Find Your Dream Getaway: Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Maldives Resort
Updated: Mar 18
Imagine this: You wake up to a view so stunning it feels like a desktop screensaver—except it’s real. Turquoise waters stretching endlessly, powdery white sand between your toes, and a level of luxury that makes you wonder why you don’t live here permanently.
Welcome to the Maldives. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience wrapped in a sea breeze and served with a coconut.
And here’s the thing: The right resort? It changes everything. We’ve been there, done that, and know firsthand that where you stay can make or break your trip. So, we’re cutting through the noise—giving you real insights, side-by-side comparisons, and honest reviews to help you find the one.
Stress-free decision-making? That’s our kind of luxury.
Table of Contents
Know What You Want (Because the Maldives Has It All)
Before you start scrolling through dreamy overwater villas and infinity pools, let’s get one thing straight: What do you want from your Maldivian escape?
Are you craving a luxury resort where you’re pampered at every turn—think butlers who anticipate your needs before you do? Or maybe you’re bringing the whole crew and need a family-friendly spot where both kids and adults can have their best vacation ever?
Maybe this is your honeymoon, and you want romance dialed up to 11. Or perhaps you're all about an all-inclusive experience—no stress, no decisions, just pure, uninterrupted bliss.
Getting clear on what matters most to you will make finding the one a whole lot easier. Because in the Maldives? Options are endless.
What’s Your Maldives Vibe?
Here’s the thing about the Maldives: It’s not just paradise—it’s the right kind of paradise for you. Whether you're dreaming of waking up in an overwater villa, planning an unforgettable family escape, or indulging in an all-inclusive, zero-stress getaway, there’s a resort that fits like a perfectly tailored linen shirt.
Luxury Resorts: For the “why settle for anything less?” traveler. Think private pools, personal butlers, next-level spas, and gourmet dining that turns every meal into an event. Oh, and maybe an underwater restaurant or a seaplane arrival, because why not?
Family-Friendly Resorts: Traveling with kids? Some resorts go all in on making sure both you and your little ones have an amazing time—kids’ clubs, family activities, and spacious accommodations that won’t have you tiptoeing around nap schedules.
Honeymoon Resorts: You want romance? The Maldives delivers. Secluded villas, candlelit dinners on the beach, spa treatments for two, and just the right amount of “nobody else is here” vibes.
All-Inclusive Resorts: For those who believe a vacation should be stress-free from the moment they step off the plane. Meals? Covered. Drinks? Keep ‘em coming. Activities? Already sorted. The only decision you need to make is which cocktail to order next.
Eco-Friendly Resorts: Because luxury and sustainability can—and should—coexist. These resorts run on solar power, serve locally sourced food, and take conservation seriously, so you can enjoy paradise while keeping it pristine.
The Maldives has your perfect stay—it’s just about knowing what makes your dream trip yours. Let’s find it.
What’s on Your Maldives Bucket List?
Sure, the Maldives is all about relaxing in paradise—but let’s be real, there’s a lot more to do than just sip cocktails and perfect your tan (though, no judgment if that’s the plan). Every resort has its own lineup of activities, so knowing what you want to experience is key.
Are you here for the underwater magic—snorkeling alongside reef sharks, gliding over coral gardens, or diving into a technicolor world beneath the waves? Maybe you’re chasing the thrill of surfing, deep-sea fishing, or sailing into a postcard-perfect sunset. Or perhaps your idea of peak vacation mode involves morning yoga sessions, indulgent spa treatments, and wine tastings that turn into long, leisurely dinners.
Some resorts specialize in adventure, some in pure relaxation, and others in next-level culinary experiences. The trick? Knowing what lights you up—and making sure your resort delivers. Because in the Maldives, every moment should feel just right.
Where Exactly Is Your Slice of Paradise?
The Maldives isn’t just one place—it’s 1,000+ places, spread across 26 dreamy atolls. And where you land? It makes a difference.
Some resorts are a quick speedboat ride from Malé, meaning you can go from airport to oceanfront in under an hour. Others? They require a seaplane transfer—yes, it’s longer, but also ridiculously scenic (think birds-eye views of impossibly blue waters and tiny islands that look like they were sprinkled across the sea).
