The birth of a new family is a solemn moment, one you want to remember for the rest of your life. One of the ways to arrange a beautiful holiday for two loving people is to organize a wedding in a paradise on the planet, in the Maldives. Almost everyone dreams of this, but not everyone succeeds in turning it into reality. Among the significant reasons why the desire remains unfulfilled are many questions about how everything happens, what to be prepared for and how to organize a holiday at the highest level. In this article we will try to consider the most important points that it is advisable to take into account when preparing a wedding in the Maldives.
Book your wedding in the Maldives on WIOTTO.COM! We will help you choose a hotel and organize a wedding ceremony taking into account all your wishes.
The Maldives is the perfect wedding destination | Asad Photo Maldives
Why the Maldives
The nature of the Maldives archipelago, without exaggeration, is capable of giving the event the image of a miracle. Firstly, colors and paints…. Textured palm trees against the backdrop of turquoise water, snow-white sand, a skillfully decorated place where the ceremony will take place. But there is also “secondly”. It is worth recalling that at least two more countries with a developed tourism sector specialize in holding wedding ceremonies for guests - the Dominican Republic and Thailand. But neither the first nor the second can compete with the Maldives in terms of comfort and luxury of housing for newlyweds, because resort islands are the specialty of this state. Weddings are organized not only in resorts; if you wish, you can choose another, no less interesting, but more budget option.
Get 2% discount on Maldives hotels: enter promo code TravelWiotto2 when booking on wiotto.com.
The fabulous nature of the Maldives will complement the wonderful wedding experience | Asad Photo Maldives
The bride's bouquet
At the choice of the newlyweds, roses can be used as the basis for the floral arrangement. Tropical flowers in various combinations, delightful lilies, and decorative greenery are also appropriate. The bouquet can be decorated with paper ribbons and shells. To create a blue and white sea color scheme, take advantage of the idea of using satin flowers. In the classic design, white, white-pink and red bouquets, all shades of cream and beige are popular. In general, the colors of floral decor depend on the basic color scheme.
Colorful ritual or legal marriage
A Maldivian wedding, organized on one of the islands of the archipelago for guests from other countries, may differ in nuances. But what is always the same is only a beautiful ritual, and not a legal marriage from the point of view of law. A certificate issued to the newlyweds after the end of the holiday, no matter how beautiful it may be, has no legal force. Knowing this, the young family first registers the marriage at home, in the local registry office, and after that goes on a honeymoon to the fabulous islands. A unique start to the honeymoon is a wedding according to the Maldivian ritual.
A wedding in the Maldives is always a beautiful ritual | Meeru Island Resort & Spa
Celebration scenario
There are many options for holding a wedding ceremony in the Maldives . You can go according to the following scenario:
- The organizer meets the newlyweds on the decorated beach.
- A wedding ritual is held where lovers, dressed in national Maldivian attire, pronounce an oath to each other and exchange rings.
- Then the couple go on a boat trip around the islands, stop at one of them and have a picnic.
- Then the couple returns to their island, where a banquet with guests or a romantic dinner for two awaits them.
This is the simplest part of the celebration. The organizers offer their own options, but lovers can plan everything on their own and come up with some kind of plot. You should not organize a traditional Russian wedding in the Maldives with ransom and other traditions, otherwise all the uniqueness and romance of this event will be lost.
Places where wedding ceremonies are held
At the request of the newlyweds, the wedding ritual can be held in almost any chosen place. Most often, weddings are held in resorts (where the entire island is the territory of a hotel where only vacationers live and spend their leisure time). Celebrations are also organized on local islands (local Maldivians live on these small pieces of land, and hotels and guesthouses also operate).
An excellent option is a wedding ritual on a desert island; it is one of the most popular in the archipelago. But no matter which of the named places we are talking about, in any case, the ritual takes place in the open air, on sand strewn with flower petals, next to the ocean.
Wedding at a Maldivian resort | Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Image of the bride and groom
The newlyweds' attire can be in the traditional style of the islands or in the way they themselves wish. There are no strict restrictions. However, it is recommended that the bride choose dresses in the Greek style, short and spacious models made of light flowing fabric. The groom's clothing should be as comfortable as possible, but in harmony with the outfit of the future wife. A suit is optional, but a smart, light-colored shirt made from natural fabric paired with loose-fitting trousers to match will serve as the perfect outfit for the special occasion.
