places to visit instead of maldives

Where to go instead of the Maldives

By Lee Cobaj

Riau Islands, Indonesia

Best for: Splendid isolation Percolating through the South China Sea, Indonesia's untamed Riau Archipelago feels like it's on the edge of the world but can actually be reached fairly easily from Singapore (rather than Jakarta), via the Bintan and Batam ferries or a Maldives -esque seaplane. In the more accessible southern islands, you'll find adorable sea otters dancing along bright-white boulder-studded beaches. In the north, jewel-like island clusters rise out of aquamarine lagoons flecked with tropical fish. Where to stay: Cempedak Private Island has impressive eco-credentials and striking bamboo architecture or go for the more remote Bawah Reserve , set across six Edenic islands.

Best for: White beaches and blue whales

Mozambique shares more than 2,500 kilometres of its platinum sand coastline with the same Indian Ocean as the Maldives. Unspoiled islands come in chains ringed by vibrant coral reefs, superb dive sites and a wealth of magical marine life, including dugongs, dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and, at the right time of year, blue whales (which you won't find in the Maldives).

Where to stay: The Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort has 44 thatch-roof villas set on a sweep of beach set inside a protected national marine park.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Best for: Food lovers

Cradled inside the Bay of Bengal, south of Myanmar and west of Thailand , this coral-encrusted archipelago is made up of 572 islands, only 38 of which are inhabited. Along with turquoise waters, ivory sands and sensational diving (dense coral belts, 55-metre drops, shipwrecks, volcano dives), visitors can hike through rainforest, kayak through mangroves and feast on tandoor snapper, coconut prawn curries and grilled lobster garnished with butter, parsley and chilli flakes.

Where to stay: Perfectly positioned on one of the best beaches in the archipelago, the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa offers a Maldives-level luxury experience. Or, try the atmospheric rainforest retreat Jalakara .

Northern Palawan, Philippines

Best for: Exclusivity

Made up of 1,780 fantastical tropical islands surrounded by shimmering beaches and electric blue waters, Palawan is one of the most popular beach destinations in Asia . But, while the main tourism hot spots – El Nido, Coron, Puerta Princessa – attract big crowds, if you aim for the north of the archipelago you'll find a pretty puzzle of pristine islands, peroxide blonde beaches, sea caves, deserted coves and soaring limestone cliffs – and barely a tourist in sight.

Where to stay: At Amanpulo , where guests arrive by private fix-wing plane and all of the villas come with private pools.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Best for: Overwater villas

While the Maldives has become synonymous with overwater villas, the concept actually originated back in the 1960s in French Polynesia. Set in the Tiffany-blue South Pacific, it's home to 118 dreamy islands, including Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora, fringed by volcanic peaks, vast coral reefs, pale pink beaches and wonderfully biodiverse marine life.

Where to stay: The most spoiling overwater villas in the country can be found at the St. Regis Resort Bora Bora .

The Whitsundays, Australia

Best for: Underwater hotel rooms

If you've got over $12,000 a night to spare, The Muraka at the Conrad Rangali Maldives has an underwater suite where you watch black-tip reef sharks and shoals of parrotfish from bed. Alternatively, you could fly to Australia and check into Reefsuites, the first underwater hotel rooms in the Great Barrier Reef with rates around $600 a night. The tank-like rooms are anchored underneath a pontoon beside Hardy Reef, which is frequented by gigantic Queensland groper, sea turtles and barracuda.

Where to stay: Reefsuites , a part of the Cruise Whitsundays group.

Sipadan, Malaysia

Best for: Serious divers

The pioneering ocean explorer and conservationist Jacques Cousteau described Sipadan as 'an untouched piece of art.' A masterwork of nature, the extinct volcanic island in Sulawesi is home to a dozen sensational dive sites, with kaleidoscopic coral gardens, plunging drop-offs, underwater tunnels and an abundance of marine life, from teeny-tiny pygmy seahorses to large hammerhead sharks to mini-bus big manta rays.

Where to stay: You can't stay on Sipadan and the nearby islands have little in the way of luxury accommodation, but the Mabul Beach Resort on Semporna has comfortable rooms and a lively bar.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Best for: Yachting

Private yachts are 10-a-penny in the Maldives. For a real sense of adventure set sail for Raja Ampat, a collection of 1,500 rainforested islands spliced between East Indonesia and West Papua. The epicentre of the spice trade during the 16th and 17th centuries, this enigmatic archipelago is as rich in history and local traditions as it is in marine life. Expect to encounter puffing volcanoes, prehistoric cave paintings and sperm whales along the way.

Where to stay: Rascal , a hand-crafted five-bedroom Indonesian phinisi with hip Hamptons-like interiors and menus designed by an in-house team of highly experienced chefs. All menus can be tailored to cater to individual preferences.

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

20 Best Maldives Alternatives (Honeymoon Edit)

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Are you planning your honeymoon and looking for the best Maldives alternatives? I totally get why you might want to find other options for your dream getaway.

It’s not to say that the Maldives isn’t heavenly. BUT, this Indian Ocean paradise is one of the world’s most expensive destinations (and it doesn’t always fit the bill for couples wanting more to see and do)!

So if that’s you – I’ve got you covered! As someone who’s worked for years in the honeymoon world, I’ve got all the lowdown on the best places for a romantic escape. 

The following options tick the boxes for a Maldives-style honeymoon and include places to suit a range of styles and budgets. From the traditional and romantic to the more off-beat, here are the best places like the Maldives!

Maldives alternatives with overwater villas

For a lot of honeymooners, overwater villas in the Maldives are the big draw. To help you narrow your choices, these first destinations have similar accommodations to those you’d find in the Maldives.

1 French Polynesia – the best place for Maldives-style luxury

First on the list of Maldives alternatives had to be French Polynesia! With its romantic atmosphere, crystal lagoons and iconic overwater bungalows, it has a super similar style to the Maldives.

Bora Bora is the country’s ultimate honeymoon paradise. Setting the bar high for couples’ travel goals, it’s a region that has high-end resorts and the most beautiful, postcard scenery. 

Like the Maldives, luxury comes at a price in French Polynesia, but it absolutely delivers if you want that bucket list experience.

It’s a heavenly, quintessential honeymoon spot and brilliant for couples looking to indulge in something special! It’s also an amazing choice for adventure with options for island hopping and fun things to see and do.

Best time to visit: May to October Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

2 Mauritius – Africa’s best Maldives alternative

Mauritius is an obvious choice if you’re looking for a fab Maldives alternative. Located in the same part of the world in the tropical Indian Ocean, Mauritius is an island that’s synonymous with honeymoons.

It’s a country that epitomises heaven. As well as gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear waters, Mauritius is an eco paradise with stunning mountains and nature reserves.

Like the Maldives, you’ll be blessed with first-class snorkelling and diving. But you’ll also have lots to do on land in Mauritius – from hiking and wildlife activities to exploring cultural heritage sites.

Across Mauritius, there’s a fantastic range of accommodation to suit different styles and budgets. It’s also a much cheaper alternative to the Maldives – yet still boasts dreamy resorts, including an option with overwater villas.

Best time to visit: September to December Where to stay: Constance Le Prince Maurice

St. Lucia easily earns its title as the most romantic island in the Caribbean , making it a top contender as an alternative to the Maldives.

Much like the Maldives, St Lucia is synonymous with luxury, boasting numerous secluded hotels that are ideal for a romantic break. And even though it’s not the cheapest alternative, it’s a bucket list choice with so much to love!

Beyond its beaches, St. Lucia boasts lush rainforests, jungle reserves and the iconic Piton mountains. It’s a picture-perfect destination that rivals the Maldives’s postcard views.

The island also offers a ridiculous number of romantic activities, from horseback riding on the beach to sunset cruises and intimate private dining experiences. 

Best time to visit: December to April Where to stay: Sandals Grande St. Lucian

4 Fiji – a destination with the best islands like Maldives

When it comes to destinations like the Maldives, Fiji is an incredible choice. It’s no secret that it’s one of my favourite tropical destinations and it’s such a brilliant Maldives alternative!

With its palm-fringed beaches and vibrant coral teeming with marine life, Fiji is an island dream. Similarly to the Maldives, you’ll find the most romantic luxury resorts and hotels – including five-star overwater villas. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind and indulge in a slice of paradise.

Fiji in my opinion also boasts more to do than the Maldives and is a great alternative if you don’t want to be confined to one island resort.

READ MORE: 22 Most Romantic Things to Do in Fiji

With over 300 islands to explore, there’s so much to see and experience in this South Pacific country. For a taste of adventure, I absolutely recommend island hopping on your honeymoon to uncover the best that Fiji has to offer !

Best time to visit: May to October Where to stay: Likuliku Lagoon Resort

Zanzibar feels like more of an under-the-radar gem yet it’s an incredible alternative to the Maldives. Because it doesn’t get as much attention as other Indian Ocean islands, it’s perfect if you’re after an authentic paradise escape.

With its stunning tropical scenery, Zanzibar easily competes as one of the best destinations like the Maldives. This island’s beaches are breathtaking, with palm-fringed sands and clear blue waters.

Zanzibar is also a Maldives alternative that has diverse experiences and a little more to see and do. Being part of Tanzania, Zanzibar is also a fantastic choice if you want a multi-destination honeymoon . You can easily mix a beach break here with a once-in-a-lifetime safari.

Best time to visit: June to October Where to stay: Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas

6 Jamaica – a great all-inclusive Maldives-style option

The Caribbean islands make a perfect Maldives alternative and Jamaica is no exception. It’s a top choice for newlyweds who want the best of island life – and is one of the best places like the Maldives closer to the US!

READ MORE: 10 Best Caribbean Islands for Couples

If you’re dreaming of the Maldives but want a bit more to see and do, Jamaica’s got you covered. Unlike the Maldives, it’s not just about the beaches – although they’re stunning – but you’ll also find lush tropical landscapes with waterfalls and jungles.

Jamaica is also a destination that’s known for its lively atmosphere. You’ll find beach parties and tons to do, from water sports, sailing and snorkelling to horseback riding and rafting.

Jamaica ticks the boxes for luxury, too. Couples Resorts and Sandals Resorts are top choices for honeymooners in Jamaica. In the latter, you’ll find incredible overwater bungalows with all the Maldives vibes!

Best time to visit: December to April Where to stay: Sandals Royal Caribbean , Sandals South Coast

7 Palawan, Philippines – one of the cheaper Maldives alternatives

The Philippines’ province of Palawan stands out as one of the world’s most picturesque places. It’s an incredible rival to the Maldives and one that comes without the hefty price tag!

Like the Maldives, Palawan is famed for its secluded beaches, glistening waters and vibrant coral reefs. Yet it’s also a destination with diverse scenery with rugged limestone cliffs and lush tropical jungles. 

Unlike a trip to the Maldives, island hopping is a lot more common in Palawan. El Nido and Coron are the most famous spots to visit. However, if you’re after a bit more privacy, exploring the lesser-known islands and beaches will be perfect.

Even though Palawan is a cheaper alternative to Maldives, you’ll still find ultra-romantic accommodation. You’ll get lots of options for private villas, paradise hideaways and overwater bungalows, too.

Best time to visit: November to May Where to stay: Cauayan Island Resort and Spa , El Nido Resorts Lagen Island

Another gem that boasts overwater villas like the Maldives is Malaysia. This is a country that’s teeming with tropical spots as well as exotic islands that are perfect for a Maldives-style escape.

Some of the best places to consider in Malaysia include the Perhentian Islands and Langkawi , which is an archipelago of 99 islands.

Langkawi is a dream destination for beach lovers but it’s also great if you want a little more variety in your scenery. You’ll find lush mountainous jungles, mangrove forests and cascading waterfalls. 

It’s also a popular choice with honeymooners so there are tons of dreamy hotels – including the St. Regis and Berjaya Langkawi Resort , both of which have overwater rooms.

Best time to visit: November to March (Langkawi) or March to October (Perhentian Islands) Where to stay: The St. Regis Langkawi , Pangkor Laut Resort  

The Caribbean is perfect for a honeymoon and there are so many great islands to choose from. However, if you’re after the romance and tranquillity that the Maldives offers, Antigua is a good bet.

Compared to some of its Caribbean counterparts, Antigua exudes a sense of privacy and seclusion, making it an ideal destination for quality time together. It’s also an island that feels timeless with a whole lot of charm!

One of the best things about Antigua is its gorgeous scenery and the fact that it has 365 beaches… it’s a true paradise for beach lovers! 

For couples wanting luxury or adults-only accommodation, Antigua also fits the bill. You’ll find five-star villas, all-inclusive resorts, as well as Maldives-style water options at Royalton Antigua. 

Best time to visit: December to April Where to stay: Royalton Antigua , Jumby Bay

10 Mozambique – an under-the-radar place like Maldives

If you want a unique alternative to the Maldives, Mozambique is a winner. It might not be on many people’s lists – but it absolutely should be! 

Nestled between Tanzania and South Africa , Mozambique is an authentic and exotic beach honeymoon destination. It feels like an undiscovered choice yet it’s a country that boasts endless miles of dazzling coastline.

With its remote and secluded settings, Mozambique feels very similar to the Maldives (albeit more adventurous). You’ll also find heavenly resorts on the islands off the coast as well as rustic water bungalows.

Beyond its paradise beaches, Mozambique is a culturally rich destination that’s perfect for exploring. Whether you’re visiting cultural sites or national parks, relaxing on a traditional sailboat, or snorkelling the reefs, it’s a once-of-a-kind choice!

Best time to visit: May to October Where to stay: Azura Benguerra Island , Sentidos Beach Retreat

11 Turks & Caicos 

If you’re craving stunning beaches you can’t go wrong with Turks & Caicos. This is a destination that’s known for its pristine shores with Grace Bay Beach snagging the world’s best beach award on multiple occasions.

With a quieter scene compared to other Caribbean spots, Turks & Caicos is ideal for those seeking privacy and relaxation. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the best alternatives to Maldives with such blissful surroundings.

Comprising 40 islands, Turks & Caicos is a haven for island hopping and discovering charming cays and secluded beaches. It’s also home to one of the world’s largest barrier reefs so you won’t be missing out!

While it leans towards the pricier side, Turks & Caicos boasts incredible accommodation that’s perfect for honeymooners. From private island villas to beach resorts and luxury water pavilions the options are amazing.

Best time to visit: December to April Where to stay: Amanyara , Sailrock South Caicos  

12 Thailand 

As one of Southeast Asia’s best honeymoon destinations , Thailand couldn’t be left off the list. It’s one of my favourite countries… It has so much to brag about and is a fantastic place to consider instead of the Maldives!

As a diverse destination, Thailand has so many areas to explore. Across the country, you’ll find incredible beauty with verdant rural scenery, majestic mountains and gorgeous national parks. 

RELATED: Bali or Thailand: Which is Better?

Unique overwater bungalows can be found in insanely beautiful places in Thailand. However, it’s the beaches that make this one of the countries similar to the Maldives.

If you’re dreaming of powdery sands and crystal waters, the tropical island of Koh Samui is fab. Like the Maldives, it’s a place that very much caters to newlyweds with luxurious and romantic resorts.

It’s a winner if all you want to do is relax in the sun. But, if you want more to see and do, you’ll also find opportunities for things like island hopping and exploring the tropical, postcard surroundings.

Best time to visit: January to April Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

Mexico ticks all the right boxes for a Maldives-style honeymoon. It’s a destination with so much to offer, and its white sandy coastline is perfect for couples wanting a relaxing break.

The Riviera Maya on the Caribbean Coast is a super pretty destination with everything you could want from a dream honeymoon. Like the Maldives, luxury, all-inclusive resorts come as standard, as do beautiful beaches!

South along the coast, Tulum is also fab for a Mexican honeymoon. If you’re after a back-to-nature tropical paradise, Tulum delivers in spades. It’s also a great destination for gorgeous villas, boho resorts and rustic-luxe accommodation.

You could check out Isla Holbox for a honeymoon in Mexico, too. North of Cancun, this tropical island is a car-free paradise (like the Maldives) and filled with romantic hotels. 

Best time to visit: December to April Where to stay: Rosewood Mayakoba , Hotel Boutique Casa Muuch Holbox

More dream places similar to the Maldives

The following options don’t have overwater villas. However, they still have incredible hotels as well as the most breathtaking tropical scenery!

14 Hawaii 

With its exceptional landscapes and stunning beaches, Hawaii can’t be left off a list of the best Maldives alternatives. It’s easily one of the planet’s most beautiful places and is ideal if you want to mix beaches with adventure.

Among its islands, Kauai and Oahu stand out as some of the most scenic. Kauai, in particular, has a wild and remote beauty with hidden beaches, tropical rainforests and dramatic cliffs.

Admittedly, the scenery is different and a lot more varied than the Maldives, but it’s still a worthy alternative if you want a tropical island escape!

