Thinking of staying in an overwater villa? Then, Maldives is your go-to destination. However, the cost of staying in the overwater villas can be higher. But if you dig deeper, you can find the best cheap overwater villas in the Maldives.
However, every resort that is considered cheap can be pricey or reasonable based on individuals. We all know that the Maldives are mostly a pick for a luxurious experience, and some stays can give you luxury at lower costs.
This guide covers the 10 best cheap overwater villas in the Maldives, their specialities, pricing, how to reach them, must-try experiences, and everything you need to know to make an informed choice.
Villa Park Sun Island: Ultimate Ocean Journey Experience
The resort is located in the South Ari Atoll, and the Sun Island Resort & Spa is now named Villa Park Sun Island. The island is close to the South Ari Marine Protected Area, in short SAMPA. That makes you lucky to have the benefit of watching whale sharks that come around all year long to this island.
How to reach Villa Park Sun Island?
The resort representative will welcome you when you land. Then, you will take a domestic flight from Velena International Airport and reach in just 20 minutes to Maamigili Island next to Sun Island. From there, you will be taking a 5-minute speed boat ride to Villa Park Sun Island.
Stay Options at Villa Park Sun Island
Water Villa – The number of sleeps is two adults, and a child can be accommodated. It gives you direct ocean access and a private sundeck. The cost starts from approx 28,000 rupees per night.
Sunset Water Villa – Accommodates two adults and a child and offers a Sunset view, ocean access, and a Private Sundeck. The cost of the stay starts from approx 32,000 rupees per night.
Two-Bedroom Overwater Villa– For four adults and two children. It gives you ocean access, a private sundeck, a private whirlpool, and an open-air shower. The cost starts from approx 32,000 rupees per night.
Important Notes: Choosing an all-inclusive stay for all three stays is a better choice. With an extra 20,000 rupees per night for a water villa and an additional 30,000 rupees per night for the sunset and two-bedroom stay, the list of complimentary services can overwhelm you.
You get extra 2 more kids accommodations, free return transfers, unlimited best drinks to cheer on, snacks, and a few complimentary water activities spa treatments, and the best part is unlimited dining and at all restaurants and bars and access to all the indoor activities for your fitness and sports time.
What to Do in Villa Park Sun Island Maldives?
- Dining Options – The resort offers 10 different dining and bar options. Maaniya, Southern Star, Zero, AL Pontile, Teppanyaki, Coffee Shop, Mekunu Bar, Beach Bar, and Garden Bar. So try the 10 or as many as possible for an exciting, tasteful stay.
- Water Activities – Diving, windsurfing, jet blade, canoeing, jet surfing, kite surfing, sea bob, fun tube, skiing, kneeboarding, wakeboarding, parasailing, jet ski tours, sea master boat trips, stand-up paddling, sailing, semi-submarine.
- Experiences – Private dining, Spa, Park Players Kids Club, Land sports, and the excursions can include a Village Trip to Fenfushi, Dhigurrah, Big-game fishing, Big-game adventure, Whale Shark trip, reef exploring, sunrise & sunset fishing, and Dolphin safaris.
- The Signature Experiences – These can be some of the best couple and family-loved activities, which are the Whale Shark trip, La Tropicana for a Brazilian açai, popsicles and fresh coconut bar set, Pot Tub, Coconut Craft Hut and Green Fingers for you to plant a tree and The Zero for a tree-top dining experience.
Gangehi Island Resort & Spa Maldives: A Maldivian-Style Stay
The resort is located on the outskirts of North Ari Atoll. It gives a treat to your eyes with lush green vegetation. One side of the island opens to its broad lagoon, the other to the coral reef close to the shore.
When it comes to marine life at Gangehi, you will enjoy the sight of dolphins and manta rays. It’s a small and secluded island. If you need calm and privacy, then it is your best choice.
How to reach Gangehi Island Resorts & Spa Maldives
From Male International Airport, you can take a seaplane and reach the resort in 30 minutes. The resorts will make this arrangement upon arrival, and you will pay extra charges for the transfer of approx 38,000 rupees for a round trip.
Stay Options at Gangehi Island Resort & Spa Maldives
Overwater Villa – The number of sleeps is three guests, and the presence of kids must be informed prior. The stay gives you a sea view, an independent entrance desk, and a minibar to chill. The cost starts from approx 53,000 rupees per night.
Overwater Villa Deluxe – The number of sleeps is four guests. This offers a flat-screen TV, an independent entrance desk, a sea view, and a minibar. The cost starts from approx 65,000 rupees per night.
What to do in Gangehi Island Resorts
- Dining Options – It offers you two of the best restaurants and bar options. Veli Restaurant, Thari Restaurant, and Kandu Bar.
- Water Activities – Snorkelling, Diving, and Canoes. The resorts do offer a few more non-motorized water activities, and you can ask Dimaak Tours for any guidance.
- Experiences – Ginger Spa gives you spa entrances, massages, body treatments, facial treatments, and beauty treatments. There is also a Boutique where you can shop for clothes or souvenirs to take back home.
Dimaak Recommendation: Cocktails at Thari restaurant
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon: Carries Sustainable Responsibility
Located in North Ari Atoll, which is 42 km from the Male. Ellaidhoo is so much more than just a cheap overwater villa that you choose from the Maldives.
It grows more with coral reef restoration, reef club adoption programme, plastic reduction, energy saving practices and much more to give to the ocean and to the people with employee wellbeing programs.
How to Reach Ellaidhoo Maldives By Cinnamon?
You can reach the Island by either seaplane or speed boat. It takes 25 minutes for a seaplane and 1 hour 30 minutes for a speed boat ride. A round trip by seaplane can cost you approx 35,500 rupees for an adult and approx 21,500 rupees for kids.
Note: You can get the return seaplane transfer for free on special discounts offered by the stay. Make sure to book ahead of time with a travel partner who gets all your plans sorted out with no inconveniences.
Stay Options at Ellaidhoo Maldives By Cinnamon
Water Bungalows – It accommodates three guests and comes with a private deck, jacuzzi, and minibar. The cost starts from approx 42,000 rupees per night.
Sunset Water Bungalow With Jacuzzi – For a three-people stay. As the name says, it has a private Jacuzzi and ocean view. The cost starts from approx 52,000 rupees per person.
Overwater Suite – The number of sleeps is three. It comes with an underwater jungle theme decor and a minibar. The cost starts from 68,000 rupees per night.
Water Suite With Pool – Accommodates four people. It comes with a private azure plunge pool overlooking the ocean and Minibar. It costs you approx 1 lakh per night.
What to do in Ellaidho Maldives
- Dining Options – Irouhsenee Bar, The Junction, Madi Restaurant, and Seanic Cafe & Bar.
- Water Activities – Diving, Dolphin watching, Sunset & Sunrise Fishing, Night Fishing, Big Game Fishing, Kayaking, Canoeing and Snorkelling.
- Experiences – Spa, Dhoni Ride, Dinner at Lover’s desk, Sand Bank picnic for couples and groups, tour to Hangnaameedhoo, Play area for kids, weddings and event celebrations.
Embudu Village: Comfort at Simplicity
Located in the South Male Atoll is an escape from reality. The charm, peace, and hospitality the facility offers will be memorable and will make you come back again.
You can live a simple life, an adventure life and also know Maldivian life at Embudu as you can dive in the waters, live a laid-back Maldivian experience, and connect more with nature.
How to Reach Embudu Village
The team arranges your transfer. You can reach Embudu by speed boat in just 20 minutes from Male International Airport. Depending on the offers you may or may not have to pay for the transfer charges.
Stay Options at Embudu Village
Water Villa – This villa accommodates two to three adults and a single child. It offers the best views of the lagoon and sunset. It will cost you approx 52,000 rupees per night.
What to do in Embudu Village
- Dining Options: Main Restaurant and Bar & Coffeeshop.
- Experiences: Spa, have your wedding celebrations, private dining and excursions.
- Water Activities: Snorkelling, Diving, Canoeing, Stand-up paddling, and Kayaking.
Meeru Maldives Resort: Maldivian Originalities at Every Corner
Being located at the Meerufenfushi island, North Male Atoll, Meeru Maldives has been serving its guests for more than 40 years with great hospitality.
There are 282 stays with 8 varieties of categories for you to choose from in untouched nature with palm trees and vegetation for you to live in.
How to Reach Meeru Maldives Resort
The facility will arrange a speed boat transfer when you land. And from the Male International Airport, you can reach the resort in 55 minutes.
Stay Options at Meeru Maldives Resort
Jacuzzi Water Villa – This villa accommodates three people and has a Jacuzzi, Minibar, and private porch. The cost starts from approx 68,000 rupees per night.
What to Do in Meeru Maldives Resort
- Dining Options – Asian Wok, Vilu, A-Mare, The Reef, Meeru Cafe, Farivalhu, and Maalan
- Water Activities – Diving, Catamaran, Kayaking, Paddle Board, Jet Ski, Wind Surfing, Fun Tube, and Wakeboarding
- Experiences – Excursions, DJ Parties, Heritage shows, Entertainments, Wedding ceremonies, Land Sports, Game Rooms, and Meeru Museum.
