The Top 10 Best Places to Visit in the Maldives This Summer
Fri Jun 12 2026
You have probably seen pictures of the stunning Maldives beaches with clear water and white sand beaches. The Maldives is an archipelago of 26 atolls made up of nearly 1200 individual islands. It's no wonder this place is such a popular destination for beach lovers and honeymooners. Whether you're looking for a Maldives honeymoon package or just planning a Maldives vacation, here are the top ten best places to visit in the Maldives.
1. Niyama Private Islands Maldives
Niyama Private Islands Maldives spans two connected islands, Play and Chill. Families can enjoy the lively side of the resort, while couples can find quieter spaces to unwind. Its most distinctive dining experience is Subsix, an underwater restaurant beneath the Indian Ocean.
Why consider Niyama for a summer holiday? The choice of two islands gives guests different ways to spend each day, from time together by the water to a memorable meal at Subsix. Niyama is in Dhaalu Atoll, approximately 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport. A domestic flight followed by a speedboat transfer is also available.
2. Vakkaru Maldives
Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded reef island in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its house reef and beach and overwater villas make it a strong choice for travellers who want a quiet island stay with marine life close by. The resort is approximately 30 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport.
Why consider Vakkaru for a summer holiday? From May to November, nearby Hanifaru Bay offers seasonal opportunities to see manta rays. Guests can combine a marine excursion with time exploring Vakkaru’s house reef. Manta sightings depend on conditions and are never guaranteed.
3. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
Set on Vommuli Island in Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers beach and overwater villas, St. Regis Butler Service and the overwater Iridium Spa. The resort is approximately 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport.
Why consider St. Regis for a summer holiday? It suits families who want space to spend time together, with private-pool villas and a Children’s Club offering supervised activities for ages 4 to 12. Couples can enjoy the resort’s quieter villa and spa experiences.
4. Baglioni Maldives
Baglioni Maldives brings an Italian approach to island hospitality in Dhaalu Atoll. Dining is a particular reason to choose it: guests can enjoy Southern Italian cuisine at La Limonaia, Japanese dishes at Yama and relaxed meals by the beach. The resort is approximately 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport.
Why consider Baglioni for a summer holiday? It offers families and couples a choice of dining settings and an all-inclusive resort experience. Children aged 4 to 12 can take part in activities at the Baglioni Kids Club, while adults have time to enjoy the island at their own pace.
5. JA Manafaru Maldives
JA Manafaru Maldives is a secluded island resort in Haa Alifu Atoll, in the far north of the Maldives. Families can choose spacious beach villas with private pools, while couples can enjoy a quieter island stay.
Why consider JA Manafaru for a summer holiday? Its family facilities give children and adults space to enjoy the island in different ways. CoolZone offers arts, crafts, storytelling and games for children aged three and above, with a dedicated children’s pool nearby. For a longer family stay, the resort also offers larger villas and residences.
6. Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences
Amilla Maldives is set on a naturally lush island in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Accommodation ranges from overwater and beach villas to treetop villas and spacious residences, giving couples and families more choice than a typical overwater-only resort. It is approximately 30–35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport.
Why consider Amilla for a summer holiday? Choose a treetop villa for a stay among the island’s greenery, or a larger residence for a family trip. Amilla also offers wellness experiences at Javvu Spa, making it particularly appealing to travellers who want time to relax alongside their island activities.
7. OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort
OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is a small island retreat in South Ari Atoll, approximately 25 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport. Guests can choose beach or overwater villas and spend their days exploring the lagoon or joining guided marine experiences.
Why consider OUTRIGGER for a summer holiday? Its distinctive experience is Lonubo, an uninhabited island reserved for resort guests. It offers a setting for a private picnic, a relaxed afternoon by the water or a special dinner. The resort also arranges guided whale shark excursions, although wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
8. Ayada Maldives
Located in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Ayada Maldives offers beach and overwater villas, a house reef and a spa with a Turkish hammam. Dining choices include Asian cuisine at Kai and international dishes at Magu.
Why consider Ayada for a summer holiday? Its southern location makes it appealing to travellers interested in surfing, with reef breaks accessible by boat from the resort. To reach Ayada from Velana International Airport, take an approximately 55-minute domestic flight followed by a 25–50-minute speedboat ride. Allow extra time for the flight connection.
9. Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa
Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa is a Deluxe All-Inclusive resort on Fasmendhoo Island in Raa Atoll. Guests can choose beach or overwater villas, including options with private pools, and dine across restaurants serving Mediterranean, Asian and international cuisine. The resort is approximately 40 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport.
Why consider Emerald for a summer holiday? Its all-inclusive concept makes it easier for families to plan dining during their stay. Children aged 3 to 12 have a dedicated club with indoor and outdoor activities, a pool and a children’s restaurant. In the evening, the Sunset Pool Café offers a relaxed place to watch the sun go down.
10. Huvafen Fushi Maldives
Huvafen Fushi Maldives is an intimate island retreat in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Guests can stay in beach or overwater accommodation and explore the house reef close to shore.
Why consider Huvafen Fushi for a summer holiday? The short speedboat transfer makes it convenient for a shorter stay. Its signature underwater spa offers an experience that sets it apart, while couples can arrange a private underwater dinner for a special occasion.
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