Hawaii does lack overwater bungalows, but it more than compensates with its incredible hotels. With beachfront resorts and luxurious accommodation, Hawaii promises a dream retreat for couples.

Best time to visit: April to September Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Oahu , 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

15 Seychelles – the best Maldives alternative for privacy

With 115 scattered islands, the Seychelles is a scene of unparalleled beauty. Like the Maldives, this is a remote vacation spot and a heavenly choice for those wanting seclusion.

If you’re after dream beaches, you won’t be disappointed in the Seychelles – Anse Source d’Argent is one of the world’s most photographed beaches. It’s absolutely breathtaking and easily rivals those in the Maldives!

Just like the Maldives, this is a destination with a big focus on relaxing and doing very little. You might not find a ton of activities but its stunning surroundings more than make up for it.

As one of Africa’s top honeymoon destinations , you’ll also find ultra-romantic accommodation in the Seychelles. It’s a heavenly spot that’s worthy of royalty (Will and Kate are fans!) so it’s a top choice for an unforgettable trip.

Best time to visit: April to May & October to November Where to stay: North Island , Denis Private Island Seychelles

16 Whitsundays, Australia

Situated off the coast of Queensland on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia’s Whitsunday Islands have all the paradise vibes. It’s a bucket list destination and one that gives the Maldives a run for its money!

Whitehaven Beach is the jewel of the Whitsundays. It’s hailed as one of the world’s most stunning beaches with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s easily one of the best I’ve seen!

Thanks to its location, the Whitsunday Islands offer exceptional opportunities for snorkelling, diving and sunbathing. It’s not just about beaches and water activities though – this area also has lush forests and picturesque hiking trails. 

RELATED: 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations in October

While this is an area that’s popular with backpackers, there are also incredible resorts catering to couples. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the paradise vibes.

Best time to visit: September to December Where to stay: Qualia Resort , Elysian Luxury Eco Island Retreat  

17 Bahamas – one of the top places like Maldives in the Caribbean

Over in the Caribbean, the Bahamas stands as an absolute paradise that’s an ideal alternative to the Maldives. It’s among the best islands in the Caribbean and is top-notch for couples wanting to relax in the tropics!

With around 700 islands fringed with coral reefs and sparkling waters, the Bahamas is the epitome of postcard-worthy beauty.

As you’d find in the Maldives, the Bahamas is very much about unwinding and embracing the best of island life. Whether that’s taking boat trips, soaking up the sun on sandy shores or joining a snorkelling tour.

The choice of islands in the Bahamas means there’s lots to explore and different places you could stay. For the most similar Maldives style, I’d go for the Exumas , Cat Island , Eleuthera or Long Island – they all promise secluded and romantic retreats.

You’ll also find an array of accommodation options across the Bahamas, from luxurious resorts to tranquil beachside villas.

Best time to visit: December to April Where to stay: Grand Isle Resort & Residences

18 Sri Lanka

Out of all the options on this list, Sri Lanka probably isn’t the most similar to Maldives – but I wanted to include it because it’s still a sun-drenched, paradise island. 

This is a country with a lot of tropical allure with luxury hotels, sweeping golden beaches and the most breathtaking rural landscapes. It’s known for being seriously picturesque so it’s a fab choice if that’s your key consideration!

In comparison with the Maldives, Sri Lanka has far more to see and do. It’s a destination with something for everyone and has a diverse tapestry of attractions – from rich cultural sites and temples to tea plantations and wildlife reserves. 

Sri Lanka is bouncing back from Covid and its economic crisis. That doesn’t however mean it should be avoided. In my opinion, it makes it an even more amazing choice because it feels a little more authentic and secluded!

Best time to visit: December to March (or April to September for the east coast) Where to stay: Uga Ulagalla , Karpaha Sands

19 Gili islands, Indonesia

There’s a lot to love about Indonesia. This is a country that has so many beautiful islands with options to suit different styles. However, my choice for a Maldives-style honeymoon here is the Gili Islands .

Often paired with a Bali getaway, these little coral-fringed islands exude tropical charm and are a lovely choice for a honeymoon. 

The three islands – Gili Trawangan , Gili Air and Gili Meno – offer all the laid-back beach vibes. They’re also a destination where you won’t find cars or motorised vehicles so you’ll get a back-to-nature paradise like you would in the Maldives.

Each of the Gilis is a little different so you’ll find one you love (although you can easily hop between them if you want to visit them all). 

READ MORE: Ultimate Gili Islands Honeymoon Guide + Map (2024)

The choice that’s normally a favourite with newlyweds is Gili Meno, which is the smallest of the trio. It’s dubbed the “honeymoon island” and offers unparalleled peace and serenity. It also boasts the region’s best snorkelling spots and beaches!

Best time to visit: May to September Where to stay: BASK Gili Meno , Villa Tokay  

20 Costa Rica 

Lush jungles, volcanoes and unspoiled beaches – there’s so much to love about Costa Rica. With rich green and biodiverse landscapes, it might not seem like a place like the Maldives, but it should still be on your list!

Costa Rica is all about nature. It’s one of the world’s best ecotourism destinations and is home to numerous national parks and nature reserves. It’s an idyllic paradise that’s perfect for escaping the hustle.

It’s easily one of the best places if all you want to do is switch off and get away from it all. In that sense, it’s very similar to the Maldives!

Costa Rica is also an exceptional wellness destination, where you’ll find gorgeous yoga retreats and places to chill out and get extra rejuvenation. You’ll also find a ton of bucket-list accommodation that’s perfect for a honeymoon.

It might not have the overwater villas, but you’ll find the most incredible rainforest lodges, beach retreats and hideaways. They’re absolute goals and are just as unforgettable as what you’d find in the Maldives.

Best time to visit: November to April Where to stay: Makanda by The Sea Hotel , Pacuare Lodge  

Honeymoon alternatives to Maldives – Wrap up

There’s no question that the Maldives is an amazing honeymoon spot. It’s romantic, luxurious and a top-tier choice.

However, if the cost seems out of reach, or you want more to see and do, there are plenty of alternatives to explore. From the Caribbean to Southeast Asia, so many places feel similar to the Maldives with overwater villas, paradise landscapes and all the luxury vibes!

• READ MORE: Is Fiji Boring or Worth Visiting?
• READ MORE: 15 Best Multi Destination Honeymoon Ideas
• READ MORE: 21 Best Honeymoon Destinations in September (2024)
• READ MORE: 14 Best Places Like Bali (Fewer Crowds + Similar Vibes)
• READ MORE: Best Mamanuca Island Resorts Fiji
• READ MORE: 10 Best Places to Honeymoon in December

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Hannah Marie is the founder of Mariee Travel. For 8 years she worked as a wedding magazine editor, writing about the world’s best honeymoons and romantic escapes. Having travelled to 5 continents and numerous bucket-list destinations, she helps her readers plan their next dream getaway.

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5 Cheaper Maldives Alternatives: The Ultimate List

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With overwater bungalows on the azure blue ocean and palm trees lining the beaches, the Maldives is a bucket list destination for many. 

However, for most people, the Maldives is a tropical paradise out of their budget. 

So, where can you go to enjoy the same beauty as the Maldives but at half the price? 

Gili Islands, Indonesia 

Only a short boat ride from Bali, the Gili Islands in Indonesia offer picturesque white sand beaches, tall palms and some of the best snorkelling in the region. 

Although the Gili Islands don’t have overwater bungalows like the Maldives, there are plenty of beach bungalows to choose from, starting at as low as $40 per night.

Some of the best things to do in the Gili Islands include

• Go snorkelling
• Ride on a Gili swing 
• Watch the sunset 

Whitsunday Islands, Australia 

Located in the heart of the world’s largest and most famous reef, the Whitsunday Islands are the perfect alternative to the Maldives. 

With secluded bays, lush forests, and some of the whitest sand in the world, a trip to the Whitsunday Islands will only cost you half as much as a trip to the Maldives.

Some of the best things to do in the Whitsundays include

• Visiting the world-famous Whitehaven Beach 
• Flying over the Heart Reef
• Seeking out secluded beaches

El Gouna, Egypt 

Located on the Red Sea, this modern Egyptian resort town is a hidden gem that is a cheaper Maldives alternative. 

Not only does El Gouna boast azure waters, but it’s home to thriving coral reefs, allowing you to snorkel at your leisure. 

Lined with waterside accommodation, this resort town has plenty of places to choose from, with prices starting as low as $450 per night. 

Specializing in watersports, some of the best things to do in El Gouna include

• Snorkeling 
• Wakeboarding
• Sailing through the Red Sea

Northern Palawan, Philippines 

Although the Maldives has 1,200 islands, the Philippines is home to 7,100, many of them uninhabited paradises waiting to be explored. 

Famous for having the clearest and bluest water in South East Asia, if you’re looking for the Maldives blue without the price tag, then Northern Palawan is your best option! 

While the main spots such as El Nido and Coron attract big crowds, if you head north, you’ll find stunning sea caves, beautiful beaches, and limestone cliffs with accommodation a quarter of the price of the Maldives. 

Some of the best things to do in Palawan include 

• Go snorkeling 
• Explore the sea caves by kayak 
• Go island hopping

If you’re located in Europe or the Americas and don’t want to add the cost of traveling to the already expensive Maldives trip, why not head to Curaçao? 

Located in the Caribbean, this Dutch island is known for its coral reefs, crystal clear water, and perfect year-round weather. 

With prices starting as low as $300 per night for accommodation, this island paradise is definitely a cheaper alternative to the Maldives. 

Some of the best things to do in Curaçao include

• Snorkeling the coral reefs 
• Rent a car and explore the island
• Visit the best beach on the island: Grote Knip 

Where Will You Go First?

If a trip to the Maldives isn’t in your budget, you’ll be pleased to know many places around the world provide the same beauty as the Maldives but at half the cost! 

Whether traveling to Asia, Africa, or the Americas, these are our top picks for cheaper Maldives alternatives. 

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Maldives Alternatives For Your Next Tropical Escape

The Maldives is a tropical wonderland made up of 26 atolls. This archipelago is filled with a wide variety of marine life, exciting activities, opulent resorts, fascinating beaches, and crystal-clear waters. But if you’re seeking somewhere as lovely to visit instead of the Maldives, don’t give up hope just yet. Continue reading to discover some of the hidden gems that can provide you with a tropical and relaxed vacation with your loved ones. 

Top Maldives Alternatives

Have a look at the following amazing Maldives alternatives to explore and enjoy a vacation like no other with your loved ones-

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Philippines

1. Mauritius

The beautiful tropical haven of Mauritius is a vibrant island country located in the Indian Ocean. The island is home to colourful coral reefs, pristine sandy beaches, and crystal blue waters. This destination has everything for everyone, including luxury resorts , spas, and golf courses. Travellers seeking an exotic and remarkable experience will find the island to be the ideal location because of its distinctive blend of natural beauty and cultural diversity. Instead of going to the Maldives, you can consider exploring Mauritius!

Also read: Maldives vs Mauritius

2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a fantastic alternative to the Maldives. This mysterious archipelago of islands is located in the Bay of Bengal and is filled with breathtaking natural beauty. The islands have magnificent white beaches, lush greenery, and a wide variety of marine life. The islands are also popular for its extensive history, and the colonial-era monuments, which provides a window into the past. Nature lovers, adventurers, and fans of culture will find true paradise on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Also read: The top 10 must-do experiences on your first visit to the Andaman

3. Thailand

Thailand is a land of contrasts, where the chaotic streets of Bangkok coexist peacefully with the sandy beaches of the southern islands. The southern islands and beaches of the country provide a unique tropical getaway to its visitors. Get ready to visit beaches with palm trees, colourful coral reefs, and a wide variety of marine life. Indulge in a range of water sports, including jet-skiing, parasailing, and snorkelling. The popular islands of Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Tao are well-known for their exciting nightlife, mouthwatering seafood, and bustling atmosphere. While the more isolated islands, such as Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, and Koh Similan, provide an opportunity to get away from the tourists and take in the scenery.

Also read: Thailand vs the Maldives

4. Indonesia

Beautiful Indonesia is another alternative to explore on the list. With its stunning islands and boundless stretches of beaches, it is truly a paradise of unending beauty. With lavish resorts, palm-lined beaches, bright coral reefs, blue oceans, and much more, the nation’s islands and beaches offer a tropical getaway unlike any other. The islands provide options for adventure and exploration, along with the opportunities for relaxation and lazing. You can explore the islands of Bali, Lombok, Gili, and Rote in Indonesia.

Also read: 15 Amazing things to do in Gili Islands

6. Philippines

If not the Maldives, visit the gorgeous archipelago country of the Philippines. The nation is a melting pot of various cultures, warm and welcoming people, and of course, its stunning beaches! With its beautiful beaches, compelling waterfalls, and thick rainforests, the Philippines is a truly beautiful country.  Explore the nation by scuba diving and snorkelling in the pristine waters, going on a jungle excursion, or just relaxing on the white sand beaches. The Philippines is the ideal vacation spot for those looking for culture, adventure, and a tropical paradise.

Also read: Why you should visit Luzon Island in the Philippines

What are you waiting for? Pickyourtrail is home to the greatest travel packages for numerous destinations all over the world. Visit Pickyourtrail and pick the ideal Maldives package , and you are all set for a memorable vacation. Here, you can also customise your itinerary and have a trip on your own terms and conditions, sounds perfect, right!  Hurry up and don’t waste your time, travel is only a click away!

Arundhati Toshniwal

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6 Unforgettable Places like the Maldives but Cheaper

The maldives have been lauded by many a gap-year goer for their energetic culture, prolific landmarks, luscious greenery, and immaculate beaches. with this recognition, however, comes stagnation as many people view visiting the maldives as either a foregone conclusion or repeat destination, which takes the wind out of the wings of many aspiring travellers. .

The island collective has built quite a lucrative reputation for itself, which has acted as a double-edged sword for the small republic. While it has undoubtedly served as a dream getaway for many, there are plenty of folks who find themselves put off by sheer number of yearly visitors and the associated price tag that such a premium location commands. If this sounds like you then you’ve stumbled across the perfect list. Join us as we recount a number of spots that provide many of the same benefits of the Maldives, but with the added stipulations of being both cheaper and less busy!

Cayo Largo del Sur - Cuba

Cuba is an island brimming with places to visit . If you’re looking for the crystal clear waters and tranquil beaches the Maldives are known for, but at a more forgiving price point, look no further than Cayo Largo del Sur. This luscious Caribbean islet located a hundred miles south of Havana is notable for having dazzling white sand beaches spanning 17 miles of shoreline, towering mangrove trees that cast a unique shade across the beaches, and a legendary black coral reef that draws in scuba divers from far and wide.

Tripadvisor awarded this island paradise the title of third best beach in the world for good reason, it is truly a marvel of nature. With return flights to Havana likely only running you around £350-£400 with a little extra to get to the island itself, Cayo Largo del Sur is a no brainer visit if you're looking for a seaside getaway.

El Gouna - Egypt

Carrying on with the theme of clear blue waters, we have the Red Sea’s El Gouna. The modern Egyptian resort town is an underrated gem that is also host to beautiful beaches and dazzling coral reefs. The private resort is adorned with waterside accommodation that leads directly into the sea itself, so if you want to literally have the sea at your doorstep, then look no further.

The Panorama Bungalows offer much of the luxurious appeal of the similar constructions available in the Maldives, but these have the benefit of being far cheaper. This frees up your budget to indulge in more of the scuba diving that the Red Sea is famous for, with the clear sea being host to a wide variety of colourful sea life living just beneath the surface. If you’re lucky, you may even find yourself swimming alongside a dolphin! With even week-long, all-inclusive stays being very affordable, you’d be remiss to pass up on this lowkey amazing destination.

Fethiye - Turkey

Fethiye sits on a natural harbour in the Turkish Riviera. While it carries a lot of the same traits that we’ve lauded the other destinations on this list for, as can be seen across the stunning Ölüdeniz beach with its crescent of white sand and mesmerising turquoise waves, where this humble town sets itself apart is that it’s dripping in rich Turkish history.

The town was once known as Telmessos, part of ancient Lycia, a confederation of independent city-states. Remnants of the ancient civilisation are present everywhere and make for a fascinating break from the beach if you’re looking to stroll around and immerse yourself in a history nearly 5000 years old.

Langkawi - Malaysia 

Gaining the mythical title of ‘The Jewel of Kedah’, Langkawi is a compact archipelago consisting of nearly 100 islands in the Andaman Sea. Few places embody the ideal image people hold of the Maldives in their mind quite like the utterly unsullied beaches and unforgettable vistas of this collection of sands and sea.

