6 Resorts in Maldives Wins Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Award

6 resorts in the Maldives has won the coveted Forbes Travel Guide 5-star Award 2021. Several resorts in the Maldives also won the 4-star award.

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. The star rating system’s anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on up to 900 objective standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help travellers select the world’s best luxury experiences. The only way to get a five-star from Forbes Travel Guide is by earning it through their independent inspection process.

Resorts in Maldives that won the Forbes Travel Guide 5-Star Award

Cheval Blanc Randheli

Maldives Forbes Travel Guide — *Image: Cheval Blanc*

The ultra-luxe Maison offers a range of experiences to fit every mood and desire of travellers. Cheval Blanc Randheli hosts various water activities ranging from water skiing or windsurfing to Seabob, jet ski, or stand-up paddling. A team of Alchemists at the luxury resort will design tailor-made activities and memorable experiences for guests.

For a gastronomic journey and every craving, guests can pamper their taste buds in 5 restaurants and 4 bars at Randheli. Meanwhile, The suites at Cheval Blanc Randheli features a subtle blending of Maldivian influences and modern sensibility.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

Four Seasons Maldives Resort at Kuda Huraa is a ‘garden-style resort arranged as a traditional Maldivian village’. The luxury retreat won the ‘World’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2020’ at the World Travel Awards last year as well.

Kanuhura Maldives

Kanuhura Maldives is a luxe lifestyle resort located in Lhaviyani Atoll and boasts 80 villas. Entirely renovated and redesigned in 2016, Kanuhura is a timeless castaway chic experience for travellers seeking ‘laid-back island living’.

The luxury escape is a part of the Mauritius-based hotel and leisure group Sun Resorts. Likewise, Kanuhura Maldives is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. In 2020, the resort was recognized among the ‘Top 15 Luxury Island Resorts in the Maldives’. And also among ‘Top 10 Luxury Dining Experience in the Maldives’ by Luxury Lifestyle Awards’.

One&Only Reethi Rah

One&Only Reethi Rah offers an abundance of space and privacy. Surrounded by the wonders of the Indian Ocean, the luxury high-end resort makes its home on one of the largest islands in North Malé Atoll.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Vommuli resort's overwater villas surrounded by beautiful lagoon — *Image: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort*

This Marriott International’s property in the Maldives boasts features 44 overwater villas and 33 villas located on the beach. In 2020, for the fourth constructive year, St. Regis Maldives Vommuli resort claimed the title of World’s Leading Luxury Island Resort as well. Moreover, this is the second constructive year the resort is winning the Forbes Travel Guide 5-star Award.

The luxury high-end island retreat features one of the largest overwater villas in the world, the John Jacob Astor Estate. Located in the stunning Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives. St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is only reachable by seaplane. But, you can charter the resort’s Azimut FlyBridge 66 luxury yacht, Norma, for an exclusive transfer experience.

Velaa Private Island

Nestled 200 Kilometres north of the Velana International Airport, the ultra-luxury Velaa Private Island boasts 48 villas, of which 18 are built overwater. Guests can find a myriad of dining options and activities at the resort. Furthermore, dining at Aragu in Velaa Private Island is a not-to-miss experience.

This year, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi also won Forbes Travel Guide’s 2021 Hotel Instagram of the Year.

Feature image by Velaa Private Island

In a world where privacy and personalization redefine luxury, InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort sets a new standard. The resort sits tucked away in the remote Raa Atoll, at the edge of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and now invites guests to book the entire island for themselves. Be it a dream honeymoon, an intimate celebration, a family reunion, or a gathering of friends, this private island escape delivers complete freedom, unmatched comfort, and unforgettable experiences in one of the planet’s most extraordinary locations.

A Private Island, All to Yourself

This opportunity goes beyond a typical island stay. Guests who choose the exclusive island buyout can take full control of their time at InterContinental Maldives. From customized activities to tailored dining and curated wellness experiences, every moment centers around their preferences.

The resort lies within a protected manta ray sanctuary in the Raa Atoll and provides access to one of the Maldives’ richest marine ecosystems. Guests encounter vibrant coral reefs, blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, and from December to April, graceful manta rays during their seasonal migration. The resort’s resident Manta Trust marine biologists guide snorkeling and diving excursions, offering personalized, up-close interactions with these ocean giants in their natural environment.

