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How Do I Choose the Best Resort in the Maldives?

Dreaming of powdery white sands, turquoise lagoons, and private overwater villas? The Maldives has long been a top destination for luxury and relaxation. With over 150 resort islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, choosing the best resort in the Maldives can be a daunting task—especially for first-time visitors. Whether you're travelling as a couple, a family, or solo, finding the right resort involves considering several key factors beyond just pretty pictures.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the ideal resort for your Maldives holiday—covering location, accommodation types, dining options, activities, and more.

1. Understand the Layout of the Maldives

Before diving into resort comparisons, it’s essential to understand the geography of the Maldives. This island nation comprises 26 atolls, made up of around 1,200 coral islands. Most resorts occupy their own private island, which guarantees privacy and exclusivity—but also means you can’t easily hop from one resort to another.

Resorts are generally accessed via speedboat or seaplane from Velana International Airport in Malé. Travel time can range from 10 minutes to over an hour. Speedboat transfers are cheaper and more convenient, especially for families, while seaplanes offer stunning aerial views.

Tip: If you’re on a shorter trip, consider a resort in North or South Malé Atoll to minimise transfer time.

2. Decide Your Budget Range

Resorts in the Maldives cater to a wide range of budgets—from mid-range all-inclusive options to ultra-luxury private island experiences charging thousands of pounds per night. Knowing your approximate budget helps narrow down your options.

Categories to consider:

  • Mid-range (£250–£500 per night): Comfortable beachfront villas, basic excursions, buffet dining.

  • Luxury (£500–£1,000 per night): Overwater villas, à la carte dining, premium drinks, spas.

  • Ultra-luxury (over £1,000 per night): Personal butlers, private pools, fine dining, exclusive excursions.

Tip: Look out for all-inclusive packages—they can offer better value, especially in remote islands where à la carte dining can be expensive.

3. Choose the Right Villa Type

The Maldives is famous for its overwater villas, but beachfront and garden villas can also offer a fantastic experience—sometimes at a lower price point.

  • Overwater villas: Ideal for honeymooners and couples. Enjoy direct lagoon access and panoramic views. Some come with private pools and glass floors.

  • Beachfront villas: Perfect for families or those who prefer being close to the sand and sea. Often larger and more private.

  • Garden villas: A budget-friendly option nestled in lush vegetation, often just steps from the beach.

For those seeking privacy and comfort, Maldives private villas offer the ideal blend of elegance, space, and seclusion—often featuring personal pools, sundecks, and beach access.

4. Consider the Resort’s House Reef and Marine Life

If snorkelling or diving is a priority, check whether the resort has a good house reef (i.e., a coral reef accessible directly from the beach). Some resorts are surrounded by vibrant marine life, while others may require boat trips to reach decent snorkelling spots.

Top resorts with great house reefs include:

  • Baros Maldives

  • Mirihi Island Resort

  • Vilamendhoo Island Resort

Tip: Look for resorts that offer complimentary snorkelling gear and guided excursions.

5. Dining Options and Meal Plans

Food in the Maldives can be pricey due to the country’s remote location. Most resorts offer several meal plan options:

  • Bed & Breakfast (B&B): Room with breakfast only—ideal if you plan to explore or eat lightly.

  • Half Board: Includes breakfast and dinner.

  • Full Board: All three meals included, drinks usually extra.

  • All-Inclusive: Meals, snacks, drinks, and often activities included.

Tip: If you enjoy variety, choose a private island resort in the Maldives with multiple restaurants to enjoy a mix of local and international cuisines.

6. Check for Activities and Experiences

While many come to the Maldives to relax, there are plenty of activities on offer—both on land and in the water.

Popular resort activities include:

  • Snorkelling and scuba diving

  • Jet-skiing and paddleboarding

  • Sunset dolphin cruises

  • Cooking classes and spa treatments

Some luxury resorts even offer unique experiences like underwater dining or cinema under the stars.

Tip: Look at the resort’s activity list in advance. If you’re travelling with children or teens, ensure there are age-appropriate options available.

7. Suitability for Different Traveller Types

Each resort in the Maldives has its own vibe. Some cater specifically to honeymooners, while others are family-friendly or wellness-focused.

  • For couples & honeymooners: Choose a resort offering seclusion, adult-only areas, and romantic experiences like private beach dinners.

  • For families: Look for resorts with kids’ clubs, family-sized villas, and calm lagoon beaches.

  • For solo travellers or friends: Consider resorts with communal dining options and social activities to meet other guests.

Tip: Some resorts have separate adult-only and family zones, which is ideal if you're looking for a balanced environment.

8. Season and Weather Considerations

The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but it’s important to know the seasonal differences:

  • Dry season (November to April): Peak season with sunny skies and calm seas—ideal for beach holidays.

  • Wet season (May to October): More affordable with fewer crowds, but there's a higher chance of rain and rough seas.

Tip: Booking during the shoulder months (late April or early November) can offer good weather with lower prices.

9. Check Guest Reviews and Reputation

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, spend some time reading guest reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, Google, and Trustpilot. Pay attention to:

  • Quality of service

  • Cleanliness

  • Dining experiences

  • Staff friendliness

  • Accuracy of descriptions

Tip: Don’t just look at star ratings—read recent reviews and check responses from resort management for insight into their customer service approach.

10. Watch Out for Extra Costs

Many resorts appear affordable upfront but may have hidden costs, including:

  • Seaplane or speedboat transfers

  • High taxes and service charges (typically 10% service charge + 16% GST)

  • Wi-Fi fees (some resorts still charge)

  • Premium dining and drinks

Tip: Ask for a detailed quote including taxes, transfers, and your selected meal plan before confirming your booking.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best resort in the Maldives is a personal decision that depends on your travel style, priorities, and budget. Whether you're looking for total luxury, adventure, romance, or family fun, there’s a perfect island waiting for you.

Take your time to research, compare, and prioritise what matters most to you. After all, the Maldives isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience of a lifetime.

FAQs:

Q: How far in advance should I book a Maldives resort?
A: For the best rates and room availability, aim to book 6–9 months in advance—especially if you’re travelling during peak season.

Q: Can I visit multiple resorts in one trip?
A: Yes, but it requires coordination. Transfers between resorts can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s usually best to stay in one resort unless you’re staying for 10+ days.

Q: Are all Maldivian resorts expensive?
A: While the Maldives is known for luxury, there are mid-range options that offer excellent value—especially with all-inclusive deals.