This tropical getaway is a lot less commercialised than its Indian Ocean counterpart; you'll find a lot less in the way of major resorts and more untamed jungles and unique local cuisine spots. Keep an eye out for a variety of monkeys and exotic birds roaming the islands while you traverse the treetop jungle treks. You’ll get the best view of everything the archipelago has to offer by hitting up the Langkawi sky bridge, a mechanical marvel that spans through the peak of Gunung Mat Cincang, the 2nd biggest mountain the island has to offer.

The whole area has a wild charm that’s hard to match, so if you find yourself deterred by both the price tag and crowds of the Maldives, then take a walk on the wild side and get down to Langkawi for an unforgettable experience.

Kauai - Hawaii

We’d be doing this list a disservice if we didn’t bring at least one of Hawaii’s beautiful islands as a more attainable alternative to the Maldives. Kauai is taking the spotlight this time, being both the oldest of the Hawaiian island chain and the fourth biggest Hawaiian island, it offers a somewhat unique island paradise experience. For one, it won’t be quite as sunny as the other spots on the list, as this happens to be the wettest place on earth, with an average rainfall of 440 Inches. But if you can make it past this somewhat soggy barrier to entry, there’s a lot to love here

If you would take rural over resplendent any day then you will have a lot to love across this island paradise, especially if you get a kick out of outdoor activities. Kayak along the Wailua river for a waterborne adventure or snorkel on Poipu beach for a taste of Hawaiian sea life. The island is also renowned for its hefty hikes, such as the Kokee Skate Park trail. Above all, the whole location has an undeniable laid-back atmosphere that’s sure to charm and relax you.

Belize - Central America

To cap off the list, we’re highlighting Belize. Also home to gorgeous turquoise water , shimmering sands, and stunning cayes, there’s a lot more to Belize than seems. If you enjoy aztec history, you can surmount one of the nearby Mayan pyramids and witness some incredible architecture.

One of the biggest draws of the area is a boat tour that’ll take you to Shark Ray Alley. Just off the coast of Caye Caulker, this subsection of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve is home to a wide variety of nurse sharks and stingrays that you can snorkel with. It’s a short experience but one that will truly stick with you as a once in a lifetime experience.

Starting from Skratch? Here's some tips to get you started:

https://www.finder.com/uk/places-like-maldives

Maldives - Good Facts To Know

₺ Maldivian Rufiyaa

💸 10% service charge is normally added to your bill

🌊 Clear Waters

🏖 Beautiful Beaches

🏡 Overwater Bungalows

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20 Places Similar to The Maldives

The Maldives is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations around the globe. The Island has built a lucrative reputation by serving as a home for five-star resorts , crystal clear turquoise lagoons, cyan-blue waters, white sand beaches, prolific landmarks, powdery sands, and beautiful greenery. While the Island serves as a dream getaway for many people, others are put off by the costly prices associated with various locations and the sheer number of yearly tourists. Fortunately, plenty of amazing destinations have the same beauty and amazing sceneries, perfect for travelers. Here, we will look at the 20 places similar to the Maldives.

20. Belize, Central America

Belize is located west of the vast Central American jungle and Caribbean shorelines to the east. It is best known for its amazing culture, gorgeous cays, excavated tombs of Mayan Kings, shimmering sands, and the fun scuba dive at the Great Blue Hole. According to finder , one of the main tourist destinations in the area is a boat tour that will take you to Shark Ray Alley. Located nearby is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve which provides a home to different species of stingrays and sharks. As you enjoy your stay in Belize, you can spend the night at a four-star Sapphire Beach Resort that charges $158 per night.

19. Bora Bora, Tahiti

Bora Bora is a dramatically beautiful and lush island located in French Polynesia. This area is the ideal South Pacific dream destination that rises to a steep emerald peak surrounded by an azure lagoon. Bora Bora is packed with luxury bungalows, some with glass floor panels, a cluster of coconut palms, crystal-clear waters, and amazing culture. The official language here is French, and the local's favorite meal is gourmet cuisine. Bora Bora is the ideal honeymoon destination mainly due to its many kayak trips to gorgeous islands, fun water sports, thrilling shark dives, and exciting hiking trails. Here, you can spend the night at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort.

18. Riviera Maya, Mexico

Riviera Maya is the perfect tropical destination packed with intimate boutique hotels and beautiful beaches where you can enjoy snorkeling, fishing, and dolphin diving. You will also learn more about their culture by exploring the stunning ancient ruins of Tulum located over the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Riviera Maya is the best tropical vacation mainly due to its affordable restaurants and amazing culture. There are plenty of amazing resorts to spend the night such as Rosewood Mayakoba, Barceló Maya Palace, and many others.

17. Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Aitutaki in the Cook Islands is a dream getaway destination for couples mainly due to its lush peaks, luminous aqua lagoon, and expansive beaches. According to Scratch World , the area has the friendliest community in the South Pacific. While Rarotonga is the largest town in the Cook Islands, Aitutaki is more centrally located and is home to plenty of the Island's main tourist attractions. Aitutaki beaches provide suitable conditions for snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

16. Kaua'i, Hawaii

Kaua'i, also known as the Garden Isle, is the perfect tropical location. The area is best known for its spectacular evergreen coastal peaks, stunning coastal towns, huge waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Kaua'i is the ideal destination for all nature lovers with the amazing view of lava-sculpted landscapes, different fish species, turtles, and gorgeous coral reefs. Your stay at Kaua'i is made more interesting by hiking on the velvety peaks of the Napali Coast, viewing the cloud-capped scenery above Hanalei Bay, and exploring the deep and expansive 10-mile-long Waimea Canyon. As you bask on the golden beaches, you may be able to spot the slumbering monk seals that provide a beautiful view.

15. El Gouna, Egypt

Located on the Red Sea is Egypt's El Gouna, a town popularly known for its dazzling coral reefs, expansive beaches, and clear blue waters. Similar to the ones in the Maldives, the Panorama Bungalows offer the same luxurious appeal and are very affordable. Here, you can enjoy your favorite water sports activities such as scuba diving and view the colorful sea life. El Gouna also has plenty of modern resorts with waterside accommodations that provide a clear sea view. Compared to the accommodations in the Maldives, El Gouna resort accommodations are more budget-friendly and are located in a calm and serene environment.

14. Fethiye, Turkey

According to Cntraveller , Fethiye, also known as Telmessos, is a town located on a natural harbor in the Turkish Riviera. While it features most of the beautiful tourist attractions listed in the destinations mentioned earlier, Fethiye is a well-accommodating town with a rich Turkish history. The remnants of the ancient civilization can be seen almost everywhere in the town, with most of them aged nearly 5000 years old. This helps provide an interesting break from the beautiful Oludeniz beach and the crescent-shaped white sand. Fethiye's coastline extends along the Aegean, one of Turkey's best coastal areas. There are also plenty of amazing coves and bays for you to explore.

13. Langkawi, Malaysia

Locally known as The Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is a vast archipelago with more than 100 islands in the Andaman Sea. Compared to the Maldives, this tropical getaway location is less commercialized. This is because you will find fewer major resorts, plenty of untamed jungles, and few local cuisine spots. However, you are guaranteed the best view of everything the town offers, such as different monkey species, the stunning Langkawi Sky Bridge, exotic birds, and the peak of Gunung Mat Cincang, the second biggest mountain on the Island.

12. The Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

The Mamanuca Islands are a volcanic archipelago located south of the Yasawa Islands and west of Nadi. The area forms a spectacular string of about twenty islands that are best known for their distinctive palm-studded beaches, exposed coral reefs, and crystal clear waters. The Mamanuca Islands of Fiji offer visitors a blissful island holiday experience. Here, you can visit Malamala Beach Club, surrounded by the Island's clear waters. Accommodation ranges from family-friendly luxury hotels to mid-range resorts such as the Malolo Island Resort and Matamanoa Island Resort.

11. Praslin Island, Seychelles

Praslin Island is one of the must-visit tropical islands in the world. You will explore the stunning boulder-rimmed beaches, luxuriant jungles, flourishing coral reefs, and other beautiful sceneries here. The main tourist attraction on the Island is UNESCO-listed Vallee de Mai, a pre-historic forest filled with rare coco de Mer fruit palms. If you love spending time at the beach, you will certainly enjoy staying at La Digue, which features some of the Island's most beautiful beaches. You can also practice fishing on Farquhar Atoll and Alphonse Island nearby.

10. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Tanzania's Zanzibar is known for its rich culture and vital role on spice trading routes. According to Luxtripper , Zanzibar Island, also known as Unguja, is home to beautiful beaches, bone-white sand, thriving coral reefs, Stone Town and UNESCO-listed Historic Center. You can explore the Island's historic sites, spice-packed bazaar, and unique architecture through the tangle of cobbled pathways. As you relax on the Island's gorgeous beaches, you can spot several dhows calmly gliding along the turquoise waters. The Island provides suitable conditions to enjoy your water sports activities such as snorkeling and diving along the coral reefs. Located nearby is Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, where you can view the amazing wildlife the Island has to offer.

9. The Abacos, the Bahamas

Located about 300 kilometers east of Florida is the stunning Abacos town in the Bahamas . The Abacos, also known as Family Islands or Out Islands, is popular for offering some of the world's best waters for sailing and boating. This peaceful Atlantic island was first inhabited by the British Loyalties, whose colorful colonial cottages can be seen on the narrow streets. Here, you will also find fishing villages, blooming coral reefs, pine-fringed beaches, and artistic boats. Other popular islands within this area include; Green Turtle Cay, Treasure Cay, Walker's Cay, Elbow Cay, and many others.

8. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable getaway locations worldwide. The town has luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, diverse ecosystems, and rich culture. They are plenty of fun activities to try out while in Santo Domingo, such as climbing one of the highest peaks in the Caribbean, hiking to huge waterfalls through the steamy jungle, rafting the crystal clear waters of the Rio Yaque del Norte, visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bike through pine forests along the alpine trails and explore the expansive beaches of the Samana Peninsula. The Island also provides suitable weather conditions for enjoying your favorite water-based activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, surfing, and kayaking.

7. Bali, Indonesia

According to the Standard , Bali in Indonesia is an ideal tropical destination that is popularly known for its mysticism and friendly Bali community. You will also find temples filled with incense fragrant and expansive rich paddies beautifully glowing in the late evening sun. Best of all, at a relatively affordable price, you will enjoy some of the local's favorite delicacies and ample accommodation that includes beach resorts, luxury villas, and local hostels. Bali is also known for its soothing spa treatments that help make your body relax after a day full of fun activities. Your stay at Bali is not complete without visiting Lombok, a neighboring volcanic island.

6. Nosy Be, Madagascar

Nosy Be Island is one of the best beach destinations in Madagascar . The Island features beautiful crater lakes, thick forests, and massive craters. Here, you will enjoy incredible swimming, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. Nosy Be is also home to several tourist attractions such as the sacred Mahatsinjo village, Ampangorinana market, Lakobe National Park, and Nosy Iranja beach. However, the Island also serves the most delicious seafood in Madagascar.

5. Whitsunday Island, Australia

Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef is Whitsunday Island, an archipelago in Australia consisting of seventy-four tropical islands. This is the perfect romantic getaway destination with your loved one or a family-friendly beach holiday. Whitsunday Island is the perfect alternative to the Maldives with its magical underwater world, luxurious cottages, lush forests, and thriving coral reefs. However, best of all, you will enjoy riding a seaplane over the spectacular Heart Reef.

4. Port Douglas, Australia

Do you love watching nature? Then, it would help if you made your way to Port Douglas in Australia. Port Douglas is an upscale town that has significantly evolved from being a humble fishing village into a popular tropical tourist location. The town is home to two of the richest ecosystems in Australia, which include the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, which is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Site. Port Douglas' streets are lined with palms, mango trees, art galleries, and upscale shops. Finally, one of the main tourist attractions in Port Douglas is the blond crescent-shaped Four Mile Beach.

3. The Andaman Coast, Thailand

The Andaman Coast is popularly known for its stunning limestone peaks that decently rise from the turquoise waters, creating one of the world's most amazing seascapes. The Khao Sok National Park is located nearby, home to elephants and other wildlife. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly beachfront bamboo shacks to luxury villas on sea cliffs. You can also visit the high-end resorts for mouthwatering dishes, exotic culture, and breathtaking scenery. While at the Andaman Coast, look out for Southwestern monsoons. However, they strike the coast from late May to Mid-October.

2. Florida Keys, USA

According to Travelandleisureindia , the Florida Keys in the United States is best known for its thriving coral reefs, extensive sandy beaches, and amazing fishing grounds. Located about 80 miles from Cuba and 110 miles south of Miami, Florida Keys is centrally located. This makes it easily accessible by tourists. Some of the main tourist attractions in the Florida Keys are numerous.  The Bahia Honda State Park, National Marine Sanctuary, Key West, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State, for example. The Florida Keys also hosts one of the major fishing tournaments in the state each year. Finally, it is home to plenty of high-end resorts.

1. Cartagena, Colombia

From the steamy Amazon to the snow-dusted Andean peak, Colombia's diverse landscapes make it one place similar to the Maldives. Colombia is the only South American country with a Pacific and Caribbean coast. There are plenty of beaches to enjoy. You can also visit the museums of Medellin to learn more about the country's decades of conflict.

Written by  Liz Flynn

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13 Best Places like the Maldives In Or Near the US

Dreaming of a tropical escape, but stuck with limited travel time or budget? Look no further! You will find some incredible island paradises that rival places like Maldives closer to us, offering stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious accommodations.

You will even find some overwater bungalows near the US with similar vibes to the Maldives. While you won’t find the exact Maldives remote island feel nearby, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Florida, California, the Central & South America offer a taste of paradise closer to home.

13 Exotic Places Like the Maldives in the US or Close

If you want to see and feel the Maldives in the USA, you must visit Hawaii, a magical place with beautiful islands, each with its own unique attractions. For example, you can see big cliffs in Kauai and go surfing in Oahu. I personally love Maui because you can find quiet beaches like Napili Bay Beach to relax and see colorful fish while snorkeling.

Hawaii offers many attractions from road trips on the Road to Hana to exploring volcanoes in Haleakala National Park. With stunning beaches like Lanikai and Hapuna, outdoor activities such as hiking and ziplining, and a rich cultural heritage including ancient temples and traditional ceremonies, Hawaii blends natural beauty with cultural immersion.

Cool places to stay in Hawaii:

• Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort (Adults Only)
• Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
• Paradise at Ehupua in Honolulu

2/ Palm Island

Palm Island is a beautiful small island in the Grenadines reachable only by boat. It is known as the “ Bora Bora, Fiji, or the Maldives of the Caribbean .”. The calmness hits you as soon as you step on it, just a mile away from busy Union Island. It covers 135 comfy acres and boasts five beautiful beaches, making it one of the best places like the Maldives closer to the US.

Stay at Palm Island Resort , a luxurious, all-inclusive, adult-oriented resort known for its beaches, water activities, and romantic dining. Experience the Caribbean in the elegant Seahorse Villa with a private setting and Caribbean-inspired design for an unforgettable stay.

3/ US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are a mini-Maldives right in the Caribbean, offering a slice of tropical paradise without the long-haul flight. It has three major islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix – each with its own unique attractions that draw visitors seeking sun, sea, and sand.

St. John offers unspoiled beaches and lush landscapes for nature lovers. St. Thomas provides luxury and local experiences with a vibrant harbor and upscale shopping. St. Croix stands out with historical sites and cultural richness, diving into Caribbean heritage. These islands are like the Maldives islands in the US but with a Caribbean flair, offering clear waters and powdery beaches. 

Cool places to stay in the US Virgin Islands:

• Ocaso Luxury Villas Entire Property Adults-Only
• Chateau Nightwind in Saint Thomas
• The View in Saint Croix

4/ Florida Keys

The Florida Keys, islands off Florida’s southern coast, are famous for calm vibes, beautiful beaches, and rich sea life. Luxurious resorts with private beach access and great facilities dot the area. Key Largo is known for top-notch diving and snorkeling, letting you discover reefs, wrecks, and varied marine life.

The Florida Keys offer more than just beaches like the Maldives . You can fish, kayak, and paddleboard there. And explore the underwater world at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. A visit to Key West, the westernmost part of the U.S., is also a fun way to enjoy unique shops and art galleries in this tropical paradise.

Cool places to stay in the Florida Keys:

• Key West Villas
• Palm 417 in Islamorada
• The Sea Haven in Key Largo

5/ Florida Islands

You can experience the Maldives in Florida without leaving the United States! Honeymoon Island and Calusa Beach in the Florida Keys offer tranquility for couples and families. South Beach combines relaxation and adventure in a unique way. Beyond the Keys, Clearwater Beach has the world’s whitest sand, a two-mile stretch of paradise.

Florida’s islands are some of the best places like the Maldives in the US, offering something for everyone. Explore vibrant coral reefs in the Keys or enjoy delicious food with Caribbean, Latin, and American flavors. And it has year-round warm weather and a relaxed atmosphere!

