As Diwali, the Festival of Lights, draws near, the Marriott Bonvoy resorts in the Maldives invite families, couples, and friends to experience the magic of the festive season in pure tropical luxury. Imagine celebrating amidst 1,200 breathtaking coral islands surrounded by crystal-clear azure waters, where every moment feels like a dream.

Whether you’re relaxing on powder-soft white sands, diving into vibrant marine adventures, or enjoying spacious and elegant accommodations perfect for both family fun and romantic getaways, these six stunning resorts offer the perfect escape. This festive season, immerse yourself in a blend of indulgence, tradition, and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after the celebrations end.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari Islands: The Spirit of EAU

This festive season, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, invites guests to celebrate the elemental magic of water on the enchanting Fari Islands. From December 22 to January 9, 2025, the resort embraces an ‘EAU’ theme that transforms the landscape into a captivating oceanic spectacle. Guests will be greeted with signature Sangu cocktails and enjoy nightly performances and ethereal shows exploring themes of renewal and transformation. The culinary journey includes exclusive dining experiences at IWAU and Summer Pavilion, festive cocktail receptions, and a grand New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. 

In addition to these festivities, guests can savour daily breakfasts at La Locanda, receive USD 300 in resort credits, and embark on a thrilling shark snorkelling experience with the ‘Festive Escape’ package. Luxurious spa treatments, engaging activities, and a special visit from Santa Claus will further enhance the allure. Located in the North Malé Atoll, the resort features a 100-villa sanctuary, each with a dedicated Aris Meeha (private butler), accessible via a 50-minute yacht ride or a 10-minute seaplane flight from Malé International Airport. For a truly magical festive season at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, guests can book this package with a minimum seven-night stay and receive an additional 25,000 bonus points per stay from December 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025. 

For more information, visit the website at ritzcarlton.com/maldives.

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa: Symphony of the Sea

Families can embrace the spirit of Diwali at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, where culinary excellence meets luxurious accommodation. The resort features a Diwali-themed Thali set course menu curated by celebrity guest Chef Shipra Khanna, winner of MasterChef India, available until mid-November. As the holiday season unfolds from December 20, 2024 to January 6, 2025, guests are invited to join the ‘Symphony of the Sea’ celebration. This event begins with a traditional Maldivian night showcasing local cuisine and vibrant Boduberu performances, followed by an elegant New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner with a live band, dazzling fire dancers, and illuminating LED performances. 

Located on Vagaru Island in Shaviyani Atoll, this luxury multigenerational resort features 60 spacious beach and overwater villas with private pools and personal ‘Thakuru’ butler service. Guests can enjoy eclectic dining experiences across the resort’s five venues. Young guests can enjoy magical adventures at the FAMiLY by JW Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest kids clubs in the Maldives, featuring festive activities inspired by the underwater world and island life.

With the ‘Savor the Endless’ package, families can indulge in an all-inclusive experience with daily breakfasts, lunches, and dinners at select venues, unlimited beverages from the all-inclusive list, one beach dinner, a complimentary 30-minute photography session, a one-time floating breakfast served in their villa, and additional savings at signature restaurants and spa treatments. With complimentary non-motorized water sports and kids under 12 dining and staying for free, this package promises an unforgettable family holiday.

For more information, visit the website at jwmarriottmaldives.com.

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa: Festive Escape Retro 70s

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa welcomes guests to embrace the festive spirit at the Retro 70s-themed ‘La Fête’ year-end celebration on the picturesque Thilamaafushi Island in the Lhaviyani Atoll. From December 21, 2024, to January 7, 2025, this eco-conscious five-star resort offers an unforgettable experience filled with daily festivities, wellness activities, and recreational fun for all ages. The celebration commences with a dazzling Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 21, where guests gather to enjoy festive cocktails, live entertainment, and a Christmas Choir that sets the tone for a magical season. Guests can participate in masterclasses, from barista training to gin tasting, and ring in the New Year at a Retro 70s Beach Party complete with gourmet cuisine and a spectacular fireworks display, all while enjoying the European spirit of savouring the good life.