Then there’s the size factor. Do you want a sprawling island with multiple restaurants, walking trails, and endless space to explore? Or do you love the idea of a tiny, ultra-intimate island where you’re one of just a handful of guests, and barefoot luxury is the only dress code?
Location sets the tone for your trip—fast and convenient, remote and exclusive, or somewhere in between. Choose wisely, because in the Maldives, getting there is definitely part of the adventure.
Let’s Talk Budget (Because the Maldives Can Be Luxurious Without Breaking the Bank)
The Maldives is famous for its ultra-luxury resorts, where private pools, overwater villas, and world-class service come with a hefty price tag. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to spend a fortune to experience this paradise.
Yes, the high-end resorts are spectacular, but there are also boutique hotels, charming guesthouses, and budget-friendly resorts that offer stunning views and amazing experiences at a fraction of the cost.
The trick? Decide what matters most to you. Want that iconic overwater villa? Maybe book it for one night instead of the whole trip. Prefer an all-inclusive package? It could save you money in the long run. Love adventure over luxury? Choose a resort that prioritizes excursions over opulence.
The Maldives can be as extravagant or as budget-friendly as you make it—it’s all about smart choices to get the most out of your experience.
The Best Resorts in the Maldives (Because Your Dream Stay Deserves the Perfect Match)
Here’s the thing about the Maldives: every resort is on its own private island. That means no crowds, no traffic—just you, the ocean, and whatever level of luxury makes your heart sing.
Some resorts go all-in on fine dining, with world-class chefs whipping up tasting menus under the stars. Others are all about adventure—think diving with manta rays, snorkeling vibrant reefs, or even dining underwater (yes, really). And then there are those designed for pure, uninterrupted relaxation, where the toughest decision you’ll make all day is whether to get a massage before or after your sunset cocktail.
With so many options, finding your perfect island escape is the key. Whether you want romance, family fun, full-throttle adventure, or the ultimate in laid-back luxury, there’s a Maldivian resort that was made just for you. Let’s find it.
Luxury Resorts
Because the Maldives Does High-End Like Nowhere Else
If your idea of a vacation includes private butlers, overwater villas bigger than most city apartments, and an ocean so clear it looks Photoshopped—welcome to the Maldives’ luxury scene.
✨ Gili Lankanfushi – This is the ultimate barefoot luxury. Spacious, eco-friendly overwater villas set the scene, but the real star? The Private Reserve—the largest overwater villa in the world. Yes, world. Think multi-level living, infinity pools, and the kind of privacy that makes you forget the rest of civilization exists.
✨ Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru – Set in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this resort is where indulgence meets nature. Luxurious villas? Check. World-class dining? Obviously. But the real magic? Its stunning lagoon, thriving coral reefs, and some of the best marine life encounters in the Maldives. Want to snorkel with manta rays before breakfast? This is the place.
Luxury in the Maldives isn’t just about fancy accommodations—it’s about experiences you can’t get anywhere else. And these resorts? They get it exactly right.
Family-Friendly Resorts
Because the Maldives Isn’t Just for Honeymooners
Yes, the Maldives is famous for romantic overwater villas—but it’s also an incredible place for a family getaway. Think warm, shallow waters, endless activities, and resorts that know how to keep both kids and parents happy.
👨👩👧👦 Kurumba Maldives – The OG Maldives resort (seriously, it was the first!), Kurumba has perfected the art of family-friendly luxury. Kids’ clubs? Check. Spacious family villas? Yep. Activities that go beyond just “keeping the kids busy” and actually make the whole trip fun? Absolutely.
🏝️ The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi – This resort leans all in on family travel. Think kid-friendly villas, activities tailored for all ages, and a kids’ club that will have your little ones so entertained, you might actually get a moment to relax.
Bringing the whole crew to paradise? These resorts make sure everyone—from toddlers to teens (and parents, too)—has the best time ever.
Honeymoon Resorts
Because “Just Married” Deserves More Than Just Champagne and Rose Petals
If romance had a capital, it might just be the Maldives. Overwater villas. Private candlelit dinners on the beach. Sunsets so perfect they look like they came with a filter. If you're celebrating love, these resorts know exactly how to make it unforgettable.
