13 Best Overwater Villas in Maldives | Best of Travel 2024

Unforgettable holidays in the Maldives require breathtaking views, and that’s exactly what you get with overwater villas. These beautiful accommodations give you a special connection with nature, allowing you to directly experience the vibrant marine life below. Plus, staying in an overwater villa also means you can dive into clear waters from your private deck or simply relax in your own private paradise, where peace and luxury come together effortlessly. In our Best of Travel series, we have curated the latest 13 Best Overwater Villas in the Maldives, providing quality recommendations to suit your travel needs and budget.

This post was last updated on 4 October 2024.

Best Overwater Villas in the Maldives

1. Ocean Pool Villa, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Wake up to the best views in paradise

 If you have chosen the Maldives for your vacation, it is likely for the breathtaking views that await – turquoise waters, stunning sunsets, vibrant marine life, and the serene island atmosphere. You will experience all this and more with a stay in the Ocean Pool Villas at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands as the view from your bedroom is simply amazing.  These overwater villas offer panoramic ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows that make the scenery feel like a living masterpiece. We highly recommend booking a villa with sunrise views so you can wake up to the best views every morning. Opening those windows feels surreal, like watching a giant movie screen unfold the beauty of the Maldives.

If you want better ocean views, you can just open the sliding doors to relax on your villa’s private sundeck. Here, you can unwind on comfortable loungers or take a dip in your infinity pool, all while soaking in the unparalleled beauty of the Maldives. You can also opt for a relaxing soak in the indoor tub, which offers the same view but indoors. Every detail of this spacious 150 sqm villa feels grand, from the elegant design to the well-stocked minibar, complete with complimentary soft drinks and snacks that you can indulge in as you spend your days in the overwater villa. 

High level of care to complete your stay in paradise 

 Your overwater villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands also includes exceptional service from your very own island butler, or what they call  an Aris Meeha. They go above and beyond in making your stay in paradise truly delightful. In our visit, we got Shaghaf as our Aris Meeha and we loved her so much. Her approach was the perfect balance of attentiveness and subtlety—warm and personal without ever being intrusive. She was always quick to respond and offered thoughtful alternatives whenever a request could not be fulfilled. She is all about the details, and we can safely say that our stay at the resort would have been incomplete without her. 

Besides your Aris Meeha, all other staff from the resort are exceptionally kind and attentive. Based on experience, everyone, from the managers and directors to the housekeeping and maintenance teams, was generous with their time and eager to assist. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail made us feel truly special throughout our stay.

Stunning and luxurious property that allows you to embrace the circle of island life

Furthermore, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is all about embracing the circle of island life. They take it literally as well, with its design reflecting the shape of the Maldivian sun. Circular elements are everywhere within the resort, making it so visually stunning. This is also why the Ocean Pool Villas are shaped like a circle. The iconic design is crafted by renowned architect Kerry Hill, known for his work with Aman, blending elegance with the beauty of the natural surroundings.

If you want to go for a spa treatment, The Ritz-Carlton Spa stands as a serene, ring-shaped sanctuary floating in the middle of the turquoise lagoon. This serene retreat offers nine treatment rooms, including a spa suite with a private relaxation lounge, a salon, and a boutique. You can also enjoy a peaceful yoga session while under a magnificent 30-meter Banyan Tree in the resort’s Mystique Garden. 

2. Sunset Water Pool Villa, Patina Maldives

Where magical sunsets and majestic marine life meet in paradise

In a realm far away from the familiar, Patina Maldives welcomes you with an oasis of unspoiled beauty and unforeseen dimensions. This sanctuary unfolds a series of experiences meticulously crafted to nurture your mind and soul. Nestled in this paradise are luxurious overwater villas that cocoon you in tranquility, surrounded by the sheer beauty of the Maldives. 

For an unparalleled retreat, consider staying in one of the resort’s Sunset Water Pool Villas. Suspended over the ocean, these luxurious water villas provide an ultimate hideaway to witness the amber sun gracefully descending below the horizon. Whether savoured on the private deck or within, the expansive floor-to-ceiling glass doors effortlessly open, eliminating barriers and immersing you in the natural splendour that envelops this idyllic retreat. And, it’s not just the captivating sunsets; you will also have the delightful company of dolphins swimming past your villa, almost a daily spectacle to enhance your enchanting experience! 

