Best Beaches in the Maldives

Calling all beach bums: the Maldives is a region famous for its palm-fringed desert islands, most of which are surrounded by gin-clear water teeming with tropical fish. Moreover, these islands’ sheer beauty makes it easy to relax and forget the world. Therefore, whether you’re sunbathing or snorkeling, you can unwind in nature’s paradise.

1. Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, Shaviyani Atoll

This Shaviyani Atoll resort boasts several breathtaking stretches of sand. The best among these is the beach that borders the island’s huge lagoon—an ideal place for sunset selfies. Here, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi’s Coralarium, a semi-submerged structure designed by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. The site serves as an artificial coral reef, and if you can muster the energy to leave the soft white sand for a moment, you can swim inside to admire the tropical fish, crustaceans, and coral.

2. Six Senses Kanuhura, Lhaviyani Atoll

Beach lovers will swoon for The Point, a restaurant and beach located at the northernmost tip of the island. This area features one of the Maldives’ largest beaches—a stunning stretch of powdery white sand. Thanks to the proximity of the house reef, basking here provides a gorgeous backdrop of towering palms while you appreciate the harmonic calls of the Asian koel, a songbird found throughout the Maldives.

3. Baros Island, North Male Atoll

Baros Island resort is renowned for its coralline beaches, which consist of ridiculously soft sand made from fossilized and sun-bleached red coralline algae. The house reef is just a short snorkel away, offering schools of tropical fish often visible right from the shore. The island’s small size ensures that you can always find a perfect spot to lay your towel, and for added intimacy, consider enjoying dinner on Baros’s sandbank.

4. Amari Raaya Maldives, Raa Atoll

We can’t name a specific beach here because every one is spectacular. The dining experience is unique, allowing guests to enjoy “Dig-In Beach Dining,” where staff will sculpt your table and seating right in the sand. Whether you prefer viewing the sunset or finding a more secluded spot, your ideal dining setting is just a call away.

5. Hilton Amingiri, North Male Atoll

The Hilton Amingiri resort is an artificial island that boasts beautiful beaches and a stunning array of marine life, including green sea turtles and harmless reef sharks. This resort features Beach Villas just a few feet from the sand while offering guests a beach bar where you can dine with your feet in the sand. Furthermore, for the best sunset views, head to Eden, the resort’s over-water champagne bar.

6. Angsana Velavaru, Dhaalu Atoll

Angsana Velavaru is known for its remote beaches, perfect for watching vibrant marine life such as stingrays and clownfish. The resort provides a variety of activities, making it popular among fitness enthusiasts. One of the standout features is the semi-submerged volleyball net just off the beach, illustrating the fun options available at the resort.

7. Siyam World Maldives, Noonu Atoll

The beaches around Siyam World Maldives’ stunning lagoon are ideal for those interested in spectator sports. The lagoon features the Maldives’ largest floating water park, a massive obstacle course filled with inflatable structures. Consequently, guests can enjoy watching others take on the rides while lounging on a sunbed, or even rent glass-bottomed kayaks for a leisurely paddle.

8. InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, Raa Atoll

The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort features a unique pastel lighthouse on its southernmost coast, attracting many photographers. This striking structure houses a restaurant and an observatory, making it the most sought-after location on the island for stunning photography. Guests are encouraged to capture images of the resident manta rays, contributing to the efforts of the Manta Trust.