Cheval Blanc Randheli aux Maldives, signé Jean-Michel Gathy

The best hotels in the Maldives: top 5-star resorts 2026

Last updated:
In brief
  • In the Maldives, one island = one resort: you choose a hotel as much as an atmosphere.
  • Top of the range: Cheval Blanc Randheli (LVMH), Soneva (eco-luxury), Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi.
  • For diving and families, many resorts offer all-inclusive packages.
  • Best season: December to April (dry season).

Turquoise lagoons, overwater villas and white sand: the Maldives remain the ultimate dream destination. Each resort occupies its own island, making the choice of hotel decisive. Here are the best hotels and resorts to stay in the Maldives in 2026.

Aerial view of Cheval Blanc Randheli in the Maldives, villas and turquoise lagoon
Cheval Blanc Randheli, designed by Jean-Michel Gathy. © La Revue des Hôtels

Cheval Blanc Randheli, French luxury

Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy for LVMH, Cheval Blanc Randheli is one of the archipelago’s most refined addresses, with contemporary villas and a Guerlain spa. Parisian grand luxury transposed to the tropics.

Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, barefoot eco-luxury

A pioneer of sustainable luxury, Soneva invented the “no news, no shoes” concept with its giant villas, slides and observatory. The most immersive and committed experience in the Maldives.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, the three-island resort

Spread across three islands, the Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi impresses with its spectacular villas and array of restaurants. A large-format resort for those who want everything on site.

Our tested favourite: Meyyafushi

La Revue des Hôtels tested Meyyafushi, a new all-inclusive five-star that reshuffles the value-for-money deck in the Maldives. An underwater restaurant, activities and an all-inclusive formula: an address that brings the Maldivian dream within reach.

Advertisement

When to go and how to choose in the Maldives?

The best period runs from December to April; choose your atoll by priority: diving, privacy, family or all-inclusive. Factor the transfer (seaplane or speedboat) into your budget, and book early for high season.

Other projects designed by

Jean-Michel Gathy

All signatures →

✦  Planning a stay? Book your luxury hotel at the best price.
Book now →

🎁 Free PDF guide

10 secret hotels in France
to discover before everyone else

Download our PDF guide instantly · 10 confidential addresses reviewed by our editors (honest scores out of 10, no press handouts) · plus our luxury hospitality newsletter every Monday. Guide and newsletter are in French.

📄 Free PDF · Unsubscribe in one click · No spam

Newsletter

Hospitality essentials

Every Monday, the hotel news that matters.

Join the LRDH community · 215,000+ luxury hospitality enthusiasts

FRENESDEPT
© 2012-2026 La Revue des Hôtels · founded and run by Raphaël Simon
All hotels · by country and group →
Editorial charter·Legal notice·Privacy policy·Contact·About