The Maldives is not only for couples. Groups of friends enjoy lively resorts, shared excursions and long evenings by the sea. This guide explains how to choose a resort for friends, the best villas for groups and things to do together. Travelling alone instead? See our solo travel guide.
Choosing a resort for friends
Groups of friends usually enjoy resorts with several restaurants and bars, water sports and some evening energy. Think about what your group wants: a beach-club feel, diving, wellness or simply quiet days together.
Sociable resorts
- W Maldives has a lively beach-club scene, vibrant dining and bars.
- LUX South Ari Atoll, Maldives offers playful luxury with vibrant dining and beach-club energy.
- Kandima Maldives is a long island with sport, art and entertainment, popular with friend groups.
- Nova Maldives has contemporary design and quieter evenings, for friends who prefer a calmer pace.
Villas for groups of friends
Friends often book several villas close together, or a larger villa with two or more bedrooms. Diamonds Thudufushi Beach & Water Villas has beach and water villas with options for friends, and Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives has a wide villa range across linked islands. Tell us how many of you are going, and we will find villas that fit.
Things to do together
Shared excursions are often the best part of the trip: a sandbank picnic, a snorkelling trip, a sunset cruise or a fishing evening. Our water sports and excursions guide has more ideas.
Planning tips for groups
- Agree on dates and budget early.
- Choose one person to share the group’s details with us.
- Ask for villas close together when you book.
- Book group dinners and excursions ahead.
Quick checklist
- Choose a sociable resort.
- Decide how many villas you need.
- Ask for villas close together.
- Plan one or two group excursions.
- Send us one enquiry for the whole group.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Maldives good for a trip with friends?
Yes. Lively resorts, water sports and shared excursions make it a fun trip for groups of friends.
Which resorts suit friend groups?
Among our hand-picked resorts, W Maldives, LUX South Ari Atoll and Kandima Maldives suit friends who want energy, while Nova Maldives is calmer.
Can we book villas next to each other?
Often, yes. Ask us when you enquire, and we will request villas close together.
Can friends share a villa?
Yes. Many resorts offer villas with two or more bedrooms, or twin beds on request.
How should we plan the trip as a group?
Send us one enquiry with the group’s dates and wishes, and we will suggest resorts for everyone.
