The Maldives, with its idyllic islands, is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches — soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and vibrant coral reefs — with some of the world's most amazing hotels to match. It's not a place to consider if you're looking for a budget holiday, however, there are a few hotels which do offer good value room rates and all inclusive packages which are easier on the wallet. Whether you're looking for family-friendly accommodations, luxurious resorts, or unique design hotels, there’s a perfect stay for everyone.
The Maldives offers a range of attractions depending on where you stay. In Malé, the capital, visitors can enjoy cultural sites such as a history museum, an ornate mosque, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. The city also offers water activities like sailing, diving, and the unique Whale Submarine for reef exploration. Remote islands are ideal for families, with resorts offering kids' clubs and entertainment, though amenities may be more limited compared to Malé. These secluded resorts are perfect for stargazing, spotting dolphins, baby sharks, and other marine life in pristine lagoons, with the best chances of encountering large pelagics in the more remote areas.
Just don't forget that these islands are popular year round, so make sure that you plan well ahead if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in the Maldives.
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Maldives (12060 Filitheyo)
Rustic, wooden walkways and sandy trails make this resort a barefoot retreat. The comfortable, stylish villas have outdoor bathrooms. As the only resort in Faafu Atoll it offers incredible reefs to explore and a private diving school. A diver's dream with a refreshing unspoilt charm to it.
Maldives
A collection of garden, sea or stilted villas. Private, airy and spacious with bathtubs, rain showers and terraces with breathless views of the ocean. Expect no less than six restaurants and bars plus an indulgent spa. Set near one of the areas most spectacular reefs. Ideal for a couples' escape.
Maldives (Northern Atolls)
The Maldives can be frighteningly expensive. Iru Fushi is an exception. Far enough from Male to require a seaplane transfer, this well-run resort offers desert island seclusion (the whole island is given over to the resort) and tons of family friendly activities.
Maldives (Orchid Magu )
Eco-friendly resort on its very own tropical island reachable by sea plane. Thatched villas offer a barefoot luxury chic to your hideaway stay. Romantically decorated rooms with fourposter beds and ethereal drapes. Eat well at the restaurant, enjoy the water sports and relax at the spa.
Maldives (Huruvalhi Island)
A fabulous resort offering 115 beautifully-modern beach and overwater villas. The Standard has a more upbeat ambience than the other Maldivian resorts whilst celebrating the local vibrant culture. With lively bars and a renowned Pool Party, this is more suited to groups of friends or families.
Maldives (Veligandu, South Male Atoll )
A blissful adults only island resort, with romantic seclusion in luxurious surroundings. A fantastic array of watersports for thrill seekers and an Anantara Garden Spa for those who like to take things easy. Romance, action, and maximum pampering. A chic slice of heaven.
Maldives (South Male Atoll )
Uncompromising luxury on this secluded island paradise. Understated elegance and chic simplicity. Informal dining options in stunning locations. Fantastic watersports and spa facilities. A brilliant romantic getaway or family holiday.
Maldives
A luxury boutique resort situated on a privately owned virgin island. Exclusive villas come with personal butlers and some with private pools. An extensive spa uses Natura Bissé products. Five star cuisine served in a truly romantic setting. Plenty of activities on offer. Complete bliss.
Maldives
Luxurious boho-chic villas built hovering over turquoise waters. Private and romantic, the villas feature large terraces complete with hammocks (of course), sea views from the beds, and outdoor showers. With lobster on the menu and a lively cocktail bar, this is an undeniably romantic stay.
Maldives (Male)
A Robinson Crusoe style retreat in the stunning Baa Atoll. With elegant villas overlooking the waters, some with private pools and openair bathrooms. What makes this resort stand out from the crowd is their emphasis on fun which you will find at all the four restaurants. Oh and the private butlers!
Maldives
Whitewashed, minimalist villas perched on stilts over the Indian Ocean, on the dazzling white shore or 12 metres high amongst the trees. Villas features abstract prints, sleek lines and natural wood furnishings plus each has its own pool. Conscious luxury promoting wellness and conservation.
Maldives (07060 Kanuhura)
An idyllic island resort with perfect beaches and large enough that you can get your own private patch of white glistening sands. Villas have modern furnishings mixed with thatched roofs, white woods and vivid artworks. The spa is what dreams are made of, pure bliss. The perfect family getaway!
Maldives
The resort, situated moments from the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, offers modern and spacious villas decorated in a local Maldivian style. Watch the parrotfish swim beneath you, whilst lounging on your own deck. With fantastic cocktails and seafood, there is something for all the family.
Maldives
A mixture of 65 luxury land and over-water suites and villas. Rooms are decorated with indigenous furnishings mixed with a tropical-minimalist style reflecting the islands calming nature. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto the dreamiest views. Prepare for total relaxation. A celebrity favourite!
Maldives
A romantic resort on a tiny island fringed by perfect white powder sands. Private villas are contemporary in style. The best stand on stilts over the ocean and boast terrace plunge pools. A pampering spa, fantastic diving opportunities and exemplary restaurant will make this hard to ever leave.