When going to a beach wedding, you can neglect shoes, but flower decoration is an indispensable Maldivian attribute, adding a special flavor to the image of the newlyweds.
What do the basic components of the ceremony include?
Each resort or hotel that organizes the celebration has its own rules and features of the wedding ceremony. The basic conditions are:
- a pavilion with an arch decorated with flowers, where the ceremony itself takes place;
- the presence of a master of ceremonies (sometimes called a master or minister);
- accompaniment of the ceremony by local musicians;
- a treat for the young;
- photo and video shooting with a pre-agreed amount of footage;
- certificate.
Here we are talking only about those moments that are included in the ritual a priori. When ordering a future ceremony, it is advisable to study in detail the conditions of a particular hotel, because they differ in many ways. Some event organizers include spa treatments and bridal makeup as basic elements in the wedding package, others include a trip on a decorated boat with a photo shoot, and still others include a light breakfast served in your room the morning after the wedding, or a picnic. In some resorts, a photo session lasts an hour, in others it takes the whole day. And these are just the basic conditions. And you can add to them almost anything your heart desires. For a separate fee, of course.
Wedding decor in the Maldives | Asad Photo Maldives
Newlyweds images
Lightness and solemnity are the main criteria for wedding dresses for an island wedding. The bride will feel comfortable in a white wedding dress. Style options:
- Classic dress with a fitted bodice, full skirt and open shoulders
- Wedding dress in Greek style made of flowing, weightless materials
- Sundress of a simple silhouette made of linen or cotton
- Original cocktail dress, etc.
The length of the bride's dress can vary from mini to maxi. For a secluded celebration, an extremely open outfit is acceptable. A floor-length dress is unacceptable for a busy and active program.
Color accents that highlight the festiveness of the moment:
- Veil and satin belt in the same color scheme (accessories can be of different shades - blue, pink, cream, etc.)
- Tiara made of stones.
- Floral hair decorations.
As for shoes, theoretically, the bride has access to any model in which she will feel comfortable. A good option is to have a change of shoes - flip-flops or clogs are suitable for walking on the beach; in bright sandals with floral decorations, you can appear on the hotel grounds, board a yacht, or a pleasure boat. You can decorate shoes with fresh, knitted and wicker flowers.
In the classic version, the groom will choose a white shirt with a discreet print, white trousers, and light moccasins. Add some playfulness to a traditional look with a bright neckerchief. For fans of informal style, a decidedly beachy set of a bright top, white cropped trousers and flip-flops is suitable. When choosing a jacket with long sleeves as an element of your look, pay close attention to the composition of the fabric - it should not contain synthetics. Otherwise, the groom will feel uncomfortable.
Agreement with the organizers
The presence of an agreement on the planned holding of the ceremony is evidence of the seriousness of the organizers’ intentions and a guarantee that all services specified in the document will be provided in the agreed volumes. Besides everything, it's convenient. After all, the details of the ceremony are often discussed from home, before the newlyweds arrive in the Maldives. You should also not be surprised if the organizers ask for an advance payment for booking a future event.
It is worth taking care of organizing a wedding in the Maldives well in advance | Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
Organizing a wedding yourself or through a company
How to organize a wedding ceremony is a rather difficult question.
The big advantage of the wedding package is that the whole day is scheduled minute by minute and not a single detail escapes the attention of the organizers. But there is an opinion that by doing this yourself, you can save a good amount of money. This is true.
However, who knows and can navigate in an unfamiliar country, how and who to contact for certain services necessary for a wedding? Even in your hometown it is difficult to take into account all the details and find the right specialists.
Having decided on such an experiment, you should start by selecting a hotel. Many of them offer symbolic wedding ceremonies, which are organized by their employees. By comparing the prices offered for similar services, you can choose the most suitable option. Another option is to try contacting the wedding coordinator directly.
Still, it’s better to save:
- by booking your flight ticket and hotel room in advance;
- choosing the optimal set of wedding package services;
- limiting the dinner menu;
- limiting the number of guests.
Many people note that holding a wedding in the Maldives is quite comparable in terms of monetary expenses to organizing a celebration in Russia.
But the special setting and unusual atmosphere that will surround the newlyweds in this island state can make this holiday unique and memorable.
Clothes for newlyweds
Regarding the festive outfits for the couple, there are two options: bring your own clothes or the local traditional wedding attire of the bride and groom will be prepared for you. Maldivian newlyweds dress during the ceremony in light, flowing outfits in light colors, decorated with flowers. These clothes are suitable for hot climates and look wonderful in photographs.
