Scattered across the tropical Indian Ocean like a string of precious gemstones, the Maldives is a destination as delightfully unique as it is sublime. With powder-soft sands, brilliant year-round weather, lagoons that shimmer in every hue of blue, verdant jungle-like interiors and arguably some of the best hotels in the world, it’s little wonder that it appears on many discerning travellers’ bucket lists. The one-resort-one-island concept makes it even more alluring for those looking for the equal measures of memorable luxury experiences, tranquillity and seclusion. 

The glittering shores of the Maldives appeal to wild-hearted wanderers for another reason; the unique array of things to do. After all, when you travel to one of the most coveted island destinations in the world, you might as well live out your days in extraordinary ways.

Have we piqued your interest? There here are the top unique experiences to enjoy in the Maldives:

Dine underwater at Hurawalhi Island Resort

There are many extraordinary places to feast upon gastronomic delights in the Maldives, but none of them quite compare to the experience you can have at the 5.8 Undersea Restaurant at Hurawalhi Island Resort. While by no means the only restaurant of its kind, the Undersea Restaurant claims to be the biggest glass underwater restaurant in the world.

Located 5.8 metres under the sea and encapsulated in a domed structure, this unbelievable restaurant offers guests fine dining fare served in creative ways. Gorgeously presented seasonal dishes are served up in style for either lunch or dinner at this unbelievable venue. 

Order a glass of champagne (or your favourite non-alcoholic drink) and relish the experience of watching the marine life passing you by as you savour your multi-course meal. This promises to be a truly unparalleled experience made even more unique (and perhaps surprising) by the casual and barefoot policy they have in place for diners.

Enjoy an unforgettable spa experience at Huvafen Fushi

If you and your beloved require some serious pampering while on holiday in the Maldives, then there’s arguably no better or more tranquil place to do that then at the world’s first underwater spa at Huvafen Fushi. 

Immersed in the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean, at this glorious spa, you can indulge in a wide array of exceptional offerings. Treat yourself to something special from the extensive and diverse treatment list which includes everything from a plethora of ancient healing rituals and rejuvenating experiences (massages, facials and more) to movement classes (such as yoga) and spa journeys. Embrace the healing energy of this gorgeous spa and feel yourself surrender to pure relaxation. Stop by the spa’s stunning Raw Cafe for a detox juice or revitalizing smoothie pre- or post-treatment to further enhance the healing experience on all levels.

Sleep under the sea at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Resort

If the idea of being able to experience phenomenal moments under the sea thrills you, then this is certainly another must-do for your bucket list. At the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Resort, you have the opportunity to stay in their two-story underwater villa named Muraka, or “coral” in the local language, an exclusive luxury villa created with part of the structure sitting almost five metres underwater. 

The minimum stay at this extraordinary haven is four nights but it comes with a private chef, exclusive use of a boat and many additional treats and experiences included for a seriously envy-inducing holiday. The villa is broken up into two main parts; the ‘above water’ section complete with a gym, private bar, infinity pool, relaxation deck, bedrooms and a stunning bathroom with an ocean-facing bathtub. The second section is the underwater level, where you will find the villa’s piece de resistance, the underwater glass-domed bedroom, where guests can sleep on the bottom of the ocean itself. 

This spectacular architectural feat (which was created with utmost care and consideration for the sensitive surroundings) is linked to the main resort via a jetty, so when you are looking for some non-aquatic company, that’s where you can head. One thing is for sure, a stay at this phenomenal villa is an experience you will never forget. 

Sip on your favourite tipple at Subsix

On the theme of novel underwater experiences, at Niyama Private Islands Maldives, you can enjoy the opulent and extravagant surrounds of the magical underwater restaurant and bar, Substix. Located 6 metres under the water, this subaquatic wonderland was originally created as a nightclub and now is open for lavish lunches and special events. This fabulous hideaway can be reached by speedboat and once there, you can indulge in epicurean wonders and savour fabulous drinks as you marvel at the crystalline waters and sea-inspired decor such as the coral-like chandeliers and chairs created to resemble sea urchins. 

Savour rare wines at Anantara Kihavah

The Maldives is the ultimate playground for discerning gourmets and wine connoisseurs, and if you are a bon vivant looking for something truly memorable, then there’s one experience you definitely shouldn’t miss. 

If you head to Anantara Kihavah Villas, you’ll find a mesmerising underwater restaurant, SEA, located 6 metres under the surface of the water. While a meal enjoyed here is highly recommended, the real attraction is its underwater wine cellar which boasts three stars from the World of Fine Wines Magazine.

A visual marvel of note, the underwater restaurant is, however, more than its aesthetic—in fact, the reasoning behind the restaurant being underwater centres almost entirely on the wines. The wines are kept at this depth specifically to ensure the cellar maintains the right temperatures to house the wines so that they can age properly. The talented in-house sommelier can tailor-make an “around the world wine journey” for you, pair rare vintages with delectable dishes and guide you through some 450 vintages sourced from some of the best wine-producing countries in the world. Pick your favourite and relish the sensorial journey enhanced by one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles; the world beneath the water’s surface. 

Gaze at the stars at Finolhu

Treat yourself and your beloved to a night to remember in Finolhu’s unforgettable Beach Bubble room. This sensational and secluded dome-like structure fitted with all the luxury bells and whistles you could wish for is situated some 100 metres from the island’s Crab Shack on a private sandbank. 

The Beach Bubble experience allows you and your favourite person to marvel at the night sky from the comfort of your ultra-luxe double bed, embrace the endless views of paradise and sleep under the twinkling stars above. The experience is enhanced further by a private beach barbecue and a breakfast on the beach, both of which are included in the price. What more could you want for a magical night in the Maldives? 

These are just some of the spectacular offerings you can enjoy at a few of the best resorts in the Maldives. Eager to book your stay at your dream hotel so that you can tick these bucket list-worthy items off your list? Then head to Maldives Experts. We make it easy for you to search, compare and book your dream holiday in paradise.