With a growing selection of affordable hotels, the Maldives is becoming more accessible for travellers looking to explore its stunning coral islands and vibrant marine life. Once known as a haven for celebrities, the Maldives is now evolving to cater to a wider audience. Resorts are being designed not just for the wealthy but also for families, groups, and budget-conscious solo travellers.
While the Maldives has a reputation for luxury, savvy travellers can now find options that offer a similar level of indulgence as destinations like the Caribbean or Southeast Asia, often at comparable prices. Whether you’re looking for wellness retreats, chic, design-forward islands, or back-to-nature escapes, the Maldives offers a surprising range of experiences. Below, I have personally hand-picked the best affordable hotels, offering award-winning resorts and a taste of paradise that remains luxurious. Main photo: Dhigali Maldives
Kurumba – The Cheapest Resort
Kurumba is the original Maldives resort, a pioneer of private island getaways since its opening in 1972. Back then, it featured just 30 modest rooms made from coral stone, coconut timber, and palm thatch, with limited amenities. Today, fifty years later, Kurumba has evolved into a sophisticated escape with 180 rooms, suites, and villas, along with eight restaurants, a dreamy spa, and some of the friendliest staff in the Maldives. Just a ten-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, Kurumba offers convenience, though it doesn’t feel as secluded as some farther-flung islands. Still, its mix of affordability, rich history, and modern comforts makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a taste of the Maldives without a hefty price tag.
Key Highlights:
Proximity to Malé (10-minute speedboat ride)
Multiple dining options
Beach bungalows with garden views
Cultural shows and excursions
Kuredu – Best Value for Money
Kuredu Resort, set in the Lhaviyani Atoll, offers one of the best value-for-money experiences in the Maldives. A 40-minute seaplane ride from Malé, this expansive resort features 387 rooms, including beach bungalows, overwater villas, and private pool suites. Kuredu stands out for its wide range of activities, from scuba diving and snorkelling to windsurfing and a private golf course. The resort’s all-inclusive packages cover multiple dining options, including themed buffets and à la carte restaurants. With its laid-back atmosphere, a variety of entertainment, and stunning sunset views, Kuredu offers a luxury experience at an affordable rate for couples, families, and solo travellers.
Key Highlights:
Golf course and water sports centre
Multiple dining venues, including buffet and à la carte options
Affordable overwater villas
Beach and poolside bars for relaxation
Meeru Island Resort – A Perfect Balance of Value and Experience
Meeru Island Resort & Spa, located in the North Malé Atoll, offers an incredible value-for-money experience. With 284 rooms, including beachfront villas and overwater bungalows, this resort is perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Meeru’s all-inclusive package ensures guests enjoy gourmet dining at multiple restaurants, unlimited beverages, and a range of excursions, including sunset cruises and snorkelling safaris. The highlight of the resort is its large lagoon, ideal for water sports, as well as a full-service spa offering oceanfront treatments. Meeru’s relaxed vibe and comprehensive packages make it a top choice for families and couples alike.
Key Highlights:
Large lagoon perfect for water sports
All-inclusive packages with gourmet dining and excursions
Family-friendly activities, including a kids' club
Oceanfront spa treatments
Velassaru – Chic, Stylish, and Perfect for Couples
Velassaru Maldives epitomises chic, stylish luxury at an affordable price. Located just 25 minutes from Malé by speedboat, this intimate resort is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape. The overwater villas and beachfront suites offer breathtaking ocean views, sleek interiors, and private pools for added privacy. Velassaru’s minimalist design is enhanced by pops of vibrant colour and clean lines, creating a contemporary yet serene atmosphere. Guests can indulge in fine dining at five restaurants and bars, with menus ranging from fresh seafood to Mediterranean cuisine. For couples seeking a chic retreat, Velassaru offers sophisticated luxury with a more accessible price tag. Read the full Velassaru review.
Key Highlights:
Contemporary design with chic overwater villas
Five dining venues, including seafood and Mediterranean
Romantic private dining options
Full-service spa with ocean views
Jawakara Island – New and Perfect for Families
Jawakara Island Maldives, a new addition to the Maldivian luxury scene, offers exceptional deals for families. Located in the Vaavu Atoll, this resort features spacious villas designed to cater to families of all sizes, with multiple bedrooms, private pools, and direct beach access. Jawakara stands out for its comprehensive all-inclusive packages, which include meals, daily activities, and a kids' club to keep younger guests entertained. The resort also offers an array of excursions, including snorkelling trips, island hopping, and dolphin cruises. Its safe, welcoming environment and excellent family-friendly amenities make Jawakara the perfect choice for an unforgettable family vacation.
Key Highlights:
Family-friendly villas with multiple bedrooms
Kids' club and family excursions
All-inclusive packages covering meals and activities
Snorkeling and dolphin-watching excursions
Kuramathi – Affordable Water Villas with Pools
Kuramathi Island Resort, located in the Rasdhoo Atoll, is a standout when it comes to affordable water villas in the Maldives. These overwater villas come with private pools, providing guests with the luxury of swimming and snorkelling right from their sundeck. The villas also offer panoramic ocean views, spacious living areas, and direct access to the lagoon. Kuramathi’s all-inclusive packages cover dining, drinks, and water sports, ensuring a stress-free holiday. With a variety of dining options, including fine dining and beachside buffets, Kuramathi provides an upscale experience without the hefty price tag. It’s an excellent option for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic retreat.
