10 Overwater Villas That Will Take Your Breath Away
From glass-floor bathrooms to private infinity pools suspended over crystal waters, these are the most stunning overwater villas in the Maldives.
The overwater villa is the quintessential Maldives experience -and choosing the right one can make or break your trip. After countless hours of research and visits, we've compiled the definitive list of the most spectacular overwater accommodations in the Maldives.
1. Soneva Fushi - Soneva Water Retreat
The largest overwater villa in the Maldives, this 5,500 square meter residence is essentially a floating mansion. Features include a water slide from the deck directly into the lagoon, a private spa, and your own dedicated butler team.
What makes it special: The retractable roof over the master bedroom lets you fall asleep under the stars.
Price range: From $8,000 per night
2. Conrad Maldives - The Muraka
The world's first undersea residence. The two-story villa has a master bedroom located 5 meters below sea level, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling acrylic walls with views of the surrounding coral reef.
What makes it special: You literally sleep with the fishes -in the most luxurious way possible.
Price range: From $15,000 per night
3. St. Regis Maldives - John Jacob Astor Estate
Sprawling over 1,500 square meters with your own private beach, infinity pool, and outdoor dining pavilion. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the curated art collection to the Bentley golf cart for getting around.
What makes it special: The 24-hour butler service takes anticipatory service to new heights.
Price range: From $12,000 per night
4. One&Only Reethi Rah - Grand Water Villa
Minimalist luxury at its finest. These villas feature clean lines, natural materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The infinity pool seems to merge directly with the lagoon.
What makes it special: The 12-meter infinity pool is one of the longest private villa pools in the Maldives.
Price range: From $3,500 per night
5. Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru - Water Villa with Pool
Perched over a pristine lagoon in the Baa Atoll (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve), these villas offer direct access to some of the best snorkeling in the Maldives -including regular manta ray visits.
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What makes it special: The location in the Baa Atoll means incredible marine life right at your doorstep.
Price range: From $2,800 per night
6. Velaa Private Island - Romantic Pool Residence
Architect-designed villas with soaring ceilings, private pools, and dedicated wine cellars. The ultra-private setting on one of the most exclusive islands ensures complete seclusion.
What makes it special: Each villa has its own wine cellar stocked with rare vintages.
Price range: From $4,500 per night
7. Cheval Blanc Randheli - Water Villa
LVMH's resort brings French sophistication to the Maldives. The interiors are stunning -think contemporary design with traditional Maldivian touches. Your private pool features both sun and shade areas.
What makes it special: The impeccable service and attention to aesthetic detail reflect the LVMH pedigree.
Price range: From $3,200 per night
8. Patina Maldives - Water Pool Villa
The newest entry on our list, Patina opened in 2021 and immediately set new standards. The villas feature a muted, sophisticated color palette, sustainable design elements, and some of the most thoughtfully designed spaces we've seen.
What makes it special: The commitment to sustainability without compromising on luxury.
Price range: From $2,400 per night
9. Anantara Kihavah - Over Water Pool Villa
Famous for having one of the best overwater restaurants in the Maldives (Sea, with its underwater dining room), the villas here are equally impressive. Large glass floor panels in the bathroom let you watch marine life while you soak in the tub.
What makes it special: The Sky Observatory for stargazing is a unique addition to the resort experience.
Price range: From $2,600 per night
10. Joali Being - Water Villa
The Maldives' first immersive wellbeing island retreat takes the water villa concept and infuses it with wellness. Every element is designed to support your physical and mental health, from the sleep programs to the hydrotherapy experiences.
What makes it special: This is the only water villa where your entire stay is designed around your wellbeing.
Price range: From $3,000 per night
How to Choose Your Perfect Villa
Consider these factors when selecting your overwater paradise:
- Sunrise vs sunset: East-facing villas catch the sunrise; west-facing ones get sunset views.
- Reef proximity: Some villas are positioned over better snorkeling spots than others.
- Privacy: End-of-jetty villas typically offer more seclusion.
- Pool vs no pool: If swimming in the lagoon isn't enough, opt for a villa with a private pool.
- Size matters: Traveling with family or wanting space? Square footage varies dramatically.
Final Thoughts
An overwater villa in the Maldives is a bucket-list experience for good reason. Waking up to the sound of gentle waves, stepping directly from your bedroom into bathwater-warm lagoon, and watching fish swim beneath your feet -these are experiences that stay with you forever.
Whether you're celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply treating yourself to the vacation of a lifetime, investing in the right overwater villa is worth every penny.
