The 20 Best Luxury Hotels in the Maldives

• Soneva Jani offers spectacular private villas (many come with rooftop water slides). Villas are huge with pale wood and natural interiors and private pools on the terrace. Every detail has been thought of from spa and dining to activities and relaxation. With faultless service - this hotel does the Maldives like no other.
• Cocoa Island is a boutique option boasting 33 chic boat-shaped villas set over the sea. Spacious interiors feature smart dark wood set against crisp white linen and smart indulgent bathrooms. Complete with a spa and stand-out dining, this is a luxurious choice.
• Raffles Meradhoo offers spectacular and spacious villas set over the turquoise water. Each has a private pool, while interiors are clean and contemporary with large bathtubs overlooking the water. Spread over two islands, this resort is a truly indulgent choice.
• Joali offers private beach and water villas each with their own unique design, private pool, and loungers placed on decks that (in the overwater villas) you can just roll off into the sea. Pick this property for the chic design which mixes natural materials with futuristic design.

• Milaidhoo Island has classic thatched villas with luxurious touches including private pools and enormous tubs. Dining is standout, particularly the unique “teppanyaki” table. The ideal couples paradise with numerous romantic experiences carefully planned out.
• Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat is a totally serene escape set on a beautiful unspoilt beach. 30 thatched villas are decorated with natural materials and romantic beds are draped in thin muslin. Bespoke couples' experiences can be arranged - we recommend the sunset boat cruises!
• Gili Lankanfushi has an excellent motto "no news, no shoes". This is a place to come and simply unwind. For couples' who rather a little action - they have that covered too from scuba diving to fishing or tennis. Villas have an open-air feel. A luxurious escape, perfect for a honeymoon.
• Naladhu is romantic from the outset. Arrive at your villa via boat before unwinding in the bathtub overlooking the ocean (with plenty of room for two). With private boat tours and couples' massage, this is island bliss.

• Anantara Veli is a grown up island resort. Overwater villas offer luxury and privacy. With an array of watersports, a superb spa, open air cinema, and romantic dining - this is a great choice for a break for two.
• Baros Maldives is another luxurious adult-only stay. Romantic villas are constructed using local materials. The island is surrounded by beautiful reefs so this is a great choice for diving enthusiasts. Complete with a spa and private dining - this is a tranquil escape for couples.
  
  

• Finolhu is an action packed retreat well suited to families. Villas are luxurious, with open air bathrooms and spectacular sea views. The four restaurants and boundless activities on offer will keep everyone happy. Plus there are family pools, kids' indoor and outdoor play areas, a creche, and babysitting to ensure parents get all the help they need!
• Four Seasons Kuda Huraa is a luxurious resort that has plenty to keep everyone entertained. Located a short boat ride from Male, this is a convenient place to get to. Bungalows come in family-sized varieties and each has a private pool. Complete with a Kids Club and endless activity options - this is a gorgeous spot for a family break.
• Velaa Private Island is a very luxurious getaway with plenty of activities and service second-to-none. Complete with its own golf course, a Clarins Spa, gourmet dining, some of the best scuba diving in the Maldives and an extensive Kids Club - you'll wish for nothing here.
• Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is undeniably a luxury stay with each villa having a private butler, a spoiling spa using Natura Bissé products, and five-star cuisine. However, this romantic spot is also ideal for kids with familysized accommodation, and numerous activities which includes the Maldives first aqua park.
• Cheval Blanc Randheli offers sophisticated luxury overlooking the ocean. Adults can unwind in the exclusive spa while children will be kept busy in the kids club or taking part in the many hotel activities. Perfect for all the family.

• Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru has all the romantic lures of other hotels in the Maldives including powder white sands, candlelit dining, and gorgeous secluded villas. However, it is the award-winning recreation team and the sports equipment that make this a stand-out stay.
• Six Senses Laamu is a remote spot with beautiful thatched villas boasting sunken-glass tubs. The free icecream and the 'no shoes' policy immediately gives this a laidback vibe. Plus there are activities galore including yoga, an outdoor cinema, endless watersports, surfing, and sailing. Suitable for families or couples.

• Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers beautiful contemporary villas set over the water complete with large terraces and private hot tubs. With fabulous dining and plenty of activites this is a real luxury experience. Yet it is the two spas that are the real lure. An overwater spa boasts glass floored treatment rooms and the Spa Retreat on the mainland offers a holistic spa experience.

• The Nautilus is made up of just 26 villas offering luxury and intimacy on a remote island accessed by seaplane. Villas are vast and either come over water or on the beach. Dining is a real highlight (headed by arguably one of the best chefs in the Maldives), the spa is delectable, and for those travelling with children - there's a kids club too. Drop your bags and unwind.

• Lily Beach Resort & Spa is an idyllic five-star stay. Overwater villas are secluded and luxurious. There is a wide choice of restaurants, countless activities, a superb Kids Club, and an overwater spa - you'll wish for nothing at this all-inclusive stay.

Still not sure which to book?

• Consider our Guru’s list of the best hotels in the Maldives.
• Widen your search to include our pick of places to stay Check out our recommendations in Sri Lanka or Mauritius instead.
• Browse through our collection of the best value hotels in the Maldives, the best boutique hotels in the Maldives or the best resorts in The Maldives.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.