The Ultimate Travel Guide to Resorts in the Maldives
Imagine dipping your toes into crystal-clear waters, lounging on white sandy beaches, and savoring world-class cuisine in the lap of luxury. All these and much more await you in the sun-kissed archipelago known as the Maldives. Famous for its stunning resorts, the Maldives is a tropical paradise perfect for anyone seeking rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Getting to the Maldives
Your journey to this paradise begins with a flight into Malé International Airport, the main international gateway to the Maldives. From here, your chosen resort typically arranges a speedboat or seaplane transfer to whisk you off to your secluded island.
A Brief Overview of Maldivian Resorts
Scattered across 26 atolls, Maldivian resorts cater to a range of budgets and tastes. However, their shared selling point is the private island experience, with each resort located on its own island. This guide will walk you through some of the finest resorts that the Maldives has to offer, encompassing luxury, eco-friendly, family-friendly, and budget options.
1. Luxury Resorts
Soneva Jani
No list of Maldivian luxury resorts would be complete without mentioning the Soneva Jani. Nestled within the Medhufaru lagoon in the Noonu Atoll, this resort offers a selection of plush overwater and island villas. Its unique selling point? The ‘Slide and Splash’ feature, which is a slide from the top deck of your villa that takes you directly into the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.
One&Only Reethi Rah
If you’re after a mix of luxury and adventure, One&Only Reethi Rah won’t disappoint. Located in North Malé Atoll, this resort boasts beautiful villas and a host of exciting activities. Go diving to explore colorful coral reefs, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy culinary masterpieces at one of the many dining venues.
2. Eco-friendly Resorts
Soneva Fushi
Sister property to Soneva Jani, Soneva Fushi sets the bar high for sustainable luxury. Located in the Baa Atoll, this resort prides itself on its ‘No News, No Shoes’ policy, offering a Robinson Crusoe-style experience. Expect open-air cinemas, organic gardens, and sustainable practices from recycling to renewable energy.
Gili Lankanfushi
Just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, Gili Lankanfushi is an eco-lover’s dream. Built from sustainable materials, the resort adopts numerous green initiatives, including a ban on plastic straws and onsite organic gardens. Its spacious overwater villas and serene atmosphere make for an unforgettable stay.
3. Family-friendly Resorts
Kurumba Maldives
As the first resort in the Maldives, Kurumba knows a thing or two about hospitality. Situated close to Malé, it offers family-friendly accommodation with a wealth of activities for all ages, including watersports, cooking classes, and a dedicated kids’ club.
Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa
Located in the South Ari Atoll, this all-inclusive resort is a family favorite. It has a variety of accommodation types, an onsite kids’ club, and a range of family-friendly activities. A unique feature is the ‘Ultimate All-Inclusive’ package, which covers everything from dining to diving, ensuring a hassle-free vacation.
4. Budget Resorts
Biyadhoo Island Resort
Who says you can’t enjoy the Maldives on a budget? Biyadhoo Island Resort, located in South Malé Atoll, is a budget-friendly resort offering simple yet comfortable rooms, delicious cuisine, and a host of activities, including a PADI-certified dive center.
Embudu Village Resort
Another great option for budget travelers is Embudu Village Resort. Situated in the Kaafu Atoll, it offers affordable accommodation, an excellent house reef for snorkeling and diving, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a laid-back vacation.
When to Visit
The Maldives enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures between 26°C and 31°C (79°F and 88°F). However, it’s worth noting that the dry season (from November to April) is the best time to visit as it sees less rainfall and clearer waters for snorkeling and diving.
Exploring the Maldivian Cuisine
It’s not just the stunning vistas and opulent resorts that make the Maldives a traveler’s paradise; the local cuisine is a sensory delight as well. With an emphasis on coconuts, fish, and starches, Maldivian food is a fusion of South Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic influences.
Resort Dining
Most resorts offer a range of dining options from around the world, allowing guests to experience different cuisines while enjoying the stunning Maldivian views. Some resorts even offer unique dining experiences like underwater restaurants, beach BBQs, and private sandbank picnics.
Traditional Maldivian Dishes
While you’re in the Maldives, make sure to try out some traditional dishes. ‘Mas huni’ (a dish made of shredded smoked fish, coconut, and spices) is a common breakfast dish, while ‘garudhiya’ (fish soup) and ‘boshi mashuni’ (banana flower salad) are popular at lunch and dinner. Don’t forget to try ‘roshi’ (Maldivian flatbread) as well.
Activities and Experiences in the Maldives
While it’s easy to spend your days lazing on the beach, the Maldives offers a wealth of activities for the more adventurous. From water sports to local culture, there’s something for everyone.
Water Sports and Marine Life
The Maldives is renowned for its diverse marine life, and resorts often offer snorkeling and diving opportunities for guests to explore the underwater world. Kayaking, jet-skiing, windsurfing, and fishing are also popular water-based activities.
Additionally, some resorts even offer the chance to swim with manta rays or whale sharks, providing unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts.
Spa and Wellness
Almost every resort in the Maldives boasts a spa, with treatments often incorporating traditional Maldivian healing techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Some resorts also offer yoga and meditation sessions, perfect for those seeking a wellness retreat.
Cultural Experiences
While the resorts offer a slice of paradise, don’t miss the chance to explore local Maldivian culture. Visit a local island, try a traditional Maldivian cooking class, or enjoy a traditional music and dance performance.
What to Pack
When packing for the Maldives, think light and casual. Swimwear, beach cover-ups, shorts, and t-shirts are essentials. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen. Though the Maldives is a Muslim country, resorts are generally more relaxed about dress codes. However, if you’re visiting local islands, it’s respectful to dress modestly.
Travel Tips
The Maldivian Rufiyaa is the local currency, but USD is widely accepted in resorts. English is also widely spoken in resorts and tourist areas, making communication easy for travelers.
Remember, the Maldives is a Muslim country, and it’s important to respect local customs and laws. Alcohol is prohibited on local islands, and modest dress is required when visiting these areas. Additionally, same-sex relationships are not recognized, so it’s advisable for LGBTQ+ travelers to stay at international resorts where attitudes are more liberal.
With its white sandy beaches, stunning resorts, vibrant marine life, and delicious cuisine, the Maldives offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Whether you’re a luxury traveler, budget backpacker, adventure enthusiast, or just in need of some R&R, this beautiful island nation has something for you.