How to Choose a Resort in the Maldives

Overwater bungalows, white sand, that turquoise water color that immediately invokes a sense of relaxation — once you start scrolling through a few hotel websites, you will immediately notice how similar everything looks. Fear not, scroll down for tips on what to look for to make your short list of potential properties.

Plane or Boat?

Upon arrival in Male (capital), you can take a plane and/or boat for your onward journey. If you would prefer one method of transport over others, this could help narrow down your search. 

Prefer a short boat ride upon arrival? Check out some of the resorts located closer to Male Airport accessible by boat like the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa (25 minute speedboat) and Bandos Maldives (10 minute speedboat).

 

OK with another short plane ride (and possible another boat)? Look at the southern atolls at places like the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa where you can experience unique activities like a boat ride to the Equator.

 

Seaplane more your style? Trans Maldivian Air offers seaplane service from Male to these resorts.

 

Type of Accomodation

Most resorts will offer both beach villas and overwater bungalows so most of the accommodation won’t differ too drastically. Unless you’re looking for something super specific like a slide into the water, most resorts should be fine.

When comparing room types, consider:

• Overwater bungalows are a luxe splurge but they can also be noisier since the bungalows are typically in a row, fairly close together. While they are aligned for privacy, you may hear your neighbor’s music, as an example.
• Pool villas can be close together but do feel more private since most are tucked into foliage.
• Occasionally, a pool villa may be right on the beach. Again, this can be great or can be less private as other guests may walk past.

 

Couples vs Families:

Many resorts are adults only and some tend to be heavy on couples versus those with kids so, depending on your preferences, you may want to inquire more. During our stay the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, we encountered one family with a child (about 4 years old) and one teen. But it was predominantly couples. As a parent who was seeking a break from the day-to-day, I was quite happy to have a quiet ambiance for change! 

 

I do know several families who have come recently to the Maldives with children and they had amenities like kids clubs and amenities to make a visit family friendly. The demographic is also likely to ebb and flow based on the time of year. Around the holidays, as an example, you may notice more families than say, February or March.

Activities and excursions:

Most resorts will offer similar experience in terms of snorkeling and scuba diving. If you’re new to scuba and want to get certified, check ahead to see if the resort offers a PADI certification course.

Kayaking, fishing and sunset boat rides will also be commonplace but, if you’re seeking anything special like the ability to visit the Equator or surfing (it is possible in a few spots), make sure you add that to your criteria list.

Some resorts may also have bespoke dining experiences or even cooking classes. If this piques your interest, be sure to add to your list of criteria.

 

Packages:

I’m not going to lie, the Maldives is an expensive destination. Anything in tourism is in USD and at a premium. For example, an entree on the lunch menu was $24 on the low end with many options being in the $30-40 range. Thankfully, our package included room & half board so breakfast and dinner were pre-paid. 

If you want to try to keep costs down, consider looking at packages and see what fits your budget and preferences. I originally balked at the $400 USD per person all inclusive rate at our hotel but, after visiting, realized it would have been a pretty decent deal. The Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa’s full board package included a daily 30 minute spa treatment in addition to food and beverage (including alcohol), so another thing to keep in mind.

Given the remote setting of the islands, a full board package can easily be economical for someone who tends to eat 3 meals, have a snack or two and a few drinks per day. 

 

 

In conclusion

Ready to plan your Maldives vacation? Be sure to compare prices but also look into what is included, what there is to do and even details like how easy (or complicated) it is to actually get to the resort. Have a question? Drop it in the comments and I’ll be happy to answer.