Lightweight outfits are great for a wedding in the Maldives | Velassaru Maldives
Cost of the wedding, issue price
The price can be from 700 to 10,000 dollars and above; on average, in a good five, the ceremony will cost 1,300 dollars, which, you see, is very inexpensive, and often much cheaper than having a wedding in your own country. Of course, provided that it is a wedding for two. If you bring guests, have a big dinner for everyone, as well as a party, then this will cost completely different money. The average check per person will be around $300. Additional live music can cost $1,000, but a DJ is often even more expensive because... it must be specially conducted from the capital Male.
Music and shows
Ethnic music, as well as the decoration of the newlyweds during the ceremony, are those moments that add color and color to what is happening. A distinctive feature of a Maldivian wedding is the boduberu dance, accompanied by a group of instrumental musicians with exotic drums. Boduberu music begins with slow rhythms that gradually speed up and build to a crescendo, accompanied by lively dancing. Maldivian music is a peculiar mix of Indian, East African and Arabic motifs. In many places, a mandatory attribute is the performance of the anthem for the newlyweds, and in others there is a performance by a local group or soloist. Almost always the event takes place with live music. Is it easy to learn to dance bodubera? Anyway, it's funny!
Musical accompaniment for a wedding in the Maldives | Meeru Island Resort & Spa
Honeymoon
After the wedding, many newlyweds stay in the Maldives to spend their honeymoon just the two of them. They rent a luxury hotel, make a plan of activities for the entire stay and fully enjoy their love for each other.
There are many good hotels in the Maldives that are suitable for a honeymoon. Especially recommended are “LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas” and “Sun Island Resort & Spa 4*”.
It would be ideal to rent a separate cottage or villa for a secluded holiday without prying eyes. You can even rent a house with its own beach.
Many couples want their wedding to be beautiful and memorable for a lifetime. The Maldives is a great place where you can create a truly romantic and unique atmosphere. An island with snow-white sands, clear seas and stunning natural views will allow newlyweds to plunge into a fairy tale.
Guests of the holiday
A Maldivian wedding ceremony is designed for a couple of newlyweds, but many believe that a ceremony surrounded only by Maldivians is not so much fun. Personal guests of the newlyweds, of course, can come to the holiday, but their presence will have to be paid separately. This also applies to other components of the ceremony, for example, a gala dinner.
Wedding at a Maldivian resort | Asad Photo Maldives
The best time
Couples choose a date for the main event in life, guided by various principles. Often the wedding day coincides with the anniversary of the first meeting or first kiss, which is also determined with the help of astrologers and numerologists.
However, if you decide to organize a wedding ceremony in the Maldives, you should also take into account the climatic features of the place. The most favorable period is called “Iruvai” (March, April, as well as November and December). It is at this time that the islands experience warm, sunny weather with virtually no precipitation. The air temperature fluctuates between +25…+30 degrees. The sea is usually calm and warm enough.
Nuances of photo and video shooting, “your” photographer
The nuances of photo and video recording of a wedding are always discussed in advance. Each organizer sets the price for such a service differently. Somewhere, everything is written down to the smallest detail - the number of photographs or the timing of the finished, edited video. In some hotels that organize weddings, the conditions apply only to the specialist’s working hours (which, however, can be increased for an additional fee), and somewhere else they also include themes: sunset, desert island, beach, portraits of the bride, and the like. But almost everyone, no matter who you contact, is filmed by a photographer or videographer invited by the organizers. The cost of this service starts from several hundred dollars.
Tip : to get an idea of the photographer’s level of professionalism, ask to see pictures of happy newlyweds whose weddings he has photographed before.
Often wedding events last late into the night and the specialist has to stay on the island overnight, which increases the cost of his work. Some of the participants in the upcoming celebrations are wondering: is it possible to replace the local Maldivian photographer with “our own”, from among the invited guests? Answer: you can. But you will also have to pay for this. If you film a wedding without permission (and, even more so, use a drone for this), you will have to pay a considerable fine.
Bridesmaid
For a picnic on the beach or a romantic ceremony in the sunset, you can decorate the area with candles.
Tamara
Other features
For an additional fee, newlyweds can visit the spa, order a themed photo session, video shooting, live music performed by an orchestra and guest artists playing traditional island instruments (guitars, sitars, flutes), use the services of a massage therapist, makeup artist, rent costumes, and exquisite jewelry.
