Budget-friendly Alternatives to the Maldives

Have you always dreamed of staying in a luxury villa?

If so, the Maldives is probably on your list. This island nation is world-famous for its overwater villas, which perch above the bath-warm Indian Ocean. And, dotted along the sugar-white sands, the beach villas are just as impressive – and often come with their own pool.

As you might expect, these high-class retreats often come with a hefty price tag. But what if we told you that there are some beautiful villas elsewhere, for a fraction of the cost? Whether you’re searching for a romantic overwater villa or a beach villa with a private pool, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at these budget-friendly alternatives to the Maldives, and start planning your villa holiday.

Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia

To maximise that desert-island feeling, many isles in the Maldives only have one hotel. That’s also the case on Pangkor Laut Island in Malaysia, where the five-star Pangkor Laut Resort is the only place to stay. This secluded spot does have regular taxis to the mainland – but, really, why would you ever want to leave?

The island serves up tropical forests and lovely beaches – including the picture-perfect Emerald Bay – while the resort itself boasts a luxurious spa village, two pools, and seven dining options. And, of course, there’s a selection of beautiful villas. The Sea Villa is our favourite. Exclusively for adults, these stunning villas rest on stilts above the ocean, and come complete with an overwater terrace and a fabulous sea-view bathtub.

Banyan Tree Samui, Thailand

If you’re searching for a dreamy villa with a pool, Banyan Tree Samui might just be the answer. On the east coast of Koh Samui, this all-villa resort curves around Lamai Bay. The luxe hideaways tumble down the hillside towards the beach so, whichever one you choose, you can look forward to panoramic views. Each one is super spacious, with a master bedroom, living room, sun terrace, and its very own infinity pool. So you can go for a dip whenever you feel like it.

Elsewhere, you can relax on the resort’s private beach, try your hand at watersports, or unwind with a treatment at the Banyan Tree Spa. Dine at the trio of restaurants, or stay in and order from the superb in-villa dining menu. There’s even a barbecue option, allowing you to grill your own dinner on your villa’s terrace.

Royalton Antigua, Antigua

Planning a romantic villa holiday for two? Check out Royalton Antigua. On the west coast of Antigua, this five-star resort has a collection of stunning Overwater Bungalows, exclusively for adults. With every luxury touch imaginable, this is about as close as you’ll get to ‘the Maldives experience’, without actually being there.

Perched above the turquoise waters, every bungalow has a beautiful bedroom, swanky bathroom, and a glass-floor living room, where you can watch tropical fish swimming below. But the real magic lies outside. You can relax on your sundeck, curl up in the overwater hammock, soak in the Jacuzzi, or cool off in your infinity plunge pool. To top it off, you’ll have complimentary fizz upon arrival, a personal butler throughout your stay, and a sunset mixologist, who’ll whip up your favourite cocktails on an evening of your choice.

The Residence Zanzibar, Tanzania

On Tanzania’s most picturesque island, The Residence Zanzibar has just 66 high-class villas. You could stay in a Garden Villa, surrounded by tropical greenery, or opt for an Oceanfront Villa with sweeping sea views. Whichever one you choose, you’ll have a four-poster bed, modern bathroom, sun terrace, and private pool. Travelling as a family? Upgrade to a Presidential Pool Villa, which has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

If you manage to tear yourself away from your villa, you can discover the resort’s beachfront infinity pool, fantastic spa, and exciting watersports. Enjoy top-notch dining in two restaurants, and sip cocktails in The Swing Bar. Or why not request a private dinner in your villa? You can get comfy on your terrace and enjoy a romantic meal for two beneath the starry sky.

The Shore at Katathani, Thailand

This adults-only retreat is ideal for a honeymoon or couples getaway. You’ll find it in the southwest corner of Phuket, Thailand’s biggest island, overlooking the idyllic Kata Noi Beach. You can make the most of three restaurants, an infinity pool, a lovely spa, and Thai cooking classes. And, because it’s west-facing, The Shore at Katathani has fantastic sunsets.

If that’s not enough to seal the deal, every villa here has its own infinity pool. You can wake up in your king-size bed, go for a morning dip, and then get ready for the day ahead in your stylish bathroom. But the Sea View Pool Villa Romance is our top pick. Peering over the turquoise waters, this romantic base boasts a large terrace, a bathtub for two, and a cosy loveseat where you can admire the tropical views. What more could you ask for?

READY TO FIND YOUR PERFECT VILLA?

Find out more about our villa holidays. Alternatively, for some more luxury options, take a look at the six best all-inclusive hotels in Mauritius.

Budget-friendly alternatives to the Maldives