OUTRIGGER Resorts and Hotels proudly announces that OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has been named a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award Winner for 2026.

Recognised among the top 1% of hotels worldwide, the resort was ranked No. 5 in Asia and No. 21 worldwide among Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts.

Nestled within the turquoise waters of South Ari Atoll, OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has become one of the Maldives’ most sought-after barefoot luxury destinations.

Guests are drawn to its intimate island setting, elevated all-inclusive offering, world-class dining, transformative wellness experiences and unrivalled access to the marine wonders of the Indian Ocean.

Surrounded by powder-soft beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, the resort delivers the quintessential Maldivian escape while offering something increasingly rare in luxury travel: a meaningful connection to place.

From swimming alongside whale sharks and exploring a vibrant house reef teeming with marine life to unwinding at Navasana Spa, every stay is designed to foster a deeper connection to both nature and self.

Located in one of the few places in the world where whale sharks can be encountered year-round, the resort offers guests extraordinary opportunities to swim alongside the ocean’s largest fish in their natural habitat.

The surrounding waters of South Ari Atoll are also home to manta rays, sea turtles, vibrant coral ecosystems and an abundance of tropical marine life, creating unforgettable experiences both above and below the surface.

In celebration of World Ocean Month, the award also shines a spotlight on the resort’s commitment to marine stewardship and conservation.

Led by an on-site marine biologist, Chloe Mclanachan, the resort’s dedicated marine team helps guests develop a deeper appreciation for the Maldives’ extraordinary underwater world through guided snorkelling experiences, educational programs and coral conservation initiatives.

These efforts reflect OUTRIGGER’s broader commitment to protecting the ocean environments that make its destinations so special.

The recognition comes as the resort continues to expand its wellness offering, introducing immersive experiences designed to help guests reconnect with themselves and the rhythms of island life. From restorative spa rituals and holistic wellness treatments at Navasana Spa to mindful moments inspired by the healing power of the ocean, wellness has become an integral part of the Maafushivaru experience.

“We are incredibly honoured to be recognised by Tripadvisor’s global community as one of the world’s leading all-inclusive resorts,” said OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort General Manager, John Allanson.

“Being ranked No. 5 in Asia and No. 21 worldwide is a tremendous achievement and a direct reflection of our team’s passion and dedication to creating exceptional guest experiences for everyone who visits our beautiful island.”

The recognition of OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is part of a broader achievement across the OUTRIGGER portfolio.

In addition to Maafushivaru’s Best of the Best distinction, Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards also recognized OUTRIGGER properties across Hawai’i, Fiji, Thailand and Mauritius, including resorts in Waikīkī, Maui, Kauai, Kona, Fiji’s Coral Coast, Phuket, Khao Lak, Koh Samui, Phi Phi Island and Mauritius. Together, these honours reinforce OUTRIGGER’s growing reputation for delivering exceptional beachfront experiences in some of the world’s most iconic island destinations.

From the overwater villas of the Maldives to legendary surf breaks in Waikīkī, the pristine beaches of Fiji, the tropical shores of Thailand and the turquoise lagoons of Mauritius, OUTRIGGER continues to create authentic, place-based experiences that connect guests to the people, culture and natural beauty of each destination.

GETTING TO MALÉ, MALDIVES

The best way of getting to Malé in comfort and style.

Malaysia Airlines’ brilliant Business Class cabin features one of the best seats in the air

Wayfarer recommends flying to Malé via Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines, one of the top carriers in Asia.

Malaysia Airlines offers twice daily flights to Malé from Kuala Lumpur and in business class, you can expect amazing hospitality, comfortable and spacious seats and top-quality inflight dining headlined by the airline’s legendary satay skewers.

It’s an exciting time for Malaysia Airlines at present, with the oneworld carrier continuing to launch flights across the globe.