15 Best Overwaters Bungalows in The Maldives

Welcome to our guide to the best overwater bungalows in Maldives for 2024.

Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves lapping beneath you.

But it’s important to choose a resort that meets your specific needs because not every bungalow will be the perfect fit for what you’re looking for.

As an experienced travel writer who has visited numerous destinations, I’ve researched several resorts to help you find the perfect match for your dream vacation.

My personal favorite is Kudadoo Maldives Private Island as it offers the best overall experience in overwater accommodations.

Every traveler’s needs are different. That’s why I’ve included reviews of the top resorts to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

Let’s dive into paradise.

Quick Picks

Our Best Picks for Overwater Bungalows in The Maldives

For those pressed for time or looking for a quick recommendation, here’s a snapshot of the top overwater bungalows in the Maldives, each offering a unique slice of paradise.

• Best Overall: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island. Known for its luxury and exclusivity, offering an all-inclusive experience with sustainability at its core.

• Best Location and Accessibility: Four Season Maldives at Kuda Huraa. Easily accessible by speedboat, offering a unique experience with its private island charm and proximity to Malé.

• Best Accommodation Quality: Sun Siyam Olhuveli. Features a variety of room types including overwater bungalows and beach villas, with amenities like private pools and outdoor showers.

• Best Guest Reviews and Ratings: Baros Maldives. Highly rated for its exceptional service and consistently positive feedback from guests.

• Best Luxury: Lily Beach Resort and Spa. A premium all-inclusive resort known for its luxurious amenities and services.

• Best Dining Experience: Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. Offers a divine food experience with a variety of dining options and restaurants.

• Best Resort for honeymoons and romance: Anantara Maldives. It offers an idyllic escape for couples, combining luxurious privacy with breathtaking ocean views for the ultimate romantic getaway.

• Best Environmental Practices and Sustainability: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu. Committed to environmental conservation with initiatives like coral planting and use of renewable energy.

• Best for a wedding destination: LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas. It’s the perfect wedding destination, offering a stunning background of turquoise waters and secluded beaches for an unforgettable ceremony.

• Best Family and Child Friendliness: Soneva Fushi Maldives. Features the largest kids’ club in the Maldives, family suites, and child-friendly amenities.

15 Best Overwater Bungalows in The Maldives

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island sets the bar high with a remarkable 4.8-star rating on Tripadvisor, a testament to its exceptional service and unique experiences.

Enter a world of refined elegance at Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, where luxurious overwater residences merge seamlessly with eco-conscious design. With panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, each residence offers privacy and a deep connection to nature.

Enjoy the ultimate in luxury with in-room amenities including private infinity pools, sundecks and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Savor gourmet dining experiences range from beachside barbecues to exquisite fine dining under the stars.

Known for its “Anything, Anytime, Anywhere” philosophy, Kudadoo ensures a personalized stay tailored to your desires.

From Velana International Airport, take a scenic 40-minute seaplane ride to the island and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maldivian beauty.

Best for:

• Exclusivity and privacy: With only 15 overwater residences, Kudadoo offers a secluded and intimate experience.
• Sustainable Luxury: As the only fully solar-powered private island in the Maldives, it harmoniously blends luxury with eco-friendliness.
• Personalized Service: Enjoy the dedicated service of personal butlers who are available 24/7 to attend to your every need.
• Unlimited Leisure Activities: From rejuvenating spa treatments to exhilarating water sports, all experiences are included and unlimited.

W Maldives by Marriott

W Maldives by Marriott is highly acclaimed with a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, reflecting its exceptional service and guest satisfaction.

This luxurious 5-star private island resort is a heart-shaped playground of paradise, with overwater views from every room and a peaceful atmosphere that contributes to a relaxing and memorable stay.

The resort offers amenities such as complimentary high-speed Internet, a fitness center, a bar/lounge, and a variety of room features including allergy-friendly rooms, bathrobes, air conditioning, and coffee/tea makers. Guests can enjoy the private beach and activities such as canoeing.

The well-appointed rooms with privacy and special features such as aquarium-view floor sections, a stunning house reef, and private pools are highly praised. The resort’s vibrant atmosphere, especially the live music, makes the nights come alive.

Located in the North Ari Atoll, W Maldives is a 45-minute seaplane flight from Malé.

