Words by Duncan Greenfield-Turk, @luxurylondonguy
Boasting tropical weather, crystal-clear water, white-sand beaches, and stunning sunsets every night of the week, an idyllic location is only part of the allure of the Maldives. Below the surface, a completely different paradise – one teeming with vibrant marine life and coral reefs – rivals the extravagance found on land and has helped earn the Maldives a reputation as a favourite spot among first-class travellers.
Perfectly positioned along the equator line in the Arabian Sea, the Maldives awaits honeymooners as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. An enchanting archipelago where barefoot luxury meets world-class service, the island nation is comprised of approximately 1,200 islands and over 130 top-tier resorts, ranging from secluded getaways to exotic escapes.
Whether couples seek a remote private island where they can get away from it all or a novel experience to commemorate their union, the Maldives offers boundless options and an unparalleled setting in which to form remarkable memories. From overwater bungalows to underwater activities, our insider’s guide will tell you everything you need to know about honeymooning in the Maldives.
When to travel
The Maldives’ famous slogan, “The Sunny Side of Life” is indeed an accurate depiction of what travellers will find most of the year. The country is characterised by warm, summerly weather, year-round temperatures, generally averaging between 23°C and 31°C. However, it’s important to note that this region does experience a brief monsoon season between the months of May and October.
For honeymooners dreaming of sun-soaked days and breezy barefoot evenings, the ideal window for travel is a seven to nine-night stay between November and April. Those hoping for additional seclusion may consider a shoulder month in lieu of the nation’s high season, December through March.
Where to stay
Taj Exotica
Transfer: Speedboat | House Reef: No
A quick 15-minute jaunt (via private luxury speedboat) from Malé, the Taj Exotica lies in the centre of one of the Maldives’ largest turquoise lagoons, on the exotic island of Emboodhu Finolhu. Amidst this palm-studded paradise of private beaches and personal butlers is a lush, romantic ambiance — it is no wonder honeymooners claim time seems to slow down here.
Gili Lankanfushi
Transfer: Speedboat | House Reef: No
20 minutes by boat from the nation’s capital, the intimate and eco-friendly Gili Lankanfushi resort invites couples to redefine luxury. Two distinct honeymoon packages offer a breadth of romantic amenities and bespoke travel experiences, from evenings spent dining under the stars to unparalleled pampering at the Meera Spa.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Transfer: Luxury yacht or domestic flight | House Reef: Yes
Voted ‘Best Hotel in the World’ not once but twice, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is both captivating and innovative, reinventing seaside luxury when it unveiled Ithaa, the world’s first undersea dining experience. For an even more extraordinary experience, reserve your stay in your own private underwater aquarium at The Mukara — Conrad’s two-level residence with a submerged master suite.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
Transfer: Seaplane | House Reef: Yes
Nestled between lush jungle and a sparkling lagoon in the Dhaalu Atoll, the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli resort offers honeymooners the chance to experience both tranquillity and adventure under one roof. Whether you prefer a private island picnic, or a social hour spent sipping spirits and savouring local seafood at the iconic Whale Bar, you won’t be disappointed by St. Regis’ service and splendour. Stunning architecture inspired by local marine life, exquisite details, and postcard-perfect views characterise this five-star resort.
Soneva Fushi
Transfer: Seaplane | House Reef: Yes
Known as “the original desert island hideaway,” there’s no question that Soneva Fushi understands every couple’s deepest desires. For sea-lovers and snorkelers, spacious villas on the sunset side of the island offer easy access to reefs and is perfectly poised for dolphin spotting. Alternatively, the sunrise side of the island features expansive views of an endless horizon and remote reserves for extra privacy. Don’t forget to check out the impressive resort amenities, including a movie cinema and sky observatory.
Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
Transfer: Seaplane | House Reef: Yes
Whether you choose to unwind on land amongst lush island greenery or live elevated above the ocean in a luxe water villa, you’ll never be more than a few steps away from the pristine 360° house reef at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. Between scented aromatherapy baths, sweeping ocean vistas, and a special honeymoon breakfast, every stay at the Park Hyatt is an unforgettable experience.
Bound beyond luxury
For lovers who are looking for something extra special (and extra secluded), arguably the most alluring trait of the Maldives is its impeccable ability to consistently exceed expectations. The ultraluxe Maldives, designed exclusively for the highest of society, is a next-level experience sure to surpass any dream or desire.
Velaa Private Island
Transfer: Seaplane | House Reef: Yes
An exclusive hideaway where guests can expect to be treated like royalty, Velaa Private Island was designed precisely with first-class needs in mind. Contemporary yet intimate, this unrivalled resort was curated for the utmost privacy and comfort with its most romantic residence a remote water villa that can only be reached by boat. Personal butlers and opulent amenities ensure you’ll never have to leave your suite — but if you want to, a world of elite water and land activities await.
One&Only Reethi Rah
Transfer: Seaplane | House Reef: Yes
A favourite amongst VIPs and celebrities, One&Only Reethi Rah is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for couples who want to be whisked away into a world where love and luxury rule all. Spread over six kilometres of coastline, each expansive villa sits discretely on its own stretch of shoreline or hovering above the azure Indian Ocean. From moonlit picnics with a seven-course menu to tailored treehouse dinners amidst a twinkling forest canopy, One&Only’s curated experiences spare no detail when it comes to romance.
Need to know
House reefs vs. diving
Home to an astonishing 2,500 coral reefs, the Maldives is famous for its vibrant ecosystems beneath the surface, alive with abundant exotic marine life, including spotted eagle rays, sea turtles, lionfish, and more. When selecting a resort for your romantic getaway, underwater aficionados will want to keep in mind the difference in accessibility between house reefs and dive sites.
While almost every luxury resort includes PADI-certified instructors and world-class diving organised by boat, house reefs bring you even closer to the action, as they are easily accessible for snorkelers from the resort shoreline (or in some cases, your front doorstep!)
Getting there
Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, the Maldives’ capital city, serves as the main arrival gateway for international travellers, offering flights to and from most major airports around the world. Upon arrival, a resort representative will help ensure an effortless and stress-free connection, escorting you to your final island destination via speedboat or seaplane, depending on distance.
How to reserve
Offering honeymooners a level of privacy and luxury unmatched anywhere else in the world, the Maldives has long represented the pinnacle of romance travel. Reach out today to start planning your magical Maldives honeymoon — and for more inside information on romance travel and advice, be sure to follow @luxurylondonguy.