💞 Baros Maldives – This isn’t just a romantic resort—it’s been voted the most romantic resort in the world. Multiple times. Baros knows how to do couples’ travel right, with private villas, sunset cruises, and the kind of intimate, just-the-two-of-you moments that make a honeymoon (or anniversary… or “just because” trip) feel extra special.
🐠 Hurawalhi Maldives – Want romance and a little adventure? Set in the untouched Lhaviyani Atoll, Hurawalhi brings luxurious villas, an adults-only vibe, and a show-stopping highlight—the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant. Yes, you can dine literally under the ocean, surrounded by marine life, because why settle for ordinary when you can have this?
If the honeymoon (or romantic getaway) of your dreams involves privacy, indulgence, and a whole lot of “this doesn’t even feel real” moments—these resorts are where it’s at.
Adults-Only Resorts
Because Sometimes, You Just Want Peace, Quiet, and a Cocktail in Hand
No splash zones. No cannonballs. No “Moooom, I’m boooored.” Just you, crystal-clear waters, and the kind of uninterrupted bliss that only an adults-only resort can provide.
🍸 Komandoo Maldives Island Resort – Strictly 18+, Komandoo is where romance and relaxation take center stage. Think intimate overwater villas, candlelit dinners, and the kind of tranquility that makes you forget the rest of the world even exists.
🌊 Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa – Privacy? Check. Ocean views that make you question reality? Double-check. This is the kind of place where you can fully exhale—whether that means lounging in your villa, indulging in spa treatments, or floating in the infinity pool without a care in the world.
If your idea of paradise includes zero interruptions, endless relaxation, and maybe a sunset cocktail or two, these resorts know exactly how to deliver.
All-Inclusive Resorts
Because Vacation Shouldn’t Involve a Spreadsheet
The best kind of getaway? The kind where you’re not mentally tallying every meal, drink, or snorkel trip. Enter all-inclusive resorts—where the only thing you have to think about is whether to order another cocktail (spoiler: the answer is always yes).
🍹 Kuredu Island Resort – If variety is your thing, Kuredu delivers. Multiple dining options, a packed lineup of activities, and an all-inclusive package that actually feels all-inclusive. Translation? No nickel-and-diming, just full-throttle island enjoyment.
🌴 Lily Beach Resort & Spa – One of the OG all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives, Lily Beach sets the bar high. Think luxury without the sticker shock—gourmet dining, top-shelf drinks, and an experience that feels indulgent and like a smart travel move.
If you’d rather focus on the relaxing part of vacation (instead of the “how much is this going to cost?” part), these resorts have you covered.
Eco-Friendly Resorts
Because Luxury and Sustainability Can Coexist
Yes, the Maldives is paradise. But the best resorts here know that protecting paradise is just as important as enjoying it. These eco-luxury stays prove that sustainability and indulgence can go hand in hand—no sacrifices required.
🌿 Soneva Fushi – The original desert island hideaway, but with a conscience. Soneva Fushi recycles 90% of its waste onsite (turning trash into treasure, literally), runs on solar power, and sources ingredients from its own organic gardens. The villas? They blend right into the beachfront jungle, proving that sustainability can be ridiculously luxurious.
🌊 Six Senses Laamu – The only resort in the Laamu Atoll, and it’s setting the gold standard for eco-friendly travel. Think energy efficiency, waste reduction, and marine conservation woven into every part of the experience. Bonus: They even host marine biology talks, so you can sip your cocktail and learn how to help save the ocean.
Staying in the Maldives and doing right by the planet? These resorts make it easy—and impossibly beautiful.
Dive-Specific Resorts
Because Some of Us Prefer Our Paradise Underwater
If your idea of a perfect vacation involves slipping into crystal-clear waters and coming face-to-face with whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral gardens, the Maldives is your playground. These resorts put you right where the action is.
🤿 LUX* South Ari Atoll – Location is everything when it comes to diving, and LUX* South Ari Atoll delivers. Sitting near some of the best dive sites in the Maldives, it’s a dream spot for underwater explorers—whether you're a seasoned diver or a first-timer looking to take the plunge.