Florida isn’t just beaches and islands; it’s a haven for water animal lovers. Skip pricey tourist spots for authentic sea wildlife at Crystal River , the “manatee capital.” Swim, kayak, or paddleboard with these gentle creatures affordably through operators like Crystal River Watersports.

Cool places to stay in Florida:

• Bungalows Key Largo – All-Inclusive
• Deer Run on the Atlantic in Calusa Beach
• Beach Bungalows By The Sea 3 in Cocoa Beach

6/ California

California has also many Maldives-like places in the US with its diverse coastal landscapes, pristine waters, rugged coastline, and exciting activities. It provides luxurious accommodations and a unique beach alternative, easily accessible from various parts of the US. Explore diverse coastlines, thrilling activities, and a rich cultural tapestry in this Maldives-inspired beach escape.

Huntington Beach is perfect for families with its calm waves, perfect for building sandcastles and learning to surf. Coronado Beach offers luxurious beachfront resorts with private balconies. It provides a secluded feel, while remaining close to charming San Diego.

Carmel Beach in California is a secluded escape with tide pools, hiking trails, and art galleries in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea. Laguna Beach offers secluded coves and a vibrant artistic scene, while Balboa Peninsula delights families with its charming boardwalk and water sports rentals.

Cool places to stay in California:

• Desert Vacation Villas, a VRI resort in Palm Springs
• Villa Mara Carmel in Carmel Beach

7/ Costa Rica

For a taste of paradise closer to home, Costa Rica is the perfect alternative to the Maldives close to the US. While it won’t offer the exact remote island experience, Costa Rica boasts stunning beaches with turquoise waters. And it has lush rainforests teeming with wildlife and exciting adventures like ziplining through the canopy.

Unlike the Maldives, Costa Rica has a rich cultural heritage, with vibrant cities like San José showcasing its history and friendly locals. With direct flights from many major cities in the US, it’s easy to access this paradise destination.

Cool places to stay in Costa Rica:

• Las Bromelias Lodge in San José
• The Beach Bungalows – Yoga and Surf House – Adults Only

While Mexico may not be as remote as the Maldives, it offers the same crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches. It also boasts delicious food, vibrant music, and historical sites like ancient Mayan ruins to explore. And it offers beautiful Cancun to enjoy Maldives-like holiday:

Destinations like the Riviera Maya boast stunning turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and luxurious resorts with overwater bungalows. Beyond the beach, Mexico dazzles with its rich cultural heritage, from ancient Mayan ruins to vibrant colonial cities. Explore the bustling markets of Playa del Carmen or delve into the fascinating history of Chichen Itza, all within easy reach of your beachside paradise.

Cool places to stay in Mexico:

• Casa Lucia Beachfront Puerto Morelos in Riviera Maya
• Playa del Carmen in Playa del Carmen

Seeking an island paradise closer to US shores? Discover the crystal-clear waters and secluded islands of the San Blas archipelago, fringed with palm trees and offering a glimpse into a simpler way of life. Unlike the Maldives, Panama boasts a rich biodiversity, with lush rainforests teeming with wildlife and indigenous cultures to explore.

Also, Panama has a vibrant capital city, Panama City, with a bustling modern energy and rich history. Visit the famous Panama Canal or stroll through the charming Casco Viejo district for a taste of local culture and cuisine.

Cool places to stay in Panama:

• Private Cabin Over the Water + Meals in San Blas Islands
• Sol Bungalows Bocas del Toro

Explore the clear waters and hidden islands, known as cayes, along Belize’s coast. These miniature paradises boast powdery white sand and pristine coral reefs, perfect for diving and snorkeling. Similar to the Maldives, Belize offers luxurious overwater bungalows where you can relax and soak in the stunning scenery.

But Belize’s appeal goes beyond its beaches, with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes to discover. Explore ancient Maya ruins or venture into the dense jungle for a chance to spot exotic wildlife. And don’t forget to indulge in delicious Belizean cuisine, blending Caribbean and Latin American flavors for a truly unique experience.

Cool places to stay in Belize:

• Thatch Caye Resort a Muy’Ono Resort
• Lina Point Belize Overwater Resort

11/ Jamaica

Jamaica is a vibrant and colorful alternative to the Maldives, near the US, but full of culture and music that stand out. From reggae vibes to lively streets in Ocho Rios , Jamaica offers unique experiences and beautiful scenery. Discover turquoise waters, the stunning beaches like Seven Mile Beach , and relax in overwater bungalows for a touch of luxury.

I enlisted Jamaica here also because of its relaxed atmosphere, similar to the Maldives. You can kick back and soak up the sun on some of the world’s best beaches or take a dip in Dunn’s River Falls for an exciting adventure. And don’t forget to sample traditional Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, and ackee and saltfish for a taste of island flavor.

Cool places to stay in Jamaica:

• Sandals Royal Caribbean Overwater Bungalows for Couples
• Morgans Cliff Villa

12/ Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is the perfect alternative to the Maldives for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil island experience closer to home. With over 40 islands and cays, you’ll find plenty of secluded beaches to enjoy. Relax in upscale resorts with private beach access or venture out to explore stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos offers a tropical paradise with white sands and turquoise waters perfect for water activities. Enjoy overwater bungalows, a blend of cultural influences, and vibrant marine life. And you must explore Providenciales for lively attractions and restaurants.

Cool places to stay in Turks & Caicos:

• Wymara Resort & Villas
• Ambergris Cay Private Island All-Inclusive

Dreaming of a peaceful island getaway not too far from the US? You got to visit Roatan! This hidden gem off the coast of Honduras boasts some of the best Caribbean beaches and a relaxed atmosphere like the Maldives. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish or relax on white-sand beaches fringed with palm trees.

Roatan offers more than just stunning coastlines; it boasts lush tropical forests teeming with exotic wildlife. Dive into turquoise waters surrounding vibrant coral reefs and relax in luxurious overwater bungalows. The island’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by Garifuna settlers and Mayan history, sets it apart. Explore West End’s bustling shops and eateries or marvel at the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest.

Cool places to stay in Roatan:

• Barefoot Cay Resort
• Over the Water Aire Agua home

I'm Abdol Rauf , and I share the most exciting places to visit , help plan your trip and enjoy a variety of accommodation options in the US and rest of the world.

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Where To Go Instead Of Maldives in 2024; Check Out The Best Alternatives Here

By Rahul Verma

09 January 2024

Lakshadweep, India

Coral paradise in the arabian sea: comprising beautiful coral atolls and pristine beaches, lakshadweep offers a serene tropical escape reminiscent of the maldives, with its unique blend of indian and arabian influences., bora bora, french polynesia,  bora bora offers luxurious overwater bungalows, providing a similar idyllic experience to the maldives., seychelles, indian ocean, like the maldives, seychelles boasts vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent destination for snorkelling and diving., mauritius, indian ocean, alongside its stunning beaches, mauritius offers a diverse cultural experience, blending indian, african, and european influences., phi phi islands, thailand, the phi phi islands offer a captivating alternative with their stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and the opportunity for exciting island-hopping adventures., santorini, greece,   romantic sunsets: santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings and breathtaking sunsets over the aegean sea, offers a romantic alternative to the maldives.  , palawan, philippines, palawan is celebrated for its untouched landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life, providing a serene escape similar to the maldives..

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Alternative Destinations That Are Similar To The Maldives? - Maldives Forum

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1. We keep going to the Maldives and should branch out

2. The Maldives is getting unbelievably expensive

3. Our last Maldevian holiday (Meedhupparu) wasnt exactly the best.

With this in mind and also what I look for in a holiday, can anyone recommend alternative destinations? Am thinking Koh Samui, however have also heard that its getting busy and touristy.

Any info would be much appreciated.

the other lovely place to go would be the Tahiti Islands in South Pacific. You could see pictures from TA Travellers on Bora Bora or Moorea etc. Breathtaking beach and just perfect for relaxation.

Are you from UK? I thought there are lots of lovely places up there like Bermuda, Turks and Caicos, Aruba and Jamaica!

If you are looking at Asia, you can consider perhaps Boracay or Cebu.

Samui is great as are some of the outreach places in T-land the Phi Phis are very good,could also look at Indonesia - Vietnam is good and Cambodia is very up and comming.

Thank you for your responses.

Have never really been attrated to the carribean as it all looks a little too commercial to me (have an image of jet skiing and parasailing everywhere).

Do Cambodia and vietnam have beech resorts? Also, do you have an opinion on Bali and Goa ?

Thanks again for the info you have supplied.

Best wishes

The Caribbean is not all jet skis and parascending. There are some quiet islands - like Aruba and Tobago.

I went to Aruba about 5 years ago. It was delightful. The climate was great, the food was wonderful and the people were lovely. Apart from the Maldives it is the only other place I have been to where you are not hasselled by street/beach vendors to buy tat!

Tobago is also very laid back and has relatively few hotels so it doesn't feel very touristy.

I went travelling around SE Asia a few years ago. The best beaches IMO in that part of the world are Thailand, specially around Krabi and Ko Phi Phi, also heard that Ko Chang is very nice but never made it there myself. Ko Tao is recommended for diving, though again, I've not been there myself.

The beaches which I went to in Cambodia and Vietnam were not as nice as Thailiand but had charm for other reasons. For example, culture, amazingly friendly people, food etc.

Not been to the Maldives yet, going to Biyadhoo in August so will be able to give a better comparison then.

Ko Tao, is one of the best dive sights in the area/ Thailand, thats where i saw my first whale shark and spent 20 mins with her WOW !WOW! WOW!

We went to Aruba last yr and have to say that it was lovely there. we stayed in the druif beach area which was the low rise area. where our room was on the beach in two up four across blocks all facing the ocean. Was never busy or overcrowded.

based on your requirements Fiji sounds right up your street. I went a few years ago, and it is similar to the Maldives, with islands but hilly instead of flat! Go to the outer islands and not on the mainland, the weather is much better. It's a case whether money is any object.

..... activegirl

Your posts reignite my desire to go Aruba! I've seen travelling program on the TV. It looks awesome and the pple there speaks English. =p (or so i suppose)

By the way John, I missed out a place for you. And the place is called The Bamboo Island in Thailand. A friend of mine just went and the pictures he showed me was Thumbs Up. Go check it out!

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5 Blue Water Beaches In India To Visit Instead Of The Maldives

There is no doubt that the Maldives is one of the most dreamlike beach destinations in the world. But travelling to the Maldives isn’t that easy-peasy, especially when you don’t have a passport. Having said that, there are some pristine bluewater beaches right within India that are as gorgeous as the Maldives, and some of them can even put the Maldives behind in terms of their scenic excellence. Here are 5 blue water beaches in India you can visit instead of the Maldives:

1.Radhanagar Beach, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Nestled in Andaman’s Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach is known as the best beach in Asia and the 16th best beach in the world. With emerald blue waters, soft white sands and picturesque sunsets, the Radhanagar Beach is nothing short of a spectacle. A watersports centre at the Radhanagar beach gives tourists a chance to hire snorkelling, scuba equipment and boats.

2. Marari Beach, Kerala

The serene Marari Beach is in the charming fisherman’s village of Mararikulam is near Alleppy. The National Geographic survey had rated this beach as one of the world’s top five hammock beaches. It is an ideal place to explore the Kerala backwaters.

Also Read:  8 Most Secluded Beaches Of India To Have An Ideal Social Distancing Vacation

3. Bangaram Beach, Lakshadweep Islands

Bangaram Beach in the Lakshwadeep Islands has a beauty that makes it look like a slice of heaven. The crystal-clear turquoise-hued waters bordered by brown rocky mountains and the white sands at this beach will give you a delightful escape from the tiring hustle and bustle of city life.

4. Butterfly Beach, Goa

Serene, secluded and picturesque- these three words perfectly define Goa’s hidden gem, the Butterfly Beach . One can visit this beach in South Goa by taking a ferry from Palolem and Agonda beaches. Flanked by dense forests that overlook the turquoise waters, Butterfly Beach is the place to be for every hardcore nature lover. Splendid hills surround the marvellous coastline, which is far from the party noises. Colourful butterflies hover above this beach and its headland also resembles the shape of butterfly wings.

5.  Varkala Beach, Kerala

This breathtaking beach, along with a winding stretch of a cliff that extends over the Arabian Sea, has a highly intimate vibe around it. You can sit back, relax and soak in the tranquillity of this magical beach. Another name of Varkala Beach is Papanasham Beach. The name has been derived from a belief that the dip in the waters here can wash away all sins or papam .

Also Read:  6 Scenic Beaches That Are Just A Road Trip Away From Bangalore

Beach lovers, have you included these stunning beaches in your bucket list already?

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5 Countries You Can Visit Instead of Maldives With Under INR 5 Lakh

The Maldives have become one of India’s must-see international destinations in recent years. Crystal clear waters, adventure sports like scuba diving and snorkeling, and white sand beaches will keep you spending endless hours in the water. The destination is also excellent for honeymooners. with many resorts, fine dining, luxury accommodations and spas ensuring you are relaxed and rejuvenated after weeks of wedding and party preparations.

What also helps is the Maldives’ proximity to India, the relatively cheap prices compared to other luxury destinations, the windy summer weather, and the warmth exuded by its people. However, if you’ve already visited the destination or just want to explore other areas on the same budget, we’ve got the one for you. These countries can be explored for less than INR 5 lakh and are great travel experiences with local food, fantastic weather and beautiful sites!

5 countries you can explore for less than INR 5 Lakh

Sri Lanka is another one of the beautiful countries that you can explore for less than INR 5 lakh. The country, which has a place in the Indian epic Ramayana, has some of the most beautiful sites, clean beaches, and friendly people you will ever meet. Visit the country’s UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Sigiriya, spend time on the coast, visit the tea estate in Nuwara Eliya (and be sure to bring Sri Lankan tea with you!), Explore the gastronomic cuisine and enjoy fruit and tropical vegetables. Sri Lankan handicrafts and teas are a must-buy, so shop for loved ones.

Flights to Sri Lanka start at around INR 18,000, depending on where you board. The resorts here start at INR 25,000 and can go up to around INR 80,000. However, there are also affordable accommodation options, such as hostels and host families, that you can explore to reduce the cost of your trip.

An unusual choice, but France is one of those countries that can be explored in less than INR 5 lakh if ​​you plan well. While a stay in France won’t be long if your budget is tight, you can still explore destinations like Marseille, Paris and more. Visit Notre Dame, go kayaking and explore the cities through its streets.

Flights to Paris can cost around INR 50,000, so plan carefully. Luxury stays start at INR 20,000 and there are several homestays and hostels available at lower prices, along with more affordable hotels, which you can check out.

Japan is one of the friendliest countries to travel to, especially for women. Visit during cherry blossom season to witness beautiful blossoms, climb Mount Fuji, explore Japan’s scenic beauty, and enjoy the umami flavors of Japanese cuisine. Be sure to check out the various Japanese vending machines (they have them for pretty much everything!) And bring home some Japanese tea and other souvenirs!

Flights to Japan are expensive and can cost around INR 70,000, so make the most of your trip by staying in budget hotels and traveling by public transport.

Pristine beaches, dazzling temples and delicious cuisine await you in Cambodia. The place is known for breathtaking views such as Angkor Wat which is an ancient temple structure which has been finely carved and designed, the capital Phnom Penh, the enchanting Apsara Dance which is a Khmer spectacle and its stunning sandy beaches. . And be sure to bring some local handicrafts as souvenirs for your loved ones!

An average flight to Cambodia starts at around INR 17,000, but prices can vary depending on when you book. Luxury stays here can be booked from INR 20,000 and can get as expensive as you want. You can also opt for budget stays, available from INR 1,200.

Bali, Indonesia

Another popular beach destination with Indians, Bali is a great choice for a beach holiday if you’re looking for a break from the Maldives. In addition to spending days by the sea, Bali offers a glimpse into history and culture with its picturesque temples and Kecak dance. Take night walks on Mount Batur, watch the sunset at Uluwatu Temple, spend time with monkeys at Ubud Monkey Park, or observe the wildlife there. Indulge in local cuisine and spend much needed time with your partner or best friends here.

You can book flights starting from INR 20,000 to Bali and you can get them even cheaper if you plan well. Luxury stays in Bali start at INR 12,000, while hostels, homestays, and villas are the most popular options for groups.

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The best hotels in the Maldives

By Lee Cobaj and Lauren Burvill

To create a definitive guide to the best hotels in the Maldives in no easy feat. The archipelagic country sets the standard when it comes to superior island living. It’s where overwater stays come as standard, privacy is a given and natural beauty is all around. The calibre is sky high. Boutique stays and lo-fi boltholes are a rarity, instead, world class hotels are spread out on their own private islands, nestling state-of-the-art spas and multiple restaurants amongst lush jungles, pristine beaches and house reefs.

