The Ultimate Maldives Honeymoon Guide (2024)

When you think of your honeymoon, there’s a perfect place to spend the beginning of your life together – the Maldives. With its bungalows over the water, colourful sea life, and clear waters, a honeymoon in the Maldives is like paradise. Just picture those beautiful islands spread out in the blue ocean, offering both cosy moments and stunning nature. As you imagine leisurely walks on soft sandy beaches, you can almost feel the clear blue waters welcoming you and imagine the calm of luxurious villas on the water where each morning feels like a peaceful melody of waves. And don’t forget the excitement of snorkelling among lively coral reefs and watching the sunsets of a lifetime. The Maldives warmly invites you to create your own special memories, making them treasured parts of your love story!

Where to Stay: The Best Maldives Resort for Your Honeymoon

5-Star Luxury Resorts

1. Patina Maldives

Who does not want to have their honeymoon in the ultimate paradise? Imagine, just lounging around on the veranda of your very own sunset villa, overlooking the Maldives’ famed sunsets, azure waters, and majestic sea creatures swimming by. While the allure of these luxurious experiences is enough to captivate, Patina Maldives sets itself apart from other luxury resorts by offering an extensive array of activities, restaurants, and attractions across the entire island. It feels as though the island has been meticulously curated to unveil constant surprises, inviting you to uncover hidden gems with each passing day during your stay. Even better, explore the island on bicycles, which will make every moment spent at Patina even more special. 

Indulge in soul-freeing experiences in paradise

In addition to experiencing nature and its impeccable beauty, Patina Maldives presents honeymooners with a myriad of soul-freeing experiences. They have the Island Romance package, a specially crafted offering encompassing everything needed for a romantic getaway in the Maldives. From immersing in the marine wonders of the island to challenging endurance against invigorating beats, each encounter is designed to complement the unique energy of every guest. You can even snorkel right from your villa’s doorstep, but honestly, what you should not miss out on is their Ceramics & Coral Conservation Workshop, an activity that guides participants in creating ceramic houses aimed at fostering coral reef growth in the surrounding waters. It is a way of leaving a lasting impact on the resort, creating a legacy you can revisit on your next holiday at Patina!

And let’s not forget our most favourite place in the entire resort—FLOW. This enchanting sanctuary elevates your senses through a blend of therapeutic expertise, eco-conscious products, cutting-edge technologies, and the soothing rhythm of water. FLOW takes pride in its treatment suites exclusively dedicated to Watsu, an exceptional water therapy practice, while a tranquil floatation zone tenderly cradles both the mind and body. The warm plunge pools and invigorating cold showers offer not just relaxation but also vascular and cognitive benefits, complemented by red-light therapy that stimulates cellular renewal. FLOW is truly a haven within a haven, ensuring an unparalleled wellness experience at Patina Maldives. For a full list of their spa services, click here.

2. Soneva Jani

Soneva Jani offers the ultimate privacy and laid-back luxury. Each beautifully designed water villa has its own private pool and a retractable roof to stargaze from the master bedroom. Check-in to the Water Retreat Villa with Slide to have a blast on the slide and marvel at the uninterrupted views of the lagoon.

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3. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

Embark on a journey of luxury and love at Anantara Kihavah Villas, nestled on the stunning Kihavah Huravalhi Island in Baa Atoll. You can pick from a range of spacious Pool Villas and Residences, each boasting a private infinity pool, situated over the serene waters or along the untouched sandy shores. From romantic beachside breakfasts to the captivating experience of dining at our award-winning underwater restaurant, SEA, every moment here is crafted to create cherished memories for your honeymoon!

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4. One&Only Reethi Rah

A luxurious tropical getaway, One&Only Reethi Rah overlooks the Indian Ocean with a stunning infinity pool and a peaceful private beach. The elegant villas at One & Only Reethi Rah are either over the lagoon or by the beach, with both options providing magnificent ocean views.

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5. Waldorf Astoria Maldives 

Waldorf Astoria Maldives is located on a stretch of 3 private islands encircling a lagoon in the South Male Atoll; ideal for ultimate relaxation and tropical adventure. Each villa has a spacious outdoor living area with an infinity pool, a gazebo, and a daybed swing for maximum relaxation. 

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Mid-Range Maldives Honeymoon Resorts

1. Hurawalhi Island Resort

Be in the moment at Hurawalhi Island Resort, Maldives. The perfect mix of serenity and excitement plus comfort and adventure. Splurge on the Romantic Ocean Villa on your Maldives honeymoon to enjoy the lavish views of the lagoon as you share some much-awaited alone time with your partner.