It is possible to organize a wedding in the Maldives in the evening, in the light of the rays of the setting sun. In this case, certain changes are made to the program. The romance of the sunset adds originality to the celebration and will be remembered for many years.
A nice bonus that many hotels offer is a discount on wedding anniversary celebrations.
Celebration in solitude
An uninhabited island as a backdrop, bliss away from the bustle of hotels, shopping and entertainment centers and places for active recreation - an ideal option for those who want perfect silence and unity with nature. There are areas in the Maldives where no human has ever set foot. Such “wild” corners are suitable for memorable original photo sessions - beach, pirate and adventure styles.
Typically, the budget for a celebration on a desert island “starts” at $2,000. The price includes:
- Standard set of services.
- A wedding cake.
- Visit to the SPA.
In order to organize a celebration on the island, the necessary equipment and elements of festive decor are transported there.
Underwater holiday
When choosing an option for your ceremony, take advantage of the wide selection of offers.
Among them there are truly unique ones. A striking example is the underwater restaurant in the hotel. Through the transparent walls and ceiling, the newlyweds will observe the beauty of the underwater world. Remember that to get a bright and unforgettable experience, you must register for the ceremony in advance. The Maldives offers underwater wedding suites. On average, paying for dinner in an underwater restaurant will cost newlyweds $150-250, and the cost of underwater rooms will cost at least $2,000.
Diving option
An original solution - a wedding with an underwater dive. The diving instructor and the master of ceremonies descend into the water together with the newlyweds, who choose national attire, European outfits or special wetsuits. Wedding vows are pronounced surrounded by exotic fish. Next, the newlyweds drink a glass of champagne, try the wedding cake and go for a boat trip or catamaran. The list of services also includes an original photo shoot.
To organize an underwater wedding you will need at least 1.5 thousand dollars.
Celebration on a yacht
If future spouses share a passion for travel, they will be attracted by the opportunity to admire the beauty of the ocean from board a luxury yacht. The standard package includes rental for 1 day and 1 night. The newlyweds will go on a daytime walk, and in the evening they will take part in the main event - the wedding ceremony. The end of the program will be accommodation in a room carefully decorated by the hotel staff. Please note that to rent a yacht in the Maldives, newlyweds will need from $5,000.
What are the participants of the celebration treated to?
Naturally, a wedding ritual nowhere in the world is complete without food, and the Maldives is no exception. During the celebration, champagne (a bottle, half a bottle or glass), a cake (it can be “multi-story”, or maybe just a couple of pieces) and local fruits are required. Then the program is free: barbecue, dinner with lobsters, picnic on a desert island, taking into account the culinary preferences of the guests and heroes of the occasion.
Traditional food at a Maldivian wedding | Milaidhoo Island Maldives
Meeting with guests
Anyone planning to gather close friends and relatives in the Maldives should take care of invitations. Designed in the form of tourist postcards with island landscapes, resort tickets, or scrolls sealed in bottles, the invitations will be a pleasant surprise for future guests. Indicate in them your wishes for the dress code, the event program with exact dates.
An outdoor event requires certain organizational efforts. If you are coordinating the participants of the celebration yourself, prepare a video or audio message, or attach a memo with detailed instructions to the invitation. Guests should not have a single question regarding their arrival on the island and their stay at the hotel.
The images of the participants in the celebration should be thought out in advance. Against the backdrop of the classic outfits of the newlyweds, the bridesmaids' cocktail dresses and the men's suits in contrasting colors look appropriate. The informal style of the heroes of the occasion will be emphasized by the original accessories of the guests in the form of panama hats, decorated beach shoes, flower bracelets and accessories. A nautical theme is also appropriate - striped prints, captain's outfits, a large steering wheel at the reception desk. On a yacht trip, bring plain swimsuits of different styles, shorts and swimming trunks, hats and pareos.
Open Ocean Cruises
Perhaps the most memorable thing that happens for newlyweds on their wedding day is the cruises on a yacht or boat, which take place after the end of the official part of the ceremony. The simplest option is to take a flower-decorated dhoni boat, after the ceremony is completed, to your overnight stay. For some it will be a hotel room, for others it will be a water villa, and for the most romantic couples it will be a desert island... A yacht cruise can last quite a bit - mainly for the sake of a photo shoot, or for several whole days if the perpetrators of the event so wish.