Maldives
Natural, wooden and airy water and garden villas built using local materials to compliment the surrounding natural island environment. All come with their own private decking, plunge pool and garden. A deluxe all-inclusive package perfect for families, that screams luxury.
Maldives
Tasteful, authentic unspoilt beach and sea villas displaying the true charm of the Maldives. The villas are decorated in a traditional Maldivian style incorporating locally handcrafted pieces with simple colour schemes. Perfect for couples who want to unplug from technology and totally relax.
Maldives (North Malé Atoll )
A hideaway resort in utter paradise with an array of temptations for guests. The 48 private villas have their own swimming pools, fantastic watersports including the use of a yacht, marine biology, PADI diving, and a world class spa - barefoot luxury, romance, and adrenalin rushes.
Maldives
A boutique hideaway in the far northeast of Lhaviyani Atoll, just a short seaplane hop from Malé. The vibe is barefoot luxury, with villas blending local craft and sleek modern lines. Expect oceanview dining, beachside grills, a spa in the jungle, and world-class diving. Small island, big punch.
Maldives (05150 Raa Atoll)
Stunning wooden beach and water bungalows dotted around the private island of Aarah. Offering the Maldives' first medi-spa, guests will feel revitalised in a matter of moments! The food and service are wonderful. Truly, one of the best all-inclusive deals in the entire Maldives.
Maldives (Rangali Island)
A luxury hotel on a quintessentially perfect white sand tropical island. Chic villas stand on stilts over glistening turquoise waters. Boasting private hot tubs, luxury bathrooms and enormous terraces this is a spot designed with romance in mind. The ideal getaway.
Maldives (South Ari Atoll )
A stunning 5 star resort on a pristine island. Villas and suites are the height of luxury and offer wonderful sea views. A kids club will keep little ones entertained whilst an over-water spa is total bliss. A wide array of restaurants assures evening variety. A perfect all inclusive escape.
Maldives (08250 South Male Atoll)
An adrenaline-fuelled, all-inclusive resort where fun, privacy and luxury go hand in hand. A mixture of beach and water over-water villas with stunning views overlooking the Indian Ocean. The jewel crown of the resort is the underwater seafood restaurant, M6m. A must-visit for families and foodies.
Maldives (13080 Dhaalu Atoll)
Unique, bespoke villas hovering perfectly above the azure waters. Villas feature exquisite contemporary architecture with an up-market and elegant ambience while still feeling homely. Each villa has a dazzling private deck and pool. Families can anticipate nothing but pure island heaven.
Maldives (Gaafu Alifu Atoll)
A stunning resort stretched over two islands in secluded Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Luxurious overwater or island villas feature private pools and vast indulgent bathrooms. Interiors have a classic-modern twist with a running nautical theme reflecting the ocean. A paradise-island retreat ideal for couples.
Maldives (South Male Atoll )
The Taj has outdone itself with this Maldives paradise. Every detail oozes opulence and relaxation. With stunning interiors, spectacular views, award winning restaurants, pampering spa, knockout cocktails and an extensive wine cellar. Prepare to be treated like royalty.
Maldives (Kothaifaru)
A remote island retreat in the northern Maldives, reached by seaplane from Malé. The vibe is laid-back luxury, with minimalist villas that blend clean lines and natural textures. There’s a spa, gym, yoga, and multiple restaurants including Japanese and Mediterranean. Quiet, stylish, effortless.
Maldives
A luxury resort set on a picture perfect tropical island surrounded by beautiful reefs. Individual villas are light and airy, built with local materials and wonderfully luxurious. The best stand on stilts amidst the crystal clear seas. Ideal for both diving enthusiasts or those looking to unwind.
Maldives
Relax in privacy at this supreme getaway island - stretch out in the stilted yoga pavilion, unwind in the world class spa, feast on nature's larder in the fantastic restaurant, and dream about the next day's snorkelling in the lofty-chic stilted villas.
Maldives (Olhuveli Island)
Remote, luxury resort with a sustainable yet chic style. Thatched villas with sunken glass bathtubs. The no-shoes policy is surprisingly refreshing. The seafood is outstanding and who can say no to free ice-cream? An island castaway-type holiday and without a doubt worth the effort of getting there.
Maldives
A luxury island escape in the Maldives with beach and overwater villas made for privacy. The vibe is sleek but relaxed - think canopy beds, polished wood, and open-air bathrooms. Highlights include an underwater nightclub, treehouse dining, and a kids’ club like no other. Remote but unforgettable.
Maldives (20224 Noonu)
Gorgeous villas located on the remote private island of Veela. Guests can expect ultimate privacy and to be treated like royalty. Velaa plays host to the best scuba diving and snorkelling spots in the Maldives. Food is incredible from gourmet menus to unpretentious dishes. The definition of luxe.
Maldives
A luxury resort that offers 50 traditional beach pool and water pool villas with classic thatched roofs and complementing colour schemes. Dining is standout, particularly the unique “teppanyaki” table. The ideal couples paradise with numerous romantic experiences carefully planned out.
