Best for: A family with kids
Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the South Ari Atoll, approximately 95 kilometers from Malé, Centara Grand Island is stunning even sighted from your seaplane up in the sky. The plane lands by a floating dock in the middle of Indian Ocean, and a dhoni (a traditional Maldivian vessel) will bring you to Machchafushi island, where a white sandy beach, palm trees and comfy villas await. The luxury resort offers various types of accommodations, ranging from Beach Suites with mezzanines to Luxury Beachfront Pool Villas with private plunge pools to Ocean Water Villas with outdoor terraces and a catamaran net. Guests with kids (this is supposedly the only hotel in the Maldives that’s certified to allow children in their water villas) will love the Deluxe Family Water Villa, which is equipped with everything you need for your little angels—bunk beds, a PlayStation console and, most importantly, secured access to the terraces.
The resort also offers various activities such as water sports, whaleshark boat trips, sunset cruises and snorkeling tours that offer sightings of sea turtles, manta rays and even a shipwreck. After a long day, treat yourself to a nice meal at the resort’s different food outlets. We particularly like Azurri Mare, an Italian restaurant that serves signature dishes and fresh seafood with a beautiful ocean view. For the total enjoyment, we recommend booking the ultimate all-inclusive package that includes (almost) everything: buffet brunch with Champagne, daily 30-minute spa sessions, afternoon tea, sunset cocktails, lunch and dinner, five excursions and many more.
Centara Grand Island Resort and Spa Maldives. South Ari Atoll. www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Read more about the Maldives | 5 reasons why you should visit the famous atolls
Phavitch Theeraphong/Time Out Bangkok
Phavitch Theeraphong/Time Out Bangkok
Phavitch Theeraphong/Time Out Bangkok
Phavitch Theeraphong/Time Out Bangkok
Phavitch Theeraphong/Time Out Bangkok