2024: 10 TOP MALDIVES LOCAL ISLAND HOTELS


Deciding which are the best Maldives local island hotels to visit during 2024? Search no more… as INDULGE MALDIVES shares with you our 2024 10 Top Maldives Local Island Hotels to visit this year… and, there’s something for everyone!

#1  LUAU BEACH – FULIDHOO ISLAND

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When it comes to our 2024 10 Top Maldives Local Island Hotels, in terms of location, it really doesn’t get any better than Luau Beach at Fulidhoo Island. Perched perfectly amongst palm & pink boganvillea trees, facing outwards over the azure blue waters of Vaavu Atoll, one’s senses are truly tantalised by vibrant island colours… a true spot of paradise.

Not only is Luau Beach Inn truly situated in the best location on Fulidhoo Island, the hotel is also renowned as being one of the top sustainable hotels in all of Maldives, operated by a local Maldivian team, making it one of the best Maldives local island hotels to visit during 2024. Complete with resort like touches, the 14 spacious rooms, including interconnecting family rooms, feature an all in one Bluetooth speaker & bedside light, a backlight wall mirror in the bathroom with an interactive touchscreen display, coloured room lighting options controlled from the bed, beach bag, and stainless steel reusable water bottles, foldable desk lamp and smart TV.

And it doesn’t stop there, with a magnificent rooftop restaurant accessible via elevator & talented team of chefs, private beachfront hangout & dining area, plus a gateway for special activities unique to Vaavu Atolls such as swimming with Nurse Sharks & Sting Rays, pristine uninhabited remote sandbanks, abundant coral gardens, exceptional scuba diving & water sports. Luau Beach Inn at Fulidhoo Island is a bucket list must-stay local island hotel in Maldives and a destination that not only ticks all of the holiday boxes, but you will also truly experience Maldivian hospitality & culture at it’s finest.

Luau Beach is a 1.5hr speedboat journey from the international airport & is the first island of Vaavu Atoll.

#2 SEASON PARADISE – THULUSDHOO ISLAND

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Nestled amongst the breezy palm trees of the beautiful beachfront of Thulusdhoo is another of our best Maldives local island hotels…Season Paradise; an oasis of affordable luxury, fun and relaxation. Season Paradise offers guests an authentic castaway island experience, whilst retaining the comforts of modern-day life. 

An award winning 4-star property, Season Paradise showcases 48-rooms over 5 room categories, catering for the needs of all travellers. The spacious & minimalistic room designs allow for one to soak in the natural ambience of the island. 

Perhaps the best feature of Season Paradise is not the rooftop infinity pool nor gym, not even the hotel’s private Season Spa for that matter… Home to the largest restaurant on the island, travellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining in paradise. Indulge in air-conditioned comfort or breezy beachside outdoor venues. Extensive buffet & à la carte options are available with intercontinental & Maldivian specialities. 

The conference hall & outdoor area are equipped with all the necessary facilities to host corporate meetings & retreats, coaching, business lunches & dinners for up to 50 pax. The Amphibuzz Dive, watersports & excursions centre provides thrilling water adventures and dive courses suitable for all levels of expertise. Thulusdhoo Island is also a hub for surfers with world-class surf breaks on offer.

Season Paradise owns & operates the Refcool speedboat providing multiple airport transfers daily – just a short 30min speedboat journey from the mainland. 

#3 ATARAXIS GRAND & SPA – FUVAHMULAH ISLAND

best Maldives local island hotels to visit during 2024.

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Perched amidst the swaying palm trees and lush greenery of Fuvahmulah, you will discover premium luxury at an affordable price… hello Ataraxis Grand & Spa. Here contemporary luxe blends seamlessly with the island’s natural elements, offering a serene stylish escape. A truly warm & welcoming ambiance, Ataraxis is your relaxing island home away from home and should be high on your Maldives bucket list. Here, you will discover authentic Maldivian culture and hospitality, plus make friends with the friendly and passionate Maldivian locals.