Wedding cruise in the Maldives | Komandoo Island Resort
Decor elements
Exotic plants are actively used as beach wedding decor. The arch is decorated with flowing white fabric and floral arrangements, including stylized floral lanterns. The relaxed style of the wedding path is emphasized by paired figurines of seahorses, which symbolize the fidelity and devotion of the newlyweds to each other.
If guests are present at the celebration, organize a buffet area on the beach. A creatively designed table, unusual placement of glasses, palm leaves, bamboo, coconut halves, pebbles and shells as the main materials - to create a sophisticated island atmosphere, just show a little imagination.
How to choose the right weather
The ideal option is to order a wedding in the Maldives during the high season, here it lasts from November to March. At this time, the minimum amount of precipitation falls, the sun stays above the horizon for the longest time and there are practically no storms. In other months, depending on your luck: it is quite possible that the weather on “day X” will be sunny. But the probability of rain is still much greater. This is unlikely to affect the festive mood, but taking high-quality photographs that would convey the fullness of feelings and colors of such a unique moment in life as a wedding will not be easy.
It is best to organize a wedding and vacation during the holiday season | Canareef Resort Maldives
Feedback from newlyweds
“It was the most magical moment of my life!! We got married at the Kuredu Hotel in 2016, on the oceanfront overlooking an amazing sunset! We will definitely come back here for our anniversary” Olga
“We were very afraid that something would go wrong, we planned the wedding a year in advance. We constantly corresponded with the organizer, clarifying all the points. As it turned out, they worried in vain. The ceremony was simply gorgeous, the registrar is such a sincere and kind person that even though a translator translated his entire speech for us, we felt every word he said!” Irina
Who can be denied permission to organize a wedding and why?
There are several reasons why a wedding ritual may be refused.
- The first is if there is no time to prepare. This means that even before arriving on the archipelago, it is advisable to inform the organizers of your intentions and discuss all the nuances with the wedding coordinator.
- The second, very common reason is that the ceremony is not held for everyone, but only for residents of the resort or hotel where they plan to organize the wedding. Moreover, in each of these places a minimum number of nights of stay in the resort is stipulated, which the potential bride and groom will spend here before or after the celebration.
- The third reason is that on certain days or periods the wedding ritual is simply not carried out.
When ceremonies are not held
Wedding ceremonies are not held in the Maldives:
- on a day off (Friday);
- on national holidays;
- during the Christmas period.
What are the advantages
It is a small South Asian state located on a group of islands in the Indian Ocean.
The stunning nature of the archipelago , which has preserved its original appearance, attracts thousands of exotic lovers to these places.
A large number of coral islets, some of them completely uninhabited, attract attention with unusual plants, cute animals and colorful birds.
The climate here is ideal - the temperature never drops below 17°.
Of particular admiration is the amazing underwater world, which amazes with its extreme diversity.
Separately, it should be noted that there are a large number of resorts and hotels . They amazingly combine luxury and simplicity.
Luxurious rooms and secluded bungalows - everyone will find cozy accommodation according to their wishes and financial capabilities. Some hotels completely occupy an entire island, which completely excludes the presence of strangers on the territory.
Romance, privacy, comfort - if this is not a paradise for lovers , then a place very similar to it.
Table of contents:
- The choice is made - we are going to the Maldives
- Highlights of the wedding ceremony
- How the ritual is performed
- Options
- Organizing a wedding yourself or through a company
The most unusual weddings in the Maldives
Under the water
Probably the most exotic and memorable ritual that is organized in the Maldives for newlyweds is an underwater wedding! The spectacle is mesmerizing: an underwater arch, the bride and groom not just in festive attire, but also with diving equipment... The ceremony looks unrealistically beautiful. Everything that happens is filmed by an “underwater” photographer... And instead of a traditional wedding tree, the newlyweds plant a coral on the reef with a sign indicating their names.
The only thing you should know is that such an unusual ceremony - Underwater Wedding - is not carried out everywhere. The WIOTTO.COM manager will advise you on all issues and book your dream ceremony.
On a yacht
Another unusual and vibrant wedding option is a wedding ritual on a yacht. The Maldives has a huge selection of local yachts of all shapes and sizes, with modern or classic designs. In addition to the ceremony itself, the organizers of such an event will help you order a boat, create a menu, take care of the musical accompaniment and offer additional options to make the wedding on a yacht memorable for a lifetime.