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2. Huvafen Fushi

A secret sanctuary on the North Male Atoll. Huvafen Fushi is a dream come true for couples, with choices from beachside bungalows to ocean pavilions with pool. Get yourselves the Ocean Bungalow with a pool for your own private deck, an oversized Jacuzzi, and a whole lot of intimate and romantic views of the Maldives. 

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3. Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is your barefoot luxury experience for a Maldives honeymoon getaway. Winner of the Maldives’ Leading Resort 2019 and 2018 by World Travel Awards, you can expect top-notch service here, with the azure colors of the lagoon and house reef just steps away from your own villa. 

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Budget Maldives Honeymoon Resorts

1. Hard Rock Hotel Maldives

Get on with the good life on your Maldives honeymoon at the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives. Located in Emboodhoo Lagoon, a stone’s throw from Male, reaching the resort will be fairly quick for couples who prefer to travel as little as possible. The hotel has direct access to The Marina @ CROSSROADS, so entertainment, shopping, and more activities are just right at your fingertips. Treat your partner to a Platinum Overwater Pool Villa that has an infinity pool, a private terrace, and direct lagoon access. 

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2. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

For a sunny and tropical paradise in the South Male Atoll without breaking the bank, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives should be one of your top picks. Named after the abundant Kandoo tree that gives the island its lush and verdant feel, the resort will give you a relaxed feeling just by the views of the Maldivian sea from your beach or garden villas. If you and your partner love diving and surfing, you’re in luck! The resort is surrounded by world-class diving and surfing sites.

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3. Kandima Maldives

The Kandima Maldives is a place with soul and is deeply rooted in community and culture. A Maldives honeymoon located in the largest island in Dhaalu Atoll has everything you need, from having the longest outdoor swimming pool in the Maldives to a marine biology centre, an art studio, and even cooking classes. Book your stay in a Honeymoon Aqua Pool Villa for romantic sunset views, a huge infinity pool and a private overwater deck. 

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Budget Maldives Hotels

For those seeking to visit Maldives on a budget, we highly recommend staying on the local island of Maafushi. From there, you can go on resort day excursions to experience the resort life for a fraction of the price!

1. Velana Beach Maldives

A beachfront property set in Maafushi, Velana Beach Maldives is perfect for a budget Maldives honeymoon. Their rooms have elegant designs with crisp whites and blue colours that gives off an intimate feeling. We personally stayed there for a couple of nights, and it was a pretty great gateway for day trips to the nearby resorts.

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2. Kaani Grand Seaview

One of Maafushi’s finest hotels, Kaani Grand Seaview is located right in front of Bikini Beach. Combining splendid service and quality accommodation, get yourselves the Honeymoon Room with Balcony and Seaview for a private and secluded romantic environment.

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3. Crystal Sands

Crystal Sands is a modern yet cozy hotel that is decorated with a modern eclectic design that gives off a positive vibe. Its cozy rooms are perfect for your Maldives honeymoon with views of the setting sun and beautiful Maldivian waters.

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Things to Do: Unique Maldives Honeymoon Experiences

1. Swim with the gentle giants of the sea on your Maldives honeymoon

Ready to check “swimming with whale sharks” off your honeymoon bucket list? If the answer is yes, then let the South Atoll be your destination to witness these majestic creatures year-round. Embarking on a unique journey of swimming with the ocean’s largest fish is an unforgettable experience, and we wholeheartedly recommend it to add an extra touch of magic to your romantic getaway.

Our recommendations: 

• LUX* South Ari Atoll: The resort is the ideal base to dive at some of the most famous sites in the world. One of the most famous sites is the Kuda Rah Thila, the first nationally protected site in the Maldives, while the Maamigili Outside is a whale shark magnet!
• Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa: Included in the Ultimate All-Inclusive Package of the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa is the whale shark boat trip wherein you may be able to catch a glimpse of dolphins and whale sharks hanging around the atoll.
• Sun Island Resort & Spa: The resort is the closest to the most popular whale shark point in the Maldives. Along the reef, you will be able to catch a glimpse of sharks at the bottom or roaming about, while you may also spot some stingrays as well.