Best for:

• Luxury and privacy: Offers secluded overwater villas with modern amenities and exceptional views.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Known for its lively entertainment and warm hospitality.
• World-class service: The attentive and personalized service provided by the staff is consistently praised.

Four Seasons Maldives in Kuda Huraa

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa earns a perfect 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, reflecting its exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences.

Four Seasons at Kuda Huraa is often compared to a traditional Maldivian village as it is set amidst vibrant gardens and serene beaches. This resort offers a harmonious blend of local culture and modern luxury.

The rooms are very spacious with private gardens and outdoor showers, accompanied by a variety of dining venues serving delicious international cuisines.

Its convenient proximity to Malé and speedboat access make it an exclusive yet accessible retreat.

You can take a short 30-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport to arrive directly at the resort’s shores, ready to begin your luxurious escape.

Best for:

• Family-friendly activities: Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages, including exhilarating surf adventures and enchanting dolphin-watching experiences.
• Traditional Maldivian Experience: Dive into the rich culture of the Maldives with a stay designed to reflect the essence of a traditional Maldivian village.
• Garden-style resort: the Four Seasons resort creates a garden atmosphere with the beauty of lush tropical flowers and verdant gardens.
• Accessibility: Take advantage of the resort’s convenient accessibility, allowing you to seamlessly transition from the city of Malé to the oasis of Kuda Huraa.

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO enjoys a perfect 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, praised for its world-class service and luxury lifestyle experience.

The resort offers a tranquil island experience with chic villas, including two-bedroom family suites and romantic overwater villas.

Guests can enjoy an all-inclusive plan that includes food, beverages and activities, as well as a spa, gym and kids’ club.

The underwater restaurant, M6m, offers a unique dining experience six meters below the surface of the ocean.

Located in the South Male Atoll, the resort is a 45-minute luxury speedboat ride from Malé.

Best for: 

• All-inclusive luxury: With a comprehensive plan that includes a wide range of services and activities.
• Underwater dining: Offers an exclusive underwater restaurant for a memorable dining experience.
• Family Friendly: Offering spacious family suites and a kids club with daily activities.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli

Sun Siyam Olhuveli holds an impressive 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor. This resort is a tropical paradise offering a variety of accommodations, including luxurious overwater bungalows with direct access to the lagoon and stunning ocean views.

Guests can enjoy private pools, outdoor showers, and a variety of international dining options, including Indian cuisine and fresh seafood.

The resort features extensive water sports facilities and vibrant marine life, perfect for adventure-seekers.

Located in the South Malé Atoll, the resort is a 45-minute speedboat ride from the airport for a quick start to your vacation.

Best for:

• Variety of accommodations: Offers a wide range of room types, including overwater bungalows and beach villas.
• Water Sports and Marine Life: Known for its extensive water sports facilities and vibrant marine life.
• Variety of Dining Options: Offers several dining venues serving international, Indian and seafood cuisines.
• Value for Money: Offers an array of amenities and activities, while providing a balance of cost and luxury.

Constance Halaveli

Constance Halaveli boasts a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor, recognized for its luxurious hideaway and intimate setting.

The resort offers a variety of villas, including water villas with private plunge pools and beach villas for families.

Each villa has a private sundeck and plunge pool, and guests can savor fine dining at the resort’s restaurants.

Shaped like a curved dhoni (Maldivian boat), the resort offers a magical setting with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Located in the North Ari Atoll, the resort is accessible by seaplane from Malé International Airport.

Best for:

• Intimate luxury: Offers a magical and intimate setting with private villas.
• Culinary Excellence: Featuring fine dining restaurants with sumptuous flavors.
• Unique Design: The design of the resort, reminiscent of a dhoni, adds to the exclusivity of the experience.

Baros Maldives

Baros Maldives has a perfect 5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

A luxurious island resort near Malé, offering secluded villas set among palm trees on white sandy beaches or overwater with sundecks. Many villas have private pools and spa baths.

The resort offers complimentary Wi-Fi, espresso machines, bottles of wine, minibars, and more. Guests can relax in the spa and infinity pool, enjoy water sports, and take yoga classes. Dining options include a library lounge and personalized concierge services.

It’s Known for its elegant sandstone and wooden villas with thatched roofs, offering a blend of intimacy and exciting marine life.

