The Hotel Guru
The 15 Best Five-Star Hotels in the Maldives

The 15 Best Five-Star Hotels in the Maldives

The Maldives is the ultimate destination for an indulgent holiday. Nothing is too extravagant here whether you want a chartered seaplane or boat, world-class dining, or a private island — it has it all. But where to start when booking that perfect beach escape? Our Hotel Gurus have hand-selected a concise collection of the best five-star hotels in the Maldives. Whether you are travelling with family or your significant other — there is something for everyone here. So why not browse through our collection and start planning that trip?

For the best overwater villas

Raffles Meradhoo offers spectacular and spacious villas set over the turquoise water. Each has a private pool, while interiors are clean and contemporary with large bathtubs overlooking the water. Spread over two islands, this resort is a truly indulgent choice.
Soneva Jani offers spectacular private villas (many come with rooftop water slides), which have been beautifully crafted using sustainably sourced materials with very natural feeling interiors. Every detail has been thought of from spa and dining to activities and relaxation. With organic local produce used in the restaurant and faultless service - this hotel does the Maldives like no other.
Joali offers private beach and water villas each with their own unique design, private pool, and loungers placed on decks that you can just roll off into the sea. Pick this property for the unique design which mixes natural materials with futuristic design.

For foodies

The Nautilus is made up of just 26 villas offering luxury and intimacy on a remote island accessed by seaplane. Villas are vast and either come over water or on the beach. Dining is a real highlight (headed by arguably one of the best chefs in the Maldives), the spa is delectable, and for those travelling with children - there's a kids club too. Drop your bags and unwind.

For families

One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah is a have it all resort. Luxurious villas are enormous with high ceilings and Asian inspired design and private pools. Complete with a spoiling spa, endless activities, and an excellent Kids Club - there is something for everyone here.
Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is a classic choice. With all the luxury trimmings including a spa, gourmet beach dining, and state-of-the-art villas. Families are well catered for with family-sized villas and an excellent Kids Club giving parents the opportunity to simply relax!
Cheval Blanc Randheli offers sophisticated luxury overlooking the ocean. Adults can unwind in the exclusive spa while children will be kept buy in the kids club or taking part in the many hotel activities. Perfect for all the family.
Four Seasons Kuda Huraa is a luxurious resort that has plenty to keep everyone entertained. Located a short boat ride from Male, this is a convenient place to get to. Bungalows come in family-sized varieties and each has a private pool. Complete with a Kids Club and endless activity options - this is a gorgeous spot for a family break.
Velaa Private Island is a very luxurious getaway with plenty of activities and service second-to-none. Complete with its own golf course, a Clarins Spa, gourmet dining, some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives and an extensive Kids Club - you'll wish for nothing here.

For romance

Soneva Fushi Resort features rustic-chic villas with gorgeous open-air bathrooms and personal stretches of beach. Complete with a spa, outdoor cinema, Robinson Crusoe tree-top restaurant, and private boat trips - it doesn't get much more romantic than this.
Gili Lankanfushi has an excellent motto "no news, no shoes". This is a place to really come and unwind. For couples who want a little action, they have that covered too, from scuba diving to fishing or tennis. Villas have an open-air feel. A luxurious escape, perfect for a honeymoon.
Naladhu is romantic from the outset. Arrive at your villa via boat before unwinding in the bathtub overlooking the ocean (with plenty of room for two). With private boat tours and couples' massages, this is island bliss.
W Retreat & Spa offers a cool contemporary choice for a honeymoon getaway. All the five-star trimmings are there as standard including a world-class spa, private pools, and gourmet dining. But W hotels know how to deliver that little bit extra, with cutting edge design and unbeatable service.
Milaidhoo Island has classic thatched villas with luxurious touches including private pools and enormous tubs. Dining is standout, particularly the unique “teppanyaki” table. The ideal couples' paradise with numerous romantic experiences carefully planned out.

For the spa

Huvafen Fushi is a unique luxury resort that combines the wonders of nature with the luxuries and style of a 5*. Boasting the world's first underwater spa, endless watersports, and smart modern design. An indulgent escape.

