Gili Lankanfushi

Gili Lankanfushi is the stay for travellers who want the classic Maldives picture without a long transfer. The resort is made up of 45 villas and residences, and its own description highlights overwater villas with pools, each with separate areas for lounging, sleeping and bathing, in a style it calls barefoot luxury. Arrival is by speedboat, which keeps the trip from the airport short compared with seaplane-only resorts further out. The island has six dining venues, including Kashiveli, By The Sea, Fini Foni, an overwater bar, an underground wine cellar and an organic garden, plus private dining and beverage experiences. Meera Spa and Meera Ayurvedic Therapy take care of treatments. The resort also runs the Gili Veshi environmental programme, including a coral lines project it describes as the first of its kind in the Maldives, and it holds an EarthCheck Gold award for 2025. It is a place for honeymoons, milestone trips and anyone who wants a villa over the lagoon, a private deck and the kind of service that remembers a name.

Location and getting around: Gili sits in the Kaafu (North Malé) Atoll, a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. That matters in two ways. First, you can arrive and be on a villa deck within the same morning, and second, flights that land late can still connect without an overnight in Malé. Once on the island, you move on foot or by the resort's buggies along jetties and paths, so pack light, flat shoes. Excursions, from sandbank picnics to snorkelling and dolphin cruises, leave from the resort and are arranged at the activity desk.

The rooms: the overwater villas are the draw. Each has its own plunge pool and a private deck stepping down into the lagoon, with separate living, sleeping and bathing areas and a minimal, natural design. Larger residences suit families and groups. The villas are spaced apart for privacy, so the island feels quiet even when full. The rooms prioritise barefoot style over glossy marble, which some guests love and others find simple for the price, so look at photos and pick the category that suits how you want to live.

Who it suits and what to know: couples on honeymoon, small families that want space and travellers who value eco credentials will be happiest here. The resort is high-end, so expect top-of-market pricing, typically with half board or all-inclusive style packages available, and check which meal plan your rate includes. The dining list is strong for a small island, but variety is limited compared with larger resorts, so choose a plan with some flexibility. Book early for peak periods and ask about the best villa position for sunset or sunrise. The best months are the dry season from about December, but November can be good value with calmer seas arriving.