This May, we bring you three standout resorts that continue to set the benchmark for refined island living in the Indian Ocean.
From an ultra-luxury sanctuary in the Maldives to a boutique hideaway with an underwater spa, and a design-forward retreat in Mauritius, each resort has been carefully selected based on what truly matters to discerning travelers. As always, our recommendations come with firsthand insight and tailored advice from our travel specialists.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli
Elevated Refinement in the Dhaalu Atoll
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli remains one of the Maldives’ most striking luxury resorts, located on a private island in the tranquil Dhaalu Atoll.
Its dramatic architecture, cutting-edge design, and signature St. Regis service continue to impress even the most seasoned travelers.
Guests are drawn to its overwater Iridium Spa, shaped like a lobster shell, and the spectacular Whale Bar, one of the most photographed structures in the Maldives.
For clients who value privacy and sophistication, the beachfront villas with pools and spacious decks provide a sense of effortless exclusivity.
From a travel advisor’s perspective, the service at Vommuli is where it truly shines. The butler team is proactive, detail-oriented, and consistently exceeds expectations.
Dining options cater to a variety of preferences, including the exclusive underground wine cellar Decanter, and Alba, which blends Mediterranean flavors with island ingredients.
For families, the two-bedroom villas offer generous space, thoughtful layout, and close proximity to the resort’s marine activities and recreation center.
This is the kind of resort that delivers a fully immersive, high-end Maldivian experience with flawless precision – ideal for those who are accustomed to the best and expect nothing less.
Huvafen Fushi
The Original Underwater Spa Haven
Tucked away in the North Malé Atoll, Huvafen Fushi is a sanctuary of calm and privacy. With only 44 villas and an adults-only concept, this boutique resort is perfect for couples or solo travelers looking to reconnect with nature and themselves.
The standout feature – and what makes this property truly unique – is its underwater spa, the first of its kind in the world.
We’ve had clients describe the experience as surreal, a moment of complete surrender while fish drift past floor-to-ceiling glass walls during their treatments. It’s a signature moment, and one we always recommend for wellness-focused travelers.
The villas offer a rustic-chic feel with high-quality finishes and natural materials.
Lagoon Bungalows and Ocean Pavilions are popular among repeat guests for their unobstructed views and sense of seclusion.
For snorkelers, the house reef is one of the most accessible and lively in the Maldives, with a reef drop-off just meters from the beach – a feature that often surprises first-time visitors with its proximity and marine diversity.
Dining is intentionally low-key yet exceptional in execution. One of the best-kept secrets of the island is RAW, the resort’s overwater raw food restaurant. It delivers health-conscious cuisine in a setting that feels personal, peaceful, and completely off-the-radar.
Clients who return to Huvafen do so because of its energy – it’s quietly confident, unpretentious, and deeply restorative.
LUX* Grand Gaube
Island Life with a Contemporary Soul
On the northern coast of Mauritius, LUX* Grand Gaube offers a bold and refreshing approach to island luxury. Designed by British icon Kelly Hoppen, the resort breaks away from the traditional colonial aesthetic and introduces a lighter, brighter, and more modern atmosphere.
This is a resort where thoughtful design meets a deep sense of place. From the open-plan lounges to the textured interiors and curated experiences, everything here has purpose and personality.
Guests can enjoy wellness-centered amenities, including a full-service spa and a dedicated Wellness Concierge, who creates personalized programs for relaxation, nutrition, and fitness.
Ocean-view rooms offer privacy without feeling remote, and the villas with private pools are perfect for multi-generational trips or special celebrations.
Dining is a major highlight. From the Latin American flair of INTI to the laid-back elegance of Bodrum Blue, the culinary experience is both vibrant and refined. The addition of a coffee roasting house and homemade ice cream stand adds a playful touch that families love – and gives the property an approachable, lived-in feel.
This resort is ideal for travelers who value a creative lifestyle, where wellness, design, and leisure come together effortlessly.
Planning Your Escape
Whether you’re searching for barefoot elegance, wellness-led luxury, or a creative retreat infused with local charm, our curated knowledge ensures you choose the destination that matches your travel rhythm. Every recommendation we make is based on firsthand experience, honest feedback, and your personal preferences.
Start your journey with SEANSES today – where every trip is handpicked, personalized, and unforgettable.
