Here’s a concise guide to standout beachfront (and sandbank) dining experiences in the Maldives, with examples, what to expect, typical cost ranges, and booking tips.

Top types of beachfront experiences (with example resorts)

• Private sandbank / “veli” dinner — A completely private table on a sandbank or a secluded patch of beach at sunset or after dark. Typical resorts: Komandoo (Veli Dinner), Hurawalhi / Dusit Thani / other luxury islands that create private sandbank set‑ups. These are highly romantic and custom‑decorated. (Komandoo.com)

• Candlelight / starlit beach dinner — A table set directly on the sand with candles/torches, personalized multi‑course menu and champagne. Offered widely (e.g., Park Hyatt Hadahaa, many luxury resorts). Good for proposals/anniversaries. (travelconnectionmaldives.com)

• Beach barbecue / grill — Live grilling of seafood and meats right on the beach (casual, social or private). Popular across mid‑to‑high‑end resorts. (Komandoo.com)

• “Beach shack” / barefoot sunset dining — Relaxed beach bars or shacks that serve cocktails and seafood at sunset (Soneva Jani’s Crab Shack is an example of a beach/shack concept noted for romance and sunset views). (theuniquegetaways.com)

• Event or group beachfront dining — Larger sculpted sand tables or themed beach events for groups (some resorts create sculpted seating for parties). Hurawalhi and others host such arranged events on private islands. (dreamingofmaldives.com)

Unique related alternatives (worth considering)

• Underwater restaurants — Not beachfront but quintessential Maldivian dining experiences (Ithaa at Conrad Rangali Island, 5.8 Undersea Restaurant at Hurawalhi). If you want memorable marine views with fine dining, these are iconic — reservations often required months ahead. (islandhopperguides.com)

What to expect (service, menus, ambience)

• Personalized menus (set tasting menus or à la carte), champagne or wine included in many packages, lanterns/candles/flower decorations, private server and sometimes live music or a photographer. Resorts tailor menus to dietary needs if requested in advance. (Komandoo.com)

Typical prices (ballpark)

• Private two‑person sandbank / beach dinners: often US$300–US$1,000+ per couple depending on resort, menu, and extras (music, photographer, luxury wine). Group sandbank events or elaborate set‑ups cost more per person. Underwater restaurants / tasting menus commonly range from roughly US$200–$500+ per person. These are guide ranges — exact pricing depends on resort and season. (islandhopperguides.com)

Booking & timing tips

• Reserve early: popular beachfront/sandbank slots (sunset/starlit) sell out quickly — book as soon as you confirm resort dates, or ask your butler on arrival. For very sought‑after venues (underwater restaurants) book months ahead. (islandhopperguides.com)
• Weather & backup plans: beach dinners depend on calm weather — resorts usually offer an indoor alternate if needed. Confirm cancellation/rescheduling policy when you book. (andamanbliss.com)
• Meal plans & extra costs: private dining is usually not included in standard meal plans; expect an extra charge. Check whether drinks are included. (Komandoo.com)
• Special requests: most resorts will arrange decor, photographers, musicians, cakes or champagne — give 24–72 hours’ notice for most extras, longer for elaborate requests. (Komandoo.com)

Practical notes (dress, accessibility, etiquette)

• Dress code: generally “smart casual” but barefoot on the sand is normal; underwater/clubby venues may require smart casual. Check the resort’s dress code for the specific venue. (islandhopperguides.com)
• Accessibility: some sandbanks and setups require a short boat transfer — check mobility/access needs with the resort in advance. (purelymaldives.co.uk)

If you want, I can:

• Recommend 4–6 specific resorts tailored to your budget (luxury vs mid‑range) and travel dates, with direct contact/booking pages and example dinner packages and current prices (I’ll need to look up the exact current rates and availability).
• Or build a short sample itinerary for a romantic 2–3 night dining‑focused stay (which dinners to book on which nights and why).

Which would you prefer?