Thulhagiri Island Resort and Spa Maldives: Lover’s Paradise
The resort is located at the North Male Atoll, just 13 km from Male Airport. And by having 50 beach rooms, 17 water bungalows and 20 superior water bungalows it’s known for the privacy it provides. So, with less accommodation, you could have a private small island, making it one of the best cheap overwater villas in Maldives for couples.
How to reach Thulhagiri Resort
From Male International Airport to the resort you can take the speed boat. It takes up to 20 minutes to transfer, and the resort will arrange for you upon arrival. You must inform the resort three days prior about your arrival time.
Stay Options at Thulhagiri Resort
Superior Water Bungalow – It accommodates up to three guests. The stay comes with a minibar and sunbed with cushions for you to relax in luxury.
Water Bungalow – It accommodates up to three people. You get direct access to the lagoon and house reef and seating on a wooden deck.
For both stays, the cost starts at 25,000 per night per person.
Note: For a minimum of 3 nights, price starts from 75,000 rupees per person.
What do in Thulhagiri Resort
- Dining Options – Main Restaurant, Sand Bar, and Beach Bar.
- Water Activities – Diving, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, stand-up paddling, catamaran sailing,
- Experiences – Beach sports like soccer and volleyball to keep you hyped, Indoor games, and Shop at Souvenir stores. Also, it offers weekly entertainment with live bands, Crab Race, Disco, and more on local entertainment.
Reethi Beach Resorts: Lined-up Activities Await
The resort is located at Baa Atoll and will give you the best jungle vibe. If you stay at Reethi, it won’t be just a relaxing halt, but you can stay hyped all the time because it is home to dive centres, water sports centres, and a sports complex to occupy you fully.
How to reach Reethi Beach Resorts
From Male International Airport, you can take a 20-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo. From there, you can take a speed boat and reach the resort in 15 minutes. Or a seaplane transfer from Dharavandhoo for a 40-minute ride.
Stay Options at Reethi Beach Resorts
Water Villa – It accommodates up to four people and a kid. You get the best ocean view, direct access to the lagoon, and a private terrace. The cost of stay per night can start from 40,000 rupees per night, excluding taxes.
What do in Reethi Beach Resorts
- Dining Options – Enjoy the different styles of dining at The Rehendhi, Moodhu Bar & Restaurant, Reethi Grill, Saima Garden, Alifaan Restaurant, Main Bar Rasgefaanu, Sunset Bar, Handhuvaru Bar, Veyo Bar, and Moodhu Bar.
- Water Activities – Windsurfing, Catamaran, Jet Ski, Fun tube, Fly board, Wakeboard, Parasailing, and Canoe. You can look into their price list for more activities and charges.
- Experiences: Relax at Coconut Spa, book photoshoots and wedding ceremonies, and visit sports centres for an energetic day.
Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat: Intimate Escape
From 90 km away from Male Airport, located at South Ari Atoll, Drift Thelu gives you the unmatched island experience. With white sandy beaches, a turquoise lagoon and vegetation, it is the perfect place to escape from reality.
How to Reach Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat
Take a 35-minute seaplane transfer from Male International Airport to Drift Thelu. You can book the ride two days prior to your arrival and make sure to give your flight details at the resort for smooth transfer arrangements.
Stay Options at Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat
Water Villa – It accommodates up to two people. The stay is 54 sq m with a beautiful ocean view, a lounge area for you to sit and chat, and a private deck with direct access to the ocean. The cost starts from 68,000 rupees approx per night.
What To Do in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat
- Dining Options – The Main Restaurant and The Bar.
- Water Activities – Diving, Snorkelling, Kayaking, and Stand – Up Paddling, and Fishing.
- Experiences – Sunrise & Sunset Cruises, Island Hopping adventure, Romantic Dinner at the beach, and create destination weddings.
OBLU Xperience Ailafushi: Pledge to Sustainability
The resort doesn’t just think about tourism but contributes more to the Ocean. Though being considered cheap overwater villas in the Maldives, they give out a lot to the ocean and to the local communities.
Oblu Xperience Ailafushi is certified with Green Globe. They take the initiative to protect the ecosystem, help the local communities, and promote more green initiatives.
How to Reach OBLU
When you arrive at the airport, a representative will be holding a sign to greet you. You will be guided with where you can get your transfers. Then, you can reach the resort with a 15-minute speed boat transfer from Male International Airport.
Stay Options at OBLU
Water Villa – It accommodates two adults plus a child or three adults. Some special access comes with a mini-bar, a semi-open bath, and a veranda with a day bed to relax. The cost per night stay can start from approximately 78,000 rupees, including taxes.
What to do in OBLU
- Dining Options – Only Blu, Element X, The Wine, Coffee & Pastry Shop, X360, and Copper Pot Food Truck.
