Luxury resort islands scattered across the Maldives' 26 atolls, from 15 minutes to 2 hours away.

About Resort Islands (Various Atolls)

The Maldives consists of approximately 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, of which over 150 are developed as exclusive resort islands. The 'one island, one resort' concept means each resort occupies its own private island, surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs, and the deep blue Indian Ocean — creating some of the most secluded luxury accommodations on Earth.

The atolls range from the nearby North and South Malé Atolls (accessible by speedboat in 15-60 minutes) to remote atolls like Laamu, Noonu, and Addu (requiring seaplane or domestic flight). Seaplane transfers, operated by the world's largest seaplane fleet (Trans Maldivian Airways), offer breathtaking aerial views of the atolls' geometric perfection — rings of turquoise lagoons enclosed by coral reef barriers dotted with tiny palm-covered islands.

Resort experiences range from ultra-luxury brands (Soneva, Cheval Blanc, St. Regis, Waldorf Astoria) with overwater villas starting at $1,500+ per night, to more accessible options on local islands and mid-range resorts. The underwater world is the Maldives' greatest attraction, with some of the best diving and snorkeling on Earth — manta ray cleaning stations, whale shark encounters, vibrant coral walls, and the world's first undersea restaurant (Ithaa at Conrad Maldives).

Nearby Landmarks

Banana Reef HP Reef Manta Point Maafushi local island

Transport Options

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Most resort transfers are pre-arranged — confirm with your resort before arrival
2. Speedboat resorts: meet your resort representative at the airport arrivals area
3. Seaplane resorts: proceed to the Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) terminal at the airport
4. Domestic flight resorts: check in at the domestic terminal for Maldivian or FlyMe flights
5. For local islands: public ferries and speedboats depart from Villingili ferry terminal
6. Budget option: local island guesthouses arrange shared speedboat transfers ($20-50)

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Speedboat transfers to nearby atolls (North/South Malé, Ari) can operate at night with advance arrangement, though many resorts prefer daytime transfers for safety. Seaplanes do not fly at night. For late-evening arrivals, the Hulhulé Island Hotel at the airport or guesthouses in Malé provide overnight accommodation. Some luxury resorts offer private yacht transfers that can operate after dark for premium guests.

Luggage Tips

Seaplanes have strict baggage limits — typically 20-25 kg checked plus 5 kg carry-on. Excess luggage can usually be sent on a later transfer for a fee. Speedboats are more flexible with luggage. Domestic flights follow standard airline baggage policies. Pack light and bring soft-sided bags rather than hard-shell suitcases, as these are easier to load onto boats and seaplanes. Resort islands have no shops for forgotten items — pack essentials.

Accessibility

Transfer accessibility varies significantly. Speedboats require stepping onto moving vessels, which is challenging for mobility-impaired travelers — some luxury resorts have accessible boarding platforms. Seaplanes are not wheelchair accessible (small aircraft with narrow doors). Domestic flights are more accessible. Once at a resort, many luxury properties offer wheelchair-accessible overwater villas and buggies for island transport. Discuss specific needs with your resort before booking.