2. Walk on a seabed full of stars

Just when you thought the starry skies were the only enchanting sight in the Maldives, we’ve uncovered a hidden gem on Vaadhoo Island and Mudhdhoo Island. These shores come alive with glowing phytoplanktons and ostracod crustaceans, ignited by the gentle waves. Imagine taking a moonlit walk hand in hand, immersed in a surreal world where stars twinkle above and below, turning your honeymoon nights into an even more magical and romantic experience.

Our recommendation:

• Dusit Thani Maldives: The resort has a private beachfront and is surrounded by spectacular coral reefs and a turquoise lagoon!

3. Indulge in the ultimate spa retreat

Our recommendations:

• Lime Spa at Huvafen Fushi Resort: See everything from clownfish and blacktip reef sharks to eels while getting pampered, with interior decorations including furnishings and fabrics mimicking the corals and sponges lurking underwater. 
• The Spa by Thalgo at The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi: Having stayed at the resort in 2019, we personally got to experience The Spa by Thalgo and its wide variety of treatments. Boasting over 20 treatments rooms with many different types of speciality massage therapy, coupled with hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms to saunas, it was probably one of the best spas that we have been to.
• CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa: The spa offers individual treatment villas for ultimate privacy, and treatments focusing on Ayurvedic and Asian services. Its signature therapies include the Jet Lag Rescue treatment, which promotes deep sleep, energy restoration, and skin hydration.

4. Explore multiple resorts during your trip

The Maldives houses some of the best resorts in the world, and there is no reason to stay in one place when you can visit multiple resorts.

Park yourself on a local island such as Maafushi and discover a new resort every day. You get to experience the resort life starting from US$80/day as compared to staying at resorts from US$1,000/day! The best part about resort hopping is that you spend the entire day just enjoying the resort facilities and amenities, and then you get to experience a brand new resort the next day. Get your GoPro ready!

If you’re a huge fan of the sea, opt for a cruise that will have you visiting different islands and atolls – we recommend checking out the Four Seasons Maldives Explorer.

5. Experience an electrifying dive through paradise at Ifuru Island Maldives

Indulge in a fresh perspective of the breathtaking Maldives, a true earthly paradise, with Ifuru Island Maldives’ unparalleled skydiving experience. This newly unveiled luxury resort, inaugurated in September 2023, introduces a unique adventure for thrill-seeking and adventure-loving couples. The resort has its very own private island airport, making it the perfect launchpad for your unforgettable journey into the azure skies and downwards into paradise. 

As you ascend into the heavens, let the breathtaking panorama beneath you capture your senses. The expansive Indian Ocean, adorned with vibrant coral reefs and scattered islands, creates a tapestry of natural wonders that truly captivate the soul. Feel the gentle embrace of the sea breeze heightening your senses, foretelling the exhilarating rush that awaits as you gracefully freefall towards the enchanting landscapes below. For an even more spectacular adventure, consider taking the plunge during sunset, promising a view that is nothing short of phenomenal!

But then, skydiving is not only the unforgettable experience that awaits you at  Ifuru Island Maldives. Here, you can immerse yourself in a whole new world where the thrill of adventure seamlessly merges with the luxury of a premier resort. Every moment transcends the ordinary, offering an experience that goes beyond expectations. In fact, if you decide to book one of the sunset suites and villas in this luxury resort, you might even get the skydiving experience as a complimentary treat! For more information, click here.

6. Go underwater treasure hunting 

Our recommendations:

• Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa: With its dive centres run by the professionals from Euro Divers, they guarantee high standards of instructors and guides. There are over 40 sites to explore, including the Vilamendhoo Caves and the Khudarah Thila that has vibrant soft corals. June to October is known to be good for manta ray diving. 
• Medhufushi Island Resort: This resort is an ideal spot for beginners. There are only two tourist islands in Meermu Island, so you may have the dive sites all to yourselves. The itineraries also start on the island so it is perfect to combine this diving experience with your Maldives honeymoon!
• Kuredu Island Resort & Spa: It is one of the first resorts in the Lhaviyana Atoll area and has been popular with divers for over 20 years. An amazing diving experience awaits you with a shipyard site that has 2 diveable wrecks to explore. 

