Why these Maldivian paradises should be on your 2026 travel list

Words: Agatha Zarzycki

With two islands, a stylish villa revamp, one-of-a-kind foodie feasts, the only private surf wave in the country and bespoke ‘Dreams Experiences’, Niyama Private Islands Maldives has no shortage of utopian offerings. Who could possibly compete, you ask? Far-removed NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort, perhaps, with its ultra-spacious suites, elevated theatrical dining and accolade of being the Best Dive Resort in the Maldives. Go on, find out which is your sun-sea soulmate. 

Unbeatable locations 

For double dreaminess: Spread across two pristine islands, ‘Play’ and ‘Chill’, that are connected by a boardwalk, Niyama Private Islands Maldives is like a real-life Choose Your Own Adventure book (but with lime-leaf cocktails and nap-inducing massages). 

The ‘Play’ side, perfect for active couples and families, has broader – but equally blissful – beaches that make everything from long beach walks to bike rides and surfing as excellent as it gets, while the peaceful and ultra-private ‘Chill’ part offers lush palm groves, a calm lagoon and honeymoon heaven.    

Both bring shades of blue you didn’t even know existed, followed by that question of, ‘Is this even real?’ The surrealness is just a 45-minute seaplane journey south of Malé in the Dhaalu Atoll (real or not, we’re packing our bags). 

For serene seclusion: Set on a private, natural island (imagine thick tropical forest meets gorgeous villas and brilliant 24-hour service) on the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort is famously shaped like a seashell and is as remote as can be: you’ll spot no seaplanes overhead or neighbouring islands in the distance, making the marine life, sunsets and that (cushy) castaway feel next-level. 

From Malé, it’s a one-hour domestic flight south to Kaadedhdhoo Airport, then a 15-minute speedboat transfer to its turquoise tranquillity, ringed by warm silky white sand that few have experienced. It’s off-the-grid magic. 

Reimagined accommodations 

For a seriously chic transformation: The Deluxe Beach and Overwater villas at Niyama Private Islands Maldives recently had a makeover, and the result has taken design, comfort and spaciousness to stunning new heights. Overwater villas perched above the sparkling lagoon are bright and airy – plus their soft, natural textures are soothing and stylish – while elegant beach villas open on to your own sugar-sand backyard (opt for one with a private plunge pool), and include multiple-bedroom options for families. Picture a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle of epic, dreamy proportions. 

For sizeable splendour: There’s spacious, and then there’s NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort, whose over-water villas span more than 75m2 (the size one-third of a standard tennis court). You can stroll right into glittering aquamarine waters, or debate where the sea ends and sky starts from your alfresco sunken tub or outdoor shower. Then come the sprawling beach villas, where you can take in swaying palms and powder-soft sand from your terrace and open-air courtyard bathroom – there’s a double sink, a rain shower and a bathtub that redefines selfcare stateliness. Big fan of sunsets? Ask for a west-facing villa. 

Culinary innovation 

For entrancing epicurean experiences: Niyama Private Islands Maldives has ten impressive dining options, from pop-up concepts such as braai on the beach and rum and reggae evenings to multi-award-winning Nest treehouse restaurant, celebrated for its Asian fine dining (think Wagyu and fresh seafood) amid the tops of decades-old banyan trees. 

But most notable is Subsix, the world’s only underwater restaurant featuring Nikkei cuisine – a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian exceptionalness – which, by night, transforms into the world’s only underwater nightclub. In a lounging, staring-at-the-sea mood? Dune Beach Club has your back (and beanbags).

For elevated classics with a touch of theatre: NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort is all about finessing and reinventing favourites. For pizza perfection, head to poolside Pizza Kaage, where you can observe the kneading and firing of soon-to-be classic, seafood and fusion pizzas (we love the tandoori).

Meanwhile, Surf specialises in sophistication and grilled seafood and meat, and you can see the chefs in action here, too, from the open kitchen, or enjoy your rib eye steak and jumbo tiger prawns on the moonlit beach. Can’t decide where to dine? All-day Reef offers a bountiful buffet of Maldivian and international showstoppers from Asian to Mediterranean, so you can sample and savour the best of everything. The resort even has a Family Adventure offer where kids aged 11 and under dine for free.

Once-in-a-lifetime adventures 

For surfing thrills: The Maldives has few well-known surf atolls – and the only private wave in the entire country is Vodi Surf Point at Niyama Private Islands Maldives. Off the resort’s ‘Play’ island, the left-hand reef break (ideal for intermediate surfers) is so close that you can see the wave peeling from the shore. Paddle straight out, take the hotel’s resident surf pro with you, and let the sole sounds of sea breezes and rolling waves wash over you before the adrenaline kicks in.  

For diving magnificence: Recognised as the Best Dive Resort in the Maldives at this year’s TTM Awards, NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort is positioned on one of the deepest south atolls and is a spectacular spot for diving sans the crowds. In its clear-as-gin waters you may be lucky enough to spot colourful parrotfish, banded butterflyfish, graceful angelfish and schools of surgeonfish.

Top tip: if you’re a certified diver, consider a night dive for a different kind of experience. Keep your eyes peeled for nocturnal beings such as camouflaging octopuses, large-eyed squirrelfish and brittle stars (starfishes’ mysterious sister).

Experiences for every age and style 

For wow-factor wanderlust: Niyama Private Islands Maldives has more to brag about than its exclusive surfing scene. Think bioluminescent beach walks where the shoreline shimmers in electric blue due to glowing plankton, curated spa treatments, and bespoke ‘Dreams Experiences’ from once-in-a-lifetime birthday bashes to private sandbank picnics. 

There is plenty of play for little jet-setters, too, with the Explorers Kids’ Club welcoming those from 12 months to 12 years. While they gear up for treasure hunts, snorkelling in crystal clear waters and cooking classes, you can enjoy some much-deserved adult time at the buzzing, Instagram-worthy pool. 

For relaxed rapture: On top of its spectacular snorkelling, NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has an abundance of above-the-water aqua fun, from see-through kayaks to sunset excursions where you may be lucky enough to spot dolphins. Prefer to stay on land? Opt for sunrise and sunset yoga, a gentle island walk and garden tour, or treat yourself to a wellness journey at the spa. Its tailored Sacred Energy Rituals treatment with a holistic practitioner combines Ayurveda, Reiki, reflexology and meridian therapy. 

And while you’re balancing your chakras, the kids can listen to Maldivian stories and learn coconut leaf crafting.

Book your holiday at Niyama Private Islands Maldives or NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous baggage allowance and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Maldives holiday to Niyama Private Islands Maldives or NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Full balance due seven weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.