Located on a small island near Malé in a turquoise lagoon, easily accessible for travelers.

Best for:

• Secluded luxury: Offers private, stylish villas with modern amenities.
• Varied Activities: From spa relaxation to active water sports and yoga.
• Cuisine: A variety of dining experiences, including Italian and Indo-Thai fusion cuisine.

Lily Beach Resort and Spa

Lily Beach Resort & Spa enjoys an outstanding 5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

An award-winning five-star resort on Huvahendhoo Island, with a house reef just yards from shore. known for its all-inclusive Platinum Plan and the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Accommodations include nine luxury oceanfront villas with pools. The resort features four lively bars and four dining options, ranging from fine Italian to Indo-Thai fusion.

A 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé International Airport will get you directly to the resort.

Best for:

• All-Inclusive Luxury: Extensive Platinum Plan for dining and activities.
• Marine Exploration: Proximity to pristine house reef for snorkeling.
• Culinary Delights: Varied dining options with an emphasis on trends and presentation.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has an impressive 5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

A stunning resort located among white sands and crystal blue waters, offering a luxurious escape with 11 acclaimed dining venues.

The resort features a world-class Lifestyle Spa Sanctuary, activities for all ages, and true Waldorf Astoria personalized service. Waldorf Astoria is praised for its opulent amenities, multiple dining options, and engaging activities in a beautiful setting.

You can enjoy a 40-minute yacht ride from Malé International Airport to get to the resort.

Best for:

• Epicurean experience: A variety of dining options and restaurants for a divine dining experience.
• Luxury Escape: Elegant accommodations with scenic beauty and entertainment.
• Personalized Service: Renowned for impeccable service and attention to detail.

Anantara Maldives

Anantara Maldives enjoys a high 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

This resort is a haven of luxury, offering stunning views and private pools in a variety of accommodations, including overwater bungalows and beachfront villas.

Guests can treat themselves to a range of activities, from spa treatments to fitness routines, and enjoy a variety of dining options to suit all palates.

The resort is renowned for its extensive water sports facilities, allowing guests to explore the vibrant marine life.

Conveniently located, Anantara Maldives is just a short drive from the airport, ensuring a seamless transition to relaxation.

Best for:

• Luxurious Facilities: With its spa and fitness center, the property caters to those seeking wellness and rejuvenation.
• Water Sports Enthusiasts: A haven for guests interested in ocean adventures.
• Gastronomy: Offers a culinary journey with its variety of dining options.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu has an excellent 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

The resort is a model of eco-friendly luxury, offering accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.

It offers a unique experience with its commitment to environmental conservation, including coral planting and renewable energy initiatives.

It’s Known for its commitment to sustainability, the resort offers a guilt-free luxury experience.

The resort is a short seaplane flight from the airport, making it an easily accessible destination.

Best for:

• Eco-conscious travelers: Ideal for those who value environmental responsibility.
• Unique Experiences: Offers activities such as coral planting that are not commonly found elsewhere.

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives is renowned for its luxurious offerings and exceptional service, reflected in its perfect 5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

This premium resort offers privacy and upscale comfort with a range of beautifully designed accommodations, including stunning overwater villas and beachfront suites.

The resort features impressive amenities such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa offering a variety of treatments, and activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling. Dining experiences are enhanced by international and local dishes prepared by expert chefs.

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru is praised for its attentive, personalized service, varied cuisine and commitment to providing unique experiences such as underwater dining adventures and eco-friendly initiatives.

Located on Kuredhivaru Island in Noonu Atoll, the resort is just a 45-minute seaplane ride from Malé.

Best for:

• Exclusivity: Private villas and suites with stunning views and luxurious amenities.
• Gourmet dining: Offers multiple dining venues that cater to all tastes.
• Unique Experiences: Offers a blend of relaxation and adventure with facilities such as a refined spa, reef diving, and eco-conscious activities.

LUX South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas

LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas has a perfect 5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

A popular wedding destination, the resort offers a picturesque setting with turquoise waters and secluded beaches, with exceptional services and facilities.

The resort is equipped with luxurious amenities and offers a variety of dining options to ensure a memorable stay. 

An idyllic location for weddings and special events, the resort offers exceptional services and facilities.