7. Sleep and dine with the brimming Maldives marine life

Our recommendations:

• Underwater Suite in Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Resort: Here, you can dine 16 feet (4.9metres) below sea level and have 180-degree views of the reef and marine life. What more, you can also stay in the Muraka Undersea Suite for another level of experience. Boasting a 180-degree panoramic view of under the sea, the suite also comes with a personal chef that is on your beck and call 24 hours a day! 
• Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas: this place offers a spectacular underwater wine and dine experience at the SEA restaurant, where the ocean becomes your walls. We definitely highly recommend this incredible experience with your loved one. 
• You & Me Maldives: This designer restaurant is located at the bottom of the island’s lagoon, and has a seating capacity of 20 and treats diners to the breathtaking marine environment of the Maldives while indulging in a specialized menu that is unrivalled in the country. Definitely a unique Maldives honeymoon experience!
• OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo: The underwater fine dining restaurant at OZEN is the crown jewel of fine dining experiences. The M6m is an exclusive underwater restaurant that serves exceptional modern seafood cuisine and showcases the beautiful underwater Maldives view!

8. Surround yourself with beautiful manta rays

Make the most out of the underwater wonders as you witness breathtaking manta rays glide swiftly under the sea. As per its name, Manta Point is a haven for manta rays which peaks from May to November. When we say peak, it’s not just one or two mantas, but way more than your fingers can count.

Our recommendation:

• Baros Maldives: The diving centre at the resort is operated by Divers Baros Maldives; one of the original dive centres in the country. You can swim with different species of marine life including manta rays and marvel at one of the most unspoilt underwater habitats in the world.

9. Meet schools of dolphins

Everyone knows that dolphins are the friendliest and smartest creatures of the ocean. Watch them glide playfully in the waters on a sunset dolphin cruise. Though you can’t swim with dolphins in the Maldives, you will be taken by the huge school of dolphins that swim past you in the oceans. Most resorts have dolphin-watching tours.

10. Have romantic dinners by the beach or under the stars

The Maldives is one of the most romantic places in the world for a honeymoon. Here, you can dine under a starlit sky, have a candlelight dinner on the beach, or enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on a Dhoni. In the Maldives, the sky’s the limit.

Our recommendations:

• Muraka at Mirihi Island Resort: Muraka is an over-water decked terrace offering a romantic dinner with a glorious sunset while listening to the waves of the ocean. Definitely an experience worth trying on your Maldives honeymoon. The restaurant’s specialities include the Maldivian lobster and Angus beef paired with selected international wines. 
• Borderless Dining at Dusit Thani Maldives: At Dusit Thani Maldives, you can expect sumptuous food from their lavish menu, unique cocktails, and sensational settings across the island. 
• Fresh in the Garden at Soneva Fushi: This is an open-air restaurant perched on wooden stilts on top of the resort’s vegetable garden where they serve a healthy seasonal menu of Mediterranean dishes. Having been to Soneva Fushi, we highly recommend this resort for those who appreciate the finest barefoot luxury and health-conscious dieting. Read our full review of Soneva Fushi here >

• Wedding Coral Terrace Dinner at W Maldives: Have the chance to have a romantic dinner for two on a private coral terrace over the water as newlyweds at W Maldives. Romance will be in the air as you enjoy the sunset and the deep blue ocean along with your dinner.

11. Watch baby turtles hatch right in front of your eyes

Maldives is also home to many eco and marine life conservation projects. One of which is Kuredu, they pave the way for the little wonders of nature to make it to sea. Often, baby turtles do not successfully make it out to sea, but with the help of the resort staff and tourists, they are guided to the waters! During your Maldives honeymoon, opt to be part of the program at Kuredu, or at Landaa Giraavaru Rehabilitation Centre. Other resorts are also host to a variety of conservation programs, such as coral reef seeding. If you are interested, email the resort to check in before heading down. 

Our recommendation:

• Kuredu Island Resort & Spa: This resort is home to sea turtles and is a hotspot for sightings with over 180 green sea turtles around the island. Plus, they have a resident sea turtle biologist from the Olive Ridley Project to make sure that the sea turtle population is doing great!

12. Ride a seaplane for the first time on your Maldives honeymoon

Some resorts are reached faster via a seaplane, and here you hover over the many islands with a stunning bird’s eye view. We absolutely loved our first seaplane experience! You can also opt for Trans Maldivian Airways to savor this azure paradise from the skies.

13. Go deep-sea fishing 

Most resorts have fishing trips out at sea. For any wannabe Hemingway, this is a great experience! Head out during the day for tuna and sailfish, or at night to catch grouper, snapper, squirrelfish or barracuda. End off the day with a barbecue feast of your day’s catch.

Best Time for a Romantic Maldives Honeymoon

Book your flights and accommodation well in advance: The Maldives is a popular destination, so it’s important to book your flights and accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re travelling during peak season.

November to April

The best time for a honeymoon in the Maldives is between November and April, during the dry season. This is when most people recommend visiting. 