Smooth Sailing from Arrival to Departure

The InterContinental team ensures a seamless experience from the moment guests land in Malé. A dedicated airport representative greets arrivals and escorts them to the resort’s private seaplane lounge for a scenic journey to the island. For large groups, personalized concierge services manage luggage, check-ins, and welcome experiences.

The island buyout includes:

Daily gourmet breakfast
Full access to the resort’s fitness centre, yoga pavilion, and Planet Trekkers Kids Club
Welcome treats such as sparkling wine and a selection of sweet and savory bites
Complimentary non-motorized watersports and snorkeling gear

Villas Designed for Every Style of Traveler

The resort features 81 villas and residences across beach, lagoon, and overwater settings. Each space blends natural beauty with modern luxury and reflects a design that respects the surrounding environment. The options suit both couples and large groups, with everything from romantic beachfront villas to expansive multi-bedroom residences.

Accommodation options include:

Villas: Overwater Pool Villa, Lagoon Pool Villa, Sunset Overwater Villa, Beach Pool Villa, and Family Pool Villas on the beach or lagoon
Residences: Two- and Three-Bedroom Residences overwater, beachfront, or on the lagoon, including the Royal Beachfront Residence

Each accommodation features indoor and outdoor living spaces, private pools, a dedicated butler, luxury BYREDO bath products, and a pillow menu for personalized comfort. Regardless of your plans—watching the sunset over the ocean or waking up with your feet in the sand—the setting always impresses.

Flavours from Around the World, Just for You

Dining at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau goes far beyond a meal. Private island guests can enjoy fully customized culinary journeys, including beach banquets, star-lit dinners, and exclusive tastings.

Culinary highlights include:

The Lighthouse: Fine dining with panoramic island views
The Fish Market: A sea-to-table concept where guests hand-pick fresh catch with chefs
Café Umi: Laid-back, all-day dining beneath palm trees
Teppanyaki: Japanese cuisine prepared live by expert chefs
The Wine Cellar: Tastings led by a master sommelier featuring the world’s top vintages
Sunset Bar: Cocktails and champagne with a sunset backdrop
Pool Bar: Swim-up service in the resort’s social hub
The Retreat: An adults-only spot serving small bites and cocktails in a tranquil space
The Collective: A casual pizzeria and culinary studio with cooking classes for aspiring chefs

Island buyouts allow for themed dining experiences and private chefs who craft bespoke menus for any occasion.

Adventure Above and Below the Waterline

This private island escape includes an extensive selection of activities that guests can tailor to their preferences. No matter if the group seeks thrilling watersports or relaxing scenic experiences, the resort offers something for everyone.

Ocean and marine experiences include:

Dolphin cruises, night snorkeling, underwater photography, and turtle safaris
Boat rentals, sunrise fishing, and manta ray dives
PADI-certified diving courses and guided marine excursions

Watersports available:

Jet skiing, kayaking, wakeboarding, parasailing, paddle boarding, catamaran sailing, and the X Jet Blade

On land, guests can enjoy:

A personalized recreation schedule with aerial yoga, aqua aerobics, table tennis, and sound healing
Planet Trekkers Kids Club: A fun and educational program for children aged 4 to 12
Teen Programs: Cooking classes, spa treatments, diver certification, and more designed just for teens

Wellness at the Heart of the Ocean

Guests seeking rejuvenation can retreat to AVI Spa, a sanctuary built above the sea. The spa features six overwater treatment villas designed to harness the ocean’s calming power. The wellness menu includes offerings from Biologique Recherche, Eminence Organics, Margaret Dabbs London, and Kerstin Florian. Guests choose from deep-tissue massages to restorative rituals tailored to their needs.

Rates and Reservations

Booking an exclusive island stay at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau starts from USD 1.6 million.

You can also explore full details in the resort’s Exclusive Island Buyout Brochure.

If you want to mark a milestone or seek solitude in nature, this all-island escape offers something rare: complete seclusion, personalized luxury, and a chance to call a Maldivian paradise your own.