Lux South Ari Atoll, MaleLux South Ari Atoll in Male, Maldives has a corrected score of 4.3 ± 0.2 (fair evidence, 2 of 4 platforms), ranked 19 of 78 hotels we score in Male. Its platform ratings, normalised to 0-5, average 4.7 before correction: Booking.com 4.6, Tripadvisor 4.8.Lux South Ari Atoll is a five-star resort located on Dhidhoofinolhu island within the South Ari Atoll. The property features 193 villas and pavilions situated both over the water and along two miles of beachfront. It is suitable for families and divers, as the surrounding Marine Protected Area allows for year-round whale shark sightings and various water sports. Guests can access the island via a 25 to 30 minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport. On-site facilities include several restaurants, a spa, a fitness centre, and an outdoor pool. While the resort offers extensive amenities, the required seaplane transfer adds travel time to the journey.What stands out

Access to whale shark sightings

Overwater and beachfront villas

Multiple dining venues and bars

Located in a marine protected area

Watch out for

Requires a seaplane transfer

Better-scored in Male

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, Male: 4.4 ± 0.2 (fair evidence, 2 of 4 platforms). Gili Lankanfushi Maldives is a luxury resort located on a coral island in the North Malé Atoll.

Constance Halaveli Maldives, Male: 4.4 ± 0.2 (fair evidence, 2 of 4 platforms). Constance Halaveli is a private island resort situated in the North Ari Atoll.

Constance Moofushi Maldives, Male: 4.4 ± 0.2 (solid evidence, 3 of 4 platforms), from $1,065 a night. Constance Moofushi is a five-star resort situated on a private island at the western edge of South Ari Atoll.