13/08/2026
WATER VILLA OR BEACH VILLA?
It’s one of the biggest decisions when planning a Maldives holiday, and despite what Instagram might have you believe, a water villa isn’t automatically the better option.
Water villas give you that iconic Maldives experience: uninterrupted ocean views, plenty of privacy and steps straight from your deck into the lagoon. Many also come with private pools and large sun decks, so it’s easy to see why they’re particularly popular for honeymoons and special occasions.
But there are a few trade-offs. They can cost considerably more than a beach villa, sometimes 20–50% more depending on the resort, you may have a longer walk to restaurants and facilities, and they’re not always the most practical choice for families with younger children.
Beach villas, meanwhile, can be rather underrated. You step straight onto the sand, you’re surrounded by the greenery of the island and they often give you more indoor and outdoor space for your money. They’re generally better suited to families too, particularly with younger children, and can put you closer to the main resort facilities.
And there’s another consideration I think is particularly important: your budget may go further with a beach villa. Rather than paying the premium for an overwater room, you might be able to stay at a higher-end resort in a beach villa for the same overall budget.
Of course, there is a third option 👉 Do both.
A split stay lets you spend the first part of your holiday with sand outside your door, before moving out over the lagoon for a few nights of the full water-villa experience.
There really isn’t a right or wrong answer. It depends on who’s travelling, what matters most to you and where you’d rather spend your budget.
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