🐠 Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa – A house reef so good, you might not even need a boat. But if you do venture out, you’ll find yourself minutes from some of the Maldives’ most breathtaking dive sites. Expect epic marine life, crystal visibility, and that just-finished-an-incredible-dive feeling on repeat.
If the Maldives is a diver’s paradise, these resorts are your front-row seat to the underwater magic.
Budget Resorts
Because the Maldives Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune
Yes, the Maldives is known for its ultra-luxury stays—but guess what? You don’t have to drop a fortune to wake up to those same turquoise waters and powder-soft sands. These resorts prove that paradise can be budget-friendly.
🏄 Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives – Famous for its insane beauty and prime surf spots, this resort delivers a sweet mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re catching waves, diving into water sports, or just lounging with a cocktail, it’s got all the Maldives magic—without the eye-watering price tag.
🐟 Villa Nautica Paradise Island Resort – A blend of local culture and contemporary comfort, this resort offers cozy accommodations, seriously good local cuisine, and easy access to some of the best dive sites and fishing spots around. Basically, if you want to experience the Maldives, not just stay in it, this is the place.
Unique Stays
Because “Just a Hotel Room” Won’t Cut It Here
The Maldives doesn’t do ordinary. This is a place where your room isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s an experience. Overwater villas that stretch into the horizon? Check. Underwater suites where you wake up to a front-row view of the marine world? Oh, absolutely.
If you want your stay to be just as unforgettable as the destination itself, look for resorts that take luxury to the next level—literally. Overwater villas mean direct ocean access for morning swims and sunsets from your private deck. Underwater rooms? They make counting fish instead of sheep a very real thing.
Because in the Maldives, your accommodation isn’t just where you stay—it’s part of the adventure.
Overwater Villas
Because Why Stay Near the Ocean When You Can Stay On It?
If the Maldives had a signature move, it would be the overwater villa. Suspended above impossibly clear waters, these stilted escapes come with private decks, glass-bottom floors, and—if you choose wisely—a waterslide that drops you straight into the lagoon.
✨ The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort – Luxury on another level. Nestled on a private atoll, this resort delivers next-level overwater and beachfront villas, world-class dining, and a spa that might just ruin all other spas for you. Oh, and the St. Regis Butler service? Let’s just say you’ll never want to go back to normal life.
🎢 Soneva Jani – If you’ve ever dreamed of a waterslide from your bedroom into the ocean, Soneva Jani makes that a reality. Their overwater villas are among the biggest in the world—think multiple levels, retractable roofs for stargazing, and luxury so over-the-top it somehow feels effortless.
Because in the Maldives, waking up on the water is the ultimate flex.
Underwater Villas
Because “Ocean View” Can Mean Literally Under the Ocean
Overwater villas? Stunning. But underwater villas? Next-level. Imagine drifting off to sleep while manta rays and reef sharks glide past your window. No snorkel required.
🐠 The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island – This isn’t just a room—it’s an experience. A fully submerged suite where the walls are the ocean and your neighbors are clownfish. Watching marine life from your bed? Just another Tuesday at The Muraka.
🌊 Pullman Maldives Maamutaa – Luxury above and below the surface. This private island escape offers the Aqua Villa, where the underwater bedroom gives you a front-row seat to the Maldives’ incredible marine life—right from your bed. With endless dining options and more activities than you’ll know what to do with, this resort balances adventure and indulgence effortlessly. One moment you’re paddleboarding at sunrise, the next, you’re fully immersed—literally—in the magic of the ocean.
Because in the Maldives, checking into an underwater villa isn’t just a stay—it’s a story you’ll be telling forever.
Beach Villas
Because Some of Us Prefer Sand Between Our Toes
Overwater villas may get all the hype, but there’s something deeply magical about waking up steps from the beach, with soft white sand as your front yard and the ocean as your soundtrack.
🌴 Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – Think of it as barefoot luxury at its finest. Tucked between powdery white sands and impossibly blue waters, these villas deliver a seamless blend of Maldivian charm and Waldorf Astoria’s signature service. Add in world-class dining and water adventures, and you’ve got a perfect mix of indulgence and island living.
