When visiting the Maldives for the first time, it's essential to choose the right area to stay based on your preferences and interests. Here are some areas of the Maldives you should consider:

Where To Stay In the North Male Atoll:

This area is close to Male, the capital city, and is easily accessible from Velana International Airport. It offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts and budget-friendly guesthouses. North Male Atoll is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, and proximity to popular dive sites.

• Baros Maldives: This luxury resort offers overwater villas and beachfront suites surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It features multiple restaurants, a spa, and various water sports activities.

• Bandos Maldives: Situated on a private island, Bandos Maldives offers comfortable rooms and villas, a diving center, and a range of recreational facilities. It's ideal for families and couples looking for a relaxed beach vacation.

Where To Stay In the South Male Atoll:

Similar to North Male Atoll, South Male Atoll is conveniently located near the airport and offers a variety of accommodation options. It's known for its beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving spots, and laid-back atmosphere.

• COMO Cocoa Island: This luxury resort offers overwater villas inspired by traditional Maldivian dhoni boats, as well as a spa, yoga pavilion, and gourmet restaurant serving fresh seafood.

• Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives: Nestled on a private island, Taj Exotica offers luxury villas overlooking the Indian Ocean, a spa, multiple dining options, and water sports facilities.

Where To Stay in the Ari Atoll:

Ari Atoll is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Maldives, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. It's a great choice for snorkeling, diving, and water sports enthusiasts. Ari Atoll is home to several luxury resorts, as well as budget-friendly guesthouses.

• Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: This iconic resort offers luxurious overwater villas, an underwater restaurant, a spa, and a variety of recreational activities, including diving, snorkeling, and sunset cruises.

• LUX South Ari Atoll*: Situated on Dhidhoofinolhu Island, this resort offers stylish villas, a spa, multiple restaurants, and a range of water sports and land-based activities.

Where To Stay In the Baa Atoll:

Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. It's an excellent choice for travelers interested in eco-tourism and marine conservation. Baa Atoll is home to luxury resorts offering overwater villas, as well as budget-friendly options.

• Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru: Located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this luxury resort offers overwater villas and beachfront bungalows, as well as a marine research center, spa, and multiple dining options.

• Soneva Fushi: This eco-friendly resort offers spacious villas with private pools, a spa, organic gardens, and a variety of recreational activities, including snorkeling, diving, and sunset dolphin cruises.

Where To Stay In the Lhaviyani Atoll:

Lhaviyani Atoll is less developed compared to other atolls in the Maldives, offering a more peaceful and secluded experience. It's known for its beautiful beaches, colorful coral reefs, and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. Lhaviyani Atoll is home to several luxury resorts and boutique hotels.

• Hurawalhi Island Resort: This adults-only resort offers luxury overwater villas, an underwater restaurant, a spa, and a range of water sports activities, including snorkeling, diving, and sailing.

• Kuredu Island Resort & Spa: Situated on a private island, Kuredu offers a variety of accommodation options, multiple restaurants, a spa, and a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, tennis courts, and dive center.