The thousand or so tiny islands of the Maldives have some of the world's most perfect beaches. Fine, white sand underfoot with perfectly clear aqua water lapping against it. On one side are the fringes of tropical forest and on the other spectacular coral reefs. Mmmm…. heaven. And a heaven you should see before it's submerged. The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in the Maldives offers something for everyone, whether you want good value family friendly or romantic barefoot luxury.
Some of our Maldives Collections:
Every Maldivan resort has its own private island, so there's plenty of choice if you're looking for a secluded luxury resort on a tiny island. The world's biggest hotel brands fight it out, trying to outdo each other with luxury extras like wish-fulfilment services, private pools, pillow menus and personal butlers. But as well as the five and six star resorts there are also specialist resorts for divers and families, and eco-resorts.
These days it's also possible to skip the resorts and experience the Maldives on your own. You can stay in privately run guesthouses and island hop at your own pace using the local ferry serves. If you do travel independently bear in mind that the Maldives are a Suni Muslim nation, so alcohol, pork and dogs are banned and the weekends are Fridays and Saturdays. It’s also advisable to dress modestly.
Some of the more remote islands are also some of the best places to stay in the Maldives if you're going on a family break. You'll find brilliant kid's clubs, and plenty of resort entertainments - these resorts have to have everything as it's a long journey to the next island!
Where to stay in the Maldives - which area?
- Staying near the capital, Malé, means you're close to the airport, and the kind of attractions you'd expect from most capitals. There's a museum exploring the nation's history, a beautifully ornate ancient mosque, a large choice of places to eat and drink, and plenty of cruising, sailing, diving and other watersports options. Malé is also home to the 'Whale Submarine', which isn't a submarine used for whale watching, it's for exploring the reefs.
- If you stay in the more remote resorts you're more limited to the facilities your resort offers.
- The more remote your island resort the better chance you have of seeing totally clear night skies if you're a stargazer. You also have the opportunity to spot dolphins and baby sharks in secluded lagoons, or meet turtles, dolphins, coloured swarms of tropical fish or maybe even a whale shark. Yes, you can see amazing marine life all over the Maldives, but the more remote the island, the more at home the marine life is and the better your chances of spotting large pelagics.
Just don't forget that these islands are popular year round so make sure that you plan well ahead if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in the Maldives.