The Maldives islands are known for their undisputed beauty – the dazzling white sands, turquoise waters and swaying palms are a true picture of paradise.
Even better, each resort is set on its own, secluded private island. Cast far away from any unwanted disruptions, you're free to enjoy the thriving coral reefs, luxury retreats, exquisite spas and divine dining in total peace.
The only problem you might run into is choosing where to stay. Luckily, our Travel Specialists know the Indian Ocean inside out, and know exactly where to go to find the most luxurious spots.
The Best Islands in the Maldives
1. Six Senses Laamu
Best island for: Sustainable luxury
The Six Senses brand is known for highlighting a sense of place with a responsible twist - and perhaps few places are better suited to this than the ecological heaven of the Indian Ocean.
At Six Senses Laamu, you'll not only have access to the excellent house reef. There'll also be 12 marine biologists on-hand to help you delve in deeper with expert conservationist insights to further connect you with your surroundings. On a sunset dolphin cruise, you'll be able to explore the wonders of the water during twilight with a night snorkelling session, complemented by Champagne sundowners.
While 70% of the resort is set over water, including Longitude restaurant and the Chill Bar just metres from the house reef, there's plenty to explore on land with your own bicycle. Plus, you'll taste the fruits of the island, with many of the vegetables and herbs used across the resort grown right on the island.
"This island has mastered the art of sustainable luxury. There are incredible experiences to tailor your stay with, plus the food is heavenly. Every guest also has their own butler on Whatsapp, which makes for an effortless yet personal service." - Amy, Travel Specialist
Feeling inspired by this article so far? Keep reading for more, or speak to our team to start planning.
As a reminder, your Inspiring Travel holiday will always include:
- All flights with premium lounge passes at UK airports
- VIP meet & greet service at departure
- Private transfers to and from your hotel
- Personal concierge service throughout
- 24/7 assistance when travelling
- The first-hand knowledge of our team
Kelsey
Travel Specialist
2. Amilla Maldives
Best island for: A foodie’s favourite
Location: Baa Atoll
What’s it like?
If good food is key to perfecting your escape, Amilla Maldives could well be the best Maldivian island for you.
One of the largest islands in the Maldives, this private paradise has seven exceptional restaurants to choose from, from a pizza spot set on the beach to Japanese fusion cuisine served at the water's edge.
Plus, everyone is catered to with dedicated vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free and low carb menus available across all restaurants – you can even get the most out of your sundowner with a probiotic cocktail. To feel truly nourished, the Wellness Your Way programme takes a holistic approach to your meals, with new dining venue, Chill’d, offering fresh food to make you feel good from inside out.
3. Baros, Maldives
Best island for: Snorkelling & diving
Location: North Male Atoll
What’s it like?
There are so many islands that are brilliant for diving and snorkelling in the Maldives, though Baros, Maldives could be one of the best.
With a house reef just 20m from shore, and dozens of world-renowned dive sites less than an hour away, there’s a magnificent underwater world to explore right at your doorstep. You can delve into the depths to explore a sunken shipwreck, take a tour around the reef or even embark on a fluorescent night snorkelling experience from the PADI five-star Gold Palm Dive Centre.
If you have a real passion for marine life, you can even sponsor your own coral frame. With transplanted coral given a chance to thrive and provide a new home for the fish and endangered sea life, it’s the perfect legacy to leave behind.
4. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
Best island for: Beautiful beaches
Location: Baa Atoll
What’s it like?
The Maldives is one of world's most iconic beach destinations, and at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, you'll experience the epitome of island perfection. Sitting in the midst of the Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this resort sprawls along a 2km lagoon and swathes of pristine white sands.
Spend the day at Blu Beach Club, flitting between an infinity pool stretching over the lagoon, tranquil overwater hammocks and a waterside restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef, Nino di Costanzo, who brings a taste of Italy to the Maldives.
""This is one of my personal favourite hotels. You’ll arrive in style on board the resort’s private seaplane before setting foot on the most beautiful stretch of white sand I’ve ever seen. Be sure to head down to the Marine Discovery Centre for diving lessons, to learn about the turtle rehabilitation and grow your own piece of coral, which the resort will send you updates on long after you’ve left the island."" - Holly, Sales Manager
5. Milaidhoo
Best island for: Honeymoons & romance
Location: Baa Atoll
What’s it like?
In a setting simply made for romance, the Maldives is the place to go for an escape for two. And, for a undisturbed island experience, opt for Milaidhoo island.
This private island resort is adult-focussed, offering a peaceful and grown-up atmosphere for couples. It’s one of the smaller island resorts, meaning you can enjoy a boutique-feeling holiday without being disturbed.
The villas here offer pure luxury, with their fourth wall removed to offer the most incredible 180-degree views of the ocean. With an overwater spa, daily yoga sessions and a selection of watersports, couples may well find their favourite place to stay in the Maldives right here.
