If you are looking for tropical island inspiration, look no further than the magical Maldives.
If you are looking for tropical island inspiration, look no further than the magical Maldives. This stunning island nation is peppered across the Indian Ocean and is comprised of 26 atolls and 1,192 islands which all sparkle with sugar white beaches and tranquil turquoise waters. Renowned for its kaleidoscopic coral reefs bursting with colour and teeming with an abundance of marine life it’s no surprise it’s one of the world’s most coveted holiday destinations. Theres something here for every kind of traveller and is particularly suited to honeymooners and families. The Maldives are synonymous with warm shallow blue lagoons, postcard perfect beaches, palm-fringed islands, world class diving, house reef snorkelling and ... luxury water villas with uninterrupted ocean views. Whether you are looking for a ritzy resort or the more rustic charm of a local island, the Maldives won’t disappoint.
The North Malé Atoll is home to Malé, the capital city of the Maldives and the Velana (MLE) international airport. You’ll find a wide choice of places to stay ranging from budget guest houses to five-star resorts and with the proximity to the main international airport it’s perfect for a short stay in the Maldives. The ferry service is also widely used here and island transfers by speedboat are also faster and cheaper with no need to take a seaplane flight. Renowned for having some of the healthiest and colourful corals out of all of the atolls North Malé Atoll offers world-class diving, and on the eastern side of the atoll you will also find some excellent surfing spots. The super stylish, Patina Maldives is a luxury resort in Malé within the Fari Islands with a collection of stunning overwater villas with spectacular sunset views. Or you may prefer the OBLU SELECT Lobigili a new adults-only resort with 68 vibrant chic beach and overwater villas perfect for a chilled-out couples getaway without kids.
South Malé Atoll, also known as South Kaafu is separated from the capital of the Maldives and Malé airport by the Vaadhoo Kandu channel and is home to about 30 islands. South Malé is usually less crowded than North Malé and also offers pristine beaches, sunbathing, watersports and excellent snorkelling and diving. Expect to find both five-star luxury resorts and budget guest houses on local islands where you can get an authentic local Maldivian experience at a lower price. Resorts here include the Hardrock Hotel and the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi which covers 3.5 km of greenery and beaches spanning across 3 islands encircling a lagoon. You can reach most of the islands within 45 minutes by speedboat from Male airport and transfer by public ferry is also available.
Ari Atoll, also known as Alif or Alif Atoll stretches along the western edge of the Maldives. Surrounded by fantastic coral reefs, this atoll will suit those who dream of seeing giant sea creatures. These islands are especially famous for its abundance of manta rays and whale sharks. With more than 20 luxury resorts on private islands and a wide selection of guest houses, including budget options, the choice of accommodation is the largest in the Maldives. Ari Atoll is home to the uber trendy Radisson Blu Resort and Nova Maldives and is accessible by seaplanes, domestic airlines, speedboats and public ferries from Malé.
If you are looking for all-out luxury Lhaviyani Atoll offers some of the beast beaches in the Maldives with pristine private islands boasting luxury facilities and services including fine dining in underwater restaurants, opulent spas, all sorts of watersports, world-class dive sites and spectacular reef snorkelling. Accommodation includes Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, Fushifaru and Jawakara Islands. The 58 islands of the Lhaviani Atoll are located just 40 minutes by seaplane to the north from Malé airport.
Baa Atoll is one of 26 natural atolls in the Indian Ocean and a UNESCO world biosphere reserve. The hidden gem of Baa Attol is a tiny bay called Hanifaru Bay which attracts large numbers of manta rays and whale sharks. The stunning natural scenic beauty of the islands and surrounding reefs are home to luxury five-star resorts and popular with holidaymakers who are looking for the perfect balance of relaxation and exotic adventure. The atoll is comprised of 75 islands scattered across nearly 1200km2 of sea and of these, only thirteen are inhabited. Seventeen islands have been developed into resorts, including luxury brands such as Anantara, Amilla, Milaidhoo, Vakkaru and Four Seasons, as well as several guest houses on local islands. Baa is only a 35-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport or a 25-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo Domestic Airport. From Dharavandhoo, resort transfer boats whisk guests across the lagoon to their island of choice.
Raa atoll or North Maalhosmadulu is one of the northern, most visited atolls in the Maldives, separated from Baa atoll by Hani Kandu is a canal 5 km wide. There are 88 islands in Raa atoll, but only 15 are inhabited which means there’s a wonderful collection of uninhabited islands offering fantastic opportunities for exploration. The western ridge of the atoll also lies close to one of the best deep water fishing sites in the Maldives and popular activities include fishing trips and dolphin cruises. Luxury hotels here include Emerald, Kudafushi and the ultra-luxurious Joali Maldives. Raa atoll is accessible by a 45-minute seaplane flight from Malé, a 45-minute flight from Male to Ifuru Airport or a 35-minute flight from Male to Dhravandhoo Airport and transfer by speedboat.