The new generation of Maldives hotels are taking this formula one step further. It’s not enough for just villas to be overwater anymore – at the new Soneva Secret they're working on the first floating villa. Spas dangle above lagoons now too, with glass floors allowing guests to spy turtles as they enjoy a massage. The classic pool bar has been outdone by a beachside treehouse bar, and restaurants have relocated underwater. Steps towards sustainability are also commonplace too. Most hotels have their own conservation projects and coral programmes. One is even completely solar powered.

How we choose the best hotels in the Maldives

Every hotel on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveller journalist who knows the destination and has stayed at that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider both luxury properties and boutique and lesser-known boltholes that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination. We’re always looking for beautiful design, a great location and warm service – as well as serious sustainability credentials. We update this list regularly as new hotels open and existing ones evolve.

Which Maldives hotel is best for couples?

As the stuff of honeymoon legends, the Maldives has plenty to offer couples. For the truly standout spots, we love Cheval Blanc Randheli (as do the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge), and the Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru . See our pick of the best Maldives honeymoons for more recommendations.

Which Maldives hotel is best for families?

The Maldives might be best known for honeymoons, but its private island resorts are the stuff of family holiday dreams too. Spacious villas mean there’s plenty of room for everyone, while kids clubs, restaurants and pools are all at your fingertips. Some of our favourite hotels for families include Vakkaru Maldives , JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa and Fairmont Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi . For more, see our guide to the best family hotels in the Maldives .

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Soneva Jani Arrow

Featured in our Gold List of the best hotels in the world 2024

On the fringe of a lagoon in Noonu Atoll, blanketed in racing-green jungle and ringed with neon-white beach, Soneva Jani is the second Maldivian island home of the visionary brand. It’s an unreal world, where children and adults alike trail about the jungly interior on bikes, hang in hammocks on Robinson Crusoe beaches, throw themselves down slides, splash about on technicolour reefs and watch dolphins race through iridescent baby-blue waters. The overwater villas have glass-bottom floors and pool decks with corkscrew slides, and the fantastical Den, is the largest kids’ club in South Asia. But it’s not just about embracing your inner child. Adult treats include The Gathering, on the north side, an overwater barn of restaurants, a library and wine cellar. Eating is taken seriously – from a meat-free outpost by Bocuse d’Or-winning Swedish chef Mathias Dahlgren to the garden-set idyll So Local, as well a rotation of visiting chefs (2024’s include Tom Aikens and Jane Alty, co-owner of London Thai street-food hero The Begging Bowl). A treehouse-like Island Spa has egg-shaped rooms linked by walkways floating towards a yoga shala. Soneva Soul is the brand’s new, more ambitious approach to health. Recently it launched three-, seven- and 14-day wellness journeys around foundational health, sleep, detoxing and anti-ageing, using its magic blend of naturopathy, Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine alongside high-tech treatments such as platelet-rich plasma therapy and ozone therapy. Feeling well is at Soneva’s core – way beyond ditching one’s shoes on arrival. Lydia Bell

First in: Six Senses Kanuhura Arrow

As you swoop into the Lhaviyani Atoll by seaplane, it's easy to see why Six Senses were so keen to bring this trifecta of natural coral islands ringed by turquoise seas and aquamarine lagoons into the fold. The second Six Senses property in the Maldives (the other being Six Senses Laamu) is a beauty, with great sweeps of broad white beach, a flourishing house reef and a jungly heart overflowing with soaring coconut palms, twisty screw pines and fragrant sea almonds, which you can explore on complimentary bicycles. Dotted around the island are 91 beachfront and overwater villas, including 12 sprawling retreats, all decked out in a pulse-slowing palette of warm woods, peach and teal, with big beds hung with billowing nets. Seven superb bars and restaurants include Drift, a little clapboard and thatch cafe on sister island Jehunuhura, and The Point, a circular building set on the sunset side of the island housing a Spanish restaurant and a round rooftop infinity pool. Alongside stacks of complimentary daily activities – core training, yoga, meditation, sound healing – and a tip-top spa, a stay here can be as lively or as sleepy as you like. Lee Cobaj

Soneva Secret

With a focus on sustainability, wellness and the raw natural environment of the Maldives’ Makunudhoo Atoll, newly opened Soneva Secret might be the most honest interpretation of the barefoot luxury brand yet. Even the arrival here is chic. Because there are no other islands around, you float down via seaplane into a pure turquoise world, where the views of blue skies and bluer waves are uninterrupted from each of the 14 villas. You will hear the phrase ‘simple luxury’ repeatedly during your stay and that would be exactly how to characterise Soneva Secret on first view. There is no sense of a sprawling resort. It is chic and unassuming. Villas are either overwater or beachfront, plus a first-of-its-kind ‘floating’ villa on stilts in the ocean is currently under construction. The design of the villas is even more open to the elements than at Soneva’s other two resorts. The glass doors of the bedrooms (the only main spaces with air-conditioning) can disappear, and you can sleep to the sounds of waves seemingly lapping up to your toes. There are two main places to eat on the island: the more casual driftwood-chic Living Room and a circular fine-dining restaurant called Out of This World, about 330 feet off the shoreline. I ziplined there from the Living Room – very much the Soneva way – to sample ambitious morsels by tattooed chef Henrique Lork, who started as a baker in his native Brazil. Read the full Soneva Secret review . Divia Thani

Featured on our 2022 Hot List of the best new hotels in the world

Renowned Istanbul -based design studio Autoban (behind London’s Duck + Rice, the extraordinary airport in Baku and numerous hotels in their hometown such as the House Hotels and the Witt Suites) were commissioned to come up with something fresh and different at Joali. The design details in the overwater and beach villas are beautifully curated. Locally hand-carved wood panels and bamboo-slatted headboards are counterbalanced with rose-gold bathroom taps resembling giant pebbles. In the dressing rooms you’ll find heron-and-palm-leaf printed kimonos by Ardmore and slippers like chubby clouds.

Joali is a hybrid of the best that the Maldives has to offer. Turn up barefoot at Mura Bar for a sunset Martini, a buttermilk-chicken slider and a shisha pipe. Or get dolled up for dinner at Japanese restaurant Saoke. It’s this deep-rooted, solid luxury, without the slightest hint of dictating who guests should be, what they should wear and how they should relax, that immediately aligns Joali with the frontrunners. For Maldivophiles, here is a worthy winter-sun detour that is every bit as high-achieving as some of the beloved old-timers and big-name brands. Read the full Joali Maldives review .

Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa

Looking for a Robinson Crusoe-style getaway? Powder-puff sands and jungly green on the inside, with a turquoise lagoon teeming with rainbow-coloured parrotfish, blacktip reef sharks and cow tail stingrays, this hotel is a dazzling addition to the Maldives. It’s small (just seven hectares) with 80 villas split between overwater and beach. There’s no bad room here they all overlook that twinkling, breath-stealing Indian Ocean, where water and sky merge seamlessly. You’ll be assigned a personal butler, who’ll organise spa treatments, book you in for a game of tennis or dig a heart-shaped seat for two in the sand. Food is a winner with five restaurants to choose from. Don’t sleep on teriyaki chicken and locally-caught miso reef fish at Teppanyaki Grill. Then there’s the spellbindingly romantic overwater restaurant Mediterraneo, where you can feast on homemade tortellini and decadent tiramisu with stars overhead and lapping waves below, all washed down with as much house Champagne as you wish (this might be the smartest all-inclusive resort in the Maldives). Book in for a Balinese massage in the spa, nestled among the trees with chattering terns for company. Snorkel, learn to dive, book a wine tasting on a private sandbank, or simply sit on your villa’s deck and watch pods of dolphins diving in the distance. Annabelle Spranklen

Read our full review of Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa .

Six Senses Laamu

The Maldives is more famous for romantic sunsets than right-handers, but Six Senses – the only resort in the southern Laamu Atoll – sets itself apart from the fly-and-flop brigade with its Yin Yang surf break. There's also paddle-boarding and catamaran sailing, alongside the usual dive boats and house-reef snorkelling. Its eco-agenda means that Six Senses does the at-times-clichéd Robinson Crusoe rustic look with feeling: to discourage the use of air-con, the beds are draped in gauzy white canopies and there are wooden slats in the walls to open at night and catch the breeze; the thatched roofs are also low-slung to keep things shady and cool. Even the twig pencils on the desk are responsibly sourced. Of course, there's no shortage of comforts – a 100-plus cocktail menu at the bar, a cheese-and-wine tower, a sensational sushi restaurant – but the vibe is very laid-back compared to some of the Maldives' more flashy resorts. And nowhere more so than in the spa, where it's all too easy to hole up in one of the thatched, nest-like pods for hours on end.

If anyone understands what discerning visitors to the Maldives want, it’s the Maldivian and Swedish entrepreneurs who not only developed the country’s first sea-plane company but co-manage nine other island resorts. On Kudadoo, they have created the country’s first solar-powered hotel and its first all-inclusive luxury hotel – all off a tiny coconut-forested sandbank. Arranged around a circular wooden walkway out at sea, its 15 rooms conjure spacious Japanese ryokans – designed by New York -based architect Yuji Yamazaki from soothing wood, stone and reed-thatch, and fronted by a wide deck, plunge pool and ladder into the swirling blue sea. When Petre says ‘all-inclusive’, he means it: whether that’s two-hour Healing Earth treatments in the airy spa, a butler 24/7, jet-skiing and deep-sea fishing, or feasts involving fine wines (80 from Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list) and impeccably presented dishes, from light Japanese teppanyaki to Maldivian seafood curry, concocted by French chef Antoine Lievaux, who has worked for Joël Robuchon and Alain Ducasse. Unusually, thanks to the 989 solar panels that roof the airy living area, there is not a single generator to be heard; just a gentle lap of waves on the beach, and the occasional thud of a coconut. For more, see our full review of Kudadoo Island .

Vakkaru Maldives hotel review Arrow

The setting is hard to beat – a private island filled with a soaring jungle of coconut palms gives Vakkaru a magic that the other man-made islands in the region can’t compete with. All the dreamy hallmarks of the Maldives are here, albeit more seductively discreet than most. Breezy thatched villas are wrapped in warm muted tones and natural textures, from the burlap wash bags in the bathrooms to the billowing muslin hanging from four-posters. The outside spaces appear just as thoughtful as inside – plush outdoor daybeds are placed within steps of floor hammocks at the overwater villas, so you’re never short of somewhere to flop.

There are six restaurants as well as an array of romantic private dining experiences in idyllic settings – the beach, the jungle, or even a sand bank in the middle of the Indian Ocean. A private lunch can be arranged in the serene organic farm, or a private supper under the stars in the jungle cinema – a winner for couples and families. At the multi-level overwater spa, all treatment rooms have glass floor windows, so muscle melting Balinese massages can be accompanied by an aqua blue parrotfish sighting. Or you can opt for a tailored Ayurvedic treatment following a consultant with Doctor Surandi Disssanayake. The cherry on top is the genuinely warm and welcoming spirit – who knew a villa on the beach of a private island could so easily feel like home and yet...

Jessica Puckett

Rebecca Cope

Becky Lucas

Marti Buckley

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort hotel review Arrow

Guests can choose between three different room categories, from beach villas that fringe the shoreline and lagoon villas bordering the shallow waters to overwater bungalows hovering over lapping waves. The resort is home to six restaurants and bars – The Lighthouse is our favourite, with 360-degree views of the Indian Ocean and spectacular Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The spa is also noteworthy, with a rotating schedule of visiting practitioners and floating treatment rooms over the water. But the most impressive aspect of the resort is the partnership with the Manta Trust and Ocean Conservation Programme. The hotel hosts marine biologists from the trust to conduct research and take guests on safe and responsible excursions to see them in their natural habitat. As both reef and Oceanic mantas are listed as vulnerable and endangered on the IUCN Red List, the work of this organisation is critical, and it was a magical experience to swim with these graceful giants alongside scientists who have dedicated their career to helping protect them. Seeing a luxury resort taking ocean conservation and sustainability is seriously is a joy. Olivia Morelli

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives Arrow

Situated on a lush, natural private island with pool villas and wonderfully friendly and professional staff, this is easily one of the most charming hotels in the Maldives . About 45 minutes north of Malé International Airport by seaplane, in the Raa Atoll on a natural island known as Kothaifaru, the setting here is blessed with long white beaches and endless palm trees. Throughout the 27.6 acres, there is also thick jungle vegetation that gives the new space an already settled-in feel. The 80 villas – all with pools – are split between overwater villas (with bathrooms that open up to the sea) and beach villas (with sunrise and sunset options). There are two restaurants and two bars to choose from, as well as a spa tucked away deep within the jungle vegetation. But the service here is what makes this resort stand out in the crowd of smart hotels in the Maldives . After a few days, it will start to feel like home with staff remembering your preference for still or sparkling water, the names of your children, and where your favourite table is – so much so that there is an urge to book a repeat trip before you have finished the first one.  Rooms from around £680. Mary Lussiana

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort hotel review Arrow

This is an island that attracts a fashionable globetrotting crowd, and loyal St Regis fans – arguably one in the same. During the day it’s less barefoot luxury and more Chanel heels on the beach. At sunset its Amina Muaddi slingbacks, when honeymooners head to the bar to make the most of the martini shots while a could-be-a-model DJ plays cool and breezy beats in a midriff-bearing top. It’s a scene that wouldn’t look out of place in Manhattan, and yet this bar couldn’t be further from New York, sitting over the Indian Ocean and shaped to resemble a whale shark.

The American hotel brand landed a prime spot of tropical paradise when it opened in 2016 on the previously uninhabited natural island of Vommuli. This lush environment has played a key role in the hotel's nature-inspired design – overwater villas are shaped like manta rays and made from predominantly cross laminated wood, while the impressively large library swirls into the sky like a cone shell. Morning yoga classes are held at the overwater Iridium Spa, with mats placed over the open-air lounge’s glass floor portholes, so you can watch trumpetfish paddle past inbetween poses. Follow it up with a glass of crystal-infused water and a muscle-melting dip in the Blue Hole Pool, one of the largest hydrotherapy pools in the country. The seven restaurants scattered across the island are all undeniably decadent, with Maldivian lobster plucked straight from the sea and served at every turn – even in the omelettes at breakfast. At Pan Asian restaurant Oriental, the lobster comes to the beachside tables looking like plump scoops of ice-cream. Don’t sleep on the intriguing looking Maldivian section at the morning breakfast spread either – its a delicious adventure you won't forget.

The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives hotel review Arrow

Born from star-studded Hollywood roots and having conquered cities like New York, Miami and London, The Standard brings a rare sense of irreverent cool to the Maldives. Instead of the typical cream-covered and thatched roof signatures of the region, villas here are brightly coloured, with disco balls in the bathroom and neon pink pool floats on the walls. Such playful touches attract an international mix of not just couples and families but also groups of friends.

Mornings start with freshly prepared eggs and proper coffee topped with fish foam art in the breezy beachside all-day restaurant, Kula. Or you can order in to your villa, or more specifically to your villa’s plunge pool, with a full breakfast spread served on a floating tray. During the day, the house reef is just steps away from the overwater villas, while dolphin cruises and swimming with manta rays can also be arranged. Supper is served either on the beach at BBQ Shack, or at overwater restaurant Gudagudaguda – cheekily named after the sound that shisha makes. It's here that you can enjoy a traditional Maldivian experience with cushion floor seating, tuna sambal and authentic curries with just the right spice level. Keep the party going at the overwater nightclub Beru Bar, where the largest disco ball in the Maldives shines bright above a see-through dance floor.

Emerald Resort & Spa

A thrilling 45-minute seaplane ride from Malé, over uninhabited jungly islands and twinkling turquoise lagoons, Emerald Resort and Spa feels like you’re landing into your own Bounty advert. Set on Fasmendhoo Island in Raa Atoll, with miles of endless cotton-white beaches, perfect for snorkelling and diving, gin-clear waters with reef fish bursting all around like confetti - manta rays, black-tip tiger sharks and dolphins - it’s  Finding Nemo  on acid. There are 120 jaw-dropping villas here, split between overwater and beach, designed by American architect Edward David Poole and built using bamboo, natural stone and langhi langhi leaves so they blend seamlessly with the tropical setting. The look is minimalist and modern – contemporary furniture and lots of sea-breezy colours. Overwater pool villas have sprawling marble bathrooms with sunken bathtubs made for gazing out at the ocean and the beach stretching in both directions. The good life comes easily here with your own butler to take care of your every whim – from ferrying you around in a buggy like a personal chauffeur to booking tables and organising a private cinema under the stars with homemade popcorn and cocktails to boot, they’re on it. The retreat operates a deluxe all-inclusive package – and this might just be the smartest in the Maldives. There’s Asiatique, where you’ll feast on extraordinary Asian grub (sticky wings, seafood gyoza) and Amazonica for mouth-tingling South American food (red snapper ceviche in tiger’s milk and Peruvian quinoa salads). Sprogs can go feral without anyone lifting an eyebrow thanks to the largest kids’ club in the Maldives – perfect while you nest down at the Balinese-style spa. After dark, lie back on your deck and make a wish on a shooting star – there’s not a glimmer of light pollution. Annabelle Spranklen

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

When this spot in the North Malé atoll came into existence just over 20 years ago (originally under sustainability hero Soneva’s wing), Malé’s international airport was barely more than a tin shed, postcards were the main mode of communication and most islands were without regular electricity. The pancakes of sand surrounding the capital were about as isolated a destination as travellers could get to. Now, Gili Lankanfushi is considered within easy reach (just a 20-minute speedboat transfer), yachts and seaplanes criss-cross the ocean and sky from morning until night and the neighbouring islands have street lights and a Coca-Cola factory. But relax, some things never change.