To make your experience better, the Sunset Water Pool Villas are located over the shallow waters of Fari Islands. Meaning, you can go snorkelling right at your doorstep! Every overwater villa is equipped with snorkelling equipment and floating jackets, allowing you to jump into the water anytime you want. Our snorkelling adventures unveiled a diverse array of marine life in the reefs surrounding the resort, from vibrant fish to captivating octopuses and majestic manta rays. While encounters with octopuses and manta rays may not be as common as fish, they add an extra layer of delight, making each snorkelling excursion even more rewarding. 

Immerse yourself in the Maldives’ social scene 

At Patina Maldives, the stream of unique experiences never ceases. To fully discover them all, we strongly recommend exploring the entire island on a bicycle. Patina Maldives surpasses expectations by meticulously planning activities, restaurants, and attractions across the landscape, ensuring each corner holds a delightful surprise. Plus, you can meet the nicest people everywhere you go! All their staff were genuine and personable, so we enjoyed making friends with them very much. Working in the demanding hospitality service industry is no easy feat, yet the Patina team excels. Kudos to Patina and its exceptional staff for mastering the art of hospitality!

The heart of the archipelago comes alive at the vibrant Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club (in our opinion, the best spot for watching sunsets!). There is a delightful mix of boutique shops, captivating art installations, and tempting food trucks. Indulge in artisanal gelato, savoury burgers, and delectable bites, making it the ideal spot for a quick retail and food fix. 

3. Reef Water Villa, Amilla Maldives

A snorkeller’s paradise in the Maldives

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Baa Atoll, Amilla Maldives offers an unparalleled experience of serenity and indulgence. Its picture-perfect surroundings are truly a sight to behold. And since Baa Atoll is a renowned UNESCO Biosphere Heritage site, its crystal waters provide a window to the mesmerising underwater world that lies beneath, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts and adventure seekers. In fact, it is one of the best places to snorkel and dive in the entire Maldives. The resort is even near the famous Blue Hole, located on the island’s own house reef where you can take a plunge into the deep waters and witness a vibrant world teeming with colourful fish and reefs as you swim above a mysterious hole. 

If you love to swim or snorkel, it is best to stay at one of the Reef Water Villas at Amilla Maldives. Suspended above the kaleidoscopic reef, these villas provide direct access to the inviting ocean waters. Whether you choose to dip your toes or explore the underwater wonders, you can easily venture into the azure paradise just steps away from your villa. There is complimentary snorkelling gear right from the villa’s backyard, so getting into the waters and seeing the beauty underneath is quick and easy.  However, please remember to take caution and be mindful of the currents, as they can be unpredictable at times in the Maldives.  

Beyond providing direct access to the mesmerising ocean, these Reef Water  villas also offer a freshwater infinity pool that boasts sweeping views of the azure waters. It is the perfect spot to unwind and relax after a long day of exploring the island. Alternatively, retreat to the serenity of your private sundeck and indulge in relaxation on your very own daybed. Inside the villa, you will find a spacious living room area, a separate bedroom for added privacy, and a luxurious open-concept shower. The highlight, however, is the remarkable sight of the reef visible from the comfort of your bed, creating an enchanting and unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe. Imagine waking up to that view every morning – it is just surreal. 

Magical and unique experiences to discover

While the Reef Water villas already provide guests with plenty of enjoyment, there is still so much to explore in Amilla Maldives. There are tons of unique and magical experiences to discover, especially for those travelling with their partner. One of which is glamping under the stars in a secluded beach location. Retreat to a high-tech, air-conditioned bubble tent and marvel at the beauty of your surroundings with a 360-degree view. The true magic is at night, when everything is quiet and dark, as you can see the stars above shimmering like glitters in the sky.

To make your experience even better, you can customise your glamping package to your preferences. Think – having your own private cinema set-up or getting a rose quartz heart massage from the comfort of your own pod! Or perhaps, indulge in the culinary creations of a private chef, although Amilla has plenty of dining destinations for you to choose from. There is Feeling Koi for an elevated Japanese cuisine with a Maldivian twist, Barolo for Northern Italian flavours, and Chill’d Cafe for some laid-back dining among many others. 

4. Sunset Over Water Pool Villa, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

The best view for the most mesmerising sunsets in the Maldives 

Escape to a world of unrivalled beauty and tranquillity at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, nestled in the captivating Baa Atoll. This extraordinary resort beckons discerning travellers with its pristine white-sand beaches, shimmering turquoise waters, and a level of opulence that surpasses all expectations. But there is something even more enchanting that awaits you here – the most mesmerising sunset views imaginable. 

