The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Designed by WOW Architects, there are many thoughtful blink-and-you'll-miss-it that make up this resort, which spans a lush 20-acre private island in the pristine Dhaalu Atoll. The resort's structures mirror regional marine life: overwater villas are shaped like manta rays, the main library resembles a conch shell, and the overwater Iridium Spa stretches out into the lagoon in the outline of a giant lobster. Most notable, though, is The Whale Bar, a soaring overwater lounge shaped like a whale shark opening directly out to the horizon.

Villas at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort boast private infinity pools, glass floor cutouts over living coral reefs and dedicated 24-hour St. Regis Butler Service to assist with everything from unpacking to private lagoon dining setup.