Still not sure which to book?

Consider our Guru’s list of the best hotels in the Maldives.
Widen your search to include our pick of places to stay Check out our recommendations in Sri Lanka or Mauritius instead.
Browse through our collection of the best value hotels in the Maldives, the best boutique hotels in the Maldives or the best resorts in the Maldives
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
- The Nautilus Maldives 26 rooms from $3159
  
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  Beach Life  -  The resort is completely surrounded by crystal white sands giving guests the opportunity for a real beach lifestyle
  Total relaxation  -  The numerous amounts of treatments offered in the spa gives guests opportunities to completely unwind
  Families  -  A host of experiences and activites to share together with your family from yoga to sailing
  Weddings  -  What better place for guests to renew their vows with their loved ones
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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 See More
  
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- Raffles Meradhoo Maldives 38 rooms from $1115
  
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  Romantic Break  -  The resort is perfect for couples and offers romantic dinners on the beach aswell as special trips to deserted islands
  Weddings  -  Plan the perfect wedding with the resorts packages that include photography and an 'under the stars' dinner
  Restaurant  -  3 restaurants includes Maldivian, Middle Eastern, Chinese and British options
  Swimming Pool  -  An infinity pool and an outdoor pool are avaliable to all guests
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  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. See More
  
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- Soneva Jani Maldives 24 rooms from $2040
  
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  Honeymoons  -  Each villa comes with a private pool, plus stargazing with an astrologer and prosecco fuelled bluetooth silent cinema...Bliss!
  Total relaxation  -  'No shoes, no news' policy, a top notch spa, private villas and round the clock service - relaxation is certainly on the cards
  Spa  -  Soneva Spa offers a wide range of healing treatments, plus tailor made spa journeys and much more
  Diving  -  Take a PADI diving course at the hotels dive centre and explore the local reefs
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- One&Only Maldives at Reethi Rah North Male Atoll, Maldives 130 rooms from $1750
  
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  Back to Nature  -  The Beach Huts sit in dense tropical vegetation, facing out to sea where you can explore the reefs and swim with turtles.
  Honeymoons  -  Achingly romantic from the moment you set out on the luxury yacht, to watching your final sunset from your private villa.
  Families  -  The resort has a KidsOnly Club tailoring to younger kids, and a range of fun activities for teenagers.
  Diving  -  Head to the PADI National Geographic Dive Centre and explore some of the most remarkable reefs in the world.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru Maldives 103 rooms from $1700
  
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  Eco break  -  Luxury resort with responsible tourism practices such as turtle conservation, coral preservation & recycled building materials.
  Romantic Break  -  Private villas, spa treatments and sunsets strolls along deserted beaches are just the tip of the iceberg.
  Families  -  There are suites for the whole family to stay in plus a kids club and kids menus.
  Diving  -  45 minute orientation dive.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  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. See More
  
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- Joali 20066 Raa Atoll, Maldives 73 rooms from $1894
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Set on a private island - spend days unwinding in your own private pool or indulging in a spa treatment
  Eco break  -  Joali has encorpated the existing trees into the architecture and landscape
  Families  -  Fun for all the family from watersports to live music
  Restaurant  -  Four Restaurants specialising in cuisines from South-East Asia, China, the Mediterranean and the Levant
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Cheval Blanc Randheli 11111 Manadhoo, Maldives 46 rooms from $1739
  
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  Families  -  Snorkel the crystal blue playground that surrounds the resort with your family and there are great kids and teen clubs
  Groups  -  Hire out the entire resort for your entire family or friends and enjoy the exclusivity and special occasion
  Spa breaks  -  The Guerlain Spa is exclusive to the Maldives providing guests with moments of serenity and ultimate peace
  Romantic Break  -  Various romantic experiences are avaliable to couples such as private beach dining
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Soneva Fushi Resort & Six Senses Spa Baa Atoll, Maldives 55 rooms from $1310
  