This hotel is still set in one of the most eye-wateringly beautiful lagoons in the country, a vision of broad white beaches, shape-shifting sandbanks and waters that dance from peacock green to sapphire blue. All the villas here are stilted over the water, keeping the island wild and the beaches on full dazzling display. When fire ravaged the resort in 2019, it was an opportunity for renewal. Interiors were redesigned, with hand-made wooden furniture and woven lampshades sourced from sustainable suppliers in Bali; bathrooms are stocked with organic potions and reef-safe sunscreen. For the ultimate Do Not Disturb energy, maroon yourself in one of the clapboard Robinson Crusoe villas, cast out on the edges of the lagoon reached by a little pontoon, where you can lie on your rooftop deck tracing the spine of Scorpio across the night sky.

Putter back to the island and there’s sunrise yoga; beach and jungle restaurants where ingredients come fresh off the boat or pulled from organic gardens; and expert therapists from Thailand , Bali and India at the Meera Spa. Baby coral being grown on ropes in the house reef will eventually be replanted in the sea in a bid to create reefs that are more resistant to climate-change bleaching (they also work as an underwater hammock for a big green turtle that stops by most days). Gili Lankanfushi has been working on its coral programme for seven years – it was championing sustainability long before it became a literal hot topic. And it’s for that reason, as much as the dreamy location and impeccable service, that it still stands head and shoulders above the crowd. LC

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

What could be more lovely than a stay at Raffles? How about a stay at Raffles by the beach ? So far south its skimming the equator – the delicious remoteness is well worth the longer transfer time – this tiny island resort takes all the charm of its older Singapore sibling and fuses it with clotted-cream sands, raspberry sunsets and a coconut version of its famous Sling. Complimentary neck massages are doled out while you wait for breakfast (French boulangerie, Sri Lankan egg hoppers, detox juices) with your feet in the sand. Lunch could be catch of the day – smoked tuna, say, grilled with lemon oil. At the smart overwater spa , Balinese therapists perform signature massages that start with the hum of a Tibetan singing bowl and end with warm coconut oil being poured onto your third eye. And the marine life is so profuse you can spot an aqua-menagerie without even getting your feet wet (20 hawksbill turtles have been recorded as living around the island).

Jumeirah Maldives

A thrilling speedboat ride from the airport, on the edges of the tranquil North Malé Atoll, is where Jumeirah have chosen to make their return to the Maldives (having pulled out of the country in late 2020). The island of Olhuhali was formerly inhabited by Lux* North Malé and the Dubai -based hospitality group has stuck with the original's sleek South Beach Miami design while adding their own distinctly glitzy touch, from monogrammed bathrobes to new restaurants and live bands you really want to listen to. The 67 villas are some of the largest entry-level villas in the Maldives and come in overwater and beach flavour. The former have knee-trembling sunset views; the latter are more private; all have masses of outdoor space, big private pools and splendid rooftop decks for stargazing and outdoor movie nights. Bathrooms are decidedly modern and concrete, and have tubs that sink down deep in that way only hotel bathtubs ever do.

The sapphire-blue pool has pops of red and an ice-cream cart straight out of South Beach, while the Barium private dining room has aquariums for walls. And then, well, there is Inti restaurant where the eye-roll-inducingly fresh ceviche blows the typical menu of grilled fish out of these turquoise waters. The surrounding corals aren't in great shape due to climate change (something that's becoming more and more of a problem across the Maldives) but you can hire a jet ski in the morning and hang out with 100-strong pods of bottlenose dolphins catching breakfast just outside of the lagoon. This is a place where the children of families who used to come to the Maldives every year are now choosing to return to themselves as grown-ups.

Conrad Maldives

Having staked its claim on the beautiful all-natural twin islands of Rangali and Rangali Finolhu over a quarter of a century ago, the Conrad's location remains one of the best of any resort in the Maldives – with long, broad stretches of sand wrapped around both jungly islands and manta rays pirouetting in the channel between. But there have been changes afoot: the installation of The Muraka (the world's first underwater hotel suite) in 2018 was followed by a revamp of the cathedral-like beach villas in 2019, while the water villas got their turn more recently. Chef Christian Pedersen has breathed new life into all 12 restaurants. From the sand-between-your-toes breakfast to the healthy seared scallop and asparagus salads to the tasting menus at underwater restaurant Ithaa, his food never fails to impress. Resistance is futile but you can work off any excesses by paddle-boarding around the lagoon staring at shimmering parrotfish and sashaying reef sharks through a mesmeric turquoise lens.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa

There isn’t a hibiscus out of place or a palm that hasn’t been preened at this Indian Ocean version of the white-picket perfection of the Hamptons . It’s set in the far-northern Shaviyani atoll – where the neighbouring islands are mostly undeveloped – so the seaplane transfer, at around an hour, takes a little longer than most, but the pay-off comes in the form of never-ending horizons, uninterrupted expanses of sea and crystal-clear night skies. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from one end of the island to the other, which makes it medium-sized by Maldivian standards.

Offshore there’s a large house reef – although the corals aren’t in the best shape (a jarring reminder of global warming) – but you can still see large white-tip reef sharks, moray eels and clouds of shoaling fish. For bigger marine thrills, the dolphin cruise yields sightings of thousands rather than the usual handful in less remote waters, or join a fishing expedition in search of sailfish the size of schoolchildren. The Shaviyani atoll is mega-fauna central. Back on dry land, there are two main swimming pools, a glass-encased spa, a gigantic kids’ club and 60 pool villas, shaped like upturned galleons. Skip the tightly packed overwater variety and plump for one on the sand instead, where each sits on its own spacious bougainvillaea-veiled plot, just feet from the ocean, and the duplexes, with their upstairs dens, are excellent for families. LC

Hurawalhi Island Resort

It has the biggest underwater restaurant in the Maldives – and there are wonders on both sides of the glass. Hurawalhi is surrounded by no fewer than 50 outstanding dive sites , including one of the most reliable manta-ray hotspots in the archipelago, where you can marvel at the spectacle of these creatures lining up to be fussed over by lesser marine life. The 90 villas are compact and uncomplicated, differentiated only by their position and the presence or absence of a private pool. The two main restaurants and bar are airy spaces with soaring ceilings. Discreet touches – table-tops in a mosaic of petrified wood; transparent panels in the floor to allow fish-spotting – perk up the unpretentious design. Both the views and the menu (tuna carpaccio with pickled daikon, yuzu gel and shiso) at underwater restaurant 5.8 are deeply impressive. Another temptation is the small but splendidly stocked wine cellar, curated by managing partner Lars Petre, a pioneering hotelier and entrepreneur in the Maldives whose love of the islands is written all over his craggy Swedish face. But at Hurawalhi, it's what's below the surface that really counts. There's an inspiring young dive team - all of whom appear to speak half a dozen languages and hold higher degrees in easy-going charm – to help you into your mask and fins. SK

Patina Maldives

This is an island for aesthetes. One of the coolest, cleverest resorts to open in 2021 and the first of a progressive new brand of hotels from Capella, which counts the Sir Norman Foster-designed Capella Singapore and Bill Bensley’s Capella Ubud among its show-stopping properties. (Patina Ubud is in the works). Here, Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan has been handed the reins, designing his first hotel, and has come up with something that feels truly special, transplanting his take on tropical modernism to the Indian Ocean . In keeping with the movement, the architecture encourages interaction with nature. Long, linear wooden structures are open to the elements, and cooled by swirling fans and perforated screens, all chiaroscuro light and shadow. Custom-made furniture from Dedon and Paola Lenti sits beneath triangular sun shades strung between towering palms. Then there’s the art collection, like a treasure hunt for grown-ups, with James Turrell’s Skyspace light gallery the star attraction.

Yoga gurus from Rishikesh hold classes inside the installation in the soft morning glow. In the evening, when it’s illuminated violet, the skylight frames the moon. The 90 pool villas aren’t the largest in the Maldives but they impress in other ways, with glass walls that fully retract on three sides. In the bathrooms, there are exfoliating seaweed soaps from Haeckels and 3-D-printed vitamins appear on pillows instead of chocolates at bedtime. The Flow Spa is original too, with treatment rooms that look like sugar cubes tossed into the long grass. Hi-tech therapies – flotation pods, LED-light therapy, Iris sound immersions – are offered alongside deep-reaching rituals that might include an out-of-body experience in the watsu pool with Balinese healer Purnomo Diretno. Lee Cobaj

COMO Cocoa Island

Over its 20-year history, bigger, flashier resorts have tried to upstage little Cocoa. All-singing hotels with submerged spas, snow rooms and ice-skating rinks. But this living coral island, still in a plum, not-too-hectic spot in the often-busy South Malé atoll, 40 minutes from the airport by speedboat, has remained in the limelight precisely because of its gimmick-free simplicity. The newly refreshed overwater villas (34 in total, some shaped like Maldivian dhoni boats) are the epitome of less is more, with dark teak, crisp white walls and deep bathtubs. Compared to its Bali sibling, the sandy-floored COMO Shambhala spa here is less comprehensive, which feels like a bit of a missed opportunity, but the therapists are still top of their game and soothe, stroke and crush out every molecule of tension in the signature massage.

Unlike a lot of the reefs that surround Malé, Cocoa Island’s are colourful, varied and recovering well from the 2016 worldwide bleaching event. You’ll also spot octopus, lobster, lionfish, reef sharks and amber-eyed hawksbill turtles – take a trip with Aminath Angeela (a rarely spotted Maldivian female marine conservationist) to learn more about rising sea temperatures and coral regeneration. In keeping with the low-key vibe, there’s only one restaurant, but the food is always enticing. There are coconut smoothie bowls for breakfast; proper pizzas and lobster rolls for lunch; and an Indonesian feast or a surf ’n’ turf barbecue come evening. Plus, the same thoughtful, delicious wellness menus you find at every COMO hotel. Peaceful, pampering, smart but unpretentious: this is the essence of what a Maldives hotel should be. LC

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Design in the Maldives has been slowly dismantling its thatched- roof image, and The Ritz-Carlton continues the trend thanks to the studio of the late architect Kerry Hill. Its 100 contemporary circular villas are scattered above the water and up and down a stretch of beach. Each is polished, pared back and pulse-slowing, with glass doors that open onto half-moon decks, teardrop-shaped plunge pools and the high-definition blue of the ocean. The rest of the resort, by contrast, feels a little conservative, if still beautiful. Most of the action is confined to the island’s southern tip, where there’s a gym and photography studio, plus a watersports centre (with the usual kayaks, SUPs and windsurfing) and a large kids’ club with dancing fountains hidden in a Teletubbies -style mound of grass. This is also where you’ll find Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment programme, the only one in the Maldives, staffed by marine biologists who are monitoring sealife with underwater robots and airborne drones, in addition to guiding guests.

Head out snorkelling with them at night for spooky encounters with nurse sharks, unfurling feather stars and bioluminescent squid. At the showpiece restaurant Iwau, knife-juggling chefs prepare pretty nigiri rolls and just-caught lobster, but there are six more restaurants to choose from, including one in a Bedouin tent and a food truck in the Fari marina. One of the island’s luxuries is its space (which is why Ritz-Carlton ended up opting for this man-made spot), giving guests with less tolerance for lazing about plenty of opportunity to cycle around on bicycles. Another is the timber-clad spa in the middle of the lagoon – look out for stingrays hovering below on your walk to a treatment – offering therapies by British brand Bamford. Ritz-Carlton is known for its classic, old-school luxury, but here is an exciting forward-looking update. LC

Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives

Not all Maldivian islands are made equal; some only have natural beaches along one shore, the other eroded away by the sea. Not here. From above, Finolhu looks like a comet shooting across the heavens, its tail formed by a 1.2-mile platinum sandbank. If resorts here were ranked solely on their beaches, Finolhu would be on the medal table (along with Kanuhura and The Residence at Dhigurah) purely because there’s so much sand. And the marine life is just as magnificent. There are dozens of exceptional dive sites within the hotel’s orbit, including caves haunted by barracuda, kaleidoscopic gardens of hard-tree coral and Hanifaru cleaning station, where hundreds of manta rays come to be preened by little blue wrasse (visit between May and November for the best chance to swim with them).

Almost as exuberant is the hotel itself, which emerged in November 2020 under new management and with a fresh look. Out went the Seventies design in favour of a mood board of colour, with 125 villas kitted out in electric blue, sherbet yellow or lime green. What remains, however, is the Ibiza-in-the-Indian-Ocean vibe; for the full effect book a Rock Star Villa with its giant disco ball and cocktail bar (and a golf buggy decked out like a mini Rolls-Royce). Food at the five restaurants is good, if less dazzling than the rest of the place; the premium all-inclusive option is especially good value, covering everything from wagyu steak in Japanese restaurant Kanusan to post-workout protein drinks at the Milk Lab café and Taittinger Champagne from the bar. And the weekly list of activities runs from the standard yoga and beach volleyball to acrobatic shows and mermaids in the swimming pool. Many hotels have tried to bring the party to the Maldives – Finolhu hits the sweet spot between indulgent fun and carefree affordability. LC

LUX* South Ari Atoll

This dreamy island has 193 villas, both on the beach and on two jetties (one of which is adults-only), with vaulted white ceilings, grey wood-effect ceramic floors and tree-trunk furniture. Many of the over-water villas are brand new, the spa is bigger, and the interiors have been smartened up. There's a mellow beach club vibe throughout, with bicycles to nip between the two bars at opposite ends of the three-kilometre-long island: one more chilled beside the pool, and the other, livelier, with colourful reclaimed wooden tables, a reggae soundtrack, surfboards propped against the wall, and inflatable swans standing by to drift about on the sea. There's coffee – roasted on-site – in reception, an ice-cream parlour with 32 homemade flavours such as bubblegum and pistachio, and live DJs at Beach Rouge, one of the six restaurants, including Allegria for Italian dishes and Senses for Indian.

The spa offers yoga in a grove of palms or on stand-up paddle boards (great for strengthening the core), as well as a tennis coach for private lessons and a marine biologist to take guests swimming with whale sharks in a protected area. Frequent pop-ups include a mixologist making Aperol cocktails at East Point, an open-air cinema on the beach – and the sudden appearance of a rack of Panama hats guests can borrow. It's impossible to miss home, but just in case, there's a red telephone box by reception for free old-school-style phone calls. This hideaway, above all, is incredibly fun. EL

Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

On one side of this island retreat – a circular hectare bisected by a sandy path lined with banana trees and bougainvillaea – is an open-air thatched bar, restaurant and water sports; on the other are the villas and a tiny but brilliant spa. The 10 beach and 20 over-water villas are simple and rustic, with apple-green, wood-panelled exteriors, coconut-leaf-thatched roofs and wicker sun loungers on the terraces (but no televisions, as the point here is to unplug). An early riser can practise hatha yoga with Rasmika Sahan before a snorkelling trip nearby (although the house reef is a treat too, with angelfish and baby blacktip sharks). Serious foodies might find the nightly buffet a tad repetitive, but it is, nevertheless, delightfully laid-back, carefree and barefoot. There are also beach barbecues and Sri Lankan feasts under the eye of chef Chaminda Udabage, who cooks up his homeland favourites of fish curries and dhal. This is a small, unhurried, good-value island aimed at those who spend their days drifting between sun beds and the ocean. Emma Love

The Nautilus

If city living is all about the lean-in, the Maldives is for the recline. Named after Nemo’s submarine, the Nautilus private-island retreat of 26 overwater and beach houses has maxed out on relaxed luxe. Sitting above the indigo Baa Atoll and its eddying UNESCO biosphere reserve of pale sandbars and just visible coral gardens, it’s a place where schedules are decidedly lacking and guests duck in via seaplane or yacht to zone out. The USP here is that everything is fluid: unscripted dining means scallop carpaccio or oyster ice cream at 5am if you wish. Waterborne adventures are impromptu, too, with watches and iPhones swapped out for snorkels and paddleboards at any time. This is very much a barefoot-and-board-shorts hideaway, crisscrossed with polished hardwood walkways and lofty palms beside walls of fragrant clerodendrum. Only the arrival of whale sharks and manta rays on their May-December migration provides a discernible sign of time passing. Unusually for hotels in the region, the Nautilus is independently Maldivian owned, and is designed for the next generation of smart travellers who are seeking out the latest go-with-the-flow modern boho experience.

