The Best Resorts in the Maldives: From Floating Villas to Overwater Paradises

Each Maldivian resort offers its unique touch to travellers. Whether the resort is the perfect place for families or the ultimate luxury getaway, it’s always personalised to be memorable. But there are certain aspects to every resort in the Maldives that makes it similar. The white sandy beaches, the sound of wind rustling through coconut palms, and the friendly touch from the resort staff. Over time, the Maldives has embraced everything from sustainability to eco-luxury. Travellers can find floating villas to overwater villas. And although the spa experience in the Maldives is like no other, you can also find spas that are on their very own island!

As resort concepts in the Maldives develop, everything has become more curated for travellers to enjoy. Dining options have become more diverse, located in pristine jungles and on tree-houses. From sustainability programmes to cocktail making and learning sports with famous footballers, the Maldives has become an all-in-one destination. And although you might find a lot of destinations ‘like’ the Maldives, it’s never the Maldives! So, how do you choose the perfect destination for your trip to a country with such a wide array of options?

1. JOALI Maldives / JOALI Being for Couples

JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING have been gaining popularity with quite a lot of travellers as of late. These destinations offer the perfect getaway for a quiet, health-focused and sustainable trip.

JOALI BEING is located in the pristine Raa Atoll extremely popular among divers. This location is well-known for its diverse marine life. After a scene 40-minute seaplane ride, JOALI BEING greets you with love and a sense of community. Here, travellers can reconnect with nature, and go on a journey of self-discovery. For many, the journey at JOALI BEING is what keeps bringing them back. On top of the luxury villas and the multitude of dining options, JOALI BEING offers you something a bit more personalised. Recently, Jeremy and Pia Jauncy found themselves back in the resort for the exact same reasons.

JOALI Maldives is another popular destination for couples as well as families looking for a scenic getaway. Just like JOALI BEING, JOALI Maldives is also located in Raa Atoll. The journey of JOALI Maldives is all about new experiences and the thrill of exploration. This wonderland of creativity brings art to life, as the resort invites travellers to explore more. The sense of discovery recently brought the long-time partner of Christiano Ronaldo, Georgina Rodriguez to the property. Her trip started on the luxury airline Beond, to the popular TMA seaplane, finally reaching the beautiful resort destination!

2. LUX* South Ari Atoll for Family Getaways

If you’re looking for a resort located nearby Male’ for your family trip Lux* South Ari Atoll is worth looking into. Located just 25 minutes away by seaplane, this luxury retreat is recommended by travellers to travellers. What makes this resort perfect for families? As you step off the seaplane, the team at LUX* South Ari Atoll greets you with ice cream! This is just the start of a magical family getaway at the resort.

The resort offers everything. From treasure hunts to board games at sunset with cocktails for the adults, it combines the activities of little ones into the vacation of the grown-ups. LUX* also offers its very own brand of ice cream, ICI, for both adults and young ones. Whether you want sorbet or gelato, ICI has a flavour for everyone’s tastebuds. Everything is curated for the perfect family trip. A stay at the Family Lagoon Pavillion, a specially crafted programme for teens and spa days for the kids! That’s what a family getaway at LUX* South Ari Atoll is all about.

3. A Solo Trip at the Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Although the Ritz-Carlton Maldives is known as the perfect retreat for couples, there is no reason not to enjoy this beautiful resort by yourself. After all, it’s all about embracing the circle of island life at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives. You can choose from the wide range of beautiful villas to the wide array of dining options at the resort. Loyal to its brand, the Ritz-Carlton Maldives offers travellers unforgettable moments and curated journeys.

Learn a little about the Maldivian culture and treat yourself to a spa day. From your arrival, you are greeted with tidbits of the Maldivian culture. Whether it is the Sangu conch shell that welcomes you to the island or the Aris meeha who makes your stay welcoming, everything is created to make your stay the most memorable.

4. Vakkaru Maldives – Group Adventure

It’s all about packing your travel bag, getting that insurance coverage for your trip, and taking that friend’s trip out of the group chat this year. If you’re looking to take a group trip to the Maldives, Vakkaru Maldives would make for the perfect spot. This 5-star luxury resort is located in the beautiful Baa Atoll. You could not find clearer waters and more scenic views if you tried! Baa Atoll is popular for its breathtaking untouched beauty, and Vakkaru is all about embracing the timeless sanctuary. Your 30-minute scenic seaplane ride will land you right in paradise.

From Europe to Asia, Vakkaru Maldives brings you a variety of dining options. Whether you want pizza pasta fried rice or local dishes, Vakkaru has it all. For group travellers, the Four Bedroom Beach Pool Residence makes for the perfect villa. This is the largest villa in the resort, with the capacity of holding 8 adults and 4 children! In addition to the beautifully crafted rooms, the villa also comes with a separate living space, dining area and outdoor gazebo. This is one of the recent additions to the resort, which has opened up doors for group travellers to enjoy the Maldives together!

5. Soneva Secret to Discover Something New

Soneva Secret is the latest addition to the collection of beautiful Soneva resorts in the Maldives. This barefoot-luxury retreat has been a traveller favourite since its inception. Soneva crafts special moments that keep bringing travellers back to experience the personalised services at the resort.

