Lily Beach Resort & Spa   

On Huvahendhoo in South Ari Atoll — a waterfront Maldives escape about 25 minutes by seaplane from Malé. This all-inclusive, family-friendly resort sits amid crystal waters and reef formations, steps from local beaches and coral snorkeling.

Luxurious villas and 125 guestrooms blend into lush tropical vegetation with private furnished patios and ocean-facing views. Rooms come with iPod docks, LCD TVs, DVD players, minibars, bathrobes and slippers, and many feature jetted bathtubs and separate showers. The property’s décor leans modern-meets-local and the spa and wellness areas feel calm and crafted for pampering.

All-inclusive resort amenities include a private beach, outdoor pools and poolside bars, full-service spa with massage and sauna, fitness center, yoga area, diving club and outdoor tennis. Families get playrooms, kids’ activities and babysitting (surcharge). Extras: library, ping-pong, picnic and BBQ areas, tour desk and 24-hour room service — wake up to sea-breeze mornings and jump straight into reef snorkeling or an evening at the nightclub.

A 24-hour business center and complimentary wireless internet keep you connected. Concierge services, laundry/dry cleaning and a safe-deposit box are available, and roundtrip airport shuttle/seaplane transfers can be arranged for a surcharge.

Four restaurants (including Lily Ma), four bars/lounges, two poolside bars and a beach bar serve a mix of local Maldivian tradition and modern international flavors. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily from 6:00–10:30 AM. As an all-inclusive property, meals and most beverages are covered, though some specialty dinners and items may incur extra charges.