Overwater Villas in Maldives: What You Should Know Before Visiting

Does your next vacation getaway include a chain of luxurious islands and majestic beauty?  If so, look no further than a vacation to the Maldives. The Maldives has been long regarded as ground zero for over-the-top luxury. Seclusion, pristine white sand beaches, stunning turquoise lagoons and most of all – truly exceptional overwater villas.  These villas (bungalows) are built on stilts above the water, offering stunning views of the ocean. 

This tiny island nation boasts over 180 resorts, some located on their own private island.  Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon or an adults-only escape, the Maldives is more than just a destination—it is paradise.  But what truly makes it magical? Keep reading to discover why this dream-worthy getaway belongs at the top of your travel list!

How to Get to the Maldives?

The Maldives is an archipelago consisting of about 1,200 coral islands that spread over 35,000 square miles in the Indian Ocean.  With roughly 200 of these islands being inhabited, some have been transformed into luxurious, world-renowned resorts.  

The Maldives main international airport is Velana International Airport (ME), located on Hulhulé Island just outside the capital of Malé. Upon arrival, you will island hop to your resort via seaplane, speedboat, or domestic flight. Taking in the aerial views of the atolls is the advantage of taking a seaplane. Arriving at your resort is the start of your island adventure.  

Enjoying the Overwater Villas in the Maldives

The Maldives are incredibly secluded, with their nearest landmass being Sri Lanka and India. Yet, despite their remote location, tourism is booming—especially with the allure of luxurious overwater villas that offer unparalleled privacy with ocean views. In 2024, this island chain reached 2 million tourist arrivals, breaking previous records as more travelers seek the ultimate escape in this tropical paradise.

Whether your goal is to seek total relaxation, swim in the clearest waters, or be spoiled with luxury, the Maldives will deliver an experience like no other. Tourists are flocking to the Maldives to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.   The contrast of powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and lush green vegetation make these islands a stretch of paradise. 

However, let’s be honest - the true allure of the Maldives is the ultimate bucklet-list experience of staying in an overwater villa.  Enjoying the gentle sounds of the waves and the salty ocean breeze are some of the exclusive perks of staying in these villas. 

We have seen these bungalows on our favorite reality show or seen this type of ultra-luxury with world travelers on social media.  These villas are the perfect concoction of romance and luxury.  This is where the tourist gets pampered-type of vacation. Those who have stayed in the Maldives have earned the bragging rights of this one-of-a-kind destination.

Top 5 Overwater Villas in Maldives

Ready to add a dream vacation in the Maldives to your bucket list?  The following resorts define luxury, highlighting how the Maldives offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every traveler. 

Joali Maldives – Joali Maldives is a luxury resort located on Muravandhoo Island (Raa Atoll.  What sets Joali apart? The resort beautifully integrates art, gastronomy, and wellness into a flawless package.  Joali Maldives is the first and only immersive art resort throughout the islands.  The entire island functions as a living gallery with interactive installations by international artists. This resort is perfect for active couples looking for pampering and relaxation. 

Cheval Blanc Randheli is one of the Maldives’ most exclusive resorts, where all 30 overwater villas have their own private islands, connected by charming footbridges. Enjoy a picnic on a private sandbank or enjoy a 12-course gastronomic cuisine. The Cheval Blanc Randheli features a three-Michelin-starred restaurant called Le 1947.  Pamper your taste buds here! This resort is perfect for couples and families of all ages. Cheval Blanc Randheli features a magical kingdom designed exclusively for children.  

Kudadoo Maldives is an ultra-all-inclusive resort. The motto of Kudadoo is ‘anything, anytime, anywhere’ and they will deliver on that promise. Each villa is assigned a private butler who will take care of your daily plans. This resort offers unlimited food, drinks, over 30 spa treatments, and a variety of water sport excursions.  This resort is perfect for active couples. 

Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah is an intimate, 5-star luxury resort that has highly personalized service. This is where you get to have an island all to yourself! The resort is located in the pristine Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – perfect for both a lively party getaway or an intimate wedding with your closest friends and family. You can have your own 62-foot yacht, dive center, spa, beach house, and pod of dolphins that call these waters home. 

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives is a 20-minute boat ride from Male. This is a Robinson Crusoe fantasy come to life. The Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi is the world’s largest stand-alone overwater villa. The villa features an infinity pool, a spa pavilion with a sauna and steam room, a cinema, and a waterslide that drops into the ocean. This resort is ideal for the honeymooners or for a family gathering.

Secluded and Romantic Villas

The overwater bungalows originated in French Polynesia in the 1960s, now this concept spread worldwide with the Maldives becoming one of the most famous destinations for these luxurious accommodations. 

These overwater villas offer a luxurious and unforgettable experience with many featuring private infinity pools and jacuzzis for the ultimate relaxation.  Some even have glass floors, providing breathtaking views of the marine life below.  These villas offer a secluded getaway, where it is just you and the ocean.  For the ultimate exclusivity, some of these overwater villas have their own private island.  

Many resorts were created for an adults-only experience, therefore making the Maldives a top honeymoon and anniversary destination.  Some experiences in the Maldives are truly one-of-a-kind, like enjoying a floating breakfast in your own private pool or sharing a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach.  The Maldives are the ultimate destination for romance. 

Enjoying Your Overwater Villa

Staying in an overwater villa in the Maldives isn't just about relaxing in luxury; it is also about exploring the natural beauty of the islands.  You can add some unforgettable activities while enjoying your stay. 

Snorkeling and scuba diving in the Maldives is a diver’s paradise.  Staying in an overwater villa puts you right next to some of the world’s most vibrant coral reefs.  Snorkeling right off your villa’s deck is a convenient way to discover the wildlife around you.  

Enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking around the lagoon. These activities let you explore the surrounding waters at your own pace. 

Treat yourself to a spa day!.  Many of these resorts offer overwater spa treatments with a gorgeous view.  If you choose to stay at a wellness retreat, enjoy yoga, mediation, and holistic treatments to help you unwind.  

Enjoy stargazing from your overwater villa.  The clear, unpolluted skies of the Maldives create the perfect canvas for stargazing.  Many resorts offer private stargazing sessions where you can use telescopes to view distant planets and constellations.  

A Dream Destination

The Maldives is undeniably a dream destination.  Because of the beauty and luxury the islands have to offer, the Maldives is the ultimate bucket list vacation. The overwater bungalows featuring private pools, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning ocean views, it is a paradise like no other.  Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or an intimate destination wedding, the Maldives offers the perfect blend of luxury and adventure.   

At Tiki Travel Agency, we specialize in creating personalized, stress-free travel experiences, taking care of every detail to ensure your Maldives vacation is seamless and unforgettable.  With our expertise, you will be able to enjoy the best resorts, exclusive excursions, and customize itineraries that align to your unique travel style.  Let’s create lifetime memories on the secluded islands of the Maldives.  We are here to make it happen!