Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.
Today: Top 10 most stunning villas in the Maldives
Located southwest of India, the Maldives is made up of hundreds of small tropical islands known for their lush greenery, pristine white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons. Widely regarded as one of the world’s most luxurious travel destinations, the Maldives is home to dozens of ultra-exclusive resorts—each set on its own private island. These high-end properties feature spectacular overwater and beachfront villas, gourmet dining by Michelin-starred chefs, world-class spas, and unforgettable excursions. To stand out even further, many of the Maldives’ best resorts now offer next-level accommodations: ultra-luxury, multi-bedroom villas—often branded as residences, estates, or private islands. In this guide, I’ve rounded up the most spectacular villas and private islands in the Maldives for the ultimate luxury escape.
Think I missed one? Share your favorite luxury villa in the Maldives in the comments section.
10. KIAALI RESIDENCE AT PARK HYATT MALDIVES
Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, the Kiaali Residence at Park Hyatt Maldives offers unparalleled luxury. This stunning villa features a 16-meter (52-foot) freshwater infinity pool and three spacious bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, comfortably accommodating up to six guests. The expansive private pool terrace includes sunken loungers and a shaded outdoor dining and lounge area, while separate decks connect directly to the master and king bedrooms. Designed as a contemporary overwater sanctuary, the residence combines soft furnishings in warm browns and aquamarine tones with state-of-the-art room controls, creating a serene and blissful atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spacious living and dining areas with natural light and uninterrupted ocean views. With direct access to the lagoon’s house reef, guests can enjoy the very best of Maldivian overwater living and underwater exploration.
- Hotel website: Kiaali Residence
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks at Park Hyatt Maldives when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, $100 USD resort credit, and a complimentary 50 minute massage for up to two people, per room, once during stay).
- Review: read my review of Park Hyatt Maldives here.
9. THE JOHN JACOB ASTOR ESTATE AT THE ST REGIS MALDIVES VOMMULI
The John Jacob Astor Estate at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli is the resort’s largest and most luxurious villa, named after the hotel’s founder, John Jacob Astor IV. This impressive two-story overwater residence accommodates up to 12 guests, featuring three guest bedrooms—one with a king bed and two with queen beds—each equipped with both indoor and outdoor showers, plus a dedicated spa room. The main floor bedrooms open onto a furnished terrace complete with a private plunge pool and whirlpool. The grand living room, with soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, opens onto an expansive terrace with an infinity pool, bathing the space in natural light. The villa includes a fully equipped show kitchen and butler pantry, while the elegant dining room provides the perfect setting for unforgettable gatherings. For entertainment and fitness, the estate boasts a home theater with an 85-inch Bang & Olufsen TV and a dedicated exercise room with cardio and weight machines—ensuring a blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience.
- Hotel website: John Jacob Astor Estate
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks at St Regis Maldives when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, welcome bottle of Champagne, $300 USD resort credit, and a one time hydrotherapy spa experience per couple).
- Review: read my review of The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort here.
8. NIKA RESIDENCE BY PATRICIA URQUIOLA AT VELAA PRIVATE ISLAND
Accommodating up to 10 guests, Nika Residence at Velaa Private Island is one of the Maldives’ most exquisite designer beach villa retreats. The villa’s vertical wall panels showcase natural materials like raffia and wood, while earthy textiles create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design balances warmth and style, featuring handcrafted minimalist furniture—highlighted by a striking dining table made from two rare black marble slabs, illuminated by a stunning beaded Craaft chandelier. Nika offers four spacious bedrooms, each opening onto private balconies or terraces with breathtaking views of the beach and ocean. The villa also includes a private gym, spa room, outdoor relaxation area, fully equipped kitchen with a separate butler’s entrance, vaulted living space with a dining area, and an expansive terrace featuring a large pool, outdoor shower, and a separate jacuzzi—perfect for ultimate luxury and comfort in paradise.
- Hotel website: Nika Residence by Patricia Urquiola
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks at Velaa Private Island when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $150 USD food & beverage credit).
- Review: read my review of Velaa Private Island here.
7. ROYAL RESIDENCE AT RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO
Set along an untouched stretch of the resort’s pristine white sand beach, the expansive three-bedroom Royal Residence at Raffles Maldives—expandable up to six bedrooms—is ideal for groups of friends celebrating unforgettable milestones or families seeking a relaxed, luxurious getaway. Accommodating up to 15 guests, the residence centers around three connected reception rooms that overlook a stunning 40-meter (130-foot) private pool and the villa’s exclusive beach. Perfect for hosting special occasions—from surprise birthday parties to elegant anniversary dinners—the villa offers plenty of space and privacy. The expansive rooftop terrace, overlooking the turquoise lagoon and featuring a private bar stocked with rare spirits and premium cigars, serves as a serene spot for evening sundowners or morning yoga sessions set to the soothing sounds of gently lapping waves.
- Hotel website: Raffles Royal Residence
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).
6. FOUR BEDROOM WATER RESERVE WITH SLIDE AT SONEVA JANI
The largest overwater villa in the Maldives, the Water Reserve, is located at Soneva Jani’s south jetty. This spectacular villa features an expansive outdoor deck with a large private pool, a waterslide, cozy sofas, and catamaran nets—perfect for lounging, sunbathing, dining, or enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The master bedroom, situated on the lower floor, includes an adjoining children’s sleeping area, a luxurious bathroom with a sunken bathtub, steam and shower facilities, an outdoor shower, a dressing room, and a sauna. Also on the lower level are the open kitchen and dining area, a spacious living room with a seating area, and a second bedroom with its own bathroom. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms each come with private bathrooms and dressing rooms, alongside a TV lounge and a gym. Guests of the Water Reserve enjoy the exclusive benefits of Soneva Unlimited, including unlimited dining and drinks, curated experiences, spa treatments, and a dedicated Barefoot Butler, ensuring a truly indulgent Maldivian getaway.
