Explore The Best Hotels in the Maldives, where private islands, azure waters, and powdery white sands await.
The Maldives is undoubtedly a prime destination for many travelers, and it is easy to understand why this tropical haven is so desirable. To assist you in making your choice, we present our selection of The Best Hotels in the Maldives. Whether you wish to indulge in the most luxurious resorts the Maldives offers or prefer value options that provide elegance without excessive costs, there is something for everyone.
BEST HOTELS IN THE MALDIVES – LUXURY
JOALI
Address: Muravandhoo Island Raa Atoll, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @joalimaldives
Located on the secluded island of Muravandhoo, encircled by coral reefs and the turquoise sea of the Indian Ocean, Joali Resort offers a unique escape. Guests are encouraged to disconnect from the external world with an exquisite array of opulent beach and water villas, featuring personal infinity pools, fine decor, stunning architecture, and dedicated butler service catering to every need.
The culinary experience at Joali is exceptional, showcasing a specially curated menu inspired by South East Asian, Mediterranean, Chinese, and Levantine cuisines that tantalize the senses. Expect themed dinners, an unrivaled breakfast selection, and immersive dining experiences, complemented by a selection of world-class wines imported from internationally acclaimed regions, perfectly paired with your meals.
Address: Ithaafushi Island South Malé Atoll Male, 20009, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @waldorfastoria
The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi embodies the essence of opulence, featuring tropical villas situated on the beach and over the water. The spacious 234sqm villa includes impressive infinity pools that blend with the azure ocean. Experience the epitome of luxury in the Stella Maris Ocean Villa, with vast space and multiple levels, an extensive infinity pool with hammocks, and a barbecue area for entertaining. Accessible solely by boat, this villa provides a regal experience.
Dine at one of the eleven premier restaurants available at the Waldorf Astoria, offering global cuisine prepared by dedicated culinary professionals. Tantalize your taste buds at Terra, where a private dinner awaits in a personal pod nestled among treetops, showcasing a menu featuring exceptional ingredients such as Miyazaki Wagyu Beef and Alba White truffles.
Address: Thiladhoo, Baa atoll 20066, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @thenautilusisland
Time is of no consequence at The Nautilus, a luxury resort featuring a collection of 26 exclusive beach houses renowned for their location within the UNESCO-designated Baa Atoll. Guests are invited to experience unparalleled freedom, establishing their own schedules without the constraints of traditional hospitality. No set meal times or fixed itineraries—enjoy breakfast at any hour or engage in star-gazing until late into the evening. The Nautilus is designed specifically for individual comfort and preference.
At The Nautilus, the concept of guest rooms or villas is redefined; rather, you will experience a home-like environment. Each accommodation includes a separate living area, freshwater swimming pool, and personal butler service, encouraging total relaxation in this tropical sanctuary.
Address: The Residence Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @theresidencemaldives @residencemaldivesdhigurah
Paradise awaits at The Residence Maldives, a luxurious ensemble of two properties, The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah and The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi. The palm-fringed islands offer an unparalleled Maldivian experience, equipped with world-class amenities and breathtaking natural vistas. Connected by a 1km bridge, guests can effortlessly traverse between the two properties to utilize the comprehensive facilities on offer, including fitness centers, exquisite spas, and fine dining avenues.
Guests will experience exclusive privacy at The Residence Maldives at Dhigurah, comprising 173 luxurious villas—each boasting a private pool. Each villa is meticulously crafted using the finest local materials, merging traditional Maldivian architecture with modern aesthetics and luxuries. The 94 villas at The Residence Maldives at Falhumaafushi draw design inspiration from the island’s opulence, characterized by thatched roofs, natural materials, airy high ceilings, and French windows that provide stunning 360-degree views. Whether you seek a romantic couple’s retreat or an unforgettable family getaway, The Residence Maldives should not be overlooked.
Consider creating lasting memories with a once-in-a-lifetime Dolphin Cruise, observing wild spinner and bottlenose dolphins frolic in the ocean waves.
Address: Kunfunadhoo Island Baa Atoll, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @discoversoneva
At The Nautilus, a collection of 26 exclusive beach houses within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, guests can experience the ultimate in luxury. This sanctuary is designed to foster a sense of relaxation and tranquility, allowing guests to set their schedules. Enjoy complete freedom to indulge in leisurely pursuits at your convenience, ensuring an idyllic vacation.