🏝 Naladhu Private Island Maldives – If privacy is your love language, this is the spot. Just 20 ultra-exclusive beach houses, each with a private pool, direct beach access, and a personal House Butler who somehow anticipates your needs before you do. It’s intimate. It’s luxurious. It’s the kind of place where you’ll forget the rest of the world exists.
For those who love the feel of warm sand underfoot and a more secluded, tropical escape, these beach villas deliver next-level serenity.
Let’s Talk Cost
Because Paradise Comes at All Price Points
The Maldives has a reputation for luxury, but here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to drain your life savings. Prices vary wildly depending on where you stay, how you stay, and just how much pampering you want.
Yes, the ultra-luxe resorts with private butlers, overwater villas, and underwater dining come with a price tag to match. But if you’re more about the experience than the extravagance, there are boutique resorts and guesthouses that deliver dreamy island vibes without the financial whiplash.
It all comes down to what matters most to you. Want five-star everything? Worth the splurge. Prefer a more budget-friendly stay so you can spend your cash on diving, excursions, or more tropical cocktails? Smart move.
The Maldives can fit your budget—you just have to decide what kind of dream trip you’re chasing.
Accommodation Costs
Where Do You Want to Wake Up?
Let’s be real—where you stay in the Maldives isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s the experience. And whether you’re dropping thousands per night for an overwater villa with a private pool or snagging a cozy beachfront guesthouse for under $100, your choice shapes your entire trip.
Here’s what you need to know:
💰 Ultra-Luxury Resorts ($2,000+ per night) – Think private overwater villas at Soneva Jani, complete with retractable roofs for stargazing and a slide straight into the ocean. Or The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, where your entire bedroom is underwater. If you want once-in-a-lifetime, this is where you go all in.
💎 High-End Resorts ($800–$2,000 per night) – World-class service, jaw-dropping villas, and every little luxury you could dream up. Resorts like Joali Maldives or Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offer private infinity pools, personal butlers, and gourmet dining that makes you forget what “room service” used to mean.
🌴 Mid-Range Resorts ($300–$800 per night) – Want a luxe experience without the eye-watering price tag? LUX South Ari Atoll* and Anantara Dhigu Maldives offer stunning beachfront and overwater villas, plus all the dreamy Maldives magic—without completely wrecking your savings.
🏝 Budget Resorts & Guesthouses ($80–$300 per night) – Yes, you can do the Maldives on a budget. Local islands like Maafushi or Thulusdhoo offer charming guesthouses (like Kaani Palm Beach or Reveries Maldives) that still give you crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and island life—just without the five-star frills.
Pro Tips for Smart Spending:
Go for Beachfront Instead of Overwater – Still gorgeous, but often half the price.
Book Early for Deals – Many resorts offer discounts for booking months in advance.
Consider an All-Inclusive Package – It might cost more upfront, but it saves you from surprise expenses.
Stay on a Local Island – Experience the Maldives without the resort markup.
Food & Drink in the Maldives
What’s the Real Cost of That Sunset Cocktail?
Here’s the deal—when you’re in the Maldives, you’re on an island, and that means you’re also kind of a captive audience when it comes to dining. There’s no wandering down the street for a cheap local café. Most of your meals will be at your resort, and prices can range from “reasonable” to “wait, that was how much for a burger?”
That’s where meal plans come in. Almost every resort offers them, but knowing which one to choose can make a huge difference in your budget.
🥐 Bed & Breakfast (B&B) – Your morning meal is covered, but lunch, dinner, and drinks are à la carte. Great if you’re a light eater or want to mix up where you dine (assuming your resort has multiple restaurants). But be warned—dinners can easily run $80–$150 per person at luxury resorts.
🍽 Half-Board (HB) – Includes breakfast and dinner, leaving lunch and drinks on you. Perfect if you plan to be out snorkeling or diving during the day, but keep in mind that resort lunches often cost $30–$60 per person.
🍛 Full-Board (FB) – All three meals included, but drinks (even soft drinks) are extra. Good for food lovers who want variety without thinking about cost. Just know that cocktails typically run $15–$25 each, and even a soda can be $8–$12 at high-end resorts.
