If you are searching for the crème de la crème of overwater villas in the Maldives, look no further. After 20 years of luxury villa hopping in the Maldives, I have compiled a list of the 12 best overwater villas (and one underwater bedroom, just for fun!) that are sure to make you feel like royalty. I’ve picked villas from 1-bedroom to 4-bedrooms in size as some are designed for romantic getaways, while others are better for families and friends.
#12 - "The Calm Oasis" - COMO Villa at COMO Maalifushi
This 4,392 sq. ft. two-bedroom beauty is the epitome of serenity, with breathtaking sunset views that'll make you want to pinch yourself. From its central living room to its luxurious primary bedroom, this villa will make you feel like royalty. And let's not forget about the stunning deck with its very own swimming pool and direct access to the lagoon - a true tropical paradise.
#11 - "The Thrill Seeker's Dream" – Ocean Pool Reserve Sunset with Slide (2 bedroom) at Ozen Reserve Bolifushi
Ready for a wild ride? This two-story overwater villa has a 75-foot water slide that'll take you from the upper level into the crystal-clear lagoon. And as if that wasn't enough, this villa comes in at over 4,500 sq. ft. and boasts a primary bedroom, a second bedroom and bathroom, a living room, and a deck with a pool. Talk about living life on the edge!
#10 - "The Intimate Escape” - One Bedroom Residence at Kudadoo Private Island Maldives
With only 15 villas on the private island, you can expect a truly secluded escape. And the 1-bedroom villa? A whopping 3,300 sq. ft. of pure luxury, complete with a spacious bedroom, a living room with a top-notch sound system, a beautiful bathroom, and a deck with a swimming pool. And the cherry on top? The villa's steps lead down to one of the best house reefs on the list.
#9 - "The Circle of Luxury” - The Nautilus Retreat with Private Pool at The Nautilus Maldives
Coming in at over 5,800 sq. ft., The Nautilus Retreat is a spacious two-bedroom overwater villa that's a circle of luxury. From the living room to the dining room, bedrooms, and bathrooms, every room in this villa boasts a unique, curved design. And the best part? The Nautilus is in the Baa atoll, putting you just a stone's throw away from Hanifaru Bay, one of the best places to snorkel with manta rays.
#8 - "The James Bond Experience"– Two-Bedroom Ocean Pavilion with Pool at Huvafen Fushi
This overwater villa is a game-changer, with its pool stretching from the deck to the living room. The living room alone boasts a bar, dining area, and sitting area. And let's not forget about the primary bedroom and bathroom with the best shower in the Maldives and a second bedroom with a stunning bathroom. And the outdoor multi-tiered deck? It has direct access to the lagoon, perfect for snorkeling.
#7 – “The Regal Retreat” - John Jacob Astor Estate at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli
This two-story, 3-bedroom overwater villa is a stunning 18,000 sq. ft. in size, offering a luxurious and spacious experience. The main level features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious living room, dining area, and movie theater, while the upper level houses the primary bedroom and bathroom with breathtaking views. The living room opens to a large swimming pool with endless ocean views.
#6 - “The Private Ocean Oasis” - Stella Maris Ocean Villa with Pool at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Stella Maris is a magnificent freestanding overwater villa located in the lagoon and accessible only by boat. The 1-bedroom villa is over 5,700 sq. ft. in size, featuring a gorgeous living room, dining area, spacious bedroom and bathroom, a fantastic deck with a pool and overwater hammocks, and an upstairs sitting area perfect for watching sunsets.
#5 – “The Stylish Haven” - The overwater villas at Cheval Blanc Randheli
Step into style at the overwater villas of Cheval Blanc Randheli. These spacious 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom villas are the epitome of luxury and attention to detail. With a large living room, huge doors that open to the outside and into the bedroom, and a changing room accessible from the bedroom and bathroom, and a kitchen area, every detail has been thought out. And let's not forget about the huge bathtub in the bathroom and the large pool on the deck, which is a quarter the length of an Olympic-sized pool. If you're looking for the ultimate in stylish and sophisticated overwater villas, Cheval Blanc Randheli is the place to be.
#4 – “The Romantic Escape” - The Romantic Residence at Velaa Private Island
Step into luxury at The Romantic Residence, a stunning freestanding overwater villa accessible by boat. The spacious 1-bedroom villa measures over 6,400 sq. ft. and features a 50 ft long pool, a private sand area on the deck, a gym, spa treatment room, jacuzzi bathtub, and living room. The exceptional service and cuisine at Velaa are sure to enhance a romantic getaway.
#3 – “The Serene Sanctuary” - The Reserve Villas at Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi
Discover the ultimate overwater villa experience at the Reserve Villas of Soneva Jani. The Reserve Villas are either 1 or 2-bedrooms between nearly 6,000 sq. ft. (1-bedroom) and 8,300 sq. ft (2-bedroom). These unique villas boast a retractable roof in the primary bedroom, a waterslide from the upper level into the lagoon, a large swimming pool, enormous deck area, living room, and kitchen. Soneva Jani is a popular choice for honeymoons and is known for its exceptional service and amenities. Soneva Fushi, the sister resort of Soneva Jani, also offers a few similar overwater Reserve villas for a similarly luxurious experience.
Discover more...at Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi
#2 – “The Barefoot Lovers Den” – The Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi
Experience pure barefoot luxury with a side of adventure at The Private Reserve, the largest freestanding overwater villa in the world, boasting 18,000 sq. ft of pure relaxed luxury. Arrive in style via a private yacht, attended by your personal butler, ready to fulfill your every desire. The villa features 4 spacious bedrooms, a shimmering swimming pool, fully equipped gym, spa treatment room, and a sprawling central living area complete with movie theater. But the fun doesn't stop there - dive into the crystal-clear waters with a thrilling water slide from the upper level into the lagoon. Enjoy the ultimate blend of privacy, impeccable service, and limitless space, perfect for a family gathering or a fun-filled trip with friends.
#1 – “The Underwater Dream” - The Muraka at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
A one-of-a-kind experience not found anywhere else in the world. This luxurious villa, located on its own private jetty, boasts a unique blend of overwater and underwater living. The underwater level features a glass-encased bedroom, lounge, and bathroom that offer breathtaking views of the marine life passing by. The upper level, reachable via elevator or staircase, offers a spacious living and dining room, bar, two bedrooms, a pool, and gym. During my stay, I was in awe of the mesmerizing underwater environment and was able to see a variety of marine life including several species of reef shark. My stay at The Muraka was truly unforgettable and the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island provides the perfect base for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of snorkeling with whale sharks.
