The Maldives may be on everybody's bucket list but not everybody has it narrowed down to one resort. With 132 options to choose from, it certainly isn't an easy choice to make. So, whether it is a vacation, a honeymoon or a trip you have on your mind, we decided to make that decision easier for you with a fabulous list of the best 10 luxury resorts in the Maldives.
Here are 10 of the best resorts in the Maldives that top our list when it comes to opulence, lavishness and out-of-the-world experiences:
1. Fushifaru
Set on the Lhaviyani Atoll, Fushifaru is only a 35-minute seaplane ride away from Malé. This boutique Maldivian resort comes with an endless promise of adventure, discovery and serenity. It is an all-in-one diverse landscape nestled between three of the Maldives most iconic dive sites.
With 49 opulent villas, all designed for comfort, relaxation and breathtaking views, you can't help but be taken with Fushifaru. Combine it with its heart-warming hospitality, appetizing food and top-notch services and facilities, and you have 2019's leading beach resort in the Maldives.
2. Atmosphere Kanifushi
The Atmosphere Kanifushi is a premium all-inclusive resort located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, a 30-minute seaplane ride away from Malé. It is the Atmosphere brand's very first resort, and although it has been 6 years since it's opening, it still doesn't disappoint.
At the Kanifushi, it's a 5-star resort experience awaits with all-inclusive dining, premium drinks, and thrilling activities including excursions, snorkelling, sunset fishing and more. With a stay that guarantees fun, bliss, value and bliss, it's no wonder guests find themselves coming back for the Kanifushi experience.
3. Amaya Kuda Rah
The Amaya Kuda Rah, which is located in the South Ari Atoll, is an island sanctuary perfect to relax and unwind in.
It has 52 elegant villas, all of which come with their own private plunge pool for uninterrupted privacy. There is also a wide range of activities to indulge in while staying at the Amaya-- from sunset fishing to snorkelling and diving. Do not miss the chance to go diving at the Kuda Rah Thila and Maamigili Corner. Your time here will stay with you beyond your vacation. After all, it's not everywhere that you get the chance to swim with magnificent whale sharks.
4. LUX* North Male Atoll
The extravagant LUX* North Male Atoll kicks typical traditional Maldivian architecture to the curb. Instead, all it's 67 penthouse villas wear a look that's every bit the sleek and chic it's supposed to be.
Calling it an "elevated" Maldives experience, each of these two-storey residences come with a private pool and sky-lounge. In fact, it is the only one of its kind in the Maldives.
Every element, activity and experience at this resort reflects a luxury that is beyond compare. Starting from your very arrival, which is an ultra-stylish affair-- choice of either a 15-minute seaplane ride or a 45-minute speedboat ride-- to the 6 elegant dining options and an exhilarating translucent over-water spa, there's no reason why it shouldn't be on the list of the top 10 Maldives resorts!
5. Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa
A private island, a villa, a golf course, awe-inspiring sights and untold luxury. What more can you ask for?
At Shangri-la's Villingili Resort & Spa, each of the 132 villas come with a private pool or direct access to the blue ocean. The resort is located in the Addu Atoll and is only a 5-minute boat ride away from Malé.
Whether it is having a leisurely day at the 9-hole golf course, that also has the highest point in the Maldives or a special dining experience at any one of 10 exclusive locations on the island, Shangri-la's Villingili resort brings the A-game to the Maldives' resort scene.
6. Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort
When it comes to value and unmatched hospitality, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo is one of your best choices! It is one of the Maldives' most stylish mid-scale resorts and is located in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll.
With 58 well-appointed villas, 2 restaurants and a spa, Mercure ensures a high level of comfort, service and quality. Add some of the most picturesque views to the equation and you have a vacation in paradise!
7. Amilla Fushi
A vacation at the Amilla Fushi is absolutely heavenly. This little slice of heaven has 59 villas and 8 private residences for absolute relaxation and bliss. Tucked away in the Baa Atoll, and 40 minutes from Malé by seaplane, Amilla Fushi offers an impressive number of experiences.
For guests who are adventurers at heart, the snorkelling excursions, diving and sports activities-- water sports included-- makes for an exhilarating vacation experience. Meanwhile, those looking for a more relaxed getaway can unwind with a sunset sailing experience, a sandbank picnic or a glass-bottom boat tour.
8. Hard Rock Hotel
The Maldives often comes across to many as a destination for honeymooners and couples. However, the iconic Hard Rock Hotel puts that notion to rest. It is the first integrated resort destination in the Maldives and is located in the Emboodhoo Lagoon. All you need to do to get to this resort is take a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé.
It is the only other resort that is part of CROSSROADS, a leisure island with numerous shopping and dining hubs and spas. You'll also find the famed Café del Mar and the legendary Hard Rock Hotel on the island. So, if you're looking for an activity-filled holiday with your friends or family in the Maldives, the Hard Rock just might be your best choice.
9. The Residence Dhigurah
The Residence Dhigurah is located in the southern Maldives in the Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Spanning over 2 km, it is fringed with palm and coconut trees which give it a lush look. Its pristine beach is also considered as one of the best in the Maldives.
All the 172 villas have an earthy, simplistic design yet are spacious enough and furnished with the finest amenities. Guests can choose to dine or grab a drink at any one of its 5 bars and restaurants. But if that doesn't cut it, there's always the more exclusive private dining option available.
One of the most spectacular activities you can do at the Residence is to hop on a complimentary bicycle and pedal all the way across the 1 km-long wooden bridge that connects The Residence Dhigurah to The Residence Falhumaafushi. Not only is it pleasant, but you might also sight some eagle rays and hawksbill turtles along the way!
10. VARU by Atmosphere
VARU by Atmosphere is the "New Kid on the Block" that everyone is excited about. Just launched in October 2019, Atmosphere's latest resort is the talk of the town. Fortunately, they have nothing but praises to speak about it.
Located in Madivaru, a 40-minute speedboat ride away from Malé, VARU offers a premium all-inclusive stay to its guests. Be it fine dining, premium drinks, or exclusive experiences, this resort has it all in place to give you the only kind of vacation you need-- a priceless one.