🍹 All-Inclusive (AI) – The whole package: meals, drinks, and sometimes even snacks, activities, or minibar perks. If you like to enjoy a few cocktails a day, gourmet dining, or endless cappuccinos, All-Inclusive can definitely be worth it. Some of the best All-Inclusive deals are at Lily Beach Resort & Spa, Emerald Maldives, and Ozen Life Maadhoo, where premium spirits, wines, and à la carte dining are part of the deal.
Pro Tips for Keeping Costs in Check:
Check What’s Actually Included – Some "all-inclusive" plans only cover house wine and beer, not premium cocktails or specialty dining.
Look for AI Resorts with Perks – Some include sunset cruises, snorkeling trips, or spa treatments.
Pack Smart – If you’re on B&B or half-board, bring snacks. A simple granola bar might save you from a $25 resort sandwich.
Consider Local Islands – On islands like Maafushi, a meal at a local restaurant can cost $10–$20, compared to $80+ at resorts.
Bottom line? The Maldives can be indulgent or surprisingly manageable—it all depends on how you plan your meals (and how many piña coladas you plan to have).
Transfer Costs
Paradise Comes with a Boarding Pass (or Two)
So you’ve booked your dream Maldives resort. But wait—how do you actually get there? Unlike most destinations, your journey doesn’t end at Malé International Airport. Most resorts are on private islands, which means one last leg of travel: a speedboat or a seaplane. And spoiler alert—it’s not included in your airfare.
💨 Speedboat Transfers ($100–$300 per person, round trip) Resorts closer to Malé (usually within 50km) offer speedboat transfers, which are the most budget-friendly option. The ride takes anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, and while it’s not exactly cheap, it’s a scenic way to start your vacation.
Great for: Resorts like Kurumba Maldives, Baros Maldives, and Centara Ras Fushi—all within a quick speedboat ride from Malé.
✈️ Seaplane Transfers ($300–$800 per person, round trip) If your resort is further away, prepare for the ultimate Instagram-worthy commute: a seaplane. These tiny aircraft fly low over the atolls, giving you a stunning aerial view of the Maldives before landing right at your resort’s dock. But luxury has a price, and it’s a hefty one—seaplane transfers can cost more than a domestic flight.
Best for: Resorts like Soneva Jani, Six Senses Laamu, and St. Regis Maldives Vommuli, which are too far for speedboats.
🛫 Domestic Flight + Speedboat Combo ($250–$600 per person, round trip) Some resorts—especially those in the southern atolls—require a domestic flight from Malé, followed by a speedboat. While this option adds a layer of logistics, it can sometimes be cheaper than a seaplane and more reliable in bad weather.
Used for: Resorts like Ayada Maldives, The Residence Maldives, and Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa.
Pro Tips to Avoid Transfer Sticker Shock
Factor transfers into your budget early. That $500/night deal isn’t so sweet if you’re paying an extra $800 just to get there.
Check resort transfer schedules. Seaplanes only fly during daylight hours (6 AM–4 PM), so if you arrive late, you might need to spend the night in Malé.
Book round-trip transfers through the resort. Prices are usually fixed, and they’ll coordinate everything for you.
Ask about shared vs. private transfers. Some high-end resorts offer private seaplanes for an even higher price—but if you’re splurging, why not go all in?
Getting to the Maldives isn’t just about getting there—it’s part of the adventure. Just make sure your wallet is ready for takeoff.
Activity Costs:
The Maldives Is More Than Just Sipping Cocktails in a Hammock (Unless That’s Your Thing)
Yes, lounging on the beach with a good book is free. So is floating in the warm, impossibly blue ocean. But if you’re the type who likes to do things—snorkel with manta rays, take a sunset cruise, or get a massage that melts you into vacation mode—you’ll want to budget for it.
Here’s what to expect:
Diving & Snorkeling – The Maldives is an underwater paradise, but getting there isn’t always included.
Guided snorkel trips: $50–$150 per person
Single tank dive: $70–$150
PADI Open Water certification: $600–$900
Pro tip: Some resorts (like Lily Beach Resort & Spa and Emerald Maldives) include snorkeling excursions in their all-inclusive packages.
Excursions & Boat Trips – Want to chase dolphins or have a castaway picnic on a deserted island?
