Top 10 Maldives Resorts for 2026

Our 2026 Picks

After visiting dozens of resorts, consulting with hundreds of travelers, and keeping our ears to the ground on new openings and renovations, here are our top 10 Maldives resorts for 2026.

This isn't a "best of" list based on awards or marketing — it's our genuine, experience-based recommendations for the resorts that consistently deliver exceptional experiences across different budgets and travel styles.

1. Soneva Fushi — Best Overall

Baa Atoll | Ultra-Luxury | From $1,200/night

Soneva Fushi remains the gold standard for barefoot luxury in the Maldives. Two decades in, and they're still innovating — the observatory, the open-air cinema, the organic garden dining. The house reef is outstanding, and the Baa Atoll location provides access to Hanifaru Bay's manta rays.

Best for: Couples and families seeking the definitive Maldives experience.

2. Patina Maldives — Best for Design & Art

North Malé Atoll | Luxury | From $800/night

Patina brought contemporary art and Brazilian architecture to the Maldives, and the result is stunning. The James Turrell Skyspace alone is worth the trip. The Footprint kids' club is genuinely innovative, and the Fari Islands concept adds a community dimension unique in the Maldives.

Best for: Design lovers, families, and those seeking something different from the traditional resort experience.

3. COMO Cocoa Island — Best for Wellness

South Malé Atoll | Premium | From $600/night

With just 33 dhoni-shaped suites and the renowned COMO Shambhala wellness program, Cocoa Island is the ultimate retreat for those seeking tranquility and restoration. The house reef is exceptional, and the intimate scale ensures you never feel crowded.

Best for: Couples, wellness seekers, and divers who value intimacy over amenity count.

4. Kudadoo Maldives — Best All-Inclusive

Lhaviyani Atoll | Ultra-Luxury | From $2,500/night

The "anything, anytime, anywhere" philosophy at Kudadoo means genuinely unlimited everything — from spa treatments to excursions to dining. With only 15 overwater residences, each with a rooftop terrace and private pool, the level of exclusivity is remarkable.

Best for: Travelers who want zero friction and absolute freedom.

5. Joali Being — Best Wellness Concept

Raa Atoll | Ultra-Luxury | From $1,800/night

Joali Being takes wellness beyond the spa with a "weightless" philosophy integrating movement, skincare, nutrition, and mindfulness into every aspect of the stay. The island itself is designed as a wellness journey, from the herbology center to the sound healing hall.

Best for: Serious wellness enthusiasts and mindful travelers.

6. Anantara Veli — Best Value Overwater

South Malé Atoll | Premium | From $400/night

Anantara Veli proves you don't need to spend $2,000 a night for a quality overwater experience. The resort offers solid overwater bungalows, a great house reef, multiple dining venues, and the excellent Anantara Spa — all at prices that won't require a second mortgage.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want the overwater villa experience.

7. The St. Regis Maldives — Best for Luxury Service

Dhaalu Atoll | Ultra-Luxury | From $1,500/night

The St. Regis butler service is legendary, and the Maldives property delivers it flawlessly. Every suite comes with a dedicated butler who anticipates your needs before you know them. The overwater villas with private pools are among the most spacious in the Maldives.

Best for: Those who appreciate exceptional service and classic luxury.

8. Six Senses Laamu — Best for Sustainability

Laamu Atoll | Luxury | From $700/night

Six Senses Laamu is the Maldives' sustainability leader. As the only resort in the Laamu Atoll, the marine life is abundant and undisturbed. The Earth Lab, marine center, and zero-waste initiatives make you feel good about your stay — and the luxury doesn't suffer one bit.

Best for: Eco-conscious travelers and marine life enthusiasts.

9. Cheval Blanc Randheli — Best for Foodies

Noonu Atoll | Ultra-Luxury | From $2,000/night

LVMH's Maldivian jewel delivers an extraordinary culinary program. Multiple restaurants helmed by world-class chefs, a cellar with rare vintages, and private dining experiences that rival Michelin-starred restaurants. The overwater villas are works of art.

Best for: Gastronomes, wine lovers, and those who appreciate French luxury.

10. Dhigali Maldives — Best Mid-Range

Raa Atoll | Mid-Range | From $250/night

Dhigali offers the Maldives dream at a fraction of the typical price. Overwater villas, a beautiful house reef, several restaurants, and a genuine island resort feel — all without the sticker shock. It's proof that paradise doesn't have to break the bank.

Best for: First-timers and budget-conscious travelers who want the full Maldives experience.

How We Choose

Our selections are based on:

• Personal visits by our travel team
• Guest feedback from hundreds of travelers we've booked
• Consistency — a great stay every time, not just on a good day
• Value — what you get relative to what you pay
• Sustainability — responsible practices matter

This list is updated annually based on our team's experiences and guest feedback. Resort quality can vary over time, so we regularly reassess our recommendations. Last updated February 2026.