The best hotels in the Maldives
To create a definitive guide to the best hotels in the Maldives in no easy feat. The archipelagic country sets the standard when it comes to superior island living. It’s where overwater stays come as standard, privacy is a given and natural beauty is all around. The calibre is sky high. Boutique stays and lo-fi boltholes are a rarity, instead, world class hotels are spread out on their own private islands, nestling state-of-the-art spas and multiple restaurants amongst lush jungles, pristine beaches and house reefs.
The new generation of Maldives hotels are taking this formula one step further. It’s not enough for just villas to be overwater anymore. Spas dangle above lagoons now too, with glass floors allowing guests to spy turtles as they enjoy a massage. The classic pool bar has been outdone by a beachside treehouse bar, and restaurants have relocated underwater. Steps towards sustainability are also commonplace too. Most hotels have their own conservation projects and coral programmes. One is even completely solar powered.
Which Maldives island is best?
When you hear The Maldives is made up of more than a thousand islands, the choice of ‘which island?’ may seem overwhelming. In reality though, the choice is more ‘which hotel?’. The islands in the Maldives are tiny, and typically home to just one hotel, so a holiday here is about embracing one island paradise rather than hopping around. If you’re on a budget, you may want to consider a hotel that’s a boat ride, rather than a sea plane ride, away from Malé, where the international airport is. For more tips, see our affordable guide to the Maldives.
Which Maldives hotel is best for couples?
As the stuff of honeymoon legends, the Maldives has plenty to offer couples. For the truly standout spots, we love Cheval Blanc Randheli (as do the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge), and the Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru. See our pick of the best Maldives honeymoons for more recommendations.
Which Maldives hotel is best for families?
The Maldives might be best known for honeymoons, but its private island resorts are the stuff of family holiday dreams too. Spacious villas mean there’s plenty of room for everyone, while kids clubs, restaurants and pools are all at your fingertips. Some of our favourite hotels for families include JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa and Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi. For more, see our guide to the best family hotels in the Maldives.