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  Romantic Break  -  One of the most romantic spots in the world, head off to a tiny private island for a picnic, or take a Dhoani on a sunset cruise
  Eco break  -  Committed to preserving the natural beauty of their island, using indigenous materials and employing eco friendly policies.
  Beach Life  -  Each hut nestled into the jungle, with private stretch of white sand, feels like a desert island.
  Cooking classes  -  Take part in the weekly cooking classes with the resort's chef, using local organic ingrediants.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Kiwi Collection, I Escape, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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! See More
  
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- Gili Lankanfushi North Malé Atoll, Maldives 45 rooms from $1288
  
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  Honeymoons  -  The Maldives has long been known as a honeymoon destination and this utterly spoiling spot perfectly fits the bill.
  Total relaxation  -  With the moto being 'no news, no shoes' you'll be sure of a relaxing stay.
  Spa  -  Meera Spa boasts 6 overwater treatment rooms, an Ayurvedic Treatment Champa and much more!
  Cooking classes  -  Learn the secrets of Maldivian cuisine, or how to perfect your sushi or curries!
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Naladhu P.O. Box 2014, Maldives 20 rooms from $1201
  
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  Beach Life  -  Make the most of this idyllic island life; palm trees, white sands, turquoise seas and the blissful Anantara Spa.
  Romantic Break  -  Arrive at your private beach house by boat, enjoy couples dining on the beach and romantic outdoor baths.
  Sailing  -  Take a romantic sunset cruise around the island, the perfect end to your evening.
  Surfing  -  Great surfing particularly in the months between April and October.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  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. See More
  
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- Huvafen Fushi Maldives 44 rooms from $1160
  
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  Eco break  -  This resort gives back to the local community, supporting coral-reef rehabilitation projects and sustainable local businesses.
  Honeymoons  -  Honeymoon heaven: destination dining anywhere on the island, sunset cruises, couples' massages and long walks on the beach.
  Spa  -  The world's first underwater glass-walled spa.
  Swimming Pool  -  Lovely outdoor pools.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels
  
  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. See More
  
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- W Retreat & Spa, Maldives Maldives 78 rooms from $1117
  
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  Honeymoons  -  Private villas with stilted terraces, couples dining wherever you fancy, his and hers spa treatments and sundowner boat trips.
  Foodies  -  Everything from international KITCHEN, to bbq's at FIRE, superbly cooked local seafood at FISH and knockout cocktails at SIP.
  Total relaxation  -  Relax in the world class spa, lounge beside your own private pool, sip cocktails on the beach and listen to the waves lap.
  Sailing  -  Charter or skipper the hotel sailing boats, the perfect way to explore this enchanting haven.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  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. See More
  
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- Four Seasons Kuda Huraa Maldives 96 rooms from $1100
  
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  Kids Club  -  Fully staffed kids club for all aged 4-12 with a wide range of both outdoor and indoor activities on offer
  Spa  -  The Island Spa Sanctuary offers a huge range of treatments and therapies for the ultimate in pampering
  Swimming Pool  -  Beach front infinity pool, plus adults only serenity pool, and children's pool
  Restaurant  -  Four restaurants to choose from including award winning Baraabaru
  Recommended by  -  CN Traveller
  
  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! See More
  
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- Milaidhoo Island Baa Atoll, Maldives 50 rooms from $1391
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Favours couples as there are endless romantic experiences offered such as couples' spa retreat and dining experiences
  Outstanding location  -  The resort is located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO biosphere reserve, close to Hanifaru Bay, 126km north west of Male
  Weddings  -  The resort offers various romantic settings and packages for weddings such as beach cermonies
  Spa  -  The over-water spa has four treatment suites. Treatments are focused on African rituals and local ingredients
  
  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. See More
  
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- Velaa Private Island Maldives 43 rooms from $1281
  
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  Romantic Break  -  The resort offers exclusive romantic residences which can only be reached by boat, allowing even more privacy and exclusivity
  Groups  -  Tailormade celebrations can be arranged and events with maximum capacity on the island of 130 pax
  Active Holiday  -  From golf, squash, diving and climbing the range of activies makes sure that no one goes bored
  Beach Life  -  The white sands and crystal blue Indian ocean are just perfect
  
  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. See More
  
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