Subscribe
Search
Worldwide

The perfect getaway to the Maldives

A slice of paradise for an elevated beach escape
SAii Lagoon Maldives resort huts on the ocean
Photograph: SAii Lagoon Maldives
By Time Out in partnership with Hilton
Advertising

The Maldives is a stunning island paradise known for its unspoiled shores and pristine waters teeming with marine life - a tropical haven that rightly tops many travel bucket lists. Located south of India and Sri Lanka, it's a 13-20 hour trip from Australia with most travellers stopping over in Singapore.

After touching down in Malé, hop on a speedboat or seaplane to the Maldives' renowned island resorts – which is where you should set your sights. Most, if not all of them are on private islands, so you’re bound to have a pleasant crowd-free experience even during peak seasons. Our picks? SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton for a cushy retreat that won’t break the bank, and Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa for a luxe escape. Both resorts are reachable via a quick 15 to 20-minute speedboat transfer from the airport.

Where to stay and what to do in Maldives

Stay

Stay
Stay
Photograph: Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

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.

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.

Do

Do
Do
Photograph: Daniel Iskander for Time Out

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.

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.

Eat and drink

Eat and drink
Eat and drink
Photograph: Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

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 the Italian fine-dining restaurant Origin for handmade pasta and sustainable seafood. 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 Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa and SAii Lagoon Maldives.

Recommended
    You may also like
    You may also like
    Advertising
    Back to Top

    About us

    Contact us

    Time Out products

    Site map
    © 2025 Time Out England Limited and affiliated companies owned by Time Out Group Plc. All rights reserved. Time Out is a registered trademark of Time Out Digital Limited.