Best for:

• Romantic getaways: Perfect for couples looking to tie the knot or celebrate their love in a beautiful setting.
• Luxury Seekers: Those seeking a lavish experience will find it here.

Soneva Fushi Maldives

Soneva Fushi Maldives comes highly recommended with a 5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

This resort is a luxurious escape located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering private island villas surrounded by lush jungle and overwater bungalows.

The resort features 14 dining destinations, transformative wellness experiences at Soneva Soul, and The Den, one of the largest children’s playgrounds in South Asia.

Guests can enjoy all-inclusive luxury with Soneva Unlimited, and the resort is known for its sustainability efforts.

Soneva Fushi is accessible via a short flight from Dharavandhoo Airport, followed by a boat ride.

Best for:

• Family-friendly luxury: With the largest kids’ club in the Maldives and family suites.
• Sustainable Travel: Emphasis on eco-friendly practices and experiences.
• Varied Dining: Offering a wide variety of culinary options.

Canareef Resort Maldives

Canareef Resort Maldives has an excellent 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor.

Located on the southernmost atoll, this resort spans 4.5 kilometers, making it the longest island resort in the country.

The resort welcomes guests with spacious rooms and offers activities such as scuba diving and dolphin watching.

Crossing the equator is a highlight, and guests receive a personalized certificate for the experience.

The resort is a short 10-minute speedboat ride from Gan International Airport.

Best for:

• Adventure seekers: With unique dive sites and marine life encounters.
• Long Island Experience: Enjoy the expansive natural beauty of the longest island resort.
• Value for Money: Offering a balance of cost and luxury.

Maldives Travel Tips

If you’re traveling to Maldives, you should prepare for sun, sea, and sand in one of the most beautiful places on earth. But before you pack your bags, let’s dive into some essential travel tips to make your Maldivian adventure smooth and memorable.

The Weather

The best time to visit the Maldives is from November to April, during the dry season. This period offers sunny skies and ideal beach weather. It’s the perfect escape from colder climates. However, as this is also the peak tourist season, expect higher prices during these months. If you’re considering a trip, it might be worth checking out when to book a flight to get the best deals and travel tips.

Traveling from May to October may be preferable for those who prefer to avoid the crowds. This is the monsoon season in the Maldives. Although it’s less crowded and prices are significantly lower, be prepared for some rain. This can be a perfect opportunity to explore indoor activities and enjoy the vivid, lush greenery that the rains bring to the islands.

Culture considerations

The predominant religion is Islam, which plays an important role in daily life. You’ll find mosques throughout the islands, reflecting their importance in the community. It’s important to note that alcohol and pork are restricted on the mainland, so it’s best to indulge in these on the resort islands, where they are permitted.

When visiting local islands, dressing conservatively shows respect for local customs. Men can wear sarongs and shirts, while women can opt for long dresses. For those who wish to enjoy the beach in typical Western swimwear, the Maldives has designated “bikini beaches” specifically for tourists.

The cuisine in the Maldives is sure to please your palate with a delicious mix of fish and coconut. Local dishes often include spicy curries, soups, and an array of fresh seafood such as tuna and snapper.

Cultural performances in the Maldives, influenced by various surrounding nations, are a highlight not to be missed. The Bodu Beru, for example, is a traditional form of music and dance that features energetic drumming and dancing.

For more detailed information about traveling to the Maldives, visit the official Maldives tourism website.

How to prepare for your trip

Transportation within the Maldives includes both scenic and practical options. Seaplanes offer stunning aerial views of the coral atolls but come with luggage restrictions. Speedboats, on the other hand, offer a more budget-friendly way to traverse the azure waters.

The Maldives offers a wide range of activities to keep you entertained, from exciting water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling to more relaxing pursuits like spa treatments at a resort.

Understanding and respecting local etiquette is essential when visiting the Maldives. Dress modestly when outside of resorts and remember that alcohol consumption is not allowed on local islands. This respect for local customs will enhance your experience and help maintain harmony with the local community.

Our Verdict

When you come to the Maldives, choosing the right resort can make all the difference. It’s about finding that perfect spot where comfort meets the breathtaking beauty of the ocean.

Everyone has their own idea of the perfect getaway. And this article is all about helping you choose your dream bungalow.

And if you’re looking for an experience that’s private, luxurious and unforgettable, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is a fantastic choice.

Frequently Asked Questions