Each of the dwellings is a miniature retreat complete with separate living areas, pools, and dedicated butler services to accommodate your every desire, creating a true home-away-from-home experience in a tropical paradise.
Address: 1 Milaidhoo Island, Milaidhoo Island 20002, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @amillafushi
At Amilla Fushi, every lavish villa serves as a homage to the sea and the sky, harmoniously blending minimalist aesthetics with coastal touches. Renowned for its substantial Amilla Beach Residences, each residence, ranging from one to eight bedrooms, provides ample privacy amid the lush island landscape, complemented by modern amenities, private pools, and dedicated butler service catering to every need.
Remain active both on land and beneath the surface as you engage with the mesmerizing marine life encircling the island. Just meters from Amilla Fushi’s main beach, a snorkeling excursion to the famed Blue Hole offers the chance to experience the underwater beauty filled with colorful coral and diverse marine life. Return to dry land for activities such as tennis lessons, badminton, and beach volleyball, or enjoy soccer matches against the Amilla Islander team.
Address: Rinbudhoo, Maldives, Maagau Island WWX7+4R, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @baglioniresortmaldives
Italy meets the Maldives at Baglioni Resort Maldives, the only luxury Italian resort in the Maldives. Every aspect of the resort captures opulence and style, merging quintessential Italian design with the carefree ambiance of a tropical escape. Set on the secluded Maagau Island within the Dhaalu Atoll, the surrounding waters are rich in marine life including manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant coral. Whether you opt for a villa surrounded by crystal-clear water or powdery sands, you are guaranteed excellence in Italian hospitality.
Tucked amidst lush greenery, the Baglioni SPA is an oasis where guests can unwind, detoxify, and rejuvenate. Open-air wooden pavilions combine nature with luxury, incorporating traditional Maldivian wellness rituals tailored to suit individual needs. The Yoga Pavilion invites those seeking tranquility through yoga, meditation, and reflective practices, while a fully equipped gym provides opportunities to stay active even in paradise.
BEST HOTELS IN THE MALDIVES – BEST VALUE
HERITANCE AARAH
Address: Raa Atoll, Raa North MV, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @heritanceaarah
Nestled on a secluded private island a mere 40-minute journey from Malé International Airport, Heritance Aarah captures the essence of tradition. This all-inclusive resort, boasting 150 villas, redefines luxurious living, providing meticulously curated experiences along with premier amenities designed for every guest’s desires. Awaken in your elegant villa, whether situated atop the shimmering turquoise waters or set on the pristine beach, and relax with the soothing sounds of the gentle waves.
Heritance Aarah seamlessly blends indulgent luxury with traditional aesthetics, offering an astounding holiday experience. Its Premium All Inclusive package supplements the typical offerings, including superior amenities, exquisite cuisine prepared by award-winning culinary professionals, a selection of premium spirits and wines, and tailor-made exploratory journeys.
DRIFT THELU VELIGA
Address: Thelu Veliga Island, South Ari Atoll, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @driftretreat
Surrounded by pristine beaches, lush tropical gardens, and a brilliant turquoise lagoon, Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat is located on a one-hectare private island, 90 kilometers west of Malé. This destination is well known for its extraordinary marine life as well as its abundant dive and snorkel spots, providing an ideal base for exploring the captivating underwater world.
With only 30 quaint villas on-site, Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat provides a secluded sanctuary where guests can escape civilization. Each villa is crafted to harmonize with the natural surroundings, featuring thatched roofs, timber accents, and exquisite hand-carved wooden furnishings. Opt for a Beach Villa to step directly onto the sand or a Water Villa to leap right into the lagoon.
Amari Raaya Maldives is a celebration of life’s cherished moments, offering serenity and unparalleled experiences as a contemporary resort. Its 187 guest rooms and villas present inviting retreats, each uniquely positioned from secluded beach villas to overwater pool villas possessing unobstructed views of Raa Atoll waters. Spanning eight distinct dining venues, the resort seamlessly integrates flavors from Thai, Asian, Maldivian, and international cuisines, inviting guests to indulge amidst palm trees, beside the ocean, or on the soft sandy beach.
Amari Raaya serves as a portal to the uncharted wonders of the Northern Maldives, providing diving facilitated by experienced PADI instructors as well as exhilarating watersports. Land-based activities encompass pools, fitness amenities, mini-golf, paddle tennis, and a panoramic-view observation tower. The Kids Club assures family-friendly options, promising an array of engaging activities for a memorable family adventure.