A single island atoll, Fuvahmulah is well-regarded as one of Maldives most beautiful local islands making Ataraxis Grand and Spa one of the best Maldives local island hotels to visit during 2024. This remote tropical setting just so happens to be one the world’s most unique & abundant dive sites – home to the richest population of Tiger Sharks and oceanic manta rays in Maldives. Many of the world’s top divers & dive enthusiasts from all around the globe flock to the abundant waters of Fuvahmulah annually to dive with tiger sharks with experienced local Maldivian dive guides. The island also boasts a unique surf break with rich palm trees hugging the shoreline of ‘Eleyis’ – one of Maldives only sandy beach breaks.

The 15 Tropical Double Rooms & 2 interconnecting Family Suites of Ataraxis Grand & Spa elude minimalist aesthetics & efficiently arranged interiors featuring king-sized bedding, smart TV, high-speed Wi-Fi. Each room is complete with a picturesque private balcony overlooking the greenery of Fuvahmulah, immersing guests into quiet luxury and comfort.  

With ground & top floor dining, Ataraxis talented chefs prepare culinary creations incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients across international flavours & local delicacies. Whether you’re an early riser seeking a sunrise workout or prefer an evening session, our well equipped complimentary gym ensures you can break a sweat at your convenience. The sauna and jacuzzi offer a sanctuary of tranquility on the secluded rooftop.

Fuvahmulah has its own domestic airport with 2 flights daily in operation to/from Male with the journey taking 1hr and 25minutes.

#4 STONE HOTELS – DHIFFUSHI ISLAND

Top Maldives local island hotels

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Embark on an extraordinary journey at Stone Hotels, one of the best local island hotels in Maldives. Situated on Dhiffushi Island in North Male Atoll, every experience is thoughtfully crafted to elevate your stay. Everything you need to renew and rejuvenate on your holiday, all in one place at Stone Hotels Dhiffushi. Experience boutique elegance and refined hospitality on the beach, curated for the perfect island getaway. Every moment at Stone Hotels is a reflection of deep rooted island hospitality, and commitment to creating remarkable and lasting memories.

Positioned on the beachfront of Dhiffushi, the brand new Stone Hotel features 12 ocean view rooms with something for everyone – discerning & solo travellers, couples, families & adrenaline junkies. Guests can dive into an array of thrilling experiences just steps away from the accommodation – scuba diving, beach activities, and exciting watersports await. The house reef, stretching over 10km, is a sanctuary to a myriad of corals, fishes, and other aquatic marvels.

Rest and relax by Stone Hotel’s infinity pool located on the top floor overlooking the sunset beach and lagoon, making it one of the best Maldives local island hotels to visit during 2024. The lounge serves tropical drinks and snacks throughout the day. Picanha Steakhouse, the signature restaurant overlooks the beach and is designed to provide that one perfect meal to remember. A reservations only fine dining restaurant serves steak from around the world and fusion meals with influences from the mediterranean to the orient. Located just outside Stone Beach Club, LaTuna is a multi cuisine local cafe and bistro that offers value meals, and drinks, snacks and meals all day. Conveniently located for our beach-loving guests, Laguna bar stays abyss from dawn to twilight for guests to enjoy a selection of refreshments. The in-house bakery serves pastries, gelato and fusion drinks to go. Located in the middle of the island, Elmar offers homemade ice cream and gelato. The Aavi Spa is a sanctuary embraces wellness and wellbeing by offering multiple techniques, cultures and remedies – a heavenly journey of sensory delights to relax and rejuvenate. 

Stone Hotels is a 45min speedboat journey from the international airport.

#5 PLUMERIA MALDIVES – THINADHOO ISLAND

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Plumeria Maldives is a serious contender of our 2024 10 Top Maldives Local Island Hotels. Situated on the beautiful Thinadhoo Island in Vaavu Atoll, 1.5hrs or 75km south of Velana International Airport via speedboat, the teeny island is 800m by 200m. Home to just 75 local Maldivian residents, Thinadhoo is the smallest island by population in Maldives. 

