Discovering Paradise: A Comprehensive Guide to the Maldives and Its Premier Resorts

Due to the nature of The Maldives, most resorts occupy one atoll. The most common way to get around is by seaplane or boat. Most resorts offer this onsite.

These are some of our favorite Maldives Resorts:

Soneva Fushi Resort

Location: Baa Atoll

Soneva Fushi is the epitome of luxury and eco-consciousness. This exclusive resort offers a unique, Robinson Crusoe-style experience with its private villas nestled in lush vegetation. Soneva Fushi is known for its sustainable practices, including water recycling and locally sourced cuisine.

Highlights:

• Stunning overwater and beachfront villas with open-air bathrooms.

• World-class dining experiences, including fresh seafood and farm-to-table options.

• The Observatory for stargazing in one of the clearest night skies in the world.

• The Den - an entertainment complex featuring an extensive library and an open-air cinema.

• Extensive spa and wellness programs for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  

The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives

Location: Raa Atoll

Overview: The Standard is a contemporary and chic resort in the Maldives. It combines the natural beauty of the Maldives with a modern, playful design, making it a unique destination. This resort is perfect for travelers looking for a balance between relaxation and vibrant social experiences.

Highlights:

• Overwater and beachfront bungalows with direct access to the lagoon.

• Activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding and yoga.

• Lively bars and restaurants serving international cuisine.

• The beach club, a hub for entertainment, parties and beachfront activities.

• Unique spa experiences, including outdoor treatments.
  

Patina Maldives, Fari Islands

Location: Fari Islands, North Malé Atoll

Overview: Patina Maldives is a new and upscale resort in the Fari Islands. It offers a blend of natural beauty and contemporary design, focusing on wellness, art and authentic local experiences. Patina is perfect for travelers seeking luxury with a sense of adventure.

Highlights:

• Spacious overwater and beachfront villas with private pools.

• Fine dining options with international and Maldivian flavors.

• An art studio and gallery showcasing works by local and international artists.

• Wellness programs featuring yoga, meditation, and traditional healing practices.

• Water sports, snorkeling, and exploration of the stunning underwater world.
  

Soneva Fushi Resort

Location: Baa Atoll

Overview: Soneva Fushi is the epitome of luxury and eco-consciousness. This exclusive resort offers a unique, Robinson Crusoe-style experience with its private villas nestled in lush vegetation. Soneva Fushi is known for its sustainable practices, including water recycling and locally sourced cuisine.

Highlights:

• Stunning overwater and beachfront villas with open-air bathrooms.

• World-class dining experiences, including fresh seafood and farm-to-table options.

• The Observatory for stargazing in one of the clearest night skies in the world.

• The Den, an entertainment complex featuring an extensive library and an open-air cinema.

• Extensive spa and wellness programs for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Kagi Maldives Spa Island

Location: North Malé Atoll

Overview: Kagi Maldives Spa Island is a wellness-oriented resort where you can immerse yourself in relaxation and rejuvenation. This boutique island offers a tranquil and intimate setting with a strong focus on spa and well-being.

Highlights:

• Luxurious overwater and beachfront villas with private plunge pools.

• A world-class spa offering a range of therapies and wellness programs.

• Yoga and meditation pavilions in serene natural settings.

• Farm-to-table dining experiences with a focus on healthy cuisine.

• Activities like snorkeling, diving, and sunset cruises for a holistic experience.
  

COMO Cocoa Island Resort, Maldives

Location: South Malé Atoll

Highlights:

• Overwater villas with direct lagoon access.

• Holistic wellness at COMO Shambhala Retreat.

• Water sports, including snorkeling and diving.

• Manta Point for exceptional marine life.

• Sustainable practices and eco-conscious operations.
  

Top Things to see and do in the Maldives

Island Hopping: The Maldives is made up of around 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls. Explore the unique charm of different islands, each with its own character and landscapes. Whether it's the bustling local life of Malé or the serene tranquility of a secluded private island, island hopping offers a diverse experience.

Underwater Adventure: The Maldives is a diver's dream come true. Its crystal-clear waters are teeming with vibrant marine life, including colorful corals, fish, sharks and manta rays. Snorkeling and scuba diving are essential activities, with world-famous dive sites like the Ari Atoll and North Male Atoll.

Relax on White-Sand Beaches: The Maldives is famous for its pristine, white-sand beaches. Spend your days lounging under the sun, walking along the shores or taking part in beachside activities like beach volleyball and picnics.

Water Sports: The Maldives offers an array of water sports, from jet skiing and windsurfing to paddle boarding and parasailing. Many resorts offer these activities, making it easy to enjoy your favorite water sports.

Sunset Cruises: Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean on a traditional Maldivian dhoni or a luxurious yacht. The colors of the sky reflected on the water, create a mesmerizing sight that is perfect for a romantic evening.

Visit Local Villages: Take a step away from the resort bubble and explore the local Maldivian culture by visiting fishing villages or inhabited islands. You can experience local life, enjoy traditional cuisine and even buy handmade souvenirs.

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks: The Maldives is one of the few places on Earth where you can swim with gentle giants - whale sharks. Join a guided tour for a chance to snorkel alongside these magnificent creatures.

Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the Maldives offers an ideal setting for stargazing. Marvel at the night sky and constellations from your beachfront villa or during a guided stargazing session.

Seaplane Tours: Take a seaplane ride for a unique perspective of the atolls and their intricate shapes from the air.

Maldivian cuisine is a wonderful blend of flavors, influenced by South Asian and Arabian culinary traditions, with an emphasis on seafood, coconut, and aromatic spices.

Freshly caught fish, particularly tuna, takes center stage in many dishes, such as mas huni, a tuna and coconut salad.

Restaurants in the Maldivian resorts offer an exquisite culinary experience, often featuring open-air settings with panoramic views of the pristine turquoise waters. Guests can enjoy a wide range of international cuisines, as well as authentic Maldivian specialties, expertly prepared by talented chefs.

With ingredients sourced from the surrounding waters and lush islands, dining in Maldivian resorts is full of incredible flavors and a true treat, making it an integral part of the luxurious island escape experience.