- Prices for Amari Raaya Maldives, recognized as one of the premier hotels in the Maldives, commence at US $420++ per night. Click for more details.
Address: Fasmendhoo Island, Fasmendhoo, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @emeraldmaldivesresortspa
At Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, nature takes center stage. The stunning environment has been preserved and complemented by the carefully crafted villas built from natural materials such as bamboo, stone, and Langhi Langhi leaves. Located on a private 20-hectare island, Emerald Maldives encompasses 120 villas set both on land and over water, ensuring proximity to beautiful surroundings.
Situated in the Raa Atoll of northern Maldives, experience an abundance of underwater life featuring over 1000 species of fish and vibrant coral. Emerald Maldives offers guests opportunities to gain their PADI diving certification, a great way to embrace the enchanting aquatic world during their stay. If relaxation is your goal, you may indulge in five distinctive restaurants crafted to please discerning palates.
Address: Filaidhoo, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @reethifaruresort
Experience peace and rejuvenation at Reethi Faru, located on the private island of Filaidhoo. Immerse yourself in crystal-clear waters, glistening white sands, and vibrant tropical gardens as you unwind in this tranquil slice of paradise in the Indian Ocean. Each of the 150 villas is designed to serve as your private oasis, perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways.
Find serenity at the Coconut Spa, nestled in a secluded coconut groves. This holistic retreat offers specialist treatments aimed at restoring your well-being. Beyond the resort experience, Reethi Faru is dedicated to marine conservation, engaging in coral restoration and the identification and protection of manta rays and turtles. Guests can participate in diving tours, enhancing understanding of these exquisite creatures while aiding the in-house marine biologists with their research.
Address: Uthurumaafaru, Ungoofaaru 05060, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @youandmemaldives
Designed specifically for couples, You & Me by Cocoon provides the ideal environment for couples seeking intimacy. As an adults-only sanctuary located in the Raa Atoll, the resort centers around rekindling romance, with the standout feature being its underwater restaurant, designed to offer continuous, panoramic views of the Maldives’ vibrant marine life. Guests are invited to savor fine wines, indulge in local cuisine, and witness the beauty of exotic fish swimming by.
Engage in a variety of activities designed for enjoyment—including fishing trips, snorkeling adventures, dolphin cruises, and island excursions. Enjoy lively evenings with live music and local DJs, coupled with a culturally immersive Maldivian Cultural Show to highlight the region’s artistic heritage. To capture these meaningful moments, consider hiring a professional photographer for a memorable photoshoot.
Address: Kudafushi Resort & SPA, Kudafushi 20081, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @kudafushimaldives
Hidden away in the Raa Atoll is Kudafushi, an exquisite private Maldivian sanctuary located just a 45-minute seaplane journey from the capital, Malé. Relax in luxurious accommodations positioned either on the pristine beach or above the shimmering lagoon, fulfilling your individual preferences. The entry-level beach villa features a spacious bedroom with an alfresco rain shower and bathtub. Positioned discreetly behind lush greenery, these villas guarantee privacy and seclusion while ensuring convenient access to sandy shores.
Experience the finest amenities the Maldives has to offer through full-day excursions that enlighten you about the culture and beauty of the region. Discover vibrant coral ecosystems while swimming with the local marine life, followed by an idyllic beach picnic on a remote island. The adventure continues with an authentic Maldivian bottom-line fishing experience led by skilled instructors, providing insight into local fishing techniques, complete with a private chef preparing the day’s freshest catch as you cherish the sunset above the Indian Ocean.
Address: Fushifaru Island, Maldives (Location map)
Instagram: @fushifaru
Situated on an exclusive private island, Fushifaru Maldives is an emerging luxury destination. Nestled between two channels, Fushifaru lies between the open ocean and a tranquil lagoon, adorned with a sandy beach. Each of the 49 villas boasts breathtaking views of the channel, ocean, or lagoon and is designed to harmonize with its surroundings. Among the most popular choices is the Water Villa, which offers stunning views of the channel and a private outdoor jacuzzi.
Dining at Fushifaru showcases exquisite culinary creations, emphasizing fresh ingredients, locally-inspired dishes, and beloved international flavors. Enjoy freshly caught seafood grilled to perfection at the Raakani Grill, accompanied by refreshing cocktails at Fanihandi Bar. For special occasions or enhanced privacy, indulge in tailored dining experiences throughout the island or on a nearby sandbank.