The island is popular with tourists due to its picturesque calm flat waters, flawless tropical backdrops & is considered a quiet, upmarket local island where engine vehicles are prohibited. Thinadhoo is a stones throw from the famous Vaavu shipwreck & is situated close by to some of the country’s most stunning uninhabited islands, including Fotteyo & Anbara, perfect for an island style picnic day out. Thinadhoo also has access to a bar boat where you can enjoy a sunset beverage onboard.

Plumeria Maldives offers 88 spacious, contemporary furnished, and well-adorned rooms. These luxurious rooms are categorised as Standard, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Garden Room, and Ocean View Rooms with modern features that make your stay comfortable and homelike.

Plumeria Spa is where guests can relax and rejuvenate their senses with Indonesian and Thai therapies. Wave Restaurant is located on the beachfront, catering for a total of 300 guests across the indoor and outdoor setting. The 5-Star PADI Dive and watersports centre is where guests can enjoy Kayaking, Standup Paddling (SUP), Fun Tubes, Jet Ski & excursions including Picnic Island trips, Sandbank trips, Snorkelling Trips, Fishing Trips etc.

#6 PEARL SANDS – HURAA ISLAND

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Pearl Sands is perched on its own stretch of white sand beach at Huraa Island, in North Male Atoll, just 20 minutes via speedboat from the airport, making it a real contender for our 2024 10 Top Maldives Local Island Hotels. Each of the 32 elegant rooms face the hotel’s private beach, offering alluring views of the stunning lagoon. Guests have two room types to choose from – Deluxe Room and Superior Room, each equipped with super-sized comfortable bedding plus indoor and outdoor shower cubicles.

Pearl Sands has its own private bikini beach strictly for in-house guests, complete with beach umbrellas & sunbeds. The property is home to a traditional Balinese spa by the brand ‘Chavana’, encouraging guests to relax and pamper their senses during the stay.

Guests can enjoy a range of special and memorable activities during their stay as Pearl Sands has a watersports & excursions centre for snorkelling trips, sandbank visits, big game fishing, island hopping, surfing, dolphin cruise, parasailing and kayaking. Pearl Sands is a gateway for surfers to access world class breaks Sultans, Honkeys and Jails.

#7 WHITE SAND DHIGURAH – DHIGURAH ISLAND

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Dhigurah Island is located in the heart of the Maldives, in South Ari Atoll – a 20 minute domestic flight or a 2 hour speedboat journey from Malé International Airport. Dhigurah is often renowned as the most  stunning local island in Maldives. The white sands of Dhigurah stretch almost 3km in length & the island’s widest point is just 250m across. At the southern most point of the island, Dhigurah boasts a picturesque sandbank that extends into the ocean – a perfect place to watch the sun set. 

The abundant waters of South Ari Atoll are home to whale sharks, manta rays and dolphins, year round, making this an incredibly unique & special area of Maldives. Dhigurah Island is surrounded by many snorkelling & dive sites – some of the best in Maldives.

White Sand Dhigurah is perfectly situated between two beautiful beaches. Simply stroll out of the hotel and reach the white sandy shores within less than 1 minute.  White Sand Dhigurah offers modern rooms, air conditioning, Free Wi-Fi is available & an impressive on-site restaurant serving Maldivian, Asian and Western favourites.

#8 KIHA BEACH – DHARAVANDHOO ISLAND

best place to stay t swim with manta rays in Maldives

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Kiha Beach is a boutique luxury hotel situated in the prestine Baa Atoll of Maldives and is the perfect place to discover an idyllic and top Maldives local island hotel in 2024. The convenient location, luxury facilities and friendly service ensure a hospitable Maldives holiday. Dharavandhoo Island is surrounded by nature and offers a special abundance of sea life that is native to this protected UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. 