- Water Activities – Snorkeling, Diving, kayaking and stand-up paddle. They do offer more motorised water sports. To know the list of sports and prices offered, you can contact Dimaak Tours, which is also ready to make you a hassle-free trip plan to Maldives.
- Experiences – Renewal of Vows, Spa, The kids club, Cruises & Excursion, The Wine and Liquor shop, and The Essence shop for souvenirs.
Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives: A Paradise Experience
Located at the North Male Atoll, the resort gives you unspoiled beaches for your sight. Award-winning Hirsch Bedner Associates designed Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives with a great Maldivian-based architecture that will amaze you.
Despite all this, it is considered one of the cheapest overwater villas in the Maldives, yet it gives you the ultimate hospitality.
How to Reach Grand Park
With a 20-minute speedboat transfer from Male International Airport, you can reach the stay.
Stay Options at Grand Park
Lagoon Water Villa – It occupies a maximum of four people with access to the lagoon. It comes with a lovely welcome gift, a Mini Bar, an outdoor space to chill, and a Balcony or a Terrace on the stay you choose. The cost per night starts from approx 58,000 rupees, including tax.
Ocean Water Villa – It occupies four people. The stay is unique with its high ceiling and gives you a sitting area with a sofa and chair to relax. The cost per night starts from approx 68,000 rupees, including tax.
Pool Water Villa – It accommodates a maximum of four people. You have a private pool, beautifully designed marble bath and direct access to the ocean. The cost per night starts from approx 85,000 rupees, including tax.
Reef Pool Water Villa – It accommodates up to four people. This reef villa gives you more privacy than water pool villas, as each villa will cover from other villas to the pool area. A one-night stay can cost you approximately 96,000 rupees, including tax.
Grand Residence – Maximum of eight people is the occupancy. And, as the name describes, it is a grand luxurious stay. Comes with two bedrooms, a huge living room and a private pool. It can cost you approx 2.3 lakhs per night, including taxes.
What to Do in Grand Park
- Dining Options – The Edge, Firedoor, and Breeze Pool Dining & Bar.
- Water Activities – Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, Canoe, Water Bikes, Paddling, Catamaran sailing, Windsurfing, Jet skiing, fun tube, jet board, flyboarding, wakeboarding,
- Experiences – Excursions & Cruise, Private Dining, Daily Recreational Programme at Beach Club.
Conclusion
Every article, blog, vlog, Instagram post and reel have definitely shown you how Maldives look. And just by looking at them, we know it’s not a budget trip. Overwater stays can be out of your hands. However, there are cheap overwater villas in the Maldives that are here to make your dream come true.
This blog covers the list of budget overwater villas in Maldives. You will get the details on what the overwater villa offers, cost, dining options and experiences to try.
And if you would like to stay at any of these resorts, enquire about any specific services, booking details or to plan your Maldives trip you can contact Dimaak Tours for a smoother process. With customisable trip plans and engaging itinerary planning for the Maldives, the team will make sure to plan throughout, which gives you no planning stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are drones allowed at the resorts?
The guests are allowed to use drones but cautiously. It should not disturb or invade the privacy of other guests at the resort. So, based on the resort you stay at, you could ask the facility and operate the drone only in the permitted area.
Which is the Cheapest overwater villas in the Maldives for couples?
Thulhagiri Island Resort and Spa Maldives, being called The Lover’s Paradise, is best for the cheap overwater villas in Maldives for couples.
Is snorkelling allowed around the water villas?
You could snorkel around the overwater villas, most of which will have direct access to the ocean. However, it is advisable to ask the host and look out for the tides before going for a swim.
Are Maldives Overwater Villa safe for kids?
Not all overwater stays in the Maldives are for kids. Though some overwater villas can accommodate a child, and even a few come with a crib, it is not entirely safe. The adults must watch them to avoid any risky moments, as the villas have direct access to the ocean or you can mindfully educate the child on safety measures.
What is included in an all-inclusive stay in Maldives overwater villas?
An all-inclusive package typically includes:
- Unlimited dining & drinks at resort restaurants and bars.
- Complimentary water activities (snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding).
- Free transfers (depending on the resort).
- Spa treatments & special experiences (vary by resort).
Check with your resort for specific inclusions.
How can I reach my overwater villa from Male International Airport?
You can reach your resort via:
- Seaplane – Faster but more expensive (₹30,000-₹40,000 round trip).
- Speedboat – More affordable but longer travel time (₹5,000-₹15,000 round trip).
- Domestic Flight + Speedboat – Used for remote resorts. The cost varies by resort.
Can I customise my Maldives trip based on my budget?
Yes! Dimaak Tours offers customised Maldives trip plans to suit your budget and preferences, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
