The Maldives evoke images of ultra-luxurious overwater bungalows in exclusive resorts. And while this is certainly a dream, it’s not achievable for those on a budget.
Don’t let that discourage you from getting to this dreamy destination, known for its clear water and amazing coral reefs. Contrary to popular belief, it is absolutely possible to do this island country on a budget.
Start by booking one of these 10 great Maldives hotels that cost less than $300 per night.
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Meeru Maldives Resort Island
Ahmed Shuau / Meeru Island Resort
Price: $271*
If you want to live out your overwater bungalow dreams but can't drop thousands of dollars per night, book the Meeru Maldives Resort Island. If you're lucky, you may get discounted nights at just over $270. This will get you access to the private beach, the two freshwater pools and a setting so beautiful, you'll have a hard time believing your eyes.
Book it: Meeru Maldives Resort Island
*Prices are as of the time of writing and are subject to change.
Gangehi Island Resort
Gangehi Island Resort / Facebook
Price: $269
Gangehi Island Resort is another affordable hotel that offers guests the overwater bungalow experience. Though that will cost a bit more (about $485), the resort has gorgeous rooms in front of the beach as well as very economical options for those on a tight budget. You'll be on Gangehi Island and close to the ferry port, so you'll also get to save on transportation.
Book it: Gangehi Island Resort
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives
Getty Images
Price: $255
It really doesn't get better in terms of value than the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. You can get a beach villa for under $255. And if you come with the family, you'll love the resort's "Kids Stay & Eat Free" program.
Yes, seriously. If you have children under 12 who are staying in the same room as you, you won't have to pay extra for neither the room nor the food they consume. Plus, the hotel offers a kids club and six restaurants and bars. Looking for a truly unique vacation experience? You can get scuba certified as a group at the resort's in-house PADI school.
Book it: Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives
Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Sun Siyam Olhuveli / Facebook
Price: $210
At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, a deluxe room will cost only $210. But if you want to upgrade, the gorgeous grand overwater villas are $248. Besides direct access to the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean, you'll have buffet lunches and shuttles that make it easy for you to explore this country beyond the beach. In fact, guests are encouraged to learn about Maldivian culture by visiting the nearby Maldives Islamic Centre.
Book it: Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Fihalhohi Island Resort
Fihalhohi Island Resort
Price: $165
Though overwater villas here will cost you a pretty penny at Fihalhohi Island Resort (think, about $600), you can get a really nice beachfront room for just $165. If you stay here, you'll be next to the Ari Atoll, known for harboring magnificent animals like manta rays, whale sharks (which are actually the largest fish in the world), and hammerhead sharks (which are, yes, real sharks). If you love snorkeling, scuba diving or simply want an unmatched underwater safari, this location can't be beat.
Book it: Fihalhohi Island Resort
Samann Grand
Getty Images
Price: $142
If you don't care about being directly on the beach, Samann Grand is a great affordable hotel option. You'll be in Malé, the often-neglected capital of the Maldives. Don't worry, you'll still be near the beach and you'll have a free roundtrip airport transfer, which translates into bigger savings.
Book it: Samann Grand
Bandos Maldives
Getty Images
Price: $136
Standard beachfront rooms at Bandos Maldives start at just $136, which is an amazing bargain if you ask us. You'll get to wake up and walk straight onto the beach. The hotel also offers varied cuisine to suit all tastes and Bandos Island is near Malé, so you won't need to take an expensive seaplane to reach it.
Book it: Bandos Maldives
Pearl Sands of Maldives
Pearl Sands of Maldives / Facebook
Price: $125
Pearl Sands of Maldives is located on Huraa Island, about 20 minutes by boat from the capital. While it's not as developed for tourism as other islands in the country, this gives visitors a chance to enjoy its natural beauty without having to sell a kidney. Sure, you won't get Michelin-star meals at this hotel, but we'll gladly forego that if we can pay only $125 to be right on the beach.
Book it: Pearl Sands of Maldives
Kaani Palm Beach
Kaani Palm Beach / Facebook
Price: $78
Yes, your eyes are not deceiving you. You can actually stay in the Maldives for less than $100! Sure, the room you'll get at Kaani Palm Beach for a shocking $78 doesn't have a window, but you can easily upgrade to a seaview room and pay around $109. The hotel is in front of the beach either way, so if you're the kind of person who only goes to their room to sleep, this is a great option that'll allow you to spend your money on cool experiences.
Book it: Kaani Palm Beach
Crown Beach Hotel Maldives
Crown Beach Hotel Maldives / Facebook
Price: $48
Did you think it was possible to pay less than $50 for a decent room in this beautiful country? Crown Beach Hotel Maldives exceeds all expectations, providing guests with direct access to the beach and the impressive Meeru House Reef.
Of course, expect rooms to be austere and simple. But also free breakfast and free internet access. For a hotel that has 500 reviews and an 8.6 rating on KAYAK, the value is unbeatable.
Book it: Crown Beach Hotel Maldives