Sunset dolphin cruise: $100–$200 per person
Sandbank private picnic: $200–$500 per couple
Deep-sea fishing trip: $300–$800 (private charter)
Pro tip: Some resorts offer free non-motorized water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding), while jet skiing and parasailing will set you back $100+ per session.
Spa Treatments – Because nothing says “vacation” like a massage with an ocean view.
60-minute massage: $120–$250
Couples’ spa package: $300–$600
Pro tip: Some resorts (Six Senses Laamu, COMO Maalifushi) have wellness retreats where treatments are bundled into your stay.
Unique Dining Experiences – Sure, resort buffets are nice, but how about dining underwater or having a private beach dinner under the stars?
Underwater restaurant experience: $200–$500 per person (Ithaa at Conrad Maldives, 5.8 Undersea at Hurawalhi)
Private beach dinner: $300–$1,000 per couple
Pro tip: Check if your meal plan includes specialty dining discounts—some do!
How to Keep Activity Costs in Check
Look for resorts that include activities. Some all-inclusives offer free excursions, spa credits, or unlimited snorkeling.
Book in advance. Resorts sometimes offer discounts for pre-booked packages.
Pick your splurge. Maybe you skip the jet ski rental but go all-in on a bucket-list dive or a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
Service Charges & Taxes
The Maldives loves its luxury—but it also loves its service charges and taxes. And if you’re not paying attention, those little extras can add up fast.
Here’s what you need to know:
10% Service Charge – Automatically added to everything—meals, drinks, spa treatments, excursions. Think of it as an automatic tip for resort staff.
12% Goods and Services Tax (GST) – This applies to almost everything—your room rate, dining, activities, even airport transfers.
That means a $100 meal actually costs $122 once tax and service charges are tacked on. And that $25 poolside cocktail? More like $30 once everything’s factored in.
How to Avoid Sticker Shock
Check if taxes & service charges are included. Some resorts roll them into their listed prices (LUX South Ari Atoll, Soneva Fushi), while others (cough budget-friendly spots) add them at checkout.
Factor this into your budget. If your stay is $5,000, expect to pay $6,100+ after service charges and GST.
Tipping is optional—but appreciated. While the 10% service charge is distributed among staff, many guests leave extra cash tips for standout service (housekeepers, butlers, dive instructors).
The Maldives is worth every penny—but knowing how those pennies add up makes for a much smoother checkout.
Travel Insurance
The Only Surprise You Want Is a Free Room Upgrade
Look, the Maldives is paradise, but even paradise comes with risks—missed flights, lost luggage, sudden illnesses, and (worst-case scenario) last-minute cancellations that leave you out thousands of dollars. That’s where travel insurance comes in.
Here’s what you should cover:
Trip Cancellations & Delays – Flights to the Maldives often involve multiple connections. One delay can throw your whole itinerary off. Travel insurance can help cover rebooking costs, extra hotel stays, and even missed prepaid activities.
Medical Emergencies – The Maldives isn’t exactly known for its extensive hospital system. If you need serious medical care, you’ll likely be airlifted to Sri Lanka or Singapore—a cost that can hit $50,000+ without insurance.
Adventure Activities – Planning to dive, surf, or jet ski? Some policies don’t cover “risky” activities by default. Make sure yours does.
Lost Luggage & Delayed Bags – Nothing kills the vacation vibe like landing in paradise while your suitcase takes an extended layover in Dubai. Travel insurance can reimburse you for essentials while you wait.
Best Travel Insurance Options for the Maldives
World Nomads – Great for adventure travelers and divers. Covers emergency evacuations.
Allianz Travel Insurance – Solid all-around coverage for trip delays, medical, and cancellations.
SafetyWing – Best for long-term travelers and digital nomads.
Pro Tip: Check If Your Credit Card Has Travel Insurance
Some premium cards (like Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum) include travel protections—but always read the fine print to see what’s actually covered.
A Maldives trip is an investment. Travel insurance is the safety net that makes sure nothing—not even a missed flight or a rogue stomach bug—ruins it.
