We round up top stays in Maldives for all your holiday needs, whether it's a romantic honeymoon, a family-friendly trip or a scuba diving adventure
Getting to Maldives for gorgeous beach views, amazing marine life, relaxing resorts and fun island activities has gotten so much simpler (and cheaper) since Tiger started flying to the nation of 26 atolls. But the question remains: where should you stay? Information is everywhere online, but picking out the perfect Maldives getaway, whether you’re after an exciting surf break or a luxurious, pampering retreat, can feel like you’re looking for a needle in the haystack. That’s why we’ve tasked our go-to travel guru friends at Lightfoot Travel to provide this comprehensive list of the best Maldives resorts – along with their available promotions – to help you make plans. What’s left, then, is for you to book the one you love.
For Romance
Cocoa Island
This beautiful island resort exudes a simple-yet sophisticated charm, weaving contemporary and indigenous touches throughout the property. Each of the 33 suites and villas on Cocoa Island has direct access to the lagoon – which means the Maldivian waters is merely steps away. Every room is decked with a private terrace, perfect for admiring daily beautiful sunsets with your significant other. The original dhoni-shaped overwater villas, essentially wooden vessels used by local fishermen, are unique to the Maldives.
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 on Bed & Breakfast rates till 23 December 2014, or enjoy a 5-Night Spa Package that includes 3 spa treatments till 25 December 2014.
Gili Lankanfushi
Said to be the ‘biggest overwater villas in the Maldives’, Gili Lankanfushi promises a holiday away from it all. For the ultimate romantic stay, lock yourself up in the 250-square-metre Crusoe Residence, accessible only by private rowing boat or boat shuttle. The villa is decked with a kitchenette, rooftop sun deck, mini wine cellar and access to the sea, so you don’t really need to venture out of your property if you don’t want to.
SPECIAL! Stay 5 nights and pay for 4 if you book 90 days in advance till 25 December 2014. Plus, receive complimentary Half Board.
For Diving
Maalifushi by COMO
COMO’s second Maldivian property, Maalifushi by COMO stands out for its understated, minimalist-chic style – designed by Japanese architect Koichiro Ikebuchi – and second-to-none diving. Whale sharks, hammerhead sharks and manta rays are rather common in this area, making it an underwater paradise for diving aficionados.
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 if you book 45 days in advance, till 25 December 2014. What’s more, receive USD150 nightly credit to use on dining or spa treatments.
Conrad Maldives
Famed for its underwater restaurant where you can admire sharks and fishes, the Conrad Maldives is also a great accommodation for divers. Over 40 dive sites are within easy reach of the hotel, including well-known Manta Point where whale sharks and manta rays glide elegantly through the crystal clear Maldivian waters.
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3, plus enjoy a 3-course dinner for two at Atoll restaurant, till 25 December 2014.
For The Best Surf Breaks
Six Senses Laamu
It’s the only resort on the unchartered Laamu atoll, and straight across the Ying Yang surf break. There’s no need for long transfers, too – just pick up your surfboard and paddle out. Want more options? Maabaidhoo Kandu, Fushi Kandu, Hothadhoo Corner, and Gadhoo Kandu near Six Senses Laamu also offer great swells.
Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru
Still feeling a little wobbly on the board? Master the waves at Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, which has a great surf school for kids and adults. Laying claim to six of the best point breaks in the Maldives, you’ll find the perfect spot to take on the swells, whether you’re a beginners or a seasoned surfer. After a full day of out in the waters, indulge in a massage or sip cocktails as you watch the sun set.
For The Wow Factor
Huvafen Fushi
An intimate, sophisticated retreat with just 43 villas, Huvafen Fushi is home to arguably the most spectacular spa in the Maldives, with two treatment rooms underwater (the world’s first!). From the infinity indoor pool with its glamorous fibre optic lights that resemble the starlit sky in the evenings to the numerous fine dining options, the property is bound to captivate travellers who dig a contemporary edge.
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 till 27 December 2014.
Cheval Blanc Randheli
LVMH’s newest foray into Asia is the epitome of the glamourous island life. Before your arrival, Cheval Blanc Randheli’s Alchemists (their version of concierges) are already in touch with your Travel Designer to put together a wide array of tailor-made activities just for your stay: a dash of diving, a pinch of massages and your favourite Champagne served at just the right temperature. If it’s good enough for Will and Kate, it’s most definitely good enough for us!
SPECIAL! Stay for 4 nights between 1 October to 30 November 2014 and enjoy one each of the following for two persons: sunset cruise, afternoon tea, 60-minute massage, culinary experience with chef and smmelier. Ladies, enjoy a mani or pedi.
One&Only Reethi Rah
See and be seen at One&Only Reethi Rah, which has played host to many celebrities, including Tom Cruise and Fergie. And with seven beaches and endless turquoise bays, there’s a secluded spot for everyone. A personal concierge is on hand to take care of your every need, from drawing a bath in your generous tub to serving your meals. A mobile phone is at your disposal if you need to dial the concierge from anywhere on the island – like calling to get a bottle from the largest Champagne cellar in the Maldives.
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 till 19 December 2014.
For Family-Friendly Holidays
Anantara Dhigu
Built with families in mind, Anantara Dhigu‘s one-bedroom villas sleep two little ones comfortably, while a handful of two bedroom family villas are available to accommodate bigger kids. Babysitters and professional staff will keep a watchful eye over the rascals at the hotel’s kids’ club (open to children aged 3 to 11) as they participate in a host of fun activities – think scavenger hunts, coconut painting and dodge ball amongst others – so parents can get to enjoy some much-deserved one-to-one time.
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 till 27 December 2014. If you have previously travelled with Lightfoot to Anantara Maldives within the 12 months you get an additional 10% discount on Bed & Breakfast rates.
Soneva Fushi
A real treat for kids of every age. The Den, their very own playground, is decked with everything of a child’s dream: a pirate ship, two pools, a mocktail bar, lego room, dress-up area, cinema, sound-proof music room with instruments, and more. For families looking to spend time together, there’s also a slew of activities to do at Soneva Fushi, including a father-and-son picnic, mother-and-daughter spa, cooking class for the entire family, and a family dolphin cruise. The challenge? Getting everyone to leave once the holiday is over.
SPECIAL! Free meals and transfers! Book now till 19 October 2014 for a minimum 7 nights to enjoy return airport transfers and complimentary full board meals for two children under 12 years old, when in the same room type as 2 adults.
Shangri-La Villingili
The Cool Zone at the Shangri-La Villingili is where your kids are most likely to spend their time while you’re there. Your little ones will be spoiled silly with the abundance of toys, educational games and tons of land- and beach-based activities on the property. They can explore the islands and hunt hidden treasures decked in pirates clothing, discover the jungle of Villingili, partake in crab hunting and racing, learn more about the underwater world, and so much more!
SPECIAL! Stay 4 nights and pay for 3. Book by 30 September 2014 and travel by 18 December to enjoy free meals. Up to two children under 12 also enjoy complimentary dining in all restaurants when dining with at least 1 paying adult.
Got your eyes on one property? Here are five FAQs from Lightfoot Travel to consider before confirming your trip.
Top image: Six Senses Laamu
This article was brought to you by Lightfoot Travel, a Singapore-based luxury tour operator offering expert travel advice & inspiration, tailor-made itineraries & full booking services.