1Soneva Jani
Soneva JaniArguably the Maldives’ most photographed resort, each of the overwater palaces here has its own waterslide and retractable roof for stargazing. If you do ever decide to leave your villa, Soneva Jani’s massive spa, kids’ club, and 24/7 ice cream and chocolate rooms make it among the world’s most indulgent island escapes.
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2Gili Lankanfushi
Gili LankanfushiLike Robinson Crusoe’s hideaway but with five-star amenities, Gili Lankanfushi is a barefoot luxury castaway’s dream. This private island, a 20-minute speedboat ride from the capital of Malé, has 45 open-air rustic overwater villas designed for lounging. It’s a no-plastic resort that composts the majority of its waste, making it one of the country’s most sustainable.
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3Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru
Karla Cripps_Four Seasons Maldives Landaa GiraavaruSituated on a former coconut plantation that's now part of the Baa Atoll Unesco Biosphere Reserve, Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru welcomes you with towering palms and blinding white sands. Newly refurbed, the interiors are light and clean with pops of pastels to match the serene natural surroundings. While nearby marine life is the star here, don’t miss dinner at the overwater Middle Eastern restaurant or the beachside Italian spot.
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4Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
Kudadoo Maldives Private IslandOne of the world’s most luxurious all-inclusive resorts is also 100 percent solar powered. Kudadoo has just 15 Japanese-style overwater villas with super-spacious interiors and direct access to the Tiffany blue waters below. Here, everything—including food, wine, spa treatments, and water sports—is part of the package.
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5Velaa Private Island
Velaa Private IslandIt’s impossible to get bored at this 47-villa ultra-luxury resort. Set on one of a handful of islands in the Maldives with a golf course, Velaa Private Island also has a new wellness center with every ancient and new-age treatment under the sun, including ones with aloe.
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6Joali
joali maldivesThis Raa Atoll resort is undeniably feminine and stunning. Emerald marble bathrooms, rose gold finishings, and rattan furniture make Joali a design lover's favorite. Its vibrant marine life is perfect for snorkeling, and the stellar culinary creations, including one of the Maldives’ most opulent breakfast buffets, make it a standout.
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7The Nautilus Maldives
The Nautilus MaldivesTime doesn’t exist on this Baa Atoll island, or at least that’s what they say when you arrive at this 26-villa hideaway. With no clocks, schedules, or set dining times, Nautilus caters to an entirely bespoke experience. Its boho decor and circular-edged design are all part of the resort’s plan for complete and total relaxation.
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8Amilla Maldives
Amilla MaldivesLocated on a lush natural island, Amilla has a wonderful family-friendly feel. It also has two of the Maldives’ most unique accommodations: a clear, glamping bubble by the ocean and treehouse villas hidden in the canopies.
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9Naladhu Private Island Resort
Naladhu Private Island ResortA short speedboat ride from Malé takes you to the beach house of your dreams. Although there are no traditional overwater bungalows here, the 20 beach and oceanside villas at Naladhu have everything you could want, including a steam shower and private pool. Plus, its small size means guests can order anything they want at any time of the day; dining here is unscripted.
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10Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Waldorf Astoria Maldives IthaafushiAmong the most popular resorts in the Maldives, the Waldorf Astoria has extravagant thatched roof villas (including two residences reachable by boat) and even more over-the-top dining options. There are 11 restaurants to choose from, but be sure to book the world’s only overwater location of the Japanese izakaya Zuma for the freshest sushi around.
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11The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli ResortArchitecture lovers will swoon over the design at this Marriott brand resort. Its beach villas look like traditional Maldivian fishing huts, its overwater villas look like manta rays, and its sunset bar resembles a giant whale shark. Then there's its knockout overwater spa, designed to look like a multi-legged crustacean.
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12Six Senses Laamu
Six Senses LaamuIn the remote Laamu Atoll, Six Senses is the only five-star resort, meaning privacy and relaxation permeate this tropical oasis. Sprawling thatched roof villas, sustainable gardens, and a wildly impressive marine conservation center impress adults and kids alike. Don’t forget the free island-made ice cream served every afternoon.
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