Cover Raffles Maldives (Photo: Instagram / @rafflesmaldives）
Raffles Maldives (Photo: Instagram / @rafflesmaldives）
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From Instagrammable infinity pools to undersea restaurants, we have rounded up 6 tranquil resorts that will make sure you have everything you need for a perfect holiday
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Maldives is a bucket-list travel destination for many, thanks to its crystal-clear sea, lush greenery, pristine beaches and thriving marine life. Given the interest among travellers from all over the world, the country boasts a plethora of resorts catering to every need, from family-friendly retreats to tranquil escapes for romantic honeymoons. Here, we have handpicked six exceptional resorts and hotels with distinct styles that you need to bookmark if you are planning a trip to this stunning archipelago.
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1. Soneva Jani Maldives
Looking for a resort that caters to families? Look no further than Soneva Jani Maldives, which recently ranked number 36 on World’s Best Hotels list. What sets this lavish resort apart is that its water villas come with their own waterslides, allowing you to slide right into the crystal-clear blue sea. This fun feature makes it perfect for kids, but also unleashes the inner child in adults. And for those who want to swim day and night, many of the rooms come with private swimming pools.
2. Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
If you’re seeking an exclusive yet eco-friendly experience, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is the place to be. Designed by the renowned architect Yuji Yamazaki, this fully solar-powered property boasts a minimalistic, modern touch. The island has 15 over-water residences, and each unit has an open-floor layout that takes advantage of the Maldives’ pleasant weather, letting in lots of natural light and allowing for a refreshing breeze.
3. Hurawalhi Island Resort
You may have seen pictures of Hurawalhi Island Resort’s world-famous all-glass undersea restaurant. Named 5.8 due being located 5.8 metres below sea level, this restaurant accommodates only eight adult guests at a time—no children allowed at the restaurant—and offers a unique view of the underwater world. Hurawalhi is also known for its pristine white-sand beaches and diverse marine life that includes corals, stingrays and sea turtles.
4. Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is located in the southernmost tip of Maldives, which boasts a rich marine ecosystem. The Raffles group of hotels is known for its legendary butler service, but in Maldives, the brand has taken this a notch higher—or deeper—with its Marine Butlers, who are trained by resident marine biologists and take guests on snorkelling tours. Add to that the infinity pools and private beaches on the property and you have the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate.
5. Pullman Maldives Maamutaa
Also located in southern Maldives is Pullman Maldives, an all-inclusive resort set amid 18 hectares of lush vegetation and surrounding a natural lake. Among its 122 luxurious residences are two exclusive Aqua Villas with underwater bedrooms featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls. For families travelling with children, the resort has The Pullman Kids’ Club, a playground and water slides that will keep the little ones busy.
6. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, stands out for its distinctive oval shape—a design element inspired by the harmony between humanity, nature and weather patterns. The resort embraces green energy through initiatives such as plastic-free zones, solar energy utilisation and sustainable water sources. With private pools, personalised butler service, a wide array of culinary delights, and even a kids’ club, there’s something for everyone.
This story was originally written in Chinese by Bonnie Chang and published on September 8, 2023.