Finding Your Perfect Maldives Resort
With so many resorts to choose from, picking the one can feel overwhelming. But here’s the secret: there’s no wrong choice—just the right one for you.
Know what you want. Compare your options. Factor in costs. Read the reviews (but take them with a grain of sea salt). Decide if you’re an overwater villa person, a beach bungalow person, or maybe even an underwater suite kind of traveler.
Because at the end of the day, the real magic of the Maldives isn’t just in the resort you choose—it’s in the blindingly blue waters, the impossibly soft sand, and the way the ocean stretches out in every direction like it was painted just for you. It’s in the people, the sunsets, the quiet moments that make you pause and think, this is what paradise feels like.
Wherever you land, your Maldives adventure will be unforgettable. So here’s to your perfect island escape—may it be as dreamy as you’ve imagined.
Here are the top 10 most frequently asked questions related to choosing a resort in the Maldives:
What unique features should I look for in a Maldives resort to ensure a memorable experience?
Look for resorts with unique features such as underwater restaurants, overwater bungalows with glass floors, private plunge pools, personalized butler services, and exclusive island excursions. Resorts offering specialized activities like manta ray snorkeling, submarine rides, and bioluminescent night tours can also enhance your stay.
How do I decide between a resort on a private island versus one on a larger inhabited island?
Private island resorts offer seclusion, exclusive access to amenities, and a more intimate atmosphere, ideal for honeymoons or quiet getaways. Resorts on larger inhabited islands provide opportunities to experience local culture, visit nearby villages, and explore a wider range of dining and shopping options, offering a more diverse vacation experience.
What should I consider when choosing between all-inclusive and half-board meal plans?
All-inclusive plans cover meals, drinks, and often activities, providing convenience and potential cost savings if you plan to stay on the resort. Half-board plans typically include breakfast and dinner, allowing flexibility to explore local restaurants or engage in off-resort activities during the day. Consider your dining preferences, daily itinerary, and budget when choosing a meal plan.
What types of water sports and activities are typically available at Maldives resorts?
Most resorts offer a variety of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, windsurfing, and sailing. Some resorts also provide unique activities like underwater scooters, parasailing, and traditional Maldivian fishing trips. Ensure the resort has the specific activities you are interested in.
How can I ensure my resort is environmentally friendly and supports local conservation efforts?
Look for resorts with eco-certifications and sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy, minimizing plastic use, and supporting coral reef restoration projects. Resorts that engage in marine conservation, provide educational programs on environmental awareness, and employ local staff contribute positively to the environment and community.
What should I know about the transportation options to and from the resort?
Resorts can be reached by speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight from Malé International Airport. Speedboats are generally quicker and more affordable for nearby atolls, while seaplanes offer a scenic but more expensive option for distant atolls. Some resorts may require a combination of transportation methods. Confirm the details and costs of transfers with your resort before booking.
What amenities and services should I expect from a luxury resort in the Maldives?
Luxury resorts typically offer high-end amenities such as private pools, gourmet dining, spa services, fitness centers, and personalized concierge services. Additional features might include private beach access, in-villa dining, yacht charters, and wellness programs like yoga and meditation classes. Research the specific amenities and services that each resort offers to match your preferences.
How do I find a resort that caters to specific dietary requirements?
Many Maldives resorts accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. Before booking, check the resort's dining options and communicate your dietary needs in advance. Resorts with multiple restaurants and personalized meal planning services are better suited for catering to specific dietary requirements.
What are some insider tips for getting the best deals and discounts on Maldives resorts?
Book well in advance or take advantage of last-minute deals to secure the best rates. Traveling during the shoulder seasons (just before or after the peak tourist season) can also offer lower prices and fewer crowds. Sign up for resort newsletters, follow them on social media, and use reputable travel websites to stay informed about special offers and promotions.
How do I choose a resort that offers the best diving and snorkeling experiences?
Select a resort located in an area known for rich marine biodiversity and close to popular dive sites. Check if the resort has an on-site dive center with professional instructors, PADI certification courses, and quality equipment. Resorts that offer guided snorkeling tours, house reefs, and night diving experiences can enhance your underwater adventures. Research the specific marine life and coral health in the resort’s vicinity to ensure a vibrant underwater experience.