Wedding on a yacht | Hurawalhi Maldives Resort
In an underwater restaurant
Underwater restaurants and weddings in them have recently become increasingly popular. But organizing a celebration of the birth of a new family is not possible everywhere. The most popular places are underwater restaurants:
- Sea on the island resort Anantara Kihavah (Baa Atoll).
- Ithaa Undersea Restaurant on the island resort Conrad Rangali (South Ari Atoll).
The ceremony in the hall, where a glass wall separates you and your guests from the edge of the reef, is perceived as a fantasy in the style of surrealism. However, it can become a reality if there is a desire and finances for such a holiday - from several thousand dollars.
Wedding in an underwater restaurant - original and unforgettable | Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Maldives • Wedding tours • Romantic hotels 2022
Wedding ceremonies in the Maldives. Tour Poisk develops individual romantic tours, including wedding ones. Enjoy watching and contact: 8 (812) 600 51 01. The Maldives is truly a paradise in the Indian Ocean with snow-white beaches, clear blue water, amazing coral caves, underwater reefs and turquoise lagoons. After an official ceremony in their homeland, loving couples dream of seclusion, immersing themselves in light bliss and feeling the veil of each other’s affection and tenderness. The Maldives is the perfect place for this. The organizers will make the day of your wedding ceremony unforgettable. According to national custom, the leader addresses the three elements: Water, Air and Earth, which will witness the Oath of Love and Fidelity. From early morning on the day of the ceremony, the newlyweds are immersed in a festive atmosphere. They visit the SPA center, where they undergo a number of procedures for the health and beauty of the body. After this, the newlyweds dress in wedding suits or national clothes. The ceremony can be held either in the hotel itself or on a desert island, where the couple is taken by boat. A wedding altar is being prepared in a crystal clear water lagoon on a secluded beach. The bride and groom walk along a special path lined with palm leaves to the sound of drums, accompanied by girls. The newlyweds take an oath of love and exchange rings.
After twilight paints the sky with colorful colors, the newlyweds will go on a cruise to admire the sunset. Upon returning, the newlyweds will enjoy an exquisite candlelit dinner on the ocean shore, under the dome of the starry sky. The festive evening ends with a walk along the beach to the sound of the surf, the rustling of leaves and the beating of hearts. Under the bright stars, the newlyweds return to their specially decorated room, where they will spend an unforgettable night. The morning after the wedding ceremony, the newlyweds will enjoy a light breakfast lovingly prepared by the hotel's chef.
The Maldives seem to have been created by nature itself for honeymoon trips, declarations of love, and romantic trips. These islands are very small, but they accommodate thousands of loving hearts and store memories of every couple in love who has ever visited these islands.
The Maldives with its unique atmosphere is one of the best places for a wedding ceremony. This is exactly what one imagines in dreams: a luxurious hotel, the ocean shimmering in shades of azure and white sand. A real paradise for two. An unforgettable wedding will be organized especially for you on a desert island, and pleasant gifts await you upon returning to the hotel. The impressions from this day will remain in your memory for a long time.
1. Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa Located on Fasmendhoo Island in Raa Atoll, the northwestern region of the Maldives. The hotel is built to blend perfectly with its surroundings, using materials such as bamboo, natural stone and Langhi Langhi leaves. The resort combines a tropical landscape with contemporary design, creating an atmosphere of natural and informal elegance, offering the ideal setting for creating new and memorable experiences
2. You & Me Maldives 5* This is a private and romantic island with a rustic style, located in a beautiful unspoiled corner of the Maldives. A world away from the stresses of everyday life, You & Me is a place to relax and curl up and spend some time as “our time.” The island is adults only from 18 years old and is ideal for couples, honeymooners and friends. The resort is a quiet, relaxing holiday destination, away from other hotels. The highlight of You & Me by Cocoon Maldives is the underwater restaurant “H2O” with a 360-degree view.
3. Patina Maldives 5*
This resort was designed by Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan with care for the unique biosphere of the Maldives and fits seamlessly into the tropical landscape: smooth, noble lines of architecture creep among lush vegetation, without crossing out the horizon and leaving the decisive role in the landscape to the piercing blue of the sky and sea. The dialogue with nature continues in the interior of the elegant villas: natural materials, warm natural textures and matte pastel colors will allow you to enjoy life in a truly exclusive environment, the special charm of which is given by panoramic windows on three sides. The restaurant's philosophy is based on minimizing harm to the environment, and the choice of dishes from Asian, Greek and international cuisine will impress everyone. The infrastructure of the resort is no less well thought out, where both children and adults will find activities to their liking.