In the Maldives, villas suspended over water are amongst the most unique of experiences to try, especially if you are spending your And so, with their Sunset Over Water Pool Villa, you can experience all of these luxuries in one place. The most picturesque sunsets in the Indian Ocean, all right in front of you. The Sunset Over Water Pool Villa has an outdoor veranda area where you can dine and swim with the panoramic views in front of you. There are also over-water hammocks for pure relaxation. On top of the sunsets, the Sunset Over Water Pool Villa also features a sunken glass-bottom tub where you can take a nightly soak as the stars come out overhead. Beneath you, pufferfish swim amongst swaying corals and darting fish. This experience alone is enough to leave you breathless.

Unique and magical experiences to discover

However, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas offers more unique and magical experiences other than just staying in an over-water villa. Dining experiences alone are quite irresistible. For a romantic night,  indulge in an enchanting celestial journey at SKY, the Maldives’ first over-water observatory which doubles as a rooftop bar.  They have a state-of-the-art telescope, so prepare to be captivated as you gaze up at the clear night sky, adorned with a twinkling tapestry of thousands of stars. All while sipping handcrafted cocktails, too. 

The Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is also home to the award-winning underwater SEA Restaurant which offers 360-degree views of the marine wonderland.  You will literally be dining amongst the fishes and turtles, as if you are in a private oceanarium. The waters are so clear and captivating, especially if you are visiting during breakfast time. But that’s not all! As the resort is located in Baa Atoll, a renowned UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, seeing the fishes are not enough. It is a must that you swim and spend time with these marine species as well through exciting water activities such as snorkelling, turtle quests, and dolphin discoveries. For a full list of water activities at the resort, click here. 

5. One Bedroom Overwater Pool Villa, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

Luxurious island living in the Maldives 

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of a tropical island, enveloped by lush greenery and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa sets the stage for an enchanting and unforgettable honeymoon experience. But what could be more special than a Maldives honeymoon than staying in a luxurious overwater pool villa? This stunning villa offers a sense of island living, with the azure ocean right in front of and below you. If you are into water activities such as snorkelling, it would only take seconds before you could enjoy its full glory for yourselves. Imagine – you can just dive right off into the ocean from your deck! For an extra dose of adventure, the resort’s Dive Center offers exhilarating water activities such as glass kayaking and unforgettable dolphin cruises to ensure that your Maldives getaway is filled with lovely memories.

This overwater pool villa offers more than just an overwater sanctuary; it boasts an exclusive outdoor area adorned with a refreshing plunge pool, providing the perfect setting to bask in panoramic vistas with your beloved. Unwind on the deck’s inviting dining area, recline on the sun loungers, or sway in a hammock – all while being serenaded by the gentle whispers of the ocean breeze. Inside, the interiors exude a harmonious fusion of opulence and modernity, graced with lavish amenities that elevate your stay to new heights of comfort and sophistication.

A multitude of romantic experiences 

Your stay at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is not only made exquisite by the resort’s stunning overwater villas but also because of the wide variety of activities, you can do there. Those searching for a romantic hideaway will find various options to help create memories that last a lifetime. Indulge in signature hammam rituals and invigorating massages at the world-renowned Amingiri Spa, a sanctuary of serenity where relaxation intertwines with rejuvenation. Or better yet, unleash your inner artist at the resort’s very own Art Studio, where immersive arts and crafts sessions unfold against a backdrop of breathtaking ocean vistas, providing the perfect opportunity for couples to connect and bond

On top of all these activities, the resort also offers a multitude of dining destinations for your romantic dinner nights or lunch dates. Our favourite would be the Habitat Restaurant, which provided us with the most breathtaking views in addition to the food. We especially loved the freshly grilled tiger prawns (I went for so many servings!) and special brick oven pizzas made fresh just for you. However, the true highlight of this restaurant is how there are lounging nets suspended above the azure waters, offering a truly unique and blissful post-meal relaxation experience. As you unwind, be enchanted by the occasional presence of graceful heron birds, as if they too are captivated by the beauty of the Maldives.

