Where to stay in the Maldives

Snorkel… read… swim… eat… sip… scuba… we all know the Maldives is a hero destination for hideaway holidays – so swoon-worthy you can easily forget what day it is. From all-you-ever-dreamed-of spas to indulgent restaurants, this exotic paradise is a haven for the soul.

If you’re looking at all the beautiful places to stay in the Maldives and wondering how you’ll ever narrow it down, feast your eyes on this lovely lot – our fave places to stay on these castaway islands in the Indian Ocean.

Paradise places to stay in the Maldives >>>

For luxurious 4 star holidays – Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu (4 star), Baa Atoll

Woman relaxing in a luxury spa plunge pool with her eyes closed and flowers floating on the water.

Luxuriating in the heavenly scenery of Thulhaadho Beach, this is the place for sunset views, days spent blissing out in the spa, and getting your PADI certification. As for the rooms, think lagoon villas over the water, pool villas, beach villas, and deluxe villas with their own private plunge pool tucked away from view. Proof that 4-star holidays can feel super luxe too!

Getting there from Malé Airport: 30 minutes by seaplane.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Maldives >>>

For families – Villa Park Sun Island Resort (5 star), South Ari Atoll

Lagoon Beach Villa bedroom at Villa Park Sun Island, Maldives. White linen and tropical prints, a dark blue sofa bed and red curtains. Tastefully colourful and modern. Patio doors lead straight onto the beach.

An array of swish beach and over-water villas sets the scene for a totally luxurious Maldives holiday, perfect for luxury-seeking couples and families. Fire-warmed ‘pot tub’ bathing rituals, rave workouts and incredible whale shark excursions are just some of the unique experiences at this sensational retreat. And the kids? They’ll have the time of their lives at the kids’ club, from sandcastle building to island tours.

Getting there from Malé Airport: 20-minute domestic flight to Maamigili + 10 mins speedboat ride.

Villa Park Maldives >>>

To live the high-life – Villa Nautica Paradise Island (5 star), Kaafu Atoll

Aerial photo of a blue rectangular swimming pool jutting out into the turquoise Indian Ocean, with a curving white sand beach.

Join the jet-set on a glam getaway complete with pop-up beach parties, sailing lessons and hammocks hidden amongst the palms. Seeking total escapism? Order a picnic basket and settle down for a secluded lunch with your toes in the sand.

Getting there from Malé Airport: Just 20 minutes by speedboat.

Villa Nautica Maldives >>>

For diving and snorkelling – Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives (5 star), Felidhoo

Luxurious swimming pool with wooden decking and white sunloungers, alongside a white sand beach leading to the Indian Ocean.

It’s the ultimate Maldives dream – a private island escape! Surrounded by a house reef full of sealife and around 50 diving sites nearby, Cinnamon Velifushi has to be top choice if you want to explore beneath the waves. And as well as the lagoon villas we know and love in the Maldives, this hideaway steps it up with an overwater spa for peak tranquillity.

Getting there from Malé Airport: Either 1 hour 20 mins by speedboat or 25 mins by seaplane.

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives >>>

For All Inclusive indulgence – Adaaran Select Hudaran Fushi (4 star), Llohifushi

Wooden over-water villas looking out on the Indian Ocean at sunrise.

If paradise means nothing to you without an impressive all-inclusive plan, pin the Adaaran Select right now! From juicy burgers at the beach to fine dining by the ocean as the sun sets, food is all part of the premium experience. Included activities are a cut above, with everything from snorkelling adventures to a dolphin cruise. And if you’re a surfer, the waves here are world-renowned!

Getting there from Malé Airport: 30-minute speedboat trip.

Adaaran Select Hotel Maldives >>>

A scuba diver taking a photo of a huge whale shark in the clear blue Indian Ocean waters around the Maldives

Let’s get you to the Maldives!

Find your dream Maldives holiday >>>

Lucy Roberts

About the author

Lucy spent 18 years writing about all kinds of holidays at the old Thomas Cook, and is excited to be back – with even more holidays under her belt! From relaxing escapes on Greek islands to where to find the best palm-tree-shaded tropical beaches, she's got tons of info to help you book your perfect getaway.