The hype
Guests rave about the modern design, the incredible gym, and the manta ray excursions, but often wince at the food and beverage prices.
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort
$700-1200/ night
Book this if You want a wellness-focused luxury escape in the Baa Atoll where swimming with manta rays takes precedence over partying.
Why People Love It
- Proximity to Hanifaru Bay for world-class manta ray snorkeling (June-Nov)
- Westin's signature 'Heavenly Beds' and sleep-focused amenities
- Stunning 'turtle-shaped' beach villas that offer immense privacy and space
Quick Take: A polished, quiet wellness sanctuary that delivers on the 'rest' promise but charges a premium for every extra sip and bite.
Reviewed by @MichaelKenny5084878: I stayed in this overwater villa and it was pure magic. Waking up to the sound of the waves and watching fish through the glass floor was unforgettable. If you want total privacy for a honeymoon, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Overwater villas can be noisy due to crashing waves against the stilts during rougher weather — light sleepers should choose the beach side.
- You are a diver or snorkeler obsessed with manta rays and whale sharks
- You prioritize a top-tier gym and wellness programs on vacation
- You want a modern, architectural aesthetic rather than rustic thatch huts
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Twice daily service (morning clean + evening turndown). meticulous.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless. High-end Japanese toilets (Toto washlets) are a nice touch.
- Maintenance: The resort is relatively new (opened late 2018) and feels fresh, though sea salt takes a toll on outdoor decks.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-thread-count Westin linens. Towels are fluffy and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Signature Westin White Tea scent in lobby; rooms smell fresh and airy.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Waves crashing under overwater villas (can be loud in storms)
- Seaplanes taking off/landing during daylight hours (6am-6pm)
Before you book
Good to know
- The resort is in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — the marine life is the main event.
- Happy Hour at the Sunset Bar (usually 6-7pm) offers significantly cheaper drinks ($8 vs $25).
- You can take a domestic flight + speedboat if you arrive in Malé late, but the seaplane is much more scenic.
What to pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen (mandatory for the biosphere)
- Rash guard for long snorkeling sessions
- Your own goggles if you are picky (though rental is free)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Beach Villas (turtle-shaped) for families and silence — huge outdoor bathrooms and private pools
- Sunset Overwater Villas for couples who want that iconic 'jump into the ocean' experience
Rooms to avoid
- Overwater villas near the arrival jetty if you hate seaplane noise
- Garden villas if you came all this way for a view
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a Beach Villa on the sunset side for maximum privacy and quiet, away from the seaplane arrival jetty.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the seaplane transfer included in the room rate?
No, it is an extra charge of approximately $500-600 per person roundtrip, added to your bill.
Can I see manta rays year-round?
No, the famous Hanifaru Bay manta season is strictly June to November. Off-season sightings are rare.
Is there a house reef for snorkeling?
Yes, the house reef is accessible from the beach and overwater villas, with turtles and reef sharks often sighted.
Are kids allowed in overwater villas?
Generally discouraged for safety reasons; you may need to sign a waiver. Beach villas are much better for families.
How expensive is the food?
Expect to pay ~$50 for breakfast (if not included), $40-60 for lunch mains, and $100+ for dinner per person.
Is there free water?
Yes, the resort has its own bottling plant and provides complimentary glass bottles of still and sparkling water in rooms.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the in-room fresh orange press — they provide oranges daily for you to make your own juice.
- ✨
The 'Island Kitchen' buffet often has a hidden Asian noodle station that is better than the main dishes.
- ✨
Book the 'Turtle Snorkel' excursion if you aren't there during Manta season — it's a reliable backup.
5 things to know before you go
💡The arrival jetty is designed to look like a giant clam/wave — it's an architectural marvel.
💡The gym is two stories tall and arguably one of the best hotel gyms in the Maldives.
💡You might see dolphins right from your breakfast table at Island Kitchen.
💡The 'Wellness' branding means they are serious about sleep — lavender balms are often left at turndown.
💡The beach villas look like turtles when viewed from a drone or seaplane.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort is located and what's nearby.