(CNN) — It’s the definitive escape for celebrities, honeymooners and families, all intent on kicking back in a picture-perfect paradise.
Happily, access has improved considerably since, with resorts on atolls today reaching across more than 500 miles of ocean, from the north to south of the country.
Here is a selection of properties set to open this year, as well as one resort that recently began welcoming guests and another that has gone through a massive refresh.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands
An archipelago made up of four idyllic islands, the Fari Islands sit in the northeast of the North Malé Atoll, a 45-minute speed boat ride or a 15-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport.
Unlike most of the other properties on this list, Patina recently opened so you can check-in right now if you’re in need of an urgent escape.
Ranging from one to three bedrooms, the beach and over-water pool villas offer sustainable, understated luxury — and killer views.
If you can pull yourself away from basking in the sun by your pool, then wellness journeys, culinary experiences, free diving or even music programs should relax you still further.
Rate: From $1,900 for a beach villa
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
An aerial view of the island where Alila Kothaifaru will be based.
Alila
One huge draw is their house reef, which is teeming with marine life, from elegant rays to multi-colored coral. It’s sure to make the resort a draw for snorkelers and divers alike.
Mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets will come as standard, while their dining options will include Japanese teppanyaki and yakitori, as well as secluded dining on a private sandbank for the ultimate in romance.
Rates have not yet been announced.
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort
The Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort will include six F&B outlets.
Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort
The first Maldives resort from Avani Hotels & Resorts is set to open its doors in mid-2022 in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Unique and remarkable biodiversity can be found in its coral reefs, sea grass beds and mangroves. Watch out for hawksbill turtles, rays and friendly reef sharks.
Guests will be able to choose from 176 villas and studios with no fewer than six spots to eat, drink and be wowed by those views.
Rate: From $650 per night for a one-bedroom ocean view studio with breakfast.
Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa
Emerald Faarufushi is due to open in May 2022.
Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa
A lush seven-hectare island amid a 100-hectare lagoon means that there’s plenty of space to relax, be it on land or water, when it opens in May.
Eighty villas in six categories all seek to blend into the natural surroundings, built with natural materials wherever possible.
One particular draw is what they call “playful experiences” through the adrenaline rush of extensive water sports and diving facilities, a gym and sports center. Once you’ve worked up a sweat, indulge in eats at restaurants including their Beach Club Grill.
Rate: From $800 per villa, per night.
Villa Haven
Villa Haven will feature 68 oceanfront villas and residences.
Villa Haven
Whether you’re a wellness worshipper, a deep-sea diver or a fun-loving family, their 68 oceanfront villas and residences will provide a luxurious base as you explore the resort’s many experiences.
Thanks to the island’s lush vegetation, their botanical gardens and palms produce coconuts, tropical fruits, vegetables and herbs that will all be served up in Villa Haven’s restaurants, while sustainable local materials are also being used in the construction of the resort.
Rate: From $2,000 per night
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
No seaplane required. The all-villa Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa is a quick boat ride from the airport.
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
Located on an island of the same name, it’s handily just a 15-minute speedboat ride from the airport. As a result, it shouldn’t take long for guests to deplane and soak in their private pool at one of the resort’s 109 beach and water villas.
Six restaurants and bars include Eden, an adults-only bar specializing in Champagne and cocktails with perfect sunset views, while Re-Fuel is a “teens-only zone.”
At the spa, maternity, bridal and couples’ massages are just some of the options to extend the bliss.
Rate: From $830 per night, including breakfast
Conrad Maldives Rangali
Conrad Maldives Rangali is giving 50 of its villas a refresh.
Conrad Maldives
To mark the resort’s anniversary, 50 over-water villas have been revitalized, as have three restaurants and bars. Brand new additions include an adults-only gym, Majaa Explorers Hub and the Furaavaru Teens Club.
Experience wise, don’t miss the chance to swim with whale sharks and manta rays, head out on a turtle safari or dazzle your Instagram followers with a sunset dolphin cruise.
Rate: From $1,860 per night