4. KUDA VILLINGILI RESORT 5*
Kuda Villingili Resort is a piece of paradise where time loses its meaning: here it is so easy to forget about all worries, spending precious moments with your loved ones. Whether you are traveling alone, with family or friends, this hotel is the perfect place for your holiday. The villas are designed in an eclectic modern style, with traditional Maldivian products and fabrics as bright accents. You are surrounded on all sides by the serene ocean, fine white sand beaches and lush tropical vegetation. Excellent gastronomy, SPA treatments with natural oils and minerals, a stylish beach club where the music never stops - here everyone will find something to their liking!
With unique access to Chickens Break Reef, Kuda Villingili is the ultimate surf destination. Guests are offered equipment and training in this sport. The best season to visit the island for surfing is considered to be from May to October.
5. Hotel SHERATON MALDIVES FULL MOON RESORTS & SPA 5* Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa is located on the island of Furanafushi. The hotel provides all the conditions for an unforgettable, carefree holiday near the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Luxurious cottages and bungalows are located under spreading palm trees on the snow-white sandy shore above the clear waters of the lagoon that surrounds this romantic island. Expect elegant interiors with exclusive teak furniture. The modern design look, sophistication of style and Maldivian traditions in the hotel’s design will not leave you indifferent. From a cozy veranda or terrace you can admire the amazing beauty of the Indian Ocean.
6. Kandima Maldives 5* The resort is surrounded by lush tropical greenery, surrounded by dazzling white beaches and a turquoise lagoon. The length of the island is 3 kilometers; for the convenience of guests, shuttles run around the territory. The hotel opened in March 2022. This is much more than “another place to relax”, it is its own unique lifestyle and a completely different resort format, with a whole kaleidoscope of WOW factors: 264 stylish studios and villas, a wide selection of water activities, a school diving, art studio, culinary arts classes, 10 themed restaurants and bars, a variety of dining concepts, an amazing kids' club, unique wellness spa packages and a rich program of daily activities for adults and children. Kandima Maldives is equally good for guests of any age and status: families, couples, groups of friends, corporate clients, solo travelers and, of course, newlyweds.
Uniqueness: The pride of the resort is the second longest outdoor 100-meter infinity pool in the Maldives. Own marine biological center, a lake where baby sharks and rays live. Local beaches are favored by sea turtles.
A general practitioner is available at the resort, and there is also a modern medical center. For divers who suffer from decompression sickness after a dive, a pressure chamber is provided for therapeutic recompression.
Recommendations: Suitable for romantic holidays, family and active holidays.
7. Veligandu Island Resort & Spa 5* Classic Maldivian resort located on Veligandu Island. The dazzling whiteness of its beaches, the transparent blue of the lagoon and the lush greenery of palm trees will not leave anyone indifferent. Part of the Crown & Champa Resorts hotel chain.
All the delights of island resort life are available to guests. The dive center organizes day and night excursions to the colorful house reef, nearby sites and whale shark dives. Considering that there are only two resorts on the atoll, exploring the underwater depths is a pleasure.
At the water sports center you can rent equipment for windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, and jet ski. The doors of the fitness club are open for lovers of strength training. You can play football, table tennis, billiards, darts, volleyball.
The hotel has an excellent spa center Duniye SPA.
In the evening, guests are invited to watch presentations on the culture and history of the Maldives, a Bodu Beru dance show, films, and videos from divers. The bars host live performances by musicians.
Unique: Beautiful white sand, beautiful lagoon and decent house reef for snorkeling. Infinity pool on the beach, volleyball court, badminton and football field.
8. RIU ATOLL 4+* ALL Opened in 2022. A new hotel that offers plenty of entertainment for the whole family: kayaking, surfing, diving, live music shows. The resort operates on an “All Inclusive” system, valid 24 hours.
During your stay at this hotel in Maafushi, you will be able to enjoy excellent cuisine, tasting the exquisite dishes prepared by our chefs. The main restaurant offers a wonderful breakfast buffet with live cooking shows, while the Italian restaurant and steakhouse offer a delectable dinner menu. And if you fancy a cool drink or snack after a relaxing bath or while enjoying the unforgettable sunsets, you can visit the lounge bar and sports bar, which are open 24 hours a day.
Located on the island of Maafushi, part of Dhaalu Atoll. Connected to the neighboring island where the Riu Palace hotel is located. Male Airport is 180 km away.