Four Seasons Maldives Private Island at Voavah, Baa Atoll

Wide-brimmed straw hats off to the Four Seasons. With this five-acre, seven-bedroom, profoundly private island it has raised the proverbial bar. (While the group was at it, it probably got its design team to take another look at the bar and turn it into something more pleasing to behold, pleasant to touch and practical to use. It's what the Four Seasons does.) How much or how little you make of Voavah is likely to be your main – your only – concern. There's no shortage of possibilities. It's all yours. You've got the splendours of the Baa Atoll lapping at your shores and your own yacht on which to explore it. You've got your own dive centre and every beach toy known to man-child. Not to mention your own spa, the immaculate Ocean of Consciousness (surely missing an 'un'), and 28 staff dedicated to making your life as agreeable as possible. There may be no better circumstances in which to simply retreat to a shady spot with a book and give everyone the day off.

The place looks great and feels great too. The juxtaposition of smooth and rough textures, and traditional and contemporary materials, is brilliantly managed. Voavah is where woven seagrass met diamond-polished concrete and fell hopelessly in love. The muted palette of the interiors may at first appear unduly subdued – until you realise that what seems like conservatism is really a form of reverence. It serves to draw your eye outwards, back into the sublime, saturated colour and endless space of sea and sky beyond. SK  

Milaidhoo Maldives

A wonderful reminder of the joys of getting back to basics. Milaidhoo Maldives gives classic Maldivian island style a refreshing contemporary twist. Understated, refined, and properly spoiling. The 50 villas are enlivened with deft decorative flourishes – the vivid blue-on-blue accents and curvaceous lines of the Beach Pool villas, in particular, display great charm and panache. The island is small enough to get around without a buggy, so you can put a little of the barefoot work back into the enjoyment of barefoot luxury. Milaidhoo's location in Baa Atoll - a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with the world's highest concentration of manta rays – is a huge plus. Nearby Hanifaru Bay is to ray fanciers what La Scala is to opera buffs. A snorkelling, diving or sailing expedition, especially in the company of the resident marine biologist, is likely to be as instructive as it is beautiful – the sort of experience that could alter a person's entire attitude towards the oceans. The signature restaurant, Ba'theli, serving Maldivian and trade-route-inspired dishes in three cleverly interlinked dhonis, is a show-stopper. No less intriguing is the Deep Sleep Mood Menu. Four courses contrived for maximum soporific effect (passion-fruit-and-green-tea soup – who knew?) are served on your candlelit terrace. Ideally, it will be preceded by a spa treatment and followed by a meditation session and herb-infused bath. A bedtime story and glass of warm milk, though surely unnecessary by this point, could no doubt also be arranged. SK

At 15 hectares, Ayada , on the southern rim of the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and just 30km north of the Equator, is big enough to get lost on, and the more walking or cycling about you do, the more surprises keep popping up. Take a stroll after dinner (there are six restaurants) and... hello, what's this? A wine-and-cheese station for a glass of rouge and a sliver of brie while sitting on a bench fashioned from a fishing boat. Or as you head off to Zuzuu (the kids' club), you might stumble across The White Room, a part-colonial, part-tropical folly (pillars and a thatched roof) of such kitschness, you half expect the ghost of Elvis to emerge in a white tuxedo. Or you could stop in at the Ottoman Lounge (a nod to Ayada's Turkish ownership) and settle in for a coffee with a squidge of Turkish delight and a shisha pipe. The Middle Eastern mood shimmies through the villas: a filigree lampshade here, a joss-stick there, a flounce of Turkish fabric over the bed. And there's a full-on Turkish bath in the spa. This far from Malé, there's not a hint of light pollution in the inky night skies; by day there are dive sites, snorkelling with whale sharks and (unusually for the Maldives) surf breaks.

Cheval Blanc Randheli

Eight years after the first LVMH Cheval Blanc hotel opened in Courchevel (booked solid from day one) comes beautiful Randheli in the Maldives , designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, who also created One&Only Reethi Rah. Here he's used the same large-scale, cathedral-roofed template for the beach villas, and the detailing is superb. Those insouciant little armless sofas; that Vincent Beaurin lemon-yellow sand-disc artwork, which slowly turns as the weight of perpetually falling grains of sand rotate it; the square, slate-lined pool; the de Havilland seaplane bobbing in the water; the white bicycles for getting around; the taupe espadrilles in the villas' dressing rooms. It's all so chic. In the Guerlain spa, reached by dhoni, even a glance upwards from the massage bed prompts a smile in appreciation of the exquisitely woven rattan ceiling. Some bits grate: having to press a switch to open the villa front door from the inside, for instance. But from breakfast on the terrace – molten-centred brownies, celestial with a cappuccino – to the doll-sized mouthfuls on the tasting menu at Le 1947 restaurant, named after Cheval Blanc's most famous vintage, every element confirms this as the most sensational new resort in the Maldives.

Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru

Something to keep in mind when planning a holiday in the Maldives is that the remoteness once guaranteed by these faraway atolls can no longer be taken for granted. Resorts too close to the capital, Malé, may have views across to its high-rise skyline; others may have a neighbouring hotel within earshot or clear sight. But the gloriously isolated Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru , a former coconut plantation, has no such problems. The villas are also big and well spaced for privacy, the food couldn't be healthier (catch of the day at Fuego Grill; Lebanese mezze at Al Barakat) and the spa is truly outstanding. Our 2020 Spa Guide winner for most meaningful experience, as well as overwater treatment rooms, it has a shady Ayurvedic area in a clearing, where prayerful therapists from a Tantric Ayurvedic centre in Indonesia administer rituals lasting hours. It's also set up to provide a restorative 14-or 21-day panchakarma cleanse, which takes pounds off like nothing else. The island's Marine Discovery Centre, run by a team of biologists whose main focus is manta-ray research, could get anyone hooked on the wondrous world revealed as one sinks below the ocean surface with a snorkel or tank. Read our full review of Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru .

One&Only Reethi Rah

When you spot a woman in Prada getting off one of the seaplanes arriving at Malé airport , it's almost certain she'll have been staying at Reethi Rah. The hotel is deeply glamorous: guests dress up for dinner in its dimly lit, gently gleaming environs, and sometimes for breakfast, lunch and dive school, too. Super-smart, with its stone baths designed for two, often with a royal in residence (never seen but identifiable by uniformed bodyguards sitting outside the villa), this is an immense and hugely successful hotel, with 12 private beaches. There's a very Zen spa where you can fully detox, and an amazing teen zone with ping-pong tables and all kinds of watersports. Since it opened, a cookery school has been added and its overwater villas now have pools, but the beach pool villas are still the best: thrillingly big and impressive, they have wardrobes and shoe space to match.

Velaa Private Island

One of the most expensive resorts in the Maldives is owned by 42-year-old Czech billionaire Jiri Smejc, who asked his villa butler at Huvafen Fushi, Maldives to find him an island. He then hired a hot-shot general manager, Hans Cauchi from the Corinthia in London , installed his former butler front-of-house, and brought in 500 Czech builders for six months. The result? State-of-the-art boys' toys (not even glossy rivals Cheval Blanc or One&Only Reethi Rah have a Seabob or semi-submarine); a spa with expert therapists, an ocean-view sauna, snow room and snooze pod; a nine-hole golf course; tennis and squash courts; an extraordinary three-storey wine tower with a 6,000-bottle, £970,000 inventory (including a 1978 Romanée-Conti for £36,000); and Aragu, an overwater, open-kitchen restaurant and Champagne lounge with a Sri Lankan chef. Some design elements are a little retro: suede-effect giant-weave cushions; patchwork carpets; the hanging chair and three massive vases you have to dodge to get to the bath. But the outdoor bathrooms are quite wonderful, and four-bedroom villas plus top-notch security are great for those who must factor in space for the bodyguard and long-range-lens issues. Saudi's crown prince was among the first guests to arrive when the resort opened in December 2013.

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

When this hotel landed in the Baa atoll in 2011, it was a sleeker, clubbier Anantara outpost than family-friendly Dhigu, honeymooners’ Veli and quiet Naladhu that the brand already had in these waters. And there were plenty of head-turning attractions: the glass-bottomed baths in the overwater villas, the underwater restaurant, reportedly the country’s longest swimming pool. But plenty more splashier arrivals have since played their cards in the ongoing game of Maldives hotel top trumps. So Anantara’s latest update puts it back on the board, with knockout new multi-bedroom beach and pool residences, each with their own kitchen, gym, spa treatment room and pool deck.

The rest of the island is lush (no trees were felled during construction) and its central sandy path provides peekaboo pops of turquoise water while leading to diversions including an art studio, kids’ club and outdoor cinema beneath a celestial sky. At the overwater spa, there are new vitamin-drip therapies, part of the region’s only Cocoon Medical Spa, and an updated relaxation platform with saunas and plunge pools. That underwater restaurant is part of Sea Fire Spice Sky, a quartet of dining spaces varying from teppanyaki to grills from an authentic tandoori oven. The overwater observatory, the only one in the Maldives, has the country’s most powerful telescope (a research-grade 16-inch Meade LX200). Here, astronomer Ali Shameem, who grew up fascinated by the stars on the island of Maalhos, guides guests through the cosmos – the bonus of being almost on the equator means you can see constellations in both hemispheres. For all the slick hotel tricks, it’s always the hypnotic sea and sky that are the real knockouts. Ramsey Qubein

Which Maldives hotels are leading the way in terms of sustainability?

When it comes to nurturing this precious ecosystem, the Four Seasons resorts have been setting the bar for more than two decades with their full-time resident marine biologists and reef restoration programmes. From the Marine Discovery Centres at  Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru  and  Four Seasons Kuda Huraa , their work with Reefscapers, along with the Maldivian Ministries, they’ve been coral-frame planting, rehabilitating marine life and carrying out vital research.  Six Senses Laamu  is a member of the respected conservation collective, The Long Run, and the only luxury resort in the southern Maldives’ Laamu Atoll, and their endeavours include next-level protection of seagrass meadows — one of the most effective carbon-storage marine vegetation systems. Soneva has always been sensitive to hospitality’s delicate relationship with nature, on land and in water, since 1995. Their NGO, Soneva Namoona, was set up recently to roll out their holistic sustainability strategy as modelled at their Eco Centres at  Soneva Jani  and  Soneva Fushi , and it’s changing the way waste is understood by local communities and handled in the Maldives. A tour of the back-of-house might not be your typical holiday activity, but it’s actually very inspiring. Soneva’s Waste-To-Wealth initiative sees the hotels recycle 90 per cent of the solid waste and alchemise trash into bricks, food matter becomes compost, cans are compacted and glass bottles are reused. As with all paradise-island destinations, fossil-fuel-run generators powering these dreamy escapes will always be one of the biggest sustainability hurdles. Recognising the fragility of their ocean home, too,  Kudadoo  deserves praise for their solar energy innovations since a remarkably extensive surface area of photovoltaic panels is required to generate even a little electricity in this context. Few blue, watery landscapes rival the drama of this romantic-as-can-be location — which means all the more reason to celebrate the hotels that show a genuine passion for protecting this unrivalled setting. Juliet Kinsman, sustainability editor

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Alternative Destinations That Are Similar To The Maldives? - Maldives Forum

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1. We keep going to the Maldives and should branch out

2. The Maldives is getting unbelievably expensive

3. Our last Maldevian holiday (Meedhupparu) wasnt exactly the best.

With this in mind and also what I look for in a holiday, can anyone recommend alternative destinations? Am thinking Koh Samui, however have also heard that its getting busy and touristy.

Any info would be much appreciated.

the other lovely place to go would be the Tahiti Islands in South Pacific. You could see pictures from TA Travellers on Bora Bora or Moorea etc. Breathtaking beach and just perfect for relaxation.

Are you from UK? I thought there are lots of lovely places up there like Bermuda, Turks and Caicos, Aruba and Jamaica!

If you are looking at Asia, you can consider perhaps Boracay or Cebu.

Samui is great as are some of the outreach places in T-land the Phi Phis are very good,could also look at Indonesia - Vietnam is good and Cambodia is very up and comming.

Thank you for your responses.

Have never really been attrated to the carribean as it all looks a little too commercial to me (have an image of jet skiing and parasailing everywhere).

Do Cambodia and vietnam have beech resorts? Also, do you have an opinion on Bali and Goa ?

Thanks again for the info you have supplied.

Best wishes

The Caribbean is not all jet skis and parascending. There are some quiet islands - like Aruba and Tobago.

I went to Aruba about 5 years ago. It was delightful. The climate was great, the food was wonderful and the people were lovely. Apart from the Maldives it is the only other place I have been to where you are not hasselled by street/beach vendors to buy tat!

Tobago is also very laid back and has relatively few hotels so it doesn't feel very touristy.

I went travelling around SE Asia a few years ago. The best beaches IMO in that part of the world are Thailand, specially around Krabi and Ko Phi Phi, also heard that Ko Chang is very nice but never made it there myself. Ko Tao is recommended for diving, though again, I've not been there myself.

The beaches which I went to in Cambodia and Vietnam were not as nice as Thailiand but had charm for other reasons. For example, culture, amazingly friendly people, food etc.

Not been to the Maldives yet, going to Biyadhoo in August so will be able to give a better comparison then.

Ko Tao, is one of the best dive sights in the area/ Thailand, thats where i saw my first whale shark and spent 20 mins with her WOW !WOW! WOW!

We went to Aruba last yr and have to say that it was lovely there. we stayed in the druif beach area which was the low rise area. where our room was on the beach in two up four across blocks all facing the ocean. Was never busy or overcrowded.

based on your requirements Fiji sounds right up your street. I went a few years ago, and it is similar to the Maldives, with islands but hilly instead of flat! Go to the outer islands and not on the mainland, the weather is much better. It's a case whether money is any object.

..... activegirl

Your posts reignite my desire to go Aruba! I've seen travelling program on the TV. It looks awesome and the pple there speaks English. =p (or so i suppose)

By the way John, I missed out a place for you. And the place is called The Bamboo Island in Thailand. A friend of mine just went and the pictures he showed me was Thumbs Up. Go check it out!

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Trump Wishes His Trial Were Rigged

But instead he got a fair one, and was convicted by a jury of his peers.

Shortly after becoming the first former American president to be convicted as a felon, Donald Trump told reporters outside a Manhattan courthouse that the verdict was a “disgrace,” a “rigged trial by a conflicted judge who was corrupt.”

There is a simple, foolproof way to predict when Trump will describe something or someone as rigged or corrupt: when he doesn’t get what he wants. Elections he loses are fraudulent, legal decisions that go against him are rigged, and anyone who opposes him is corrupt. In every single instance, Trump is decrying not a corrupt individual or rigged process, but a person or process that is not corrupt or rigged enough to give him the results he seeks.

Trump’s attorneys did not offer much in the way of a defense during the trial , relying instead on a “haphazard cacophony of denials and personal attacks,” as the former prosecutor Renato Mariotti put it in The New York Times . Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg charged Trump with falsifying business records in an attempt to cover up a sexual encounter with the adult-film actor Stormy Daniels , in order to prevent news of the incident from breaking during the final, crucial weeks of the 2016 election. As my colleague David A. Graham writes , the payments were made through Michael Cohen, a former Trump operative turned prosecution witness, who paid Daniels $130,000 for her silence. The defense failed to convince the jury that Cohen was not a credible witness to Trump’s crimes despite a past record of dishonesty .

David A. Graham: Guilty on all counts

Instead, Trump and his allies spent most of their efforts putting the trial on trial, attacking the presiding judge and the process itself in bombastic press conferences outside the courtroom. Trump was far from being unfairly treated—anyone else engaging in such behavior would have been jailed for contempt; rather, Justice Juan Merchan bent over backwards to overlook his antics. Trump violated gag orders by attacking witnesses and attempting to intimidate Daniels during testimony that “at times seemed to be describing nonconsensual sex,” and attacked the judge’s daughter as a “ Rabid Trump Hater .” Yet Merchan told Trump , “The last thing I want to do is put you in jail.” In this trial and others, Trump has received special treatment precisely because he is an important political figure.

Many political writers originally reacted with disdain to Bragg’s charges, treating them as a sideshow to the much more serious state and federal charges regarding Trump’s alleged theft of classified records and unlawful attempt to seize power after losing the 2020 election. It is true that compared with potentially exposing nuclear secrets to foreign spies and attempting to end American democracy, trying to cover up his encounter with Daniels seems like a much less serious crime. But that cover-up, prosecutors said, was also an attempt to influence an election, and the jury convicted Trump on all 34 counts relatively quickly, after two days of deliberation—a sign of the strength of Bragg’s case and a smoothly run trial. Not every jury gets it right, and not every trial is fair. But few of the Republican objections even contest that Trump did the things he was convicted of doing; they simply amount to demands that Trump be able to commit crimes with impunity, because anything less would be political persecution.

