The Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, has long been synonymous with luxury. However, as of January 2025, the archipelago offers a variety of budget-friendly overwater bungalow options, allowing travelers to experience this tropical paradise without breaking the bank.
Here’s a curated list of affordable overwater bungalows in the Maldives for your January getaway:
1. Riu Palace Maldivas – All-Inclusive
- Location: Dhuvaafaru, Raa Atoll
- Overview: As of January 2025, Riu Palace Maldivas stands out as one of the most affordable all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives. With rates starting just over $500 per night, guests can enjoy luxurious overwater bungalows equipped with modern amenities, direct lagoon access, and stunning ocean views. The resort offers a variety of dining options, including international buffets and specialty restaurants, ensuring a diverse culinary experience. Additionally, guests can indulge in various water sports, spa treatments, and entertainment activities, all included in the package.
2. Dhigali Maldives
- Location: Raa Atoll
- Overview: Dhigali Maldives is a family-friendly resort offering a blend of activities for children and relaxation for adults at a lower price bracket compared to typical Maldivian stays. The resort features 180 luxurious rooms, including beach-facing bungalows and overwater lagoon villas with private plunge pools. Eight dining options are available, ranging from buffets to à la carte menus with global cuisine and kid-friendly dishes. Most activities, such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sunset cruises, are included in the room rate. The secluded jungle spa, beach movie nights, and varied walking routes enhance the relaxing experience. Dhigali is located in the north-western Raa Atoll, a serene 45-minute seaplane ride from Malé, and offers excellent diving opportunities. Prices for all-inclusive doubles start from £401.
3. Four Seasons Kuda Huraa
- Location: North Malé Atoll
- Overview: Four Seasons Kuda Huraa offers a more budget-friendly option compared to its sister property, Landaa Giraavaru. The resort features overwater villas with private pools at half the price of its sister property. Situated a 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé airport, it attracts many UAE expats and nationals. The resort features dreamy overwater villas, traditional thatched pavilions, infinity pools, and a private-island spa accessible by wooden dhoni boat. Accommodation options range from garden pavilions to lavish sunrise and sunset villas. The resort is family-friendly, offering family suites and kid-centric activities like crab races and the Marine Savers programme. Dining options include Keralan, Italian, and Asian cuisines, appealing to diverse palates. Key activities include water sports, dolphin cruises, and unique experiences like surfing and tennis. With an all-inclusive rate starting from £858, it combines luxury and value.
4. Meeru Island Resort & Spa
- Location: North Malé Atoll
- Overview: Meeru Island Resort & Spa offers a range of overwater bungalows at competitive prices. The resort provides a variety of dining options, including buffet-style restaurants and à la carte choices, ensuring a diverse culinary experience. Guests can enjoy various activities such as snorkeling, diving, and excursions, with some packages offering all-inclusive deals. The resort’s proximity to Malé makes it a convenient choice for travelers seeking a quick getaway.
5. Kuredu Island Resort
- Location: Laccadive Sea
- Overview: Kuredu Island Resort offers overwater bungalows that provide direct access to the lagoon and are equipped with modern amenities. The resort features multiple dining venues, including buffet and à la carte options, catering to various tastes. Guests can partake in activities such as snorkeling, diving, and excursions, with some packages offering all-inclusive deals. The resort’s diverse facilities and activities make it a popular choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
6. Velassaru Maldives
- Location: South Malé Atoll
- Overview: Velassaru Maldives offers overwater bungalows with glass floor panels, allowing guests to view the marine life below. The resort provides a variety of dining options, including international and local cuisines, ensuring a diverse culinary experience. Guests can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and spa treatments. The resort’s intimate setting and personalized service make it a popular choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
7. Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
- Location: Noonu Atoll
- Overview: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an award-winning 5-star all-inclusive resort with water villas on a stunning private island in the Maldives’ Noonu Atoll. The resort has a great reputation for family vacations, winning the World Travel Awards’ category of Best Family Resort in the Indian Ocean for three years running from 2016 to 2019. It offers various options – B&B, half board, full board, and all-inclusive. For a multiple award-winning, 5-star resort in the Maldives, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is pleasantly very reasonably priced, with the all-inclusive being overall the best value package.
8. Veligandu Island Resort & Spa
- Location: North Ari Atoll
- Overview: Veligandu Island Resort & Spa offers a more intimate and peaceful experience, with overwater bungalows starting at about $550 per night. Located on a private island in the North Ari Atoll, Veligandu offers an array of activities, including diving, snorkeling, and spa treatments. The resort’s overwater villas come with direct access to the lagoon, making it a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility. With its prime location near some of the best dive sites in the Maldives, it is ideal for diving enthusiasts. Veligandu also offers a range of dining options, from buffet-style meals to gourmet experiences, ensuring every guest’s needs are met. With its excellent value for money, it’s an ideal choice for a January 2025 getaway.
DON’T LET THE PRICE TAG SCARE YOU
The Maldives, once seen as an exclusive destination reserved for the wealthy, is now more accessible than ever. With affordable overwater bungalow options available for a January 2025 splurge, you can experience this tropical paradise without exceeding your budget. Whether you choose a secluded island resort, a family-friendly getaway, or a romantic retreat, there are plenty of affordable options to explore. These resorts offer a mix of luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, and exciting activities, ensuring you get the most out of your vacation.
