What it is

A pristine resort with 115 villas—some lofted over turquoise water, some on the sand—six restaurants, a waterfront adults-only spa, and a protected reef.

What it isn't

The traditional Maldivian resort of yore. You’ll feel instead like a rock star on your honeymoon (be sure to stop in at the adults-only Beru Bar, which is set over the water with a see-through dance floor).

What we think

Lazing around on the beach has its perks, but if you tire of that after a day or two, we’ve got good news: The Standard, Maldives has arranged all manner of exploits for guests, whether you want to snorkel alongside giant manta rays, ogle dolphins on a sunset cruise, or line-fish for snapper with a traditional hoop-reel before bringing them back to the chefs for your dinner. The villas here were designed to WOW, all caps: each and every single one has a private infinity plunge pool, access to a lagoon or beach, and spa-like bathroom complete with a soaking tub and—because vacations are meant to be fun—disco ball. We love that the Ocean Overwater Pool Villas are a whopping 1,200 square feet, and come with rain showers and bathrooms that are partially open to the sea breeze. Did we mention that you can add on a meal plan of your choice to indulge at the six bars and restaurants? Don’t miss having at least one dinner at Guduguda, where the Maldivian fare is topnotch and fiercely authentic; you want to order the marinated reef fish in banana leaves with brinjal (eggplant) and sweet potato.

You're here because

You’re traveling en famille, and they haven’t forgotten the kids. Lil’ Shark Kids Club is equipped with an inflatable water park (set up during high season), paddling pool, and babysitting services for little ones seven months old and up.

The Moment

After scrubbing yourself and steeping in mud in the spa’s DIY hammam, you indulge in the cypress aroma steam room before treating yourself to a blissful sound healing treatment. Heaven really IS a place on earth.

Restaurants & Bars

Kula - Kula is our all-day dining restaurant with a breezy and bright dining room.

Guduguda - Guduguda features authentic and celebratory Maldivian food.

BBQ Shak - For a casual beach dinner, swing by our BBQ Shak, where fresh seafood and meats are grilled to perfection over coconut shell charcoal, with a variety of house-made sauces paired with each dish.

Joos Café - Joos Café is the perfect place to relax, lounge or work with a coffee, smoothie or light lunch.

Todis Bar - Todis is the spot for a relaxing and playful afternoon, located just off the pool deck, when you need a break from the sun.

Beru Bar - Beru Bar is our adults-only (18+), over-water-club perched just feet above ocean with a see-through dance floor. Enjoy the breeze with cocktails and fresh tropical juices, and the best sunset-viewing seat in the house.

Location

A zippy 35-minute seaplane ride from the TMA Terminal at the Velanda International Airport.