Hanifaru Bay is the ultimate destination in Maldives for swimming with whale sharks, manta rays, sea turtles and reef sharks. It is one of the richest coral reef systems in the world. Staying at Dharavandhoo gives you the natural luxury of being close by 8 nearby renowned diving sites.

The main manta season extends from June until October. Dharavandoo is a 20 minute domestic flight journey from Velana International Airport, or a 2hr speedboat journey. Dharavandhoo’s ‘island life’ is simple but exemplary for the way you can interact with the precious environment. Kiha Beach will surprise you and fill you with memories you will forever treasure from your stay at Dharavandhoo Island.

#9 THE BAREFOOT ECO HOTEL – HANIMAADHOO ISLAND

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The Barefoot Eco Hotel is a stunning resort-like eco-hotel making it a must-stay top Maldives local island hotel in 2024. Situated in the far north of the Maldives, set on the secluded tip of Hanimaadhoo local island. The dense vegetation gives privacy and the opportunity to experience an untouched natural paradise. The Barefoot Eco Hotel is an alternative to the private luxury islands, for cost and eco-conscious travellers. The property follows eco-tourism, sustainability and conservation principles, and involves the local community within its initiatives.

This 4-star eco hotel features 52 rooms and 4 room categories: Beachfront, Ocean View, Seaside & Family rooms, designed into two storey blocks, with 4 rooms contained within each block.

The Barefoot Eco Hotel features a salt swimming-pool, spa with Ayurvedic treatments and classic massages, Yoga Master, Library, Dive Center (Padi and Ssi), Conservation Center with resident Marine Biologist & educational seminars, water sports (kayak, windsurf, hobie cat), jet ski & Bar boat.

The Barefoot Eco Hotel is well connected to Malé International airport by numerous daily 45 minute flights. 

#10 Si! CORAL INN – THULUSDHOO ISLAND

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Si! Coral Inn is a boutique beachside hotel situated on Thulusdhoo Island, embodying the true essence of Maldivian authenticity. The name is inspired by the Spanish word ‘’Si’, meaning ‘Yes’. Si! Hotels are scattered across carefully select locations in the stunning Maldives.

Si! Coral Inn is one of the best Maldives local island hotels boasting perfect island views & is just 25 mins via speedboat from Velana International Airport, ideal for a tropical beach vacation. Making our best Maldives local island hotels list, Coral Inn welcomes solo travellers, couples, surfers, divers, honeymooners, families and business travellers

With 14 rooms over 2 room categories, Si! Coral Inn accommodates travellers in both the Studio Sea View or Superior Sea View rooms. The highlight of every room is undoubtably the direct ocean view with private balcony. Coral Inn has a wide range of hotel amenities & in-room services, making it an ideal location for celebrating special occasions. Si! Coral Inn’s rooftop terrace offers 360 panoramic views of the island, perfect for yoga lovers to enjoy the sunrise & sunset, plus is spacious enough for spa treatment or mid-day sunbathing. This Maldives hotel is designed to host yoga & wellness retreats with Yoga mats & blocks available in-house. Coral Inn offers birthday cakes, special room decorations for honeymooners, promising our guests a memorable stay. End a dayin paradise with a fine meal at Thulusdhoo’s surf cafés & restaurants. Enjoy nightly entertainment & alcoholic beverages onboard the island’s floating bar boat. 

Plus the surf breaks of Thulusdhoo are world-famous, with Cokes (locally known as Randhaa) just a stones throw from Si! Coral Inn. Other popular surf breaks within 5-20mins via boat include Chickens, Jails, Sultans, Honkeys & Ninjas. Surf schools on the island provide surf lessons & coaching at all levels. Two diving centres are conveniently located. No matter if you are looking for a relaxing or adventurous vacation, you are in the right place… Si!

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We hope you enjoyed our list of 2024 10 Top Maldives Local Island Hotels & would love to help you plan a special & unforgettable Maldives holiday itinerary of your own this year. Please fill in the enquiry form below or drop us an email at holidays@indulgemaldives.com to have your own experience at the best Maldives local island hotels.

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