For travelers seeking an escape from bustling luxury mega-resorts, the Maldives stands out as the ultimate destination. The norm here is boutique hotels, not large complexes, and numerous exclusive resorts boast room counts below 100—some even fewer than 50.
Additionally, the allure of each resort being a private island contributes to a promise of serenity and seclusion amidst the breathtaking crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and captivating marine life, complemented by an excellent house reef. The following list showcases the finest accommodations for an unparalleled stay.
COMO Cocoa Island
COMO Cocoa Island Resort stands out as an exquisite destination for honeymooners, featuring 34 romantic water villas and 3 suites, with no child-oriented facilities on the island. Situated a 40-minute speedboat ride away from Malé Airport, the resort has garnered high ratings in the Maldives, making it an ideal retreat for adults. The design of the 34 overwater suites and villas is uniquely inspired by dhoni boats, setting the resort apart from others in the Maldives. Opening the glass doors allows you to immerse yourself in the sea breeze day and night, right from your private jetty. In addition to luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining options, the resort offers excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling, along with a top-notch spa and a pavilion for practicing yoga with a dedicated instructor.
Featuring 63 Beach and Water villas, Fushifaru Maldives is a 5-star resort situated in Lhaviyani Atoll, offering an idyllic island retreat with powder-soft sands. The name “Fushifaru” is a perfect reflection of the resort, with “Fushi” meaning “island” and “Faru” translating to “reef” in Dhivehi. If you seek more than just a sensational beach and a comfortable bed, this laid-back resort is the ideal choice.
While facilities are limited, including a dive and watersports center, swimming pool, and spa, the true highlight lies in the beach experience. Positioned between a national Marine Protected Area and three of the Maldives’ most iconic dive sites, Fushifaru Maldives stands as a boutique and intimate resort, promising a blend of adventure, excitement, discovery, and serenity within a diverse landscape.
Situated on one of the smallest islands in the Maldives, Mirihi Island Resort boasts 37 villas, each exuding a distinctive style that mirrors the luxurious and comfortable features characteristic of larger 5-star resorts. Offering a range of amenities, from a beach cinema and spa to complimentary non-motorized water sports, the resort ensures a diverse array of activities. Whether it’s exploring the hypnotic house reef through wreck diving or partaking in various island-based excursions and water sports, numerous alternatives await to entice you from your bed or beach chaise longue. Catering to couples and small groups, this intimate luxury boutique hotel creates a laid-back atmosphere. It caters to those seeking top-notch cuisine, an extensive wine selection, superb snorkeling, and thrilling dives at over 40 dive sites. Depending on the season, guests can opt for half-board or all-inclusive packages.
Naladhu, part of Anantara’s Maldives collection, stands out as the most secluded resort in the chain. The name, meaning “a beautiful island,” is rather understated considering the luxurious experience it provides. Your perfect getaway at Naladhu Private Island begins with an idyllic location on a secluded paradise island adjacent to two other Anantara resorts: Anantara Dhigu and Anantara Veli. Ensuring a high level of privacy, guests are accommodated in 20 spacious beachfront and ocean-facing houses, eschewing the typical water villas or bungalows.
Naladhu represents a new era for the time-honored tradition of exceptional service and style in the Maldives, where everything is meticulously curated. The familiarity you sense here is not from a previous visit but because it aligns seamlessly with your ideal imagination. Craft your timeless moments amid a tapestry of three islands, surrounded by sand, sun, sea, and unparalleled service.
Situated just half an hour away by speedboat from the main airport, Huvafen Fushi seamlessly blends Maldivian style with trendy elements. Its exterior showcases thatched villas, while the interior boasts distinctive amenities, sophisticated design, contemporary furniture, and cutting-edge equipment. The inclusion of cool events further enhances the allure of Huvafen Fushi, transforming it into a truly enchanting island. Surrounded by one of the finest house reefs in the Maldives, this private island oasis is renowned for hosting the world’s first and only underwater spa. Featuring only 44 rooms, it stands as the epitome of opulent seclusion and intimacy. With an exclusive guest policy for individuals aged 21 years and above, Huvafen Fushi earned the prestigious title of the Most Romantic Resort at the annual Maldives Travel Awards in 2017.
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island – Luxury All inclusive
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island by Hurawalhi marks the introduction of the first luxury five-star, all-inclusive resort in the Maldives under the esteemed Crown & Champa Resorts umbrella. Nestled in the northern Lhaviyani atoll, this exclusive island adheres to the ‘Freedom Reimagined’ philosophy, providing a secluded retreat for the more discerning guest. Accessible via a private seaplane, the island promises an immersive experience with boundless opportunities for adventure, ensuring that guests can indulge in anything, anytime, anywhere. Kudadoo guarantees unparalleled escapism, catering to even the most discerning travelers, with 24-hour personal butler service to orchestrate authentic and sensory-capturing experiences.
Kandolhu Maldives not only fulfills your dreams of an unforgettable honeymoon but goes beyond. Imbued with romance and featuring an incredible house reef for snorkeling, couples are sure to embrace the charm of this intimate island. Recognized as one of the Maldives’ premier house reefs, Kandholhu Island stands out, with only resorts in the southern atolls rivaling or surpassing its allure. Adding to the appeal are pristine sandy beaches that encircle this uniquely round island—a rarity in Maldivian standards. Thus, the best snorkeling experiences await you, seamlessly connecting your water villa, the beach, and the numerous restaurants at this 5-star boutique hotel.
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, the first property by Raffles and the fourth by AccorHotels in the Maldives, is situated in the serene Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Boasting 38 villas, this resort is a destination on its own, designed for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious and meaningful escape. For couples in search of an unforgettable romantic hideaway, the resort’s exceptionally spacious villas and the discreet expertise of the Raffles butler service redefine the overall experience.
The destination is renowned for its breathtaking surroundings, offering 21 island villas and 16 ocean villas, each equipped with a private pool. Additionally, the resort features three restaurants, a scenic cocktail bar, and various facilities and activities to relax and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. These amenities include an award-winning luxury spa, an overwater fitness center, yoga programs, water sports, private dining options, 24-hour butler and private chef services, as well as exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences. The resort’s PADI-certified dive center facilitates adventures through some of the world’s most stunning coral reefs. Accessible via a 55-minute domestic flight from Male International Airport, followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride from Kaadedhdhoo Airport.
Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa leads the way in eco-design within the Maldives, meticulously planned and constructed to be environmentally conscious while adhering to practical standards. Positioned in the North Huvadhoo Atoll, approximately 400 km south of Male International Airport, this tropical island paradise boasts 50 Park and Water Villas that serve as the ultimate secluded retreat amidst the expansive sky and sea.
Dispelling the notion that anything worthwhile must be dull or that environmental friendliness equates to discomfort, this location radiates the opulence and refined taste characteristic of Park Hyatt. Providing the epitome of the Maldivian experience with its turquoise and azure waters, along with pristine white beaches set against tranquil surroundings, the resort effortlessly combines luxury with environmental responsibility. Indulge in the rejuvenating ambiance of holistic wellness at Park Hyatt Hadahaa, where each encounter is dedicated to aligning your mind, body, and soul towards a newfound equilibrium.
