The perfect weekend getaway to the Maldives

There’s a misconception that a trip to Maldives will bust your budget, but that won’t be the case at SAii Lagoon Maldives, a relatively wallet-friendly resort with all the creature comforts. There’s a mix of suites and villas with most leading directly out to the beach, and if you’re staying in a pool villa, then an Instagram-worthy floating breakfast is an option. Getting around is easy peasy with bicycle rental and buggies on call via the handy SAii Lagoon Maldives mobile app. As you’re out and about, you’ll even spot rays and reef sharks swimming about in the crystal clear waters.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Time Out Asia (@timeout_asia)

For those seeking a bit of extra indulgence, Hilton Maldives Amingiri’s villas are a dream come true. Whether by the beach or over water, all room categories come with private pools, but you can also take a dip in the infinity pool at the sea-facing Aura Pool Bar. Families are well-catered to here – a kids club is host to enriching games and craft activities, while teens can hang out at Re:Fuel lounge. A sports centre lets you get active with tennis, volleyball, basketball and more on a multi-purpose court.

Can you even say you’ve been to Maldives if you haven’t dipped your toes in its blue seas? Beach activities are likely at the top of your list, and non-motorised ones like snorkelling, kayaking, and paddle boating are all free-of-charge at both these resorts. For a thrilling adrenaline boost, zoom along on a jet ski, water scooter, or fun tube in the open waters surrounding Hilton Maldives Amingiri with a small top-up.

Marvel at the beauty of marine life with an eye-opening dolphin cruise – both resorts offer this. Hilton Maldives Amingiri in particular has beginner-friendly Turtle Quest snorkelling sessions, where you’ll also encounter colourful freshwater fish and corals. Take it up a notch with a nurse shark snorkelling excursion if you’re feeling adventurous.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Time Out Asia (@timeout_asia)

When in Maldives, a detox from city life is the goal. Prioritise both mental and physical wellness with Hilton Maldives Amingiri Spa’s fit-for-royalty hammam ritual, and start each morning right with sunrise yoga. Lèn Be Well Spa at SAii Lagoon Maldives has treatment rooms overlooking the shoreline for ultimate zen, and you can also join in on free aqua zumba sessions at the resort’s pool for a perk-me-up. Just a few steps – or strokes – away is the swim-up bar for refreshing tipples.

You’ll never find yourself hungry as these resorts boast in-house dining venues catering to every preference. For romantic sunset dinners by the beach, make a beeline for Miss Olive Oyl at SAii Lagoon Maldives which serves up Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Or, dig into flavourful Thai-fusion nosh at poolside eatery Mr Tomyam.

Overwater restaurants await at Hilton Maldives Amingiri, with a popular pick being Italian fine-dining restaurant Origin for handmade pasta and sustainable seafood. Just next door sits Eden Champagne & Gin Bar, where you can knock back on rum and whisky with unique chocolate pairings. For a more laid-back vibe, dine with your feet in the sand at Beach Shack as you chill out to live music performances in the evening.

Ready to treat yourself to an indulgent island getaway in Maldives? Book your stay at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa.