Choosing the right Maldives private island is about more than just the view. It’s about the space, the privacy, the amenities, and the level of service you receive from the moment you step onto the island. From private chefs and personal butlers to underwater dining and spa sanctuaries, every resort listed below represents the pinnacle of island luxury. Planning a romantic escape, an indulgent solo journey, or a luxurious family holiday, these destinations redefine the concept of tropical paradise.
How to Book Private Island for Maldives Vacations
Maldives, a cluster of over 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, is synonymous with tranquility, exclusivity, and unrivaled luxury. When it comes to premium island getaways, nothing quite compares to a Maldives private island that offers overwater villas, private infinity pools, and personalized butler service. These resorts offer more than just breathtaking scenery—they deliver immersive experiences that cater to individual desires, ensuring each guest feels like royalty.
Each island offers a unique mix of experiences—from eco-conscious stays to artful indulgence and wellness retreats. As you read on, pay close attention to the highlights, architecture, and service styles that best match your travel preferences.
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List of Top Maldives Private Islands
Top Maldives private islands that feature iconic overwater villas, personal pools, and 24/7 butler service—along with pricing details and travel options to help you plan your dream stay.
- Soneva Jani
- Cheval Blanc Randheli
- St. Regis Maldives Vommuli
- Velaa Private Island
- COMO Maalifushi
- Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
1. Soneva Jani – Flagship of Barefoot Luxury
Location: Noonu Atoll
Starting Price: From $3,500 to $7,000+ per night
How to Get There
From Malé International Airport (Velana International Airport), guests are transferred via a 40-minute scenic seaplane ride to Noonu Atoll. Alternatively, a 60-minute domestic flight followed by a short speedboat ride is available. The journey is as breathtaking as the destination, with stunning aerial views of atolls and turquoise reefs.
Why Soneva Jani is Exceptional
Soneva Jani is one of the most luxurious and eco-conscious resorts in the world. Located on a private island in the Noonu Atoll, this resort is surrounded by a massive 5.6-kilometer lagoon with water so clear it appears photoshopped. Villas here are some of the largest in the Maldives, some exceeding 8,000 square feet.
The iconic water villas come with retractable roofs, private freshwater pools, and some even feature slides into the lagoon. The indoor-outdoor design integrates natural elements with sustainability—wooden decks, palm-thatched roofs, and recycled materials throughout. Additionally, each villa includes a private wine cellar, a sunken outdoor dining area, and direct access to the lagoon. Guests can enjoy their favorite movies in the overwater cinema, indulge in moonlit stargazing sessions at the observatory, or dine in treetop restaurants for a surreal dining experience.
The resort also offers complimentary experiences such as guided snorkeling with marine biologists, glass-blowing sessions, chocolate and ice-cream parlors, and sunrise paddleboarding—all designed to immerse you in nature and wellness.
Butler Service at Soneva Jani
Each guest is assigned a personal “Mr. or Ms. Friday” butler who handles everything—from unpacking your luggage to organizing stargazing dinners on a private sandbank. The butlers are trained to anticipate needs before you even ask, helping with everything from spa appointments to organizing eco-friendly excursions like dolphin cruises or coral planting. Their approach to service combines warmth, intuition, and attention to detail, making your stay effortlessly magical.
2. Cheval Blanc Randheli – Sophistication in Every Detail
Location: Noonu Atoll
Starting Price: From $4,000 to $8,000 per night
How to Get There
Guests arrive at Cheval Blanc Randheli via a 40-minute journey on the resort’s private seaplane, which offers a luxurious and private transfer experience from Velana International Airport. The seaplane is customized for comfort with leather seats and personalized service onboard.
A Design-Forward Sanctuary
Cheval Blanc Randheli is the epitome of elegance, owned and managed by LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy). Located on a remote Maldives private island, it offers contemporary design with handcrafted details and bespoke luxury in every corner. The resort is spread over five interlinked islands, offering unmatched serenity and architectural finesse.
The overwater villas are strikingly modern, featuring cathedral-style ceilings, infinity-edge pools, and sun decks that seamlessly blend with the sea. The attention to detail is immaculate—from Hermès amenities to curated art pieces in every suite. Each villa includes separate living and dining areas, oversized bathrooms, tranquil private gardens, and direct lagoon access. The Cheval Blanc Spa by Guerlain sits on its own island, adding to the grandeur and exclusivity.
Dining here is an experience in itself—ranging from Japanese fine dining to Mediterranean fare and beachfront BBQs. Private dining options include gourmet picnics on secluded beaches and personalized tasting menus curated by the executive chef.
The Art of Butler Service
The “Majordome” butler service at Cheval Blanc is deeply personalized. Your butler arranges sunrise yoga, gourmet beach picnics, private jet transfers, or spa appointments. It’s more than service—it’s like having a lifestyle curator by your side throughout your stay. Additionally, butlers ensure privacy and discretion while delivering flawless five-star experiences from check-in to departure. Every interaction is built on the philosophy of understated elegance and personal relevance.
