Boutique hotels in Maldives

The Maldives is a chain of coral atolls strung across the Indian Ocean, and almost every stay here is an island resort. Many are intimate, with a few dozen villas, house reefs and a spa, and reached by seaplane or speedboat.

The atolls near Malé

North and South Malé Atolls are the closest to the airport, so they suit short stays. Their small private islands offer the shortest transfers, and the resorts range from polished and lavish to barefoot and casual.

The central atolls

Baa, Ari, Raa, Noonu and Lhaviyani are the heartland of high-end resorts, many on private islands with overwater villas. Baa is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, and Ari is famous for whale sharks and mantas.

The south and the local islands

Laamu, Gaafu Alifu and Addu are remote and quieter. Maafushi and other local islands have guesthouses with a different, lower-cost feel, though alcohol is restricted.

When to go

The dry season runs from November to April. The wetter months from May to October are cheaper, and are the manta season in Baa Atoll.