With the launching of Soneva Secret, the resort is bringing travellers the first floating villa in the Maldives. The Castaway Villa, the first of its kind, brings travellers luxury overwater living experiences. Spread across two floors, the Castaway Villa is perfect for those seeking to experience something new. Whether you’re a solo traveller or a couple on a romantic getaway, this Villa is definitely something to try. Only accessible by sea, this unique villa is set to take your Soneva Secret experience to new heights.

A trip to the Maldives is more than just a vacation—it’s an invitation to experience paradise in its purest form. Picture yourself surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives, where every moment feels like a scene from a dream. From its crystal-clear waters to its vibrant coral reefs, this island paradise offers experiences that go beyond traditional travel. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is known for its luxury resorts, white-sand beaches, and a serene atmosphere that stays with you long after you return. Here are five unforgettable takeaways that will leave you longing to return to this magical destination.

The Unrivaled Natural Beauty of the Maldives

The moment you set foot in the Maldives, nature’s charm captivates you. Walk along pristine beaches, feel the soft, cool sand between your toes, and hear the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore. Surrounded by vibrant, lush vegetation, the islands are a sanctuary of tropical flora, where palm trees sway gently in the breeze and colorful flowers dot the landscape. The Maldives’ beaches offer a sight to behold, with sparkling turquoise waters that stretch endlessly before you, so clear that you can see the coral beneath the surface.As you gaze at the vivid hues of a sunrise or sunset painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, you quickly realize that the Maldives is more than just a destination—it’s an experience.

Each resort is nestled in a private, secluded island, offering unmatched views of the crystal-clear waters, where the ocean shimmers in shades of blue and green, giving you a sense of peace and tranquility. Moreover, as evening approaches, the beauty of the night sky takes your breath away. With little light pollution, the Maldives’ clear night skies become perfect for stargazing. Just imagine lying on the beach, watching the constellations twinkle above you—it’s a tranquil experience that adds to the magic of the island.

Imagine the Ultimate Luxury Experience

Now, imagine waking up in a luxury overwater villa, with the sound of the ocean just beneath your feet. Maldivian luxury is about more than just opulence; it’s about complete personalization and serenity. From private beaches to infinity pools with panoramic ocean views, your stay feels like a dream. Whether you prefer a romantic dinner under a canopy of stars or taking a private sunset cruise, every detail gets curated to perfection. Wouldn’t it be incredible to have every need taken care of, from personal butlers to all-inclusive services? Luxury resorts in the Maldives offer just that, ensuring you fully unwind. For those on a honeymoon in the Maldives or anyone seeking the ultimate indulgence, the Maldives becomes the perfect escape where luxury meets tranquility.

The Maldives: An Underwater Wonderland

One of the most captivating aspects of the Maldives is its underwater world. From avid divers to first-time snorkelers, the marine life here leaves everyone speechless. Swim alongside whale sharks, sea turtles, and schools of colorful fish as they glide effortlessly through vibrant coral reefs. In other words, it’s not just a chance to see marine creatures up close—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level. Alternatively, for those who prefer staying above the water, take a glass-bottom boat tour to catch a glimpse of the ocean’s treasures without getting wet. The Maldives offers an unforgettable encounter with the ocean’s beauty, reminding us of the importance of protecting our planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Dive into Maldivian Culture and Warmth

Beyond the beauty and luxury, the Maldives offers a rich cultural tapestry. Stroll through local islands, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the Maldivian people. The rhythmic sounds of the bodu beru drums and the intricate designs of Maldivian handicrafts transport you into a world deeply connected to the sea. Furthermore, Islamic traditions and a centuries-old seafaring history blend to create a vibrant culture that welcomes visitors with open arms. When you explore the local culture, it gives you a deeper, more meaningful connection to the islands. Visit markets, interact with locals, and learn about their way of life to add another layer to your Maldives vacation, making it a journey of both relaxation and discovery.

The Art of Slow Living in the Maldives

Perhaps one of the most enduring aspects of a trip to the Maldives is the sense of slow living it instills. Time moves at a different pace here, and you quickly find yourself unwinding as you reconnect with nature. For instance, lounge in a hammock, feel the cool ocean breeze on your skin, or stargaze under an unpolluted sky—the Maldives offers a profound sense of peace. In today’s fast-paced world, this return to simplicity is a welcome change. The Maldives encourages you to embrace the present moment, savor the beauty of your surroundings, and enjoy the company of those you’re with. It’s a place where relaxation and mindfulness come naturally, making it the ideal destination for anyone seeking serenity.

The Lasting Impressions of a Maldives Getaway

The Maldives is more than just a destination—it’s a promise of unforgettable moments that linger long after you’ve left. From the stunning natural beauty that greets you with each sunrise to the peaceful stillness that settles in at night, every corner of this island paradise offers a unique experience. Indeed, the luxurious pampering, the vibrant underwater world, and the sense of peace that envelopes you all contribute to making the Maldives a place that leaves a mark on your soul.

Ultimately, imagine returning home with not just photos, but a treasure trove of memories. So, the only question left is: what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Maldives today and discover a world where time slows down, beauty surrounds you, and every moment feels like a dream come true.

Feature image: Ayada Maldives