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.

Serenity defines life at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa. Nestled on Vagaru Island on Shaviyani Atoll, this extraordinary retreat beckons you to leave the ordinary behind and embrace an unmatched luxury experience. The sky stretches endlessly in shades of blue, the turquoise waters sparkle, and the powder-soft sands invite you to relax. From the moment you arrive, the soothing rhythm of island life surrounds you, easing away the pressures of the outside world and replacing them with peace, privacy, and indulgence. For those craving ultimate relaxation or the thrill of adventure, JW Marriott Maldives offers a sanctuary where every experience is designed to surpass your expectations.

Arrival and First Impressions

The journey here, a scenic 55-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport, sets the tone for what’s to come. As you approach the island, the ocean’s shades of blue stretch endlessly, framing the lush green heart of the resort. JW Marriott Maldives feels like a world apart, where every detail is crafted with your comfort in mind. With assistance from Welcome Ambassadors, your arrival is smooth and stress-free, ensuring a seamless transition into island life.

A Retreat for the Soul

Upon arrival, guests immediately immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings of the resort. The Overwater Pool Villas blend contemporary luxury with timeless Maldivian charm. Each villa feels like an intimate sanctuary, carefully designed to offer uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Inside, polished interiors are modern yet inviting—light wood tones, natural stone, and carefully curated furnishings create a seamless connection between the villa and the surroundings. Step out onto the private deck, and the sea feels within reach. With its own infinity pool, outdoor shower, and lounging areas, your days unfold in serene simplicity.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa: A Luxurious Sanctuary in the Heart of Kaafu Atoll — Duplex overwater pool villa

For families or those needing more space, the Duplex Beach Pool Villas offer a luxurious retreat with direct beach access. Surrounded by greenery, they provide privacy while embracing the island’s natural beauty. Additionally, with personal butler service, no need goes unmet, allowing guests to focus on moments of joy and relaxation.

Culinary Journeys

Dining at JW Marriott Maldives celebrates flavors, where each meal feels thoughtfully prepared and elegantly presented. Aailaa, the all-day dining restaurant, brings together a mix of international dishes—starting the day with a spread of tropical fruits or enjoying a hearty dinner, every bite is crafted with care.

Continuing the culinary journey, down by the pool, Fiamma serves up rustic Italian favorites. The atmosphere is relaxed, with dishes like wood-fired pizzas and freshly made pasta adding a homey warmth to the elegant setting. For a more elevated dining experience, Shio is the resort’s standout steakhouse, where prime cuts and seafood take center stage. With its oceanfront setting, Shio’s atmosphere is intimate yet bold, making it the perfect spot for a memorable evening.

Moreover, high among the trees, Kaashi offers a change of pace. This treetop restaurant brings the bold, fresh flavors of Thailand to the Maldives. From spicy curries to fragrant stir-fries, the dishes here vibrantly contrast the calm surroundings. Similarly, Hashi, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, follows suit with precision and grace—each dish, from sushi to teppanyaki, celebrates the art of simplicity.

For wine lovers, the Wine Room awaits, housing an impressive collection of over 1,600 curated bottles from around the world. Guests can enjoy a casual glass or explore new vintages with a tasting, with the experience tailored to suit every palate.

Rejuvenation at Spa by JW

As guests indulge in the culinary delights, peace of mind is never far away at Spa by JW. Set in a secluded part of the island, this haven of wellness invites guests to step into tranquility. Treatments nourish the body and soothe the soul, with everything from aromatherapy massages to rejuvenating facials available to help guests reconnect with themselves.

Additionally, signature treatments use local ingredients, such as coconut oil and sea salts, for an authentic Maldivian touch. Couples enjoy the duo massage rooms, offering a shared experience of relaxation. Here, the world feels a little lighter, leaving guests refreshed and renewed.

The Magic of the Maldives

Exploring the Shaviyani Atoll reveals the natural wonders that make this region so special. The island’s surrounding waters house vibrant coral reefs, filled with colorful marine life. Snorkeling and diving excursions allow guests to witness the underwater beauty up close. Spotting dolphins on a boat trip or gliding alongside manta rays, the ocean here holds endless possibilities.

On land, the resort offers a range of activities to fill the days. Sunset cruises, cooking classes, and island tours are just a few ways to experience the beauty of the Maldives. For families, the Little Griffins Kids’ Club offers engaging activities for children of all ages. The club, inspired by a pirate ship, offers more than 100 activities per week, ranging from sandcastle making to kite flying and island exploration. It’s a wonderful place for children to enjoy fun and adventure while parents relax. Babysitting services are also available upon request. Meanwhile, adults can take part in wellness classes or simply unwind at the adults-only infinity pool, with uninterrupted views of the ocean.

Crafted for Every Traveler

With such a wide array of offerings, every guest finds their rhythm here. For honeymooners soaking up the romance of a private dinner on the beach, families making memories together, or seasoned travelers indulging in the luxury and peace that comes so naturally, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa feels made for you.

Who is it Perfect For?

Couples & Honeymooners: The resort is ideal for romantic getaways, offering private beach dinners, spa retreats, and secluded overwater villas. The serene surroundings make it a perfect place to celebrate love and intimacy.
Families: JW Marriott Maldives caters to families with spacious accommodations, including the Two Bedroom Duplex Beach Pool Villas. The Little Griffins Kids’ Club ensures kids stay entertained with a range of exciting activities. Parents can indulge in relaxation or explore water sports while children enjoy their adventures.
Luxury Travelers: For those seeking a high-end escape, the resort’s personalized butler service, fine dining, and exclusive experiences like wine tastings and private dinners make it the ultimate destination for refined travelers.

Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: The optimal time to visit JW Marriott Maldives is from November to April, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. The Maldivian climate makes this period ideal for both relaxation and adventure.
Packing Tips: Pack comfortable resort wear, reef-friendly sunscreen, and an underwater camera to capture the incredible marine life. Don’t forget light clothing for the warm days, and something stylish for the evening.
Minimum Stay: To fully experience the magic of the resort and its surroundings, a stay of 4-7 nights is recommended.

Why JW Marriott Maldives Stands Out

In the breathtaking Shaviyani Atoll, the JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers more than just a destination—it’s a sanctuary where unforgettable memories are made. From the moment you step into your private villa, to the last sip of wine at a sunset dinner by the beach, every detail immerses you in luxury and serenity. As you dive into crystal-clear waters, unwind at the spa, or simply enjoy the stunning sunsets from your own pool, JW Marriott Maldives creates an experience as unique as the Maldives itself.

As you plan your 2025 escape, let JW Marriott Maldives be the backdrop to your most extraordinary adventure yet. This resort is not just a place to stay—it’s where your dream getaway comes to life.