there
16. Baros Maldives
On a small coral island in the Indian Ocean lies the award-winning boutique Baros Maldives resort. This tranquil, island heaven is internationally renowned as one of the area’s most romantic resorts. As a result, it is the best destination for honeymooning couples or those trying to renew their vows. For a personal, unforgettable experience, spend the afternoon sailing on the exclusive 16m long holiday, Serenity. Later, embark on a sparkling dolphin cruise since the sun sets. Alternately, boat on a traditional handcrafted Maldivian sailing dhoni or view the reef from over in a glass bottom boat. In the end, if you’re an avid fisherman or woman, this resort is made for you. Featuring big game fishing, fishing by twilight and also a ‘catch your own dinner’ trip, there’s no doubt you’ll be reeling in catches to boast of straight home.
17. Mirihi Island Resort
Recently renovated and reopened in December 2014, the Mirihi Island Resort seamlessly combines modern luxury with traditional Maldivian living. Situated in the South Ari Atoll, this tiny pristine island, together with jewel-toned waves lapping in its white shores, is a mere 350m long and 50m wide. As a result, this exclusive resort is home to only a few villas, thus ensuring privacy and seclusion. While there, take part in a whale shark seeking trip, a private sunrise fishing trip or a sunset dolphin cruise. If you are a sports enthusiast but prefer to stay above sea level, the hotel also offers a fitness center and yoga. Finally, as the sun sets, kick back on the sand with a private picture cinema set up beneath the stars.
18. Constance Moofushi
The hardest problem you’ll have to resolve while at Constance Moofushi is simple. Would you unwind in a luxurious villa on a blanket of white sand, or in a single perching on stilts above a turquoise blue ocean? This stunning resort is located amidst one of the world’s greatest diving spots — the South Ari Atoll. Due to this, Constance Moofushi is a haven of beautiful, tropical marine life. While exploring the ocean, expect to experience all from stingrays and lionfish to migrating mantas and dolphins. After a day of diving at one of over twenty expert diving points, indulge in the island’s fine cuisine. Dine at the world-class overwater restaurant, or feast on the shore with all the pristine sand between your feet.
19. LUX South Ari Atoll
Stretching around two miles of white sand beaches is the luxury resort of LUX South Ari Atoll. Boasting picture-perfect sights, this island paradise features spacious private patios on both the property and the sea. Once you’re ready to leave the calmness of your area, a crystal underwater paradise lies at your doorstep. Although the surrounding ocean is undeniably a diver’s paradise, you will find equally incredible experiences out there for snorkelling lovers. Afterwards, return to the velvet sand to get a game of tennis or a swim in the infinity pool. If comfort is your main goal, then a day at the spa will leave you as calm as the waves.
20. Veligandu Island Resort & Spa
For vacationers or honeymooners interested in diving, reserve a visit to the Veligandu Island Resort and Spa. This 600m long, 150m wide island is surrounded with sparkling clean waters and vibrant coral reefs. Because of this, it’s the best destination for divers seeking to boost their abilities or novices seeking to learn. With specialist, certified PADI diving classes, there are choices for everyone. If you’re a beginner starting out, gain your certificate in entry-level scuba or water diving. Alternatively, more innovative underwater explorers can take part in one of those unbelievable speciality courses. These include drift diving, underwater navigation, night diving, and deep diving, as well as digital underwater photography and much more. Once you resurface, unwind with a treatment in the spa or fly over the Maldives at a seaplane. Eventually, as the sun sets, feast at one of the gourmet restaurants and admire the view.
