- lastminute.com>
- Travel Inspiration>
- Maldives>
- North and South Malé atolls
North & South Malé atolls
The North and South Malé Atolls are the most visited in the Maldives, though you wouldn’t know it when you’re relaxing on a picture-perfect, isolated-feeling island. There are some fabulous resorts located here, handily close to the international airport, while surfers and divers will be spoiled for choice by the pounding waves and marine life on offer. Really, whatever you want out of your holiday, these atolls will have the resort for you.
In collaboration
with Rough Guides
North Malé Atoll
The highest concentration of resorts, including many of the leading ones, are in the North Malé Atoll. The first holiday resorts in the Maldives, Kurumba and Bandos, were opened in 1972, on islands only 20 minutes by dhoni from the capital (10 minutes by speedboat today).
Kurumba
Over the years, the large resort of Kurumba has been transformed several times so that despite its age, it remains a leading light in grandeur and quality. It prides itself on its range of dining options, so is a good bet for those who get bored hitting the same buffet each day. Fact: Kurumba is where Mohammed Amin Didi, the first president of the Maldives, was exiled and eventually buried in 1954.
Bandos
Bandos is also a Grande Dame of resorts in the Maldives, and popular for both conferences (conferences of dreams!) and repeat pleasure visits. It’s home to the oldest diving centre in the country and is incredibly well-resourced: there’s even a decompression chamber on-site. Hopefully you won’t need that – but all snorkellers and divers will be kept busy at the gorgeous house reef. The resort is popular with families as its actively welcoming, with lots of entertainment and activity options.
Baros
Baros, to the centre of the atoll, is also one of the pioneer resorts, having opened in 1973. This small boutique resort specialises in luxury experiences, with exemplary personal service and an understated, high-quality style and sophisticated atmosphere. As such, it’s ideal for special occasions, especially honeymoons.
Only about 200 of the Maldives’ islands are classed as ‘inhabited’, that is, home to a permanent local population, while tourists stay on over 120 ‘uninhabited’ islands in resorts.
Paradise Island at Lankanfinolhu
The glitzy resort of Paradise Island on Lankanfinolhu, just 20 minutes from Malé by speedboat, tends to offer good value for a whole lot of things to do, especially for families or anyone who likes to be active and entertained. It’s a large island and what you lack in intimacy, you make up for in facilities. Meanwhile, the beaches are reliably glorious, as is the snorkelling in the nearby lagoon and at the house reef.
Gili Lankanfushi
The ultra-exclusive resort of Gili Lankanfushi was the first all-water villa resort in the Maldives, and on approach by sea its wooden cabins seem to be sprouting from the lagoon bed. The range of overwater villas is pretty astonishing – many different styles, some of which have their own private pools. There are even seven ‘Crusoe’ residences, which are only accessed by boat, for a truly unique sense of staying in the middle of the sea. This is a place for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, surrounded by all the thoughtful service, luxurious touches and quality experiences – such as the underground wine cellar, where tastings are hosted by knowledgeable sommeliers – you could ever ask for.
Four Seasons at Kuda Huraa
There are so many amazing resorts in the North Malé Atoll, it’s sometimes hard to pick between them. But if you want to experience five-star style while also surfing some awesome waves, Four Seasons at Kuda Huraa may be for you – it’s one of the top luxury surfing resorts in the world. A 25-minute speedboat ride takes you to some of the best breaks around, while you can also learn to surf for the first time at the dedicated school. Back on dry land, the resort has a garden-style charm and prides itself on channelling a Maldivian village (albeit a rather upmarket one).
One&Only Reethi Rah
Just when you think you can’t go any higher, well, here’s the One&Only Reethi Rah, beloved of celebrities and the jet set. Encircled by 12 perfect beaches, this sizeable island was actually partially built on reclaimed land, hence its slightly atypical shape if you arrive by air. It’s all about unique, exemplary experiences here, especially of the romantic, foodie kind: dine on a seven-course meal in a fairy light-strewn treehouse, overlooking the Indian Ocean, enjoy private dining on a sandbank or enjoy a moonlit-picnic on the beach.
Huvafen Fushi
It’s worth doing your research to find the resort matching your desires. You might want adults-only, super-romantic, or one that’s brimming with child-friendly facilities.
Makunudu
Himmafushi
Dhiffushi
Thulusdhoo
South Malé Atoll
The South Male Atoll is more spread out than the North Malé Atol, covering an area stretching over 36 kilometres. Home to several resorts, great diving sites and the region’s administrative capital Maafushi, there’s still plenty to see and do here.
Maafushi
A visit to the village on a local island as an excursion by dhoni is available from almost every resort. It's a great way to sample the maldivian way of life, and an ideal place to pick up local handicrafts as souvenirs like hand-woven mats, and ornaments made from coconuts and seashells.
Sign up to our newsletter
We'll send you exclusive offers and sneak peeks of our best deals,
plus travel tips and the latest advice on where you can go.
Connect with us
Mobile app
Support and useful information