6. Huvafen Fushi
Best island for: 5-star spa experience
Location: North Male Atoll
What’s it like?
For ultimate relaxation, the Maldives is perhaps unbeatable. Aside from miles of undisturbed beaches to unwind on, it's also renowned for its line-up of nature-inspired spas.
One of the best islands in the Maldives for a spa and wellness experience is Huvafen Fushi. The resort made a name for itself with the world’s first underwater spa treatment rooms, where you can relax with views of the reef and marine life, along with tranquil overwater pavilions.
Among the spa services, enjoy a facial designed by celebrity skincare specialist, Teresa Tarmey, or a massage created by renowned expert, Beata Aleksandrowicz. Visiting practitioners also stop by the island, while private yoga classes and tailored programmes can be also be arranged, too.
7. JOALI Maldives
Best island for: Laidback luxury
Location: Raa Atoll
What’s it like?
The Maldives islands are masters of the ‘no shoes’ policy, giving you the chance to completely switch off from the rest of the world.
JOALI Maldives offers one of the best balances of laidback luxury. While undoubtedly high-end, you can still kick off your shoes and chill out on this private island paradise. To explore, your butler can whizz you around in a buggy, or you can take your own bike for a ride.
The dining is certainly worth mentioning here, too. There’s much to choose from, from teppanyaki to fine dining and family-style feasts. Plus, you can visit Her Kitchen and learn how to cook authentic Maldivian recipes for yourself.
Learn more about the hotel's art collection here: The 10 Best Hotels for Art Lovers
8. OZEN Reserve Bolifushi
Best island for: Premium all-inclusive
Location: South Male Atoll
What’s it like?
Want to enjoy the fruits of the Maldives, unlimited? Stay at OZEN Reserve Bolifushi, and you can benefit from the excellent RESERVE Plan, which includes gourmet dining and an impressive range of activities - plus a spa treatment and a personal training session in the gym.
Despite its remote location in the Indian Ocean, this luxury resort offers endless options to keep you busy with. Enjoy two infinity pools, a deluxe spa, an overwater gym, kids' and teens' clubs, and even an eco-friendly ice rink — perfect for festive breaks. Snorkel straight from the beach to a vibrant house reef, or try non-motorised watersports, diving lessons, and cooking classes. With diverse dining options, from haute French cuisine to beachside grills—every meal is a delight.
See more premium all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives.
9. One&Only Reethi Rah
Best island for: Undisturbed villa stays
Location: North Malé Atoll
What’s it like?
'Reethi Rah' means 'beautiful island' - which is perhaps all you need to say about this iconic luxury paradise.
One&Only Reethi Rah offers a host of private villas set along the beach and over the water, offering pure peace and serenity on the North Male Atoll's largest island. The Grand Residence is a particular highlight, comprising three bedrooms on one of the island's most secluded beaches.
Of course, the residence includes a dedicated butler service, breakfast prepared by a private chef and use of a private buggy for exploring the resort's coastlines, spa, lounges and restaurants - including Fanditha, where hammocks and cabanas are the perfect place to chill out in the evening with live DJ music.
10. Niyama Private Islands
Best island for: Families
Location: Dhaalu Atoll
What's it like?
Located in the stunning North Dhaalu Atoll, Niyama Private Island offers the ultimate family experience in the Maldives.
Relax into shared luxury with multi-bedroom options as your home-from-home while you explore the resort, together or solo. Kids can enjoy action-packed days at the Kids' Club, while teens can spend an afternoon using the golf and football simulator or mastering the waves at the surf school. Adults can indulge in a treatment at the spa, work out at the PUMP gym, or embrace a date night at the 3D Silent Cinema (the first in the Maldives).
Looking for something different?
While all the islands may share the scene breathtaking scenery, they do all have their own unique offering.
If you want something a little different, we have plenty of ideas to inspire you.
If you stay at Soneva Jani, you can sit out under the stars to watch a film in the outdoor cinema. Your overwater villa even has a retractable roof, so you can gaze at the night sky from bed, or you could visit the overwater observatory for a private dining experience.
If you think you might miss the green of the fairways in the Maldives, take a look at Velaa Private Island. This unique resort has it's own golf course - could there be a more beautiful setting to tee off?
For even more stunning islands in the Maldives, see our guide to the best overwater villas.
Find your perfect Maldives island with the luxury travel experts
If you'd like to find out more about the best places to stay in the Maldives, you can contact us to speak to our Travel Specialists. They have first-hand expertise of every luxury resort in our portfolio, and will tailor your own experience to perfection.
Start tailoring your holiday today
We take the time to truly understand what you want from your holiday. That way, we can create a personally tailor-made experience that you won't find anywhere else. Start today by speaking with our team and we'll create a holiday that really is all about you.
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