If you are looking for a luxury island getaway the Maldives should be at the top of your shortlist. Crystal clear waters lap up the soft, white, sandy beaches of a private island surrounded by a turquoise lagoon teaming with tropical wildlife. Throw in some luxurious accommodation (often with your own private swimming pool), fine dining, 5-star service and 8 hours of sunshine a day and you are starting to get a sense of the magnificent Maldives.
The Maldives are a unique island nation in the Indian Ocean comprising of over 1000 islands dotted around 26 ring shaped atolls. It is located around 1000 kilometres south west of Sri Lanka and a little further away from the southern tip of India. There are approximately 80 islands where resorts are situated so there are plenty of different options whether you are travelling for a honeymoon, family holiday or romantic getaway with you loved one.
Popular Maldives Islands
There is plenty of choice when considering which Maldives island to enjoy your holiday. For family holidays, Kurumba is an excellent choice which offers plenty of water sports and activities for the kids whilst retaining all the refinements you want from a luxury holiday in the Maldives. Biyadhoo is a great choice for diving holidays with several top quality dive sites and a world-renowned diving school. Kuramathi is a great all rounder popular with couples and families and when it comes to the ultimate in luxury Maldives holidays you cannot go far wrong with Bolifushi Island.
Marine wildlife in the Maldives
As the islands are surrounded by their own coral reefs, the Maldives have an abundance marine wildlife in all shapes and sizes. The lagoons and reefs are awash with beautiful tropical fish. Dolphins, sea turtles and sharks are found further out from the reefs but do occasionally feed near the reef edge. Rays are a common occurrence on the islands and most resorts organise ray feeding trips/experiences. Further out to sea you can see some larger species including hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, dolphins and Whale watching tours are often available during the season including Sperm and Blue whales amongst others that you could potentially catch a glimpse of.
Luxury Maldives Hotel
There are lots of top quality resorts to choose from in the Maldives, here is our favourite.
The 5-star Jumeirah Vittaveli on Bolifushi Island comprises of 89 villas and suites each with their own swimming pool and direct access to the beach or lagoon. the private spacious villas are available with one or two bedrooms making them the ideal accommodation for both families and couples.
Flying to the Maldives
Flights to the Maldives are readily available from major UK airports with the most popular departures from London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle. Flight times to Male (the capital of the Maldives) from the UK are between 12 – 14 hours with a stop along the way. Popular airlines include Emirates, Qatar, British Airways and Etihad.
Flights to the Maldives are available at an incredible value from The Savvy Flyers with economy flights from £480. Business class to the Maldives from £1300 per person and ultimate style in first class can be yours from £2100.
The Maldives in Pictures
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit the Maldives for the best weather is between November and April with the peak season between December and March. The Maldives are hot and sunny throughout the year although there is a higher chance of rainfall in May and June, so you may catch a downpour when travelling in these months. If you are heading to the Maldives to see specific marine wildlife, check migratory patterns and local information for the best time to go.