Always a lovely experience at the Habitat Restaurant

Other restaurants worth giving a try are Origin and Beach Shack. But if you prefer to drink creatively blended sustainable cocktails while basking in the sea view, the Aura Pool Bar & Cocktail Lab is the place to go. The food there is also pretty good, especially the steak frites (medium rare), fish and chips, and poke bowls. 

6. Sunset Over Water Villa, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort

Best sunset views from your bedroom

Maldivian sunsets have always been stunning, so imagine if you can see that view right from your bedroom. At Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, you can experience true bliss in their Sunset Over Water Villas—a luxurious sanctuary surrounded by crystal-clear waters. You will wake up to the most stunning views as floor-to-ceiling glass panels fill your bedroom with natural light. But then, relaxation is best experienced from your spacious deck as you unwind with the gentle ocean breeze. It is a space you could easily spend all day in, especially during sunset when the magic happens –  you will see the sky transition into a blanket of stars. 

The villa’s bathroom is also a retreat of its own. In-room glass viewing panels on the bathroom floor offer glimpses of the stunning marine life below. The bathtub also feels very luxurious! With a Grohe rain shower and light grey Italian ceramic tiling complementing the contemporary look of the room, this space is more than perfect for unwinding in paradise. 

Unforgettable water adventures in paradise

And of course, it is not a full overwater villa experience without not being able to dive into the water anytime you want. At your Sunset Over Water Villa, you will have direct access to the lagoon, allowing you to snorkel with the lagoon’s marine life in just a few steps (and a jump!).

You can also book a session with Tropicsurf, a renowned company for expert surfing guides to help you ride the waves in comfort, safety, and style. For adventurous couples, thrilling water sports like jet skiing and parasailing await. Meanwhile, those seeking a more relaxed pace can opt for a serene snorkeling experience with nurse sharks, sail across the lagoon, or leisurely explore the island on a bicycle.

7. Jumeirah Maldives

A blissful island villa living on pristine white sands and atop crystal waves

Discover an extraordinary getaway at Jumeirah Maldives, where peaceful serenity meets unmatched luxury in a tropical paradise. Jumeirah Maldives offers overwater villas that provide a lavish and deluxe experience, perfect for couples and small families who wish to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of waves. These villas are also designed as one-bedroom retreats, extending over the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean. Moreover, they also feature a private pool nestled beside a shaded lounge area and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking panoramic views. Inside, you can also luxuriate in the spacious living area, unwind in the generously-sized bathroom, and find tranquility in the bedroom.

But if you’re looking for a more spacious retreat, Jumeirah Maldives has the perfect option for you: the Prestige Water Villa, their largest one-bedroom villa. Positioned above the calm lagoon, this expansive sanctuary also offers plenty of room to relax and fully enjoy your Maldives vacation. Step onto your private sun deck and soak up the sun’s warmth, or take a refreshing swim in your infinity pool, seamlessly blending with the surrounding waters. For unforgettable dining moments, you can also go up to the rooftop terrace and enjoy outdoor meals under the sun or in the shade of a canopy.

📍 Olhuhali, North Male Atoll Maldives, 00000, Maldives
📞 +960 668-2600
✉️ reservations.jmh@jumeirah.com
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8. Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

An eco-friendly resort in the Maldives

Indulge in limitless luxury at Kudadoo Maldives Private Island, where you can enjoy an exceptional all-inclusive experience. This unique retreat is designed to free you from the constraints of everyday life, leaving a lasting impression on even the most discerning traveler. Kudadoo, in collaboration with renowned architect Yuji Yamazaki, sets a new standard for sustainable luxury hotels, as shown by their impressive accolades. They take pride in being named the World’s Best New Luxury Hotel for 2018 by Luxury Travel Intelligence, as well as receiving recognition such as Robb Report’s Best Island Resort 2019 and the 2019 Hospitality Design Award in the ‘Sustainable Resort’ category.

While you indulge in the surrounding lavishness, it’s important to note that Kudadoo takes pride in being the only fully solar-powered private island in the Maldives. This demonstrates their strong commitment to eco-friendly practices. Now, let’s discuss their overwater villas, which effortlessly combine grandeur with the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives. They carefully design each villa to create a peaceful sanctuary, allowing you to unwind and be captivated by the stunning views that unfold before you. In summary, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island offers a unique and enchanting escape that blends luxury, sustainability, and the irresistible allure of the Maldives.