9. Riu Palace 5* ALL The new luxury hotel offers accommodation in spacious, stylish suites. On site for guests there is an infinity pool, a la carte restaurants, a pool bar, kayaking, snorkeling and other entertainment. Located on Kedhigandu Island, part of Dhaalu Atoll. Connected to the neighboring island where the Riu Atoll hotel is located. Male Airport is 180 km away. Opened in 2022. The resort operates on an “All Inclusive” system, valid 24 hours.
10. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru 5* Located on a snow-white beach, near the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and a coral reef, carefully protected by a special Lotus Reef Restoration Project. The resort is part of the Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts chain.
Comfortable villas are designed in traditional Maldivian style. Spacious rooms with an original interior, in warm light colors and natural wood furniture, decorated with traditional elements. Each villa has a private pool and terrace with access to the ocean.
The resort has a five-star PADI dive center where you can obtain PADI and Nitrox certification.
To diversify their leisure time, guests can go on an excursion to Male, attend cooking classes, snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
SPA fans will appreciate the large selection of treatments offered by the Banyan Tree SPA center.
Uniqueness: Under the guidance of marine biologists, resort guests can take care of the island’s environment: plant corals, clean the reef, feed turtles. There is an opportunity to create your own coral garden. Guests of Banyan Tree Maldives Vabbinfaru note the convenient location of the villas - on the coastline, an excellent SPA center, friendly staff and delicious food.
11. Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa 4+ An island resort with many advantages. Its main pride is its magnificent home reef, which is favored by about 150 species of fish. One of the best reefs in the Maldives.
The hotel has a diving center where you can rent equipment or take training from a certified instructor. Snorkeling courses are available from ages 6 and up. Every day, during the day and night, there are excursions to nearby sites, as well as diving with whale sharks (Whale Shark Point).
The hotel offers a wide range of services for lovers and newlyweds: organizing an exotic wedding, honeymoon, romantic dinner on the beach.
An integral part of a holiday in the Maldives is a visit to the spa. Duniye SPA with a large selection of treatments is open to guests of the resort.
In the evening, guests are invited to watch presentations on the culture and history of the Maldives, a slide show on the protection of marine fauna, a Bodu Beru dance show, and videos from divers. There are movie nights, crab races, musician performances, and saxophone nights. There is a functioning library, the collection of which is constantly replenished by guests! Excursions to local islands. The weekly program includes football and sports tournaments. Board games are available at Bonthi Bar including chess, checkers, scrabble and more.
12. Baglioni Resort Maldives 5* New luxury resort of the prestigious Baglioni hotel chain, offering traditional Italian hospitality in the heart of the Indian Ocean. The hotel is located on the private island of Maagau, surrounded by clear turquoise lagoon waters and silky sand beaches.
This respectable resort offers all the delights of the Maldivian dolce vita: an exquisite Ferrari Spumante aperitif at sunset, spa treatments, yoga, tennis, beach volleyball and football.
The water sports center organizes excursions for divers and snorkelers.
13. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island 5* The hotel is located on two picturesque islands - Rangali and Rangalifinolhu. Comfortable villas are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, a snow-white beach and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Spacious stylish rooms are decorated in light colors, decorated with natural wood and have original elements of national decor. Each villa has a spacious terrace with stunning views of the majestic ocean.
The pride of the hotel. A unique underwater restaurant Ithaa Undersea, located at a depth of 5 meters near a coral reef. And also the exclusive underwater residence The Muraka.
The hotel is the winner of prestigious awards: World Travel Awards: World's Leading Underwater Hotel Restaurant 2019 Conde' Nast Traveler 2022 Readers' Choice Awards: Top 30 Resorts in The Indian Ocean: Readers' Choice Awards 2022 #12 Departures US, The 2022 Legends Awards: The Most Amazing Over-the-Top Suites – THE MURAKA, The Most Architecturally Interesting Buildings in the World – THE MURAKA Robb Report US: “The 19 best Maldives Resorts for Every Kind of Traveler
The resort features The Over Water Spa, 12 restaurants and bars, a water sports center, diving courses, and 2 infinity pools. You can go on excursions to coral reefs, to the habitats of manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins and sea turtles.
SPA: At Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, guests can enjoy two unique spa facilities - Spa Retreat on Rangalifinolhu Island and Over-Water Spa on Rangali Island. Places that take into account every aspect of your health and well-being - from diet and body treatments to beauty.