Maldives
Ultimate pampering a short boat ride from Male. Beautifully crafted bungalows and speciality suites offer top of the range accommodation all with private pool and plenty of family options. Superb dining including award winning Indian cuisine, plus spoiling spa, kids club and much more. Heaven!
Maldives (Fesdu Island)
Surely the hippest and grooviest place in the Maldives - sleek style and contemporary comfort without getting in nature's way. The ultimate gourmet, spa, and romantic lifestyle where all your wishes will be fulfilled, and more.
Maldives (North Malé Atoll)
Unique Maldivian luxury resort that combines the wonders of nature with the luxuries and style of the 5*. Sleek villas mirror the surrounding crystal blue water. Fantastic watersports, the ultimate pampering in world's first underwater spa and delicious meals. A true hideaway in utter bliss.
Maldives (South Male Atoll)
A Maldivian dream brought to life. Peace, tranquility, and privacy in either an ocean or beach house with private pools. A romantic seclusion from which to indulge in the fantastic watersports and beach life, and unwind later in the luxury spa. Complete paradise.
Maldives (Lankanfushi Island )
If you were to conjure up the perfect tropical island escape, this would be it. Secluded villas standing on stilts above crystal clear waters, swaying palms and the whitest of white sands. Add into that mix fabulous food, a spoiling spa, superb diving and friendly yet efficient service. Magic.
Maldives ( Baa Atoll)
The finest barefoot luxury can offer with an Eco-conscious ethos - rustic-chic villas, a Robinson Crusoe tree-top restaurant, and outdoor cinema. The land of milk and honey with spa, dive centre and astrological observatory!
Maldives
With water, island and beach garden villas, the resort offers countless chances for total relaxation. Each villa has a sleek pool, and huge daybeds, with a great amount of attention to detail. Relax in the ultra-exclusive Guerlain Spa for a completely rejuvenating stay. A firm family favourite.
Maldives (North Province Maldives)
Private beach and water villas each with their own pool. Each villa is designed to illustrate its own individual story. A host of activities are offered from snorkelling with manta rays, an immersive art tour to learning Maldivian delicacies. A unique luxury hideaway.
Maldives
Remote and refined, this is a five-star escape in the Maldives, just a short seaplane hop from Malé. Think breezy beach-house vibes with clean lines and sun-bleached wood. Eight restaurants, five bars, a luxe spa and endless watersports keep things lively. Laidback, but far from basic.
Maldives
The ultimate luxury resort on a remote desert island in the Indian Ocean. The turquoise waters can be seen from bed, spa bath or infinity pool. Romantic dinner with sand underfoot or sip on cocktails while the sunsets. Oozing opulence and style.
Maldives
A laidback barefoot-luxury escape in the remote South Ari Atoll. Interiors lean warm and natural, with polished wood and no screens in sight. Three relaxed spots to eat, a bar for sundowners, and world-class diving right off the beach. Peaceful, pared-back, and beautifully remote.
Maldives
Luxury and sophistication makes this resort heaven on earth. A jewel among a string of coral atolls, lagoons and white sands. Tapasake offers Japanese, Fanditha for Eastern and Reethi for Mediterranean cuisine. Private pools, spa treatments and ample activities for all. Memorable hideaway spot.
Maldives
Remote and ultra-luxurious, this private island hideaway in Baa Atoll offers serious seclusion. Interiors channel old-world seafarer charm with dark woods, Arab motifs, and high-end finishes. Expect private pools, an underwater restaurant, and a world-first overwater observatory. Pure luxury.
Maldives (Noonu Atoll)
Spectacular private villas (many come with rooftop water slides) on the island of Medhufaru. Every detail has been thought of from spa to dining, to activities and relaxation. Sustainably sourced interiors, organic local produce and faultless service - these guys do the Maldives like no other.
Maldives
A contemporary island retreat in the Raa Atoll with direct beach access and sweeping ocean views. Interiors blend sleek minimalism with warm, natural textures. Multiple dining spots offer everything from sushi to Mediterranean, plus bars and a spa. A serene island escape.
Maldives (South Malé Atoll)
A laid-back luxury retreat in the South Malé Atoll, just 40 minutes by speedboat from the airport. The overwater villas echo traditional dhoni boats with clean lines and serene ocean views. Expect Ayurvedic spa treatments, fresh seafood, and open-air yoga. Peaceful, pared-back, and refined.
Maldives (20066 Baa Atoll)
The resort has relaxed beachside and overwater houses. Rooms have a bohemian design with natural furnishings and a walk-in rain shower. The food is superb and overseen by one of brightest chef's in the Indian Ocean. This resort epitomises the definition of barefoot luxury. Perfect for all the family
Maldives
A modern island hideaway in the North Maldives, right on the sand. Interiors are clean-lined with a cool, architectural edge. Dining spans everything from sushi to souvlaki, and the spa is all about next-gen wellness. Calm, curated, and quietly luxurious.
Maldives
A high-end island retreat in the Maldives’ Fari Islands. The mood is sleek and sculptural, with circular villas that blend into sea and sky. Seven restaurants, a standout spa, and curated kid-friendly activities cover every base. It’s polished, peaceful, and intentionally designed.
