Who hasn’t dreamt of going to a luxury resort in Maldives to wash away all the sorrows of life? It’s a notion that gets you giddy – until, however, you realize the amount of money it will take. Suddenly the giddiness is crushed by cruel, cruel reality. At least that is the stereotype about resorts in Maldives, that you must lose an arm and a leg for the privilege to see paradise. But with more than 130 luxury resorts spread throughout the archipelago, one would be amiss to think all of them cost exorbitant amounts of money.
Whilst a lot of resorts in Maldives can put a heavy dent on the bank account, there are also establishments that offer budgets that aren’t too excessive. Here is our pick of the best budget resorts in Maldives.
Located in North Male’ atoll, Paradise Island Resort is a short 20-minute speedboat ride away from Velena International Airport. As winner of World Travel Awards and World Luxury Hotel Awards, Paradise Island has certainly set a bar which is not easy to match.
Offering around 282 rooms, ranging from beach bungalows to overwater villas and ocean suits – which are tucked away at the end of the reef, there is no shortage of options. Most rooms are available at a reasonable price – and while some of these rooms can be on the pricey side, you will get bang for your buck.
Taste buds will also thrive at Paradise Island Resort thanks to 11 different establishments (6 restaurants and 5 bars) which are dispersed throughout the island. No stomach will be left wanting here. There’s a ton of activities as well like water sports, snorkeling and of course scuba diving. And if you’re here to decompress; to forget the ins and outs of a hectic life, maybe the spa is the place to go. What better way to say goodbye to your problems?
Summer Island Maldives Resort offers an awe-inspiring lesson in peace and relaxation. Here, you will wonder why you were ever so worried. Here, you will find simplicity and tranquility… on a budget! Like Paradise Island Resort, Summer Island is also located in North Male’ atoll and has a refreshing modern look.
You will be barefoot throughout and will love it! Summer Island has everything you’ve come to expect from resorts in Maldives: the crystal-clear turquoise water, pristine beaches, thriving sea life, accommodation suited for a king, and a plethora of water sports and underwater activities. The lagoon at Summer Island Resort is also excellent for windsurfing and catamaran surfing.
One of the largest resorts in Maldives, Meeru Island Resort offers around 106 water villas as well as 190 rooms and suites on the island. Their all-inclusive, full board and half board options are quite a value for money, making Meeru Island one of the most famous and accessible resort in all of Maldives.
Meeru Island’s rustic architecture will make you think of simpler times and its laid-back vibe will make you want to stay there forever. Accommodation wise, garden rooms, beachfront villas and overwater bungalows await your presence, each inclusive of open-air bathrooms, a jacuzzi and spacious sundeck.
Considering its massive size, Meeru naturally comes packed with things to do. A lengthy list of activities, restaurant and bars are available to choose from so one will never run out of things to do at Meeru Resort.
Well known for its diverse marine life and pristine natural beauty, Kuredu is located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, a 35-minute sea plane ride from Male’ Airport.
This resort is packed with 8 different types of villas and suites, including jacuzzi villas, family suites and water villas amongst others. Basically, it doesn’t matter whether you’re with family or on honeymoon; whether you want to live on the beach or on water, accommodations are aplenty and relatively affordable.
Similarly, choices for dining are also abundant; you’ve got Japanese, Spanish, Greek and Italian cuisines (to name a few), as well as a wide array of bars to choose from. The resort is famous for its party nights with resident DJs but if partying isn’t your thing, fishing ventures and all sorts of watersports are also offered. The ‘Duniye’ spa is excellent if you just want to unwind and relax.
Following a tried and test formula, Embudu Village Resort has been going strong due to its close distance to Male, laid back atmosphere and of course, value for money. Boasting a majestic house reef, it provides amazing snorkeling and diving experiences which are on par with many high end resorts. Whilst it may not exude the same feel of luxury as some of its counter parts, it is one of the most affordable resorts in Maldives. Whilst the food and accommodation are certainly up to Maldivian standards, visitors from all over the globe visit Embudu for its pristine beaches and amazing snorkeling, diving as well as water sports.