Key Highlights:
Overwater villas with private pools
Direct lagoon access for swimming and snorkelling
All-inclusive dining and activity packages
Ideal for couples and honeymooners
Kagi Maldives – Spa and Wellness Retreat
Kagi Maldives Spa Island is a wellness haven located in the North Malé Atoll. Specializing in holistic spa and wellness experiences, this boutique resort is perfect for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Each villa, whether nestled on the beach or perched over water, features private pools and panoramic ocean views. Kagi’s Baani Spa offers a wide range of treatments, from Ayurveda to modern wellness therapies, set in an overwater pavilion that invites serenity. The resort also provides yoga classes, meditation sessions, and personalised wellness programs, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to restore balance and wellbeing.
Key Highlights:
Wellness-focused with an extensive spa menu
Personalized wellness programs and yoga classes
Ocean-view villas with private pools
Overwater spa pavilion
Fushifaru Maldives – Traditional Maldivian Experience
For travellers seeking an authentic Maldivian experience, Fushifaru Maldives, located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, is a perfect choice. This boutique resort blends traditional Maldivian architecture with modern amenities, offering a rustic yet luxurious island retreat. The beach and water villas are designed with natural materials, incorporating Maldivian craftsmanship throughout the interiors. Fushifaru’s highlights include cultural activities such as Maldivian cooking classes, visits to local villages, and guided snorkelling trips around its vibrant house reef. The resort’s intimate size and local charm make it a great option for those looking to connect with the island’s culture. Read the full Fushifaru review.
Key Highlights:
Traditional Maldivian architecture and design
Cultural activities, including cooking classes
Vibrant house reef for snorkelling
Intimate boutique setting
Dhigali Maldives – Best All-Inclusive Resort
Dhigali Maldives, located in the Raa Atoll, offers a luxurious all-inclusive experience at a competitive price. Accessible by seaplane, the resort features a mix of beach and overwater villas, each boasting modern interiors and stunning ocean views. Dhigali’s all-inclusive packages cover gourmet meals, premium drinks, water sports, and guided excursions. Guests can enjoy snorkeling along the resort’s house reef, swimming in the infinity pool, or unwinding at the spa. With multiple restaurants, including international and Maldivian cuisine, Dhigali ensures a diverse and indulgent culinary experience.
Key Highlights:
Luxurious all-inclusive packages
Multiple dining options, including Maldivian cuisine
Infinity pool and overwater spa
House reef for snorkelling and diving
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives – The Ultimate Honeymoon Escape
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, nestled in the Raa Atoll, is the ultimate honeymoon destination, offering an exclusive retreat with a focus on privacy and luxury. Known for its eco-conscious design, this resort features sleek, minimalist villas set amidst lush greenery or perched over the lagoon. Couples can enjoy a range of personalized experiences, from private beach dining to sunset cruises and spa treatments. The resort’s tree-top spa and infinity pool provide stunning views, while its proximity to Hanifaru Bay offers opportunities to snorkel with manta rays, adding to the allure for adventurous honeymooners. Read the full Alila Kothaifaru Maldives review.
Key Highlights:
Eco-conscious design and secluded villas
Personalised honeymoon experiences, including private dining
Tree-top spa and infinity pool
Close to Hanifaru Bay for manta ray snorkeling
How to Choose the Right Affordable Maldives Resort
With so many incredible resorts to choose from, it’s important to select the one that best fits your travel style. Here are a few tips to help you decide:
For Couples: If you’re looking for a romantic escape, consider Velassaru for its chic design or Alila Kothaifaru for a secluded honeymoon experience.
For Families: Jawakara Island offers excellent family-friendly amenities, while Kurumba provides budget-friendly options with a lively, all-ages atmosphere.
For Wellness Seekers: Kagi Maldives is the perfect spa and wellness retreat, offering holistic treatments and yoga.
For Active Adventurers: Resorts like Kuredu and Meeru offer a range of water sports, snorkelling, and excursions to keep you engaged throughout your stay.
For Overwater Villa Enthusiasts: If staying in an overwater villa is your dream, Kuramathi offers affordable villas with private pools, providing the best value for money.
FAQs About Affordable Maldives Resorts
Can I find all-inclusive packages in the Maldives?
Yes! Many resorts, like Dhigali and Kuredu, offer all-inclusive packages covering meals, drinks, and activities, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free holiday.
Are water villas always expensive?
While water villas are generally more expensive than beach villas, resorts like Kuramathi and Kuredu offer affordable options starting at around £450 ($590) per night, full board.
What’s the best time to visit the Maldives for budget travellers?
The best time for budget travellers to visit the Maldives is during the off-peak season, typically between May and November, when resorts offer discounts and promotions.
Final Word - Affordable Maldives Resorts
The Maldives, long known for its high-end luxury resorts, is now more accessible than ever with a variety of affordable yet luxurious accommodations. Whether you're dreaming of an overwater villa, a family-friendly resort, or a wellness retreat, these 10 resorts hand picked by me provide unique experiences without the hefty price tag. So why wait? Book your Maldivian escape today and indulge in the beauty, tranquillity, and luxury of these island paradises—without breaking the bank.
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