Great — here are widely regarded top resorts in the Maldives (short summary + why they stand out and typical transfer). All sources checked online as of Oct 13, 2025.

1. Soneva Jani — Ultra-luxury overwater villas (some with slides and retractable skylights), strong sustainability focus and expansive lagoon villas. Transfer: seaplane. (theresortscollection.com)

2. Gili Lankanfushi — Iconic barefoot-luxury overwater resort with intimate service (“Mr./Ms. Friday”), eco-friendly ethos and large private water residences. Transfer: speedboat (close to Malé). (dreamingofmaldives.com)

3. Joali Maldives — High-design/art-focused island with immersive villas, strong gastronomy and wellness offerings. Transfer: seaplane. (dreamingofmaldives.com)

4. Velaa Private Island — Ultra-exclusive private-island resort (award-winning privacy, golf academy, extensive activities and coral restoration programs). Transfer: seaplane. (forbes.com)

5. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru — Luxury resort in Baa Atoll noted for marine conservation programs, submarine and extensive wellness offerings. Transfer: seaplane. (forbestravelguide.com)

6. One&Only Reethi Rah — Large, very luxurious island with spacious villas, wide activities and family/couple appeal; long-established brand. Transfer: speedboat from Malé (or private transfer options). (scramblyn.com)

7. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (or similar signature Conrad property) — Famous for unique dining (including underwater restaurant experiences), varied accommodation types and family-friendly options. Transfer: seaplane. (mvhotels.travel)

8. Hurawalhi Island Resort — Renowned for its 5.8 Undersea Restaurant (all-glass dining) and romantic overwater villas — popular with couples. Transfer: seaplane. (mvhotels.travel)

9. COMO Maalifushi — Clean modern design, strong wellness and surfing/diving program, good for couples and active travelers. Transfer: seaplane. (vogue.com)

10. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort — High-end design, signature St. Regis service, overwater villas and diverse dining; popular with luxury travelers. Transfer: seaplane. (cntraveler.com)

11. Amilla Fushi (Amilla Maldives) — Excellent family / multi‑gen options (multi‑bed villas), strong kids’ facilities and accessibility initiatives; good for families and groups. Transfer: seaplane. (corporate.visitmaldives.com)

12. Villa Park / Siyam World (value-luxury, family-focused options) — Larger resorts with extensive family facilities, water parks and all-inclusive packages — good value for families/groups. Transfer: seaplane or domestic flight + speedboat (depends on island). (corporate.visitmaldives.com)

Notes and tips

• Transfer types: most top Maldives resorts require a seaplane from Malé (Velana Intl) or a domestic flight + speedboat; transfer time/costs vary and often add substantially to package price. (Check your resort’s transfer policy when booking.) (forbestravelguide.com)
• Best fit: pick by priority — romance & privacy (Soneva Jani, Velaa, Joali), overwater bungalow/iconic style (Gili, Soneva), marine/wellness (Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, COMO), families/value (Amilla, Siyam World/Villa Park). (theresortscollection.com)
• Prices & availability change fast (especially for 2025‑2026 high seasons). If you want, I can compare a few resorts for your dates, budget, and preferences and check current rates/transfers and any resort promotions.

Would you like recommendations narrowed by budget, travel dates, or whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group?