This remote northern Raa Atoll outpost has 80 places to sleep (a mix of beach bungalows and stilted overwater villas) on a pristine speck of sandy island. It promises all the usual Maldivian resort facilities: overwater restaurant, sunset view bar, various wellness offerings, snorkelling and diving around the nearby reefs — it's great if small coral island and big-time beauty is what you're looking for, with a focus on simple indulgence. Chief curiosity may be the casual beachside restaurant, Athiri, which serves an unusual fusion of tapas and teppanyaki.
● Rooms from $1998
3 LUX* North Male Atoll
A short speedboat transfer from Male airport and you reach LUX* North Male Atoll, where 67 whitewashed two-storey penthouses replace the usual aesthetic of thatched-roof water villas. This is where Miami meets the Maldives, and the South Beach vibe was partly inspired by the curves and lines of a luxury yacht. Accommodation sits right on the beach (or over the ocean), and a roof deck can be used for dinner parties, private cinemas and stargazing. Three restaurants and a beach club ensure guests are kept well fed and thirst-free.
● Rooms from $3680
4 Baglioni Resort Maldives
Fine powder beaches, swaying coconut palms and glistening waters cocoon an easy-going Italian-accented ambience on the island of Maagau — which is to be expected in Baglioni's first property outside Europe, opening in June. There are almost 100 spaces to stay, a combination of garden, beach or overwater villas (including some family options). The Presidential Water Villa is impressive: three bedrooms, infinity pool, whirlpool tub with the ocean below. There are three restaurants (one is Italian, of course). A flicker of la dolce vita just 40 minutes by seaplane from the capital, Male.
● Rooms from $1031
5 Joali
In an effort to preserve Muravandhoo's delicate ecosystem, this resort has been designed around the island's natural elements — even trees. This includes the 73 villas as well as public areas — each a show of dramatic tropical architecture. Curated in-room libraries and deluxe objets d'art ensure the epitome of unconventional luxury; some villas are right on the sandy shore, while others are above the azure ocean. For something authentically Maldivian, the resort can organise dhoni boat trips or excursions to meet local communities. Younger guests have their own entertainment, from treasure hunts to cookery classes.
● Rooms from $2788
CHECKLIST
GETTING THERE
Emirates flies from
Auckland to the Maldives, via Dubai, with return Economy Class fares from $1600.