Republican lawmakers have settled on rhetoric attacking the trial itself, alleging that, as House Speaker Mike Johnson said , “Democrats cheered as they convicted the leader of the opposing party on ridiculous charges.” That is not what happened. The document-falsification charges Trump faced are relatively common in New York, even if the theory that they could be upped to felonies because of their connection to an attempt to influence a federal election was novel . Trump was convicted, as the Constitution demands, by a jury of his peers in the city where his crimes were committed, in a process Thomas Jefferson described as “the only anchor, ever yet imagined by man, by which a government can be held to the principles of its constitution.” The American Founders considered trial by jury one of the core ideals of the American Revolution, in part because royal judges were considered too beholden to the King.

Republicans are attacking the New York trial because that court was seen as insufficiently beholden to their king. That prosecution proceeded relatively smoothly because right-wing judges lacked the ability to sabotage or delay the process. My colleague David Frum wrote that “it says something dark about the American legal system that it cannot deal promptly and effectively with a coup d’état.” But the culprit here is not “the American legal system.” Trials for the more serious federal charges against Trump have been delayed by a sustained attack on the rule of law carried out by right-wing legal activists embedded in the judiciary who are committed to postponing any trial long enough for Trump to potentially win an election and then dismiss the charges himself. Put simply, Trump is unlikely to be tried for these more serious charges not because of vague problems with the American legal system, but because a lot of federal judges are Republicans who want the leader of their party to get away with committing federal crimes.

The Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon has, as The New York Times reported , “effectively imperiled the future of a criminal prosecution that once seemed the most straightforward of the four Mr. Trump is facing.” She “has largely accomplished this by granting a serious hearing to almost every issue—no matter how far-fetched—that Mr. Trump’s lawyers have raised, playing directly into the former president’s strategy of delaying the case from reaching trial.”

The conservative-dominated Supreme Court, of which fully a third of the justices are Trump appointees, has also gone along with Trump’s legal strategy of delaying a trial as long as possible. “In recent years, the Roberts Court has shown greater and greater impatience with criminal defendants’ efforts to forestall punishment,” the law professor Aziz Huq wr ote in February , noting that “a general hostility to foot-dragging in criminal cases is a through line in the court’s docket.” Not so with Trump.

“The reason Trump has nevertheless sought to slow down the immunity appeals process is obvious: to postpone the trial date, hopefully pushing it into a time when, as president, he would control the Department of Justice and thus could quash the prosecution altogether,” Andrew Weissmann and Ryan Goodman wrote in The Atlantic in March . “The Supreme Court has shamed itself by being a party to this, when the sole issue before the Court is presidential immunity.”

Trump’s legal theory that former presidents are immune to prosecution for crimes committed while in office unless impeached for those crimes is so laughably broad that it would allow a president to assassinate a political rival and then avoid impeachment by threatening to slaughter every lawmaker in Congress. Yet the right-wing justices, sworn to uphold a constitutional order in which no one is above the law, seemed strangely intrigued by this assertion of imperial power during oral arguments earlier this month. Justice Samuel Alito, who has not denied that a flag supporting Trump’s attempted coup was flying outside his house just days after it happened, wondered out loud if prosecuting former presidents who try to overthrow democracy might harm democracy.

The right-wing justices are acting like Republican politicians who believe they are obligated to delay the trial of their party leader as long as possible and potentially prevent it from happening. This is not simply my jaded assessment. Today, Speaker Johnson told Fox News, “I think that the Justices on the Court—I know many of them personally—I think they are deeply concerned about that, as we are. So I think they’ll set this straight.”

Even if the justices reject Trump’s absurd legal theories, their dawdling may still prevent a trial from taking place before November. This gamesmanship by the justices on behalf of the party that appointed them bears far more resemblance to a corrupt or rigged process than a trial by a jury of one’s peers does. And that’s precisely the issue: In a Manhattan courtroom, facing 12 ordinary American citizens, Trump could not count on right-wing legal elites to skew the proceeding in his favor. Trump is not angry because the Manhattan trial that convicted him was rigged; he is angry because it wasn’t.

One should take a moment to appreciate the absolute failure of the Republican elite, who have repeatedly refused to hold Trump accountable. Twice Trump was impeached by Congress for interfering in American elections—once by trying to blackmail a foreign government into falsely implicating his political rival in a crime, and once for trying to keep himself in power by fraudulent schemes and violence . Both times, Republican senators spared Trump the consequences by acquitting him.

Whether they did so out of fear of Trump and his followers or because they are on board with his authoritarian project , the result is the same: The head of the GOP is a convicted criminal who holds democracy in contempt and whose objective is seizing power in order to keep himself out of prison. Republicans have only themselves to blame for this outcome.

Read: The twisted logic of Trump’s attacks on judges

As the writer Osita Nwanevu noted in March, “The only people who've ever held Trump meaningfully accountable over the last nine years have been ordinary Americans and they've spent that entire time being lectured to and berated by elites who've failed to do anything.” This is overbroad—Democrats impeached him twice—but there is something to it nonetheless. Republican senators voted to acquit twice knowing that Trump was guilty. Most Republican politicians and conservative media figures kissed Trump’s filthy ring rather than ruin their career or even defend their family from his degrading insults. Right-wing jurists have adapted their supposedly ironclad judicial philosophies to fit Trumpist imperatives.

The 12 jurors who convicted Donald Trump will not have taxpayer-funded bodyguards for the rest of their life. They are not protected by reverence for their office or by their connections to power or money. They surely understood that by convicting Trump, they could be subject to harassment and violence, much as others who have refused to do Trump’s bidding have been.

Yet those 12 random New Yorkers showed more courage in convicting Donald Trump, knowing that they could be hounded for doing so, than nearly the entire conservative elite has in the past decade. Small wonder that this same elite is so terrified of the possibility of Trump facing another jury of his peers, an American institution that has so far proved itself resistant to Trump’s corrupting influence.

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• Publishing interactive PDF web forms
• PDF form field basics
• PDF barcode form fields
• Collect and manage PDF form data
• About forms tracker
• PDF forms help
• Send PDF forms to recipients using email or an internal server
• Combine or merge files into single PDF
• Add headers, footers, and Bates numbering to PDFs
• Crop PDF pages
• Add watermarks to PDFs
• Add backgrounds to PDFs
• Working with component files in a PDF Portfolio
• Publish and share PDF Portfolios
• Overview of PDF Portfolios
• Create and customize PDF Portfolios
• Share and track PDFs online
• Mark up text with edits
• Preparing for a PDF review
• Starting a PDF review
• Hosting shared reviews on SharePoint or Office 365 sites
• Participating in a PDF review
• Add comments to PDFs
• Adding a stamp to a PDF
• Approval workflows
• Managing comments | view, reply, print
• Importing and exporting comments
• Tracking and managing PDF reviews
• Saving PDFs
• Convert PDF to Word
• Convert PDF to JPG
• Convert or export PDFs to other file formats
• File format options for PDF export
• Reusing PDF content
• Enhanced security setting for PDFs
• Securing PDFs with passwords
• Manage Digital IDs
• Securing PDFs with certificates
• Opening secured PDFs
• Removing sensitive content from PDFs
• Setting up security policies for PDFs
• Choosing a security method for PDFs
• Security warnings when a PDF opens
• Securing PDFs with Adobe Experience Manager
• Protected View feature for PDFs
• Overview of security in Acrobat and PDFs
• JavaScripts in PDFs as a security risk
• Attachments as security risks
• Allow or block links in PDFs
• Sign PDF documents
• Capture your signature on mobile and use it everywhere
• Send documents for e-signatures
• Create a web form
• Request e-signatures in bulk
• Collect online payments
• Brand your account
• About certificate signatures
• Certificate-based signatures
• Validating digital signatures
• Adobe Approved Trust List
• Manage trusted identities
• Basic PDF printing tasks
• Print Booklets and PDF Portfolios
• Advanced PDF print settings
• Print to PDF
• Printing color PDFs (Acrobat Pro)
• Printing PDFs in custom sizes
• Create and verify PDF accessibility
• Accessibility features in PDFs
• Reading Order tool for PDFs
• Reading PDFs with reflow and accessibility features
• Edit document structure with the Content and Tags panels
• Creating accessible PDFs
• Cloud-based auto-tagging
• Creating PDF indexes
• Searching PDFs
• Add audio, video, and interactive objects to PDFs
• Adding 3D models to PDFs (Acrobat Pro)
• Displaying 3D models in PDFs
• Interacting with 3D models
• Measuring 3D objects in PDFs
• Setting 3D views in PDFs
• Enable 3D content in PDF
• Adding multimedia to PDFs
• Commenting on 3D designs in PDFs
• Playing video, audio, and multimedia formats in PDFs
• Add comments to videos
• Print production tools overview
• Printer marks and hairlines
• Previewing output
• Transparency flattening
• Color conversion and ink management
• Trapping color
• PDF/X-, PDF/A-, and PDF/E-compliant files
• Preflight profiles
• Advanced preflight inspections
• Preflight reports
• Viewing preflight results, objects, and resources
• Output intents in PDFs
• Correcting problem areas with the Preflight tool
• Automating document analysis with droplets or preflight actions
• Analyzing documents with the Preflight tool
• Additional checks in the Preflight tool
• Preflight libraries
• Preflight variables
• Keeping colors consistent
• Color settings
• Color-managing documents
• Working with color profiles
• Understanding color management

Learn how to add or replace text and fix typos in a PDF using Acrobat. Change fonts and typeface. Adjust text size and alignment in a PDF.

Before you begin

We are rolling out a new, more intuitive product experience. If the screen shown here doesn’t match your product interface, switch to the help for your current experience .

Edit text in a PDF

Open the PDF you want to edit in Acrobat, and then select Edit  in the global bar.

The PDF switches to the edit mode, and the Edit panel displays.  If the PDF is generated from a scanned document, Acrobat automatically runs OCR to make the text and images editable.

The Edit panel includes options to modify the page, add content, redact a PDF, and convert various documents to PDF forms. You can use the options in the Edit panel to replace, edit, or add text to a PDF. You can correct typos, change fonts and typeface size, adjust alignment, add superscripts or subscripts, and resize text or paragraphs.

Try it in the app Edit a PDF in a few simple steps.

Add, change, format, delete, or highlight text

When you add text in a PDF, by default Acrobat chooses nearby font attributes for the new text. When you edit text, any font that isn't available on the system is substituted by a default fall-back font for the particular script. For example, Minion Pro  is the default fall-back font for Roman script fonts. The substitution of unavailable fonts by default fonts can introduce inconsistency in the look and feel of text in a PDF document. To avoid inconsistency, choose a specific font for any text that is added or modified in the PDF document from Font Options under Content Editing.

In the dialog box, select  Content Editing under Categories. Font Options are displayed as shown in the following screenshot.

Select an appropriate font in the drop-down lists:

• Fallback font for Editing .
• Default font for Add Text and Font Size .

Select  OK to save the changes and close the Preferences dialog box.

When you edit text, the text in the paragraph reflows within its text box to accommodate the changes. Each text box is independent, and inserting text in one text block doesn’t push down an adjacent text box or reflow to the next page.  

From the Edit panel, select Text under Add Content .

Select the text that you want to edit. The text-box turns blue upon selection, and a rotation handle appears at the top of the selected text-box.

• Type new text to replace the selected text, or press Delete to remove it.
• To rotate the text box, use the rotation handle at the top of the selected text box.
• Manage list items using the list controls (bulleted and numbered) in the right-side Format panel. You can create lists, and conversely, convert a list item to a paragraph, or change list types.
• Select a font, font size, or other formatting options in the right-side Format panel. You can also try the advanced format options, such as line spacing, character spacing, horizontal scaling, stroke width, and color.

For legal reasons, you must have purchased a font and have it installed on your system to revise text using that font.

You can edit text only if the font used for that text is installed on your system. If the font isn’t installed, but is embedded in the PDF, you can only change the color or font size. If the font isn't installed or embedded, you can't edit any text.

Select any area outside the selection to deselect it, and start over.

From the Edit panel, select  Text  under  Add Content .

Select the text that you want to change.

In the  Format   Text section on the left panel, select a font, font size, or other formatting options. You can also try the advanced format options, such as line spacing, character spacing, horizontal scaling, stroke width, and color.

You can edit text only if the font used for that text is installed on your system. If the font isn’t installed on your system, but is embedded in the PDF, change only the color or font size. If the font isn't installed or embedded, you can't edit any text.

Select outside the selection to deselect it and start over.

You can add or insert new text into a PDF using any of the fonts installed on the system.

Drag to define the width of the text block that you want to add.

The Add text tool intelligently detects the following text properties of text close to the point of click:

• Font name, size, and color
• Character, paragraph, and line spacing
• Horizontal scaling

These text properties are automatically applied to the text that you add at the point of click.

You can change the text properties using the options under Format in the right pane.

• Type the text.
• To resize the text box, drag a selection handle.

You can move or rotate text boxes on a page. The Edit  tool outlines each text box, so it's clear what text is affected. Edits are confined to the page. You can't drag a text block to another page, or move or rotate individual characters or words within a text box. However, you can copy text boxes and paste them on another page.

Resizing a text box causes the text to reflow within the new text box boundaries. It doesn't change the size of the text. As with other text edits, resizing is limited to the current page. Text doesn't flow to the next page.

From the Edit panel, select  Text  under  Add Content.

Select the text box that you want to move, rotate, or resize.

Place the pointer over any of the circular selection handles, and drag the handle to resize the text block.

If you want to mark up selected text with highlight, strikethrough, or underline, use the Comment tool. The actual text doesn't change in the PDF. Those mark ups only indicate where and how the text should be edited in the source file. For more information, see Highlight, strikethrough, or underline text .

You can use annotation and drawing markup tools to add comments. Comments are notes and drawings that communicate ideas or provide feedback for PDFs. You can type a text message using the Sticky Note tool. Alternatively, you can use a drawing tool to add a line, circle, or other shape and then type a message in the associated pop-up note. For more information, see Use annotation and drawing markup tools to add comments in PDFs .

You can add items to a numbered or bulleted list, create list items, convert a paragraph to a list item, and conversely. You can also change list types.

Acrobat detects paragraphs and lists separately. Therefore, both paragraph and list may appear in the same bounding box while editing. After you save or save as the changed file and reopen it, the paragraph and list items are displayed in separate bounding boxes.

Do the following:

To add or remove items from a numbered or bulleted list:

• You can add or remove items to the list at all nested levels using the same familiar controls that you use in Microsoft® Office. For example, press Enter at the end of a list item to insert a new row. Press Backspace to remove the new row and position the cursor back to the end of the previous list item.

To create a numbered or bulleted list:

• Place the cursor in the document at the location where you want to add a list.
• Choose the appropriate list type under  Format Text .

To convert an existing paragraph to a list item:

• Place the cursor in the paragraph, and then choose the appropriate list type under Format Text .

To convert an existing list item to a paragraph:

• Select all items in the list. The appropriate list type is highlighted under Format Text .
• Click the highlighted list type.

To convert from one list type to another:

• Place the cursor in the list item or select all items.
• Choose the appropriate list type under Format Text .

Use the keyboard to add a list item. For example, before a paragraph, you can type number ‘a’ followed by the closing parenthesis ‘)’ and then add one space. It adds a numbered list starting with “a)”.

Edit a PDF form

You can use the Fill & Sign tools to add text and other symbols anywhere on the form. For instructions, see Fill and sign your PDF form .

You can create, distribute, track, fill, and sign PDF forms using Acrobat. For more information, see PDF forms help .

Rotate, move, delete, extract, or renumber PDF pages

You can easily organize pages in a PDF if you have permission to edit the PDF . For more information, see Rotate, move, delete, extract, or renumber PDF pages .

Update headers, footers, background, or watermarks

Acrobat lets you add a header and footer throughout a PDF . Headers and footers can include a date, automatic page numbering, Bates numbers for legal documents, or the title and author. For more information, see Add headers, footers, and Bates numbering to PDFs .

You can selectively apply a background to only specific pages or page ranges in one or more PDFs. A PDF supports only one background per page, but the backgrounds can vary from page to page. For more information, see Add backgrounds to PDFs .

A watermark is a text or an image that appears either in front of or behind existing document content, like a stamp. For example, you could apply a “Confidential” watermark to pages with sensitive information. You can add multiple watermarks to one or more PDFs, but you must add each watermark separately. For more information, see Add watermarks to PDFs .

More like this

• Product feature: Edit PDFs using Acrobat

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