With its serene atmosphere, stunning water and lavish accommodations, a trip to the Maldives is nothing short of refreshing. And while lodging located on the beach or in the heart of some lush foliage is sure to be special, an ideal way to elevate a vacation is by booking an overwater bungalow or villa. Combining travelers’ love for the Maldives with unique room options, here are six must-know overwater bungalows — all conveniently bookable by U.S. travel advisors.
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
A private resort located on Kihavah Huravalhi Island in Baa Atoll, Anantara is a place to indulge in absolute tranquility. Travelers looking to stay in the heart of the glowing blue-green waters should consider the Overwater Pool Villa or Sunset Overwater Pool Villa, which comfortably fits up to three guests. In addition to the stunning views of the horizon and direct access to the lagoon below, both styles also have a private pool. For larger groups, the Two Bedroom Sunset Overwater Pool Residence accommodates up to six adults and offers a private pool, gym and spa inside. Anantara Kihavah also has the One Bedroom Family Overwater Pool Villa, ideal for two adults and three children.
For a change of pace in the itinerary, guests can take a break at the Cocoon Medi Spa with restorative facials, vitamin IV infusions and other detoxification therapies, bask in the glow of the natural night sky at the overwater observatory, enjoy a hands-and feet-pampering sesh at Studio Reverence or break a sweat with some Muay Thai boxing and personal training.
Meeru Maldives Resort Island
Another private island resort, Meeru is known for its family-friendly attributes and variety of accommodation styles. Located in North Malé Atoll, the property spans over 80 acres and offers 284 rooms in six different categories. With all the different options, it’s hard not to be pleased here, and for travelers looking for overwater lodging, the Jacuzzi Water Villas are a perfect fit. Suitable for up to three adults, the spacious 925-square-foot setup has a partial open-air bathroom, private porch, rain shower, direct ocean access and, of course, a jacuzzi, so that visitors are surrounded by relaxation at every turn.
Outside of the villas, the resort is perfect for both a romantic couples getaway and a family vacation. Exciting water activities such as scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, windsurfing and snorkeling are sure to showcase the natural beauty of the Maldives, while a trip to Duniye Spa is a great way to unwind from a fun-filled day. Couples massages, secluded beach dinners and other activities for two are on the docket for the adults, while Komas Kids Playroom and The Teens Club make an excellent age-appropriate reprieve.
Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
A modernized luxury experience like no other, the property is strikingly beautiful. Consisting of 36 on-land villas and 14 overwater residences in Huvadhoo Atoll, the options are endless for visitors when it comes to a vacation here. The Overwater Villa, with its dark wood exterior and sleek furnishings, is a classic accommodation, offering a sun deck, daybed, ensuite bathroom and direct reef access. In a similar fashion, the Overwater Sunset Pool Villa, constructed from native Maldivian timber and stone, showcases panoramic views of the water through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Travelers in a group of six can choose to stay in the newly built 3-bedroom Kiaali Residence, which sits poised at the tip of the resort’s reef. Here, visitors can enjoy a freshwater infinity pool, sunken loungers and an outdoor dining area, all finished in a welcoming light brown and aquamarine color.
If guests ever feel up to venturing outside of their cozy rooms, the hotel has an abundance of activities for all ages and interests. From night snorkeling, candlelit beach dinners, cooking classes and yoga to dolphin sunset cruises and weekly kids’ itineraries, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a stay at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa.
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
Newly opened in 2019 and located in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is a sight to behold. While the modern furnishings and rich colors throughout the villas exude opulence, the stone touches and textured roof transport travelers to the rugged beauty of the Maldives. Beach villas and other on-land residences are available, though the Overwater and Sunset Overwater Villas are especially noteworthy. Both expansive accommodations cover 2,475-square-feet, ideal for up to three guests. The Overwater Villa offers amenities such as a private pool and butler service, while the Sunset Overwater option also includes a western-facing view of the Laccadive Sea.
Of course, good food is a must on a vacation, and Raffles Maldives Meradhoo has got it covered. The Firepit is great for those seeking smoked foods and an open-fire vibe, while Yuzu and Yapa Sunset Bar offer a blend of Peruvian and Japanese flavors. Guests eager to explore the hotel’s surrounding waters should consider participating in whale shark swimming, turtle-watching expeditions or snorkeling. For the little ones, the hotel also has kids’ activities such as coconut painting and sand art to ensure that all visitors have a memorable experience.
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
A stately property on the private island of Vommuli in Dhaalu Atoll, the resort is owned by none other than the beloved Marriott . There are 44 total overwater options and 33 others located in and around the beach, so travelers have plenty of choices when it comes to lodging. The Overwater Villa and Sunset Overwater Villa both feature one bedroom, floor-to-ceiling windows, an overwater hammock and a private pool suitable for up to three guests. The Overwater St. Regis Suite is similar in its one-bedroom structure and amenities, though this style offers a little more space to accommodate a fourth visitor. For large groups, travelers should consider the new John Jacob Astor Estate, which is suitable for up to 12 guests. The three-bedroom presidential villa has all the stops, including a private gym, cinema room, spa suites, infinity pool, jacuzzi, two plunge pools and three designated rooms for personal staff.
Naturally, if guests are going to live in luxury during their stay, it’s only fitting that the food and resort activities reflect that as well. Alba, the property’s signature restaurant, is a classic for a reason, and it may just be because of the locally sourced ingredients incorporated into all the dishes. As a family-friendly property, Crust & Craft, a create-your-own pizzeria, is great for the young ones who aren’t the most adventurous eaters, while Orientale and The Whale Bar are recommended for a taste of world cuisine. Explore the resort with time at Iridium Spa or Vommuli Dive & Watersports Center; send the kids to the Children’s Club (ages four through 12) or the Socialite (ages 16 and older) for some parental alone time, or kick back and relax on a private boat or luxury yacht charter.
VARU by Atmosphere
Last, but certainly not least, VARU by Atmosphere, located in North Malé Atoll, is equipped to serve both families and couples. The Water Villa and Water Villa room categories embody all that makes the Maldives special, with their rattan and hardwood finishes, touched with dashes of blue throughout. Offering direct ocean access, a veranda and an infinity pool, both villa options are sure to impress.
As is standard with a resort island in the Maldives, water activities like diving, snorkeling and other sports are available here; however, the sunset cruise, stargazing cruise and sunset fishing may be a nice change of pace for guests looking to get out and about. For a touch of romance, couples should consider intimate experiences such as a vow renewal on the property. A floating champagne or breakfast service and private barbeque are also available to the lovebirds. Visitors traveling with young ones are encouraged to explore the On The Move kids’ club, which offers babysitting services and age-appropriate activities so that every guest can make the most of their stay at VARU.
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Racquel H | 01/09/25 - 10:54 AM
Which suppliers offer bookings for Maldives?
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