Fine sandy beaches, crystal clear waters... From lazing in hammocks to diving, our expert consultants have put together their guide to the most beautiful beaches in the Maldives!
1
Kandolhu Hotel
A small gem in the middle of Ari Atoll, a paradise for nature lovers and those looking to relax and unwind. A small island of just 656 by 492ft, full of charm, with vast sandy beaches (some of the best beaches in the Maldives). This hotel's pretty villas sit on stilts in an emerald lagoon, surrounded by multicoloured corals. The thatched roofs, sleek and modern design and natural tones deliver a luxurious Robinson Crusoe feel.
Kandolhu Island
2
Soneva Jani
An eco-resort on Noonu Atoll composed of large, luxurious villas on stilts. A kind of paradise for a modern, laidback, eco-friendly Robinson Crusoe.
Soneva Jani, the latest of the group's luxurious eco-resorts, has the crystalline waters of Noonu Atoll and the lush vegetation of Medhufaru island as its setting. After a 40-minute flight from Male, the private seaplane touches down in this natural and well-preserved location. On site: Twenty-four stilted villas sprout from a wooden pontoon that reaches out into the ocean, and an island villa nestles in a pristine atoll. Each has a private swimming pool and direct access to the lagoon; as can be seen in the group's other properties, the decor uses natural materials and minimalist, clean lines. Guests have a wide choice of leisure facilities, including a spa, diving centre and outdoor cinema, The Paradiso, the first silent cinema in the Maldives, a choice of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes and a great children's club for the little ones.
Artefficio/Soneva Jani
3
Lux* Hotel South Ari Atoll
An elegant 60-acre island with 2.5 miles of fine sandy beach and a crystal clear lagoon, all 25 minutes from Male by seaplane. Away from the commotion of the rest of the world, the villas and suites are little cocoons on the island, under their thatched roofs. And some are even on stilts. The interior is designed by Virginie Koenig, a firm favourite of the LUX* group. There's no bling, just sandy beige and ochre tones, dressed in Pierre Frey fabrics and Egyptian cotton sheets. Two swimming pools and a spa maximise your relaxation options and there's a wide selection of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. There's even a great children's club for your little ones.
Lux* South Ari Atoll
4
Anantara Dhigu
Situated in the south of Malé Atoll, a 30-minute boat ride from the airport, this hotel has a beautiful lagoon. Some of the villas are over water and some on land. All are spacious (at least 1,450 square feet) and some even boast private swimming pools. The hotel offers nine restaurants covering a wide range of cuisines, from Italian to Thai. Numerous activities are available; aquatic (diving, kite surfing, surfing, etc.), of course, but also and on land (tennis, cycling, yoga). Special attention is paid to families, in particular through a kids' club offering various fun activities.
Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort
5
COMO Cocoa Island
COMO Cocoa Island is in the South Male atoll. Wild grapes, hibiscus and palm trees all grow wild on the edge of Cocoa. This dive destination is among the most famous in the world and offers two detached houses. Rooms are inspired by the traditional local construction of 'dhoni' boats, with bleached wood and roofs made from palm leaves. These houses are accessible via wooden pontoons overlooking the lagoon's warm waters. The restaurant is designed to honour nature, offering seafood and organic vegetables, in healthy and delicious combinations, complemented by South Indian flavours.
COMO Cocoa Island