Guests can indulge in the ‘Full Board’ package, which includes a daily international breakfast buffet at Turquoise, with a three-course set lunch menu options at Turquoise, Velaa Bar + Grill, or Riviera Tapas & Bar. For dinner, guests can enjoy a themed buffet or a three-course set menu at Turquoise or dine at Velaa Bar + Grill or Riviera Tapas & Bar. Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages are available during meals, and the minibar is stocked with non-alcoholic drinks and snacks, replenished once daily. Additionally, guests can take advantage of complimentary kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling, and access to the Waves Fitness Centre, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling stay at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa. The 141-villa resort is easily accessible via a stunning 35-minute scenic seaplane flight from Malé.

For more information, visit the website at lemeridien-maldives.com.

The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort: Rhythms by the Sea, A Carnival of Festivities

From October 31 to November 1, 2024, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, a heart-shaped island paradise, will host a vibrant Diwali celebration filled with colours, flavours, and traditions. Couples and families are invited to celebrate the Festival of Lights amid the island’s breathtaking beauty with a special Indian buffet dinner at Island Kitchen. Guests can savour aromatic Biryani, Butter Chicken, Paneer Tikka, and traditional Indian sweets like Gulab Jamun and Jalebi. The resort will be adorned with intricate Rangoli designs, while Maldivian Boduberu drummers add a local touch to the celebrations.

The celebrations continue with ‘Rhythms by the Sea: A Carnival of Festivities’ from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025, bringing a lively fusion of Brazilian carnival energy to the Maldives. The festivities culminate with a spectacular New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner featuring international DJ Luca Schreiner and a breathtaking fireworks display. 

Nestled in Baa Atoll, the first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives, the wellness resort is framed by a breathtaking backdrop of marine splendour. The resort offers 69 luxurious villas designed around The Westin’s five pillars of well-being, featuring The Westin Heavenly® Bed for a restorative #SLEEPWELL experience. Guest can book the ‘Full Board’ package to enjoy daily breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, along with complimentary access to workout sessions at the 24/7 WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studios, snorkelling gear, and ocean kayaks for an adventure-filled holiday. The resort is accessible via a scenic 25-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport.

For more information, visit the website at westin-maldives.com. 

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa: Celebrate a Magical Festive Season

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa welcomes families and friends to a memorable Diwali and year-end celebration in paradise. Festivities begin on November 1, 2024, with a serene Surya Namaskara yoga session at sunrise, setting a tranquil tone for the day. As the day unfolds, guests can experience the artistry of Diwali through intricate henna designs, capturing the essence of the festival’s joy and tradition. As dusk falls, the resort transforms with the vibrant Rhythms of Diwali cultural dance performance at Anchorage Bar, culminating in a Special Diwali Dinner at Masala Hut, featuring authentic Indian dishes that blend bold flavours and rich culinary traditions. 

On December 7, 2024, a heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony and Christmas Carols will mark the beginning of the year-end festivities. Celebrations continue from December 20, 2024, to January 7, 2025, offering engaging activities for all ages, including Gingerbread House Decorating, a Recycled Christmas Tree Challenge, Santa Water Aerobics with a DJ, a Family Snowman Christmas Party, and much more.

Situated on a natural island in the North Malé Atoll, the five-star family resort features 176 elegantly appointed guest rooms. Guests can enhance their stay with an ‘All-Inclusive’ package, which includes daily buffet breakfasts and dinners at Feast Restaurant, a three-course à la carte lunch at selected venues, and complimentary use of snorkelling gear and non-motorized water sports equipment. Kids under 12 stay and dine free, with a complimentary 15-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport, making this resort an ideal choice for an affordable luxury escape.

For more information, visit the website at sheratonmaldives.com.

Marriott Bonvoy members can seamlessly earn and redeem their points on stays and experiences at the resorts. To know more about the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives and discover more click here. For more information, please visit www.marriott.com.

Feature Photo: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa