Top 5 Luxury Resorts in the Maldives for 2025: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

The Maldives continues to be the ultimate escape for luxury seekers, offering pristine beaches, serene lagoons, and resorts that redefine indulgence.For 2025, travelers and experts alike have singled out five resorts that stand above the rest — each offering a distinct blend of style, privacy, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Cheval Blanc Randheli — Noonu Atoll

Set across five private islands and accessible by private seaplane, Cheval Blanc Randheli is the epitome of discreet elegance. Its 45 oversized villas — whether nestled on the beach or poised overwater — feature cathedral ceilings, private pools, and refined décor.

Why it’s special:

• Dedicated Guerlain Spa island for complete rejuvenation

• Private butler service in every villa

• Exclusive Owner’s Villa on a private island

• Artful design with curated pieces throughout the resort

Dining & Activities:Le 1947 serves French-inspired gourmet cuisine, complemented by beachside dining and wellness-focused activities like yoga and diving.

2. One&Only Reethi Rah — North Malé Atoll

With 12 immaculate beaches and 130 villas and residences, One&Only Reethi Rah offers space, privacy, and the personal touch of dedicated butlers. It’s a resort synonymous with timeless luxury and celebrity appeal.

Why it’s special:

• Iconic, refined architecture and tropical landscaping

• Favored by celebrities for privacy and service

• Unmatched beach variety across the island

Dining & Activities:Choose from six restaurants serving Japanese, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisine. Tennis, watersports, beach clubs, and diving keep guests entertained from sunrise to sunset.

3. Gili Lankanfushi Maldives — North Malé Atoll

Just a short speedboat ride from Malé, Gili Lankanfushi is the barefoot luxury pioneer of the Maldives. Its 45 rustic-chic overwater villas, crafted from sustainable materials, blend seamlessly into the turquoise lagoon.

Why it’s special:

• Home to the Private Reserve, the largest overwater villa in the world

• Each villa comes with a dedicated ‘Mr./Ms. Friday’ butler

• Strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly living

Dining & Activities:Organic cuisine, overwater dining, surfing, diving, and tailored private experiences — all with an eco-conscious approach.

4. JOALI Maldives — Raa Atoll

JOALI is more than a resort — it’s a living art gallery. With 73 villas adorned with bold, creative design, JOALI offers guests an immersive art and luxury experience.

Why it’s special:

• Art installations and interactive galleries across the resort

• Unique architectural style blending modernity with island charm

• A sophisticated spa for curated wellness journeys

Dining & Activities:Four world-class restaurants, including overwater Japanese dining, plus tennis, dolphin swimming, and curated art tours.

5. Anantara Kihavah Villas — Baa Atoll (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve)

This natural paradise offers spacious beach and overwater villas with private pools and direct access to a thriving house reef.

Why it’s special:

• Home to SEA, an underwater restaurant and wine cellar

• Sky Observatory for stargazing in pristine night skies

• Snorkeling with manta rays in season

Dining & Activities:Six diverse dining venues, a luxury spa, diving, and immersive nature encounters make every stay unforgettable.

Highlights & Comparisons

Privacy & Exclusivity:Cheval Blanc Randheli and One&Only Reethi Rah are unmatched in privacy and service, making them the choice of A-list travelers.

Design & Architecture:JOALI stands out for its bold art-meets-luxury concept, while Cheval Blanc offers stately elegance with a curated artistic touch.

Unique Experiences:

• Underwater dining & stargazing: Anantara Kihavah

• Barefoot luxury: Gili Lankanfushi

• Interactive art immersion: JOALI

Accommodation Standouts:

• Largest overwater villa in the world: Gili Lankanfushi’s Private Reserve

• Exclusive private island estate: Cheval Blanc Owner’s Villa

Final Word

Whether you dream of barefoot luxury, a private island retreat, or dining beneath the waves, these five Maldivian resorts deliver experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.That said, your choice depends on your travel personality and choice of art and design, barefoot luxury, underwater adventures, or timeless elegance — and in the Maldives, every option promises memories to last a lifetime. There are at least another 30 properties that would give you a similar experience and maybe even a better feel.

Travel Tip: As a licensed Maldivian travel agency, we can offer exclusive packages, perks, and hidden discounts at these resorts.

Contact us today to start planning your 2025 and 2026 Maldives escape.