5. ITHAAFUSHI – THE PRIVATE ISLAND AT WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s crown jewel is “Ithaafushi – The Private Island,” the largest private island in the Maldives. Reflecting the timeless elegance and impeccable service of the Waldorf Astoria brand, this exclusive island – completely manmade – offers unparalleled luxury and unforgettable experiences for discerning travelers. The estate comfortably accommodates up to 24 guests across two exquisitely designed villas and a sprawling four-bedroom residence—ideal for family gatherings or celebrating special moments with close friends. Guests enjoy the services of a dedicated culinary team that crafts bespoke menus, served in a variety of intimate settings on the island. For those seeking more dining options, the main Waldorf Astoria resort is just a short boat ride away, featuring 10 specialty restaurants to explore. Ithaafushi – The Private Island perfectly combines privacy, luxury, and world-class hospitality in one extraordinary Maldivian escape.
- Hotel website: Ithaafushi – The Private Island
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Waldorf Astoria Maldives via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $150 USD resort credit).
4. PRIVATE RESERVE AT SONEVA FUSHI
Soneva Fushi’s vision of a playful, deserted-island mansion comes to life on a grand oceanic scale with the Maldives’ largest and most impressive beach villa: the nine-bedroom Private Reserve. Situated on the island’s southeastern tip, this expansive villa offers direct access to a pristine white sand beach and crystal-clear turquoise lagoon. Designed as a jungle fantasy come true, the villa features natural materials like palm-frond roofs, woven rope accents, and tree branch banisters, blending seamlessly into the tropical surroundings. The nine spacious bedrooms each include a private bathroom and are arranged around a stunning open-air living room and kitchen. A lagoon-style swimming pool with a sunken dining area and waterslide creates the ultimate playground for relaxation and fun. More than just a villa, the Private Reserve is a resort within a resort, boasting dedicated spaces such as a children’s room, TV lounge, private spa, sauna, gym, and a master bedroom with its own private pool—perfect for families or groups seeking unparalleled luxury and privacy in the Maldives.
- Hotel website: Private Reserve at Soneva Fushi
- Tip: contact me to get complimentary Soneva ambassador benefits at Soneva Fushi (e.g. best rate and two personalized Soneva experiences).
- Review: read my review of Soneva Fushi here.
3. CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI PRIVATE ISLAND
Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island is a breathtaking one-hectare sanctuary of modern island living, accessible only by private jetty. This four-bedroom retreat blends refined design with tropical elegance, offering expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces and a dedicated team of butlers to cater to every need. In the main residence, the sun-drenched living rooms open onto a stunning 25-meter (82-foot) infinity pool, creating the perfect setting for relaxed afternoons, elegant soirées around the grand piano, or sunset cocktails at the private bar. The master suite commands sweeping ocean views and includes dual bathrooms, walk-in dressing rooms, a private office, and a lounge area. Two additional guest bedrooms—ideal for children or close family—feature their own luxurious bathrooms, dressing spaces, and private terraces. For added privacy, a separate guest villa offers generous indoor and outdoor living areas, perfect for traveling companions or extended family. A private spa treatment room, state-of-the-art fitness center, and cinema screening room complete this exceptional private island experience—an oasis of seclusion and sophistication in the heart of the Maldives.
2. CRUSOE RESERVE AT SONEVA SECRET
The Crusoe Reserve at Soneva Secret is a stunning overwater villa in the remote Makunudhoo Atoll, designed for ultimate privacy and barefoot luxury and accommodation 4 adults and 4 children. The spacious open-plan living area offers uninterrupted lagoon views, while the two master bedrooms feature retractable roofs for stargazing from king-sized beds. Two children’s bedrooms come with ensuite showers and toilets, and the semi-outdoor master bathrooms include signature sunken bathtubs, rain showers, and direct access to the water. Outside, a large private deck features a freshwater pool, catamaran nets, a waterslide into the lagoon, sunken seating, and shaded dining areas. The upper level includes a spa treatment room, a daybed, and an al fresco dining sala. With a dedicated Barefoot Guardian and private chef service, the Crusoe Reserve offers a truly unforgettable escape in one of the Maldives’ most exclusive settings.
- Hotel website: Crusoe Reserve at Soneva Secret
- Tip: contact me to get complimentary Soneva ambassador benefits at Soneva Secret (e.g. best rate and two personalized Soneva experiences).
- Review: read my review of Soneva Secret here.
1. FOUR SEASONS PRIVATE ISLAND MALDIVES AT VOAVAH
A true private island escape, Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah captures the imagination and redefines Maldivian luxury. From the moment you book, this exclusive-use island becomes entirely yours. Set within the Maldives’ only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Voavah accommodates up to 22 guests with seven spacious bedrooms, a private spa, and an on-site dive school. At the heart of the island is a stunning two-story beach house, surrounded by powdery white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs—exquisite, even by Maldives standards. Guests also have exclusive access to Voavah Summer, a 19-meter (62-foot) private yacht, perfect for exploring the protected Baa Atoll. From diving with whale sharks and snorkeling with manta rays to swimming with turtles, fishing for your dinner, visiting local islands, surfing undiscovered waves, or cruising into unforgettable sunsets—Voavah offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the world’s most pristine marine environments.
- Hotel website: Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah
- Tip: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Four Seasons Maldives via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, $100 USD spa credit, welcome amenity in room on arrival, and departure gift).
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