3. St. Regis Maldives Vommuli – Where Nature Meets Contemporary Comfort
Location: Dhaalu Atoll
Starting Price: From $2,500 to $6,000 per night
How to Get There
Guests reach the resort via a 45-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport. The resort’s private lounge at the airport ensures a smooth and comfortable transition to the island.
Striking Architecture Inspired by Marine Life
Set in the remote Dhaalu Atoll, this Maldives private island blends tropical jungle with futuristic design. Villas shaped like manta rays or shells offer a unique architectural appeal while maximizing views of the endless Indian Ocean. Surrounded by lush greenery, white-sand beaches, and coral-rich waters, the island is ideal for both adventure and relaxation.
Each overwater villa comes with a private pool, sunken outdoor lounges, rainforest showers, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Interiors blend dark woods with crisp white linens and splashes of ocean blue. Guests can enjoy world-class facilities such as an overwater Iridium Spa with hydrotherapy pools, a large outdoor infinity pool, and seven fine-dining options. The Whale Bar—iconic for its structure and location—is a perfect sunset spot for sipping cocktails while watching dolphins.
Adventure seekers can enjoy diving, jet-ski safaris, and traditional Maldivian dhoni excursions. Yoga and meditation classes, as well as wellness consultations, are also available for those seeking balance and mindfulness.
St. Regis Butler Experience
True to the St. Regis legacy, each guest has a personal butler available 24/7. Whether it’s ironing your clothes, drawing a rose-petal bath, or planning a private yacht dinner, the St. Regis butlers ensure your stay is seamless and sophisticated. Their goal is to turn ordinary moments into treasured memories. The butlers also personalize turndown services, prepare beachside movie nights, and offer in-room mixology experiences.
4. Velaa Private Island – Billionaire’s Playground
Location: Noonu Atoll
Starting Price: From $5,000 to $10,000+ per night (Romantic Residence starts around $15,000+ per night)
How to Get There
Velaa Private Island is accessible via a 45-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport. The resort also offers the option of private jet transfers for elite guests, landing at Maafaru International Airport, followed by a short speedboat ride.
Unmatched Privacy and Design
Velaa Private Island is one of the most exclusive resorts not only in the Maldives but globally. Created by a European billionaire for those who seek absolute discretion, this island only hosts a limited number of guests at any time. The level of security, privacy, and customization here is virtually unmatched.
Its overwater villas are ultra-modern with floor-to-ceiling glass, ocean-view bathtubs, and designer furnishings. The Romantic Pool Residence—completely isolated and reachable only by boat—features a private gym, chef’s kitchen, cinema, and spa pavilion. Other villas include expansive outdoor decks, direct lagoon access, personal libraries, and custom lighting for mood control. Velaa also features the only golf academy in the Maldives, curated by José María Olazábal, and an on-site submarine for marine exploration.
Gastronomic experiences range from fine-dining degustation to beachfront tapas and exclusive wine cellar tastings. The My Blend Spa by Clarins offers state-of-the-art wellness programs, including snow rooms, aqua therapy, and personalized detox retreats.
Elite Butler & Concierge Services
Each villa comes with a butler trained to deliver high-end service with precision. Butlers coordinate spa appointments, arrange helicopter tours, or reserve the island’s golf simulator or snow room. From private wine tastings to chartering luxury yachts, the concierge service ensures exclusivity at every touchpoint. The level of personalization makes this a top choice for VIPs and celebrities.
5. COMO Maalifushi – Heaven of Wellness and Simplicity
Location: Thaa Atoll
Starting Price: From $1,600 to $3,500 per night
How to Get There
Guests can reach COMO Maalifushi via a 60-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport. The resort also coordinates private charters upon request.
Elegant Minimalism in Seclusion
COMO Maalifushi is the only luxury resort in the Thaa Atoll, giving it a serene and secluded edge. Its overwater villas are modest yet elegant, featuring Japanese-style teak floors, four-poster beds, large terraces, and plunge pools. The villas offer spectacular ocean views and a soothing ambiance that promotes a sense of calm and introspection.
COMO’s design philosophy prioritizes natural light, open spaces, and wellness. This is an ideal destination for those who appreciate mindfulness, yoga, and organic cuisine. The COMO Shambhala Retreat provides holistic therapies, massage treatments, and health-focused cuisine to complete your wellness journey.
Holistic Butler & Wellness Services
The COMO butlers, while discreet, focus on a wellness-first approach. They assist in crafting customized wellness itineraries—such as detox menus, guided meditation, or Ayurvedic therapies—making your stay a journey of healing and rejuvenation. These butlers also ensure that your every comfort is met without intruding on your personal space.
6. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi – New Gold Standard in Island Living
Location: South Malé Atoll
Starting Price: From $2,800 to $7,500+ per night (Private island starts at $75,000 per night)
How to Get There
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is located just 45 minutes from Velana International Airport by luxury yacht. The resort owns a private fleet, ensuring privacy and seamless service from the moment you arrive in Malé.
