Where to Stay in the Maldives: Your Complete Guide

Planning a Maldives holiday? Choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming with so many options available. From luxury resorts to budget guesthouses, here's everything you need to know about accommodation in this island paradise.

Luxury Resorts: The Classic Maldives Experience

Luxury resorts in the Maldives offer the iconic overwater villa experience you see in photos. These private island resorts provide everything you need in one place - restaurants, spas, water sports, and pristine beaches.

What to expect

Each resort occupies its own island, accessible by speedboat or seaplane from Male airport. You'll find overwater bungalows, beach villas, multiple dining options, and world-class service. Popular choices include properties in North Male Atoll, South Ari Atoll, and Baa Atoll.

Best for

Honeymooners, luxury travellers, and those wanting an all-inclusive, hassle-free vacation. The privacy and exclusivity make these resorts perfect for special celebrations.

Budget

Expect to spend ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000+ per night depending on the resort and season.

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Guesthouses: Budget-Friendly Local Islands

Guesthouses on local islands have opened up the Maldives to budget travellers. These are run by Maldivian families and offer a more authentic cultural experience.

What to expect

Simple, clean rooms with air conditioning, located on inhabited islands where locals live. You'll find local restaurants nearby, bikini beaches for tourists, and tour operators offering excursions. Popular islands include Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, Gulhi, and Dhiffushi.

Best for

Budget travellers, backpackers, and those wanting to experience local Maldivian culture. Great for meeting other travellers and taking day trips to nearby sandbanks and snorkelling spots.

Budget

Rooms start from ₹2,000 to ₹8,000 per night. Much more affordable than resorts!

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Hotel Islands: The Middle Ground

Some islands have multiple hotels or larger properties that offer resort-like facilities at lower prices than private island resorts.

What to expect

Hotel-style accommodation with restaurants, pools, and beaches, but you might share the island with other properties or locals. Hulhumale and Maafushi have several such options.

Best for

Travellers wanting some resort amenities without the hefty price tag, or those combining a resort stay with budget accommodation.

Budget

₹8,000 to ₹25,000 per night typically.

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Which Atoll Should You Choose?

North and South Male Atolls: Closest to the airport, quick transfers, many resort and guesthouse options. Good for shorter trips.

Ari Atoll

Excellent for diving and seeing whale sharks and manta rays. Mix of resorts and local islands.

Baa Atoll

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, famous for Hanifaru Bay where mantas gather. More remote, mostly high-end resorts.

Southern Atolls

Untouched and less crowded, but transfers are longer and more expensive.

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Quick Tips for Booking

1. Book well in advance for peak season (December to April)
2. Check what's included - some resorts are all-inclusive, others charge separately for everything
3. Factor in transfer costs - seaplane transfers can cost ₹15,000-40,000 per person
4. For guesthouses, read recent reviews about cleanliness and facilities
5. Consider the weather - monsoon season (May to November) offers better deals but more rain

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Conclusion: Making Your Choice

Your ideal Maldives stay depends on your budget and travel style. If you want pampering and privacy with unlimited budget, go for a resort. If you're on a tight budget or want to meet locals, choose a guesthouse. Want something in between? Look at hotel islands or budget resorts.

The good news? Whether you spend ₹2,000 or ₹2,00,000 per night, you'll still enjoy crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and incredible marine life. The Maldives truly has something for every traveller.

Ready to book? Compare prices and read reviews to find your perfect Maldives accommodation today in our partner website Tripadvisor