Maldives alternatives to Alimatha Isl& Resort

Why people come here

Alimatha Island Resort has been a reliable choice in the Maldives for over two decades. What keeps people coming back is the consistent diving experience — the house reef is healthy and accessible, with regular sightings of reef sharks, rays, and turtles. The resort's location in South Ari Atoll means you're close to some of the Maldives' best dive sites, including the famous Kandu Giri. For families, the spacious beach villas and kid-friendly atmosphere make it an easy pick. The speedboat transfer is also a plus; at just 25 minutes from Male, you're on the beach faster than at most seaplane-accessed resorts.

Where Alimatha falls short

While Alimatha delivers on the basics, it lacks the standout features that make other Maldives resorts special. The villas are comfortable but not luxurious, and the resort's design feels dated compared to newer properties. There's no signature restaurant or bar, no overwater spa, and the beach, while nice, doesn't have that postcard-perfect white sand you find at some other resorts. If you're celebrating a special occasion or want Instagram-worthy moments, Alimatha might feel a bit ordinary.

For better design: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

If you love Alimatha's diving but want something more stylish, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is a fantastic alternative. This intimate, all-inclusive resort in Lhaviyani Atoll has just 15 overwater residences, each with its own infinity pool and contemporary Japanese-inspired design. The 'Anything, Anytime, Anywhere' concept means your every wish is catered to, from private sandbank dinners to sunset cruises. The house reef is excellent for snorkelling, and the resort's eco-friendly approach (it runs entirely on solar power) adds to its appeal.

For families: Niyama Private Islands

Families who like Alimatha's kid-friendly vibe but want more activities and better villas should consider Niyama Private Islands. This resort in Dhaalu Atoll has two islands connected by a bridge — 'Chill' for relaxation and 'Play' for activities. The Explorers Kids Club is one of the best in the Maldives, with programs for different age groups, and the resort offers everything from surfing to underwater dining at Subsix. The villas are modern and spacious, with some featuring slides into the lagoon.

For romance: Hurawalhi Island Resort

Couples looking for romance should consider Hurawalhi Island Resort, an adults-only property in Lhaviyani Atoll. The resort's standout feature is 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, the world's largest all-glass underwater restaurant. The overwater villas are contemporary and stylish, with private pools and stunning ocean views. Hurawalhi also has an excellent house reef and offers a range of water sports, making it a great choice for active couples.

For diving: COMO Maalifushi

Divers who love Alimatha's house reef but want to explore less crowded sites should consider COMO Maalifushi in Thaa Atoll. This resort is known for its excellent diving, with regular sightings of hammerhead sharks and manta rays. The resort has a PADI 5* dive centre and offers a range of courses for all levels. The villas are stylish and contemporary, with a focus on wellness and relaxation.

What I'd actually book: Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

If I were booking a trip for clients who like Alimatha but want something more special, Fede recommends Kudadoo Maldives Private Island. This all-inclusive, ultra-luxury resort offers a level of service and design that Alimatha can't match, with the added benefit of being in a great location for diving and snorkelling. The 'Anything, Anytime, Anywhere' concept means guests can truly relax and enjoy their holiday without worrying about extra costs. The overwater residences are stunning, with private pools and spacious decks, and the resort's eco-friendly approach is impressive.

The honest bit

While these alternatives to Alimatha Island Resort offer more luxury, design, and unique experiences, they also come with higher price tags. If budget is a concern, Alimatha remains a solid choice that delivers good diving and a comfortable stay. However, for those who can stretch their budget a bit further, the resorts mentioned above offer a more memorable Maldives experience. It's also worth noting that some of these resorts, like Kudadoo and Hurawalhi, are adults-only, so they may not be suitable for families. Always check the resort's policy before booking.