📍 Kudadoo Island, Lhaviyani Atoll 07080, Maldives
📞 +960 662-2000
✉️ reservations@kudadoo.com
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9. Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

Indulge in the unmatched charm of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, where their overwater villas offer a truly exceptional experience. What makes this resort stand out is their commitment to the environment. They construct the overwater villas using eco-friendly materials like teak, palm wood, bamboo, and palm fronds gathered during the island’s restoration process. Plus, these stunning villas also seamlessly blend luxury and sustainability, creating a sanctuary for you to relax and reconnect with nature. And inside you’ll also find peaceful rooms with organic toiletries in reusable earthenware containers, reducing plastic waste.

But their commitment to the environment doesn’t end there! Even the food they serve is responsibly sourced. Indulge in delicious meals made from nutritious and fresh ingredients, including sustainably caught seafood and vibrant vegetables grown in their own organic garden. By reducing the distance food travels and supporting the local community, they aim to minimise their impact while delivering outstanding culinary experiences. Even adventurous guests can take part in environmental projects like coral cleaning and collecting data for respected scientific organizations like Manta Trust.

Overall, we believe this overwater villa in the Maldives is one of the best to visit if you want to engage in adventures that leave a positive impact on the ecosystem!

📍 Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives, Maldives
📞 +960 664-0304
✉️ mr.friday@gili-lankanfushi.com
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10. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

If you’re seeking ultimate luxury, Landaa Giraavaru is a special island retreat located in the beautiful Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This only means you’ll be amazed by one of the most breathtaking islands in the world, with stunning blue waters, lush green jungles, and pristine white beaches. This idyllic sanctuary also combines innovation, conservation, and wellness, offering a truly unique and transformative experience.

What sets their overwater villas apart is the opportunity to witness stunning sunrises in the Maldives. You can enjoy these breathtaking views while relaxing in your villa, which features a private pool, a loft with a view of the sea, and spacious living areas. These villas also face east, providing a serene atmosphere and direct access to the clear lagoon. There’s also a new sea wall that ensures safe swimming throughout the year. In summary, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru is the perfect destination for ultimate relaxation and luxury.

📍 Baa Atoll, Maldives
📞 +960 660-0888
✉️ reservations.mal@fourseasons.com
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11. Velaa Private Island

Velaa Private Island is a luxurious retreat in the Maldives, created with a deep love for this tropical paradise. As you enter this exclusive haven, you’ll be amazed by the overwater villa that exceeds all expectations. The design of these villas is also meticulous, with special features like adjustable privacy shutters and stunning high ceilings. The bedrooms also offer unobstructed views of the stunning ocean, and the bathrooms come with spacious walk-in closets and round bathtubs, adding a touch of elegance to your stay. The highlight is undoubtedly the sun deck, complete with a private pool, inviting you to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings or take a secluded swim in the ocean!

📍 R6J5+GQW, Republic of Maldives, Maldives
📞 +960 656-5000
✉️ info@velaaisland.com
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12. Huvafen Fushi

Experience unparalleled peace and tranquility at Huvafen Fushi. This incredible resort offers 44 beautiful overwater villas, each featuring its own personal pool, tucked away in the untouched natural beauty. Here, you also have a variety of fantastic choices, like the Lagoon Bungalow with Pool, the Ocean Bungalow with Pool, or the spacious Two-Bedroom Ocean Pavilion with Pool. And no matter which option you select, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the expansive Indian Ocean just outside your bungalow!

📍 Nakachchafushi North Malé Atoll, 08390, Maldives
📞 +960 664-4222
✉️ dream.maker@huvafenfushi.com
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13. One&Only Reethi Rah

One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives offers the epitome of tropical luxury, where you can immerse yourself in an enchanting world. The resort prides itself on serving authentic cuisine, providing signature Indian Ocean experiences, and showcasing unrivaled scenery, all of which combine to create a haven of pure bliss. Additionally, the resort is renowned for its overwater villas that gracefully rise from the crystal-clear lagoon. These exceptional villas stand out not only for their stunning surroundings but also for their traditional thatched style and unique over-water catamaran nets, which add an enchanting touch to your stay.

📍 Reethi Rah, North Malé Atoll, Malé 08440, Maldives
📞 +960 664-8800
✉️ reservations@oneandonlyreethirah.com
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We hope that our guide on the 13 Best Overwater Villas in Maldives will help you find the best overwater villa for a grand Maldives holiday. If you found this useful, please share it with your friends and family! 

Featured image: Jumeirah Maldives (Booking.com)

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