But, here’s the thing – even though it’s called the “dry” season, it might still rain sometimes. Especially in November and December, you might see quick afternoon or evening thunderstorms. So, as you plan your unforgettable honeymoon in this paradise, better take note of this. If you want the sunniest and driest days, think about going on your honeymoon in February or March. That way, your honeymoon can be as sunny as your love!

What to pack:

Pack for all types of weather! The Maldives has a tropical climate, so be sure to pack for all types of weather. You’ll likely need sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit. You may also want to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.

Also, make sure to be considerate of the local culture when packing. The Maldives is a Muslim country, so this means dressing modestly. In the local islands of the Maldives, it is prohibited to wear bikinis and skimpy clothing. These islands may have a designated place on the beach where you can wear bikinis, but please keep in mind to respect the local culture and cover yourself up when visiting Male or the local islands.

We also suggest wearing pants and covering the shoulders before or when arriving at the Male airport.

Getting to the Maldives: Flights and Transportation

Getting to the Maldives and getting around the islands involves a combination of air and sea transportation. Here’s a transportation guide to the Maldives:

1. International Flights

The journey starts for lots of honeymooners when they land at Velana International Airport (MLE) on Hulhulé Island, which is close to the lively capital, Malé. This busy airport is a main way into the Maldives, welcoming couples coming from all over the world.

No matter where you’re departing from, the journey to the Maldives promises excitement. To find the easiest and quickest way, you can inquire directly with airlines from your country if they offer direct flights to the Maldives. If not, websites like Booking.com, Agoda, or Skyscanner are useful for exploring flight options.

2. Inter-Island Flights

When you’re planning your dream honeymoon in the Maldives and you’re eager to explore different islands and atolls, remember that domestic flights by Maldivian or local airlines are often the easiest way to travel. These flights usually begin at Velana International Airport and might land at smaller airports on other islands, making your journey a bit more adventurous.

3. Speedboats and Ferries

When you’re thinking of heading to nearby islands, speedboats and ferries are the way to go. Resorts usually set up speedboat rides for their guests, making it really convenient. Plus, there are public ferries that run between certain islands – they’re not only affordable but also a glimpse into local life.

4. Seaplanes

There are a few far-off resorts that you can only reach by seaplanes. It’s a super cool and fun way to travel. The resorts usually take care of arranging the seaplane rides for you. And let us tell you, flying in those seaplanes gives you the most amazing views of the stunning Maldives islands from up above!

Visa requirements and other practical information

When you arrive in the Maldives, you’ll get a free 30-day visa as stated on the Maldives’ Immigration website. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six more months, have a ticket for your way back, and enough money for your stay. Still, remember that travel regulations can shift like tides, so it’s a savvy move to keep an eye on updates and consult official government travel advice before you seal the deal on your dream honeymoon.

Our tip:

When you’re getting everything ready for your honeymoon in the Maldives, it’s a good idea to work closely with the resort you’ve chosen. They can help you set up how you’ll get around and give you advice on the best ways to travel based on your plans.

Also, learn some basic Maldivian phrases! Learning a few basic Maldivian phrases will help you communicate with the locals and make your honeymoon trip more enjoyable.

How much should you budget for a Maldives honeymoon?

To put it simply, the cost varies based on where you stay and the activities you want to do. Always keep your budget in mind! The Maldives is a luxury place, so remember to think about how much you’re willing to spend. But don’t worry, there are different hotels and resorts to choose from, so you can find one that fits your budget.

And here’s the thing about the Maldives: once you’re there, you might never want to leave because there’s so much to do. With 1,192 islands to explore, each one is unique. Depending on what you want, think about staying for a few weeks for your Maldives honeymoon. An average trip for two weeks for two people costs MVR129,438 (around USD 8,500) in the Maldives according to Budget Your Trip. Also this way, you can really get into the culture and see different parts of the country. If you’re limited by your budget and can’t stay for an extended period, we recommend staying for at least 5 nights to make the most of your Maldives honeymoon.

Conclusion

Selecting the best place to stay is a key part of making your Maldives honeymoon cosy and enjoyable. Whether you’re in search of lavish getaways, budget-friendly options, or thrilling adventure spots, our guide on the Ultimate Maldives Honeymoon is designed to assist you in planning the most romantic journey of your lifetime. Please do share this with your friends if you have found this useful!

This article was last updated on 8 January 2024.

This post was brought to you by The Wedding Vow.

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