Overwater Escapism in the Maldives

A taste of exquisite seclusion and unrivalled exclusivity awaits in the Maldives - a place where jewel-like atolls and private islands seem to float upon an endless horizon of technicolour blues. Beyond its postcard-perfect beauty, this is a world of coral gardens, wellness sanctuaries, and overwater villas that redefine serenity.

Here, we’ve rounded up seven of the Maldives’ most spectacular overwater escapes - from art-inspired hideaways to wellness-tuned sanctuaries and family-ready villas with slides into the sea.

Art & Jungle | JOALI Maldives

On lush Muravandhoo Island, JOALI Maldives is where art and nature intertwine. The Luxury Sunset Water Villa with Pool pairs sunset panoramas with interiors filled with curated artworks and bespoke design. Hidden installations and sculpture trails wind through the island’s jungle, while the art studio and manta ray-shaped treehouse turn every stay into a creative journey.

Wellness & Renewal | COMO Maalifushi

Hovering above the crystalline shallows of the Thaa Atoll, the Water Villas at COMO Maalifushi are the definition of understated luxury. Each features a private plunge pool, sun deck, and steps leading directly into the turquoise lagoon. 

Inside, natural teak, soft linens, and expansive windows create a sense of calm and space. Days here unfold with sunrise yoga, overwater spa rituals at COMO Shambhala, and private dinners set on hidden beaches or your own deck as the sky fades to amber.

Wildlife & Watersports | Six Senses Laamu

Set within the lush Laamu Atoll, Six Senses Laamu balances barefoot simplicity with sustainable design. The Sunset Laamu Water Villa with Pool offers panoramic ocean views, a glass bathtub above the lagoon, and a private infinity pool that seems to melt into the horizon. 

Spend your days surfing the famous Yin Yangs break, snorkelling coral reefs, or spotting dolphins on a sunset dhoni cruise.

Space & Seclusion | Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Just a 45-minute yacht transfer from Malé, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi spans three private islands of flawless sand and sapphire lagoons. The King Grand Reef Villa with Pool is a vast sanctuary suspended over water, with soaring ceilings, and a terrace that blurs the line between villa and sea. 

Enjoy sunrise yoga, family dinners on your private deck, or one of 11 exceptional restaurants scattered across the islands.

Romance & Indulgence | One&Only Reethi Rah

Few resorts capture Maldivian glamour quite like One&Only Reethi Rah. The Water Villa with Pool is all clean lines and panoramic blues, with hammocks suspended above the lagoon and an infinity pool glimmering at the edge of the deck. 

Spend your days exploring 12 private beaches, your evenings dining by candlelight in the treetops, and your mornings in the overwater ESPA Spa - a destination in itself.

Family & Adventure | Soneva Jani

Playful and imaginative, Soneva Jani redefines barefoot luxury. The One Bedroom Water Reserve with Slide comes complete with a private pool, retractable roof for stargazing, and a slide straight into the lagoon. 

Families will love The Den, one of South Asia’s largest kids’ clubs, while stargazers can visit the overwater observatory or watch classic films at Cinema Paradiso.

Style & Celebration | Finolhu, A Seaside Collection Resort Baa Atoll

At the far end of the jetty, the Rockstar Suite at Finolhu, A Seaside Collection resort delivers colour, character, and endless space. Expect private buggies, ocean-view decks, and a disco ball glittering above the bar — perfect for gatherings with family or friends. Located within the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, Finolhu blends fun and sophistication with world-class diving, padel courts, art workshops, and vibrant beachfront dining.

Biodiversity & Cuisine | Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort

Set on the pristine Shaviyani Atoll, Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort is home to one of the Maldives’ largest coral reefs. The Sunset Grand Water Villa with Pool sits at the edge of this natural masterpiece, its terrace surrounded by marine life and evening skies painted in gold. Guests can dive or snorkel the nine-kilometre reef and dine on world-class cuisine — including the resort’s Michelin Series, a rotating line-up of visiting chefs.

Whether your dream Maldives holiday is a romantic retreat above a sapphire lagoon, a family adventure with slides into the sea, or an island-hopping journey between the most exclusive resorts, I will tailor every detail — from seaplane transfers and private dinners to perfectly timed sunset spa rituals.

The art of overwater living begins here.