Triple-Island Experience With Infinite Options
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a sprawling resort offering ultra-luxury experiences across three interconnected islands. It features over 100 villas, each with grand interiors, oversized pools, and lush outdoor spaces. Their private island option is one of the most expensive in the world, catering to ultra-elite travelers seeking maximum exclusivity.
Overwater villas include multiple bedrooms, private chefs, spa rooms, and even water slides into the ocean. The décor is refined, blending marble, wood, and high-end fixtures to create a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Guests also enjoy access to a private reef, on-demand wellness practitioners, and in-villa dining from a curated menu.
24/7 Personal Concierge Butler
Waldorf’s personal concierge service ensures every detail—from dietary preferences to personalized yoga sessions—is pre-arranged. With access to 11 gourmet restaurants, guests also enjoy priority bookings and curated private tastings, all coordinated by the concierge team. Butlers also assist with child care, private boat bookings, and romantic beachside setups, delivering an end-to-end luxury experience.
Each of these private islands—with their overwater villas, private pools, and attentive butler service—has something unique to offer. Whether it’s the eco-conscious ethos of Soneva Jani, the artistic flair of Cheval Blanc, or the elite exclusivity of Velaa, you are guaranteed a magical and memorable experience.
FAQs
1. What is a Maldives private island resort?
A Maldives private island resort is an entire island exclusively occupied by one resort. This means all villas, beaches, dining areas, and amenities are managed by the same hospitality brand, ensuring total privacy, luxury, and personalized service. These islands typically feature overwater and beachfront villas, private pools, gourmet restaurants, and 24/7 butler or concierge service.
2. How much does it cost to stay on a Maldives private island?
The cost varies depending on the season, type of villa, and exclusivity of the resort. Entry-level overwater villas may start from $1,200 per night, while ultra-luxury properties like Cheval Blanc Randheli or Velaa Private Island can range from $5,000 to over $20,000 per night. Entire private islands (like Waldorf Astoria’s private island) may cost up to $75,000 per night.
3. What is included in the price of a Maldives private island stay?
Most Maldives private island stays include:
- Luxury villa accommodation
- Daily breakfast (some offer full board or all-inclusive packages)
- Private pool and direct beach or lagoon access
- 24/7 butler or concierge service
- Use of non-motorized water sports equipment
- Airport transfers (sometimes at additional cost)
Premium packages may include spa treatments, water excursions, gourmet dining, and more.
4. How do I reach a private island resort in the Maldives?
Access to Maldives private islands is typically via:
- Seaplane transfer (20–60 minutes from Malé International Airport)
- Domestic flight followed by a speedboat ride
- Luxury yacht or private jet transfers for ultra-luxury resorts
Transfers are usually arranged by the resort and billed separately or included in premium packages.
5. Which Maldives private islands are best for honeymoons?
Top romantic choices include:
- Soneva Jani – for secluded water villas with slides
- COMO Maalifushi – for wellness-focused retreats
- Baros Maldives – for intimacy and easy access
- St. Regis Vommuli – for ultra-modern romantic luxury
These resorts offer special honeymoon packages, rose petal turndown service, and private beach dinners.
6. Are children allowed on Maldives private islands?
Yes, many Maldives private islands welcome families and offer child-friendly amenities:
- Kids clubs and activity centers
- Family villas with multiple rooms
- Childcare and babysitting services
Examples include Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Soneva Fushi, and Six Senses Laamu.
Some resorts (like Baros or Milaidhoo) are adults-only, so it’s best to check before booking.
7. What’s the best time to visit a Maldives private island?
The best time is during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is sunny and calm. This is also the peak season, so prices are higher. The off-peak season (May to October) sees occasional rain and storms, but offers discounts and quieter stays.
8. Do Maldives private islands offer sustainable or eco-friendly options?
Yes, many private island resorts are sustainability-focused. For example:
- Soneva Jani and Six Senses Laamu use solar energy, water filtration, and eco-construction
- COMO Maalifushi emphasizes wellness and organic sourcing
- Gili Lankanfushi is plastic-free and supports coral reef restoration
These resorts offer luxury while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.
9. Can I rent an entire Maldives private island?
Absolutely. Resorts like:
- Waldorf Astoria’s private island
- Four Seasons Private Island at Voavah
- Velaa Private Island (Romantic Residence)
offer full-island buyouts for weddings, events, or exclusive holidays. Rates can go from $35,000 to over $100,000 per night, depending on size and services included.
10. What are some must-do experiences on a Maldives private island?
Don’t miss:
- Dining under the stars or in underwater restaurants
- Couples’ spa rituals on overwater decks
- Snorkeling or diving around coral reefs
- Private yacht excursions for dolphin or whale shark watching
- Cinema under the stars, beach picnics, or floating breakfasts in your private pool
Every Maldives private island offers curated experiences designed to match your dream of paradise.
