Experience luxury resorts in the Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Zanzibar.
Call off the search, paradise has been found with these Indian Ocean escapes. Destinations don’t get dreamier than the Indian Ocean. Whether you want island hopping in the Maldives, scuba diving in the Seychelles, tropical rainforests in Sri Lanka or animal adventures in Zanzibar, each destination offers its own perspective of the Indian Ocean.
While honeymooners continue to fall in love with the Indian Ocean, there’s nothing stopping singles, couples and families from admiring the world’s most beautiful beaches. The new Indian Ocean escapes are family-friendly, eco-conscious and, of course, Insta-worthy.
So, whether you’re excited by private butlers or private islands, plunge pools or infinity pools, there’s a resort to meet your wanderlust wish list. Plus, the excursions are just as breathtaking, from underwater photography to helicopter tours.
It’s time to dive right in – here are the best new Indian Ocean escapes for Eid al-Fitr 2025.
Maldives
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is great for honeymooners – it’s in a largely untouched part of the Maldives, which makes for a more secluded stay. Located a 45-minute seaplane journey from Malé, on the northern edge of Raa Atoll. The property boasts 44 beachfront villas and 36 overwater villas, all of which have pools and a sun deck. While the treetop spa adds to the castaway vibes. Snorkellers and divers will be drawn to the location, as it has marine life ranging from colourful coral to manta rays. Plus, excursions to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, are available. The restaurants range from Mediterranean cuisine at Seasalt to Japanese-inspired flavours at Umami.
GO: Visit www.hyatt.com for more information.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is a palm-fringed, garden-island escape in the North Malé Atoll, reached by speedboat from Malé. Thatched-roof beach bungalows and overwater villas frame a turquoise lagoon, while days unfold between dolphin cruises, reef adventures and family-friendly activities. Surfers come for the resort’s Tropicsurf coaching and quick access to big breaks, and wellness seekers retreat to The Island Spa, set on its own tiny isle. Come sunset, linger over Indian flavours at Baraabaru or relaxed oceanfront dining before stargazing on the sand. The mood is barefoot-luxe, with attentive service and an easy, sunlit rhythm throughout.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information.
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort and Spa is a top-notch, family-friendly resort. Situated in North Malé Atoll, it’s a 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. What sets this apart is that it’s an all-villa resort, and all 109 rooms have their own pool. The resort describes itself as a family-friendly getaway, with villas that can sleep up to six people. Plus, it boasts a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and a rooftop lounge for teenagers.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for more information.
Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island
As the Maldives is a popular destination for Middle Eastern travellers, it is no surprise that the UAE’s Jumeirah Group opened a resort in the island nation. The North Malé Atoll resort is reachable by speedboat or seaplane from Malé Airport. The all-villa luxury resort has 67 beach and over-water villas, all with gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean. Even Talise Spa has six over-water treatment rooms, so you’ll feel like you’re floating in a bubble of bliss. The more unusual excursions include underwater photography, planting trees, making coconut oil and a submarine tour.
GO: Visit www.jumeirah.com for more information.
SO/ Maldives
Fashion-forward brand SO/ has brought luxe island living to the Maldives archipelago. The newly opened resort boasts 80 villas with private pools and beachfront or over-water locations. The design is modern, with a focus on open living spaces and panoramic ocean views. Guests have a variety of dining options, including The Citronelle Club for casual all-day dining with Asian influences and Lazuli Beach Club for a Mediterranean-inspired menu in a beautiful setting with ocean views. There’s even a swimming pool tiled in rainbow colours and a “kids pod” for sleeping under the stars.
GO: Visit https://so-hotels.com for more information.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is a design-led sanctuary in the North Malé Atoll, reached by a 45-minute luxury speedboat or a short seaplane hop from Velana International Airport. Circular lines define the resort, from the striking ring-shaped spa to the overwater villas that arc across the lagoon, a signature of architect Kerry Hill. Expect 100 ocean-facing villas with private pools, plus an Aris Meeha butler to curate everything from snorkelling to sunset cruises. Dining spans a dedicated Culinary Island, with highlights such as Summer Pavilion and IWAU, and offers easy access to Fari Marina Village.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for more information.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort isn’t technically new, but it has undergone a major refurbishment. The hotel re-opened its doors at the end of 2021 and looks as good as new. Take your pick from 33 on-land and 44 overwater villas, each of which comes with a private pool. One of the newly launched concepts is the Signature Floating Dining Ritual, which lets you enjoy your meal while floating in the pool. If you’re travelling with your family, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are villas with two and three bedrooms. Plus, a children’s club offers meditation, painting and video games, and a spa has services for kids. Best of all, there’s the legendary St Regis Butler service, which offers a personalised stay.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for more information.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a castaway-luxe retreat in the South Malé Atoll, reached by a 40-minute yacht journey from Velana International Airport. Across three private islands, all-villa accommodation pairs sleek design with private pools, overwater decks and broad lagoon views, plus ultra-private Stella Maris Ocean Villas reached only by boat. Days revolve around snorkelling, water sports, spa rituals and sunset cocktails. Destinations dining anchors this resort, with Zuma bringing its contemporary Japanese izakaya energy to the Maldives, serving robata grills, sushi and signature creations above endless blues.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for more information.
Mauritius
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita
Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita is a villa-only hideaway on the island’s east coast in Beau Champ, wrapped by mangroves and the Ile aux Cerfs lagoon. Each thatched-roof villa comes with a private pool, outdoor shower and generous indoor-outdoor living. Days can be as active or slow as you like: snorkel with the Marine Discovery team, cycle the palm-lined paths, or tee off on two championship courses, including the oceanfront Ernie Els design and the Bernhard Langer course on Île aux Cerfs, reached by boat. Evenings bring laid-back luxury, from lagoon views to tropical-tinged dining, under warm Mauritian hospitality.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information.
One&Only Le Saint Géran
One&Only Le Saint Géran has an impressive reputation in Mauritius. In 1975, the hotel opened. In 2017, it underwent a $55 million refurbishment, and in 2024, essential enhancements were made. One&Only Le Saint Géran is the stuff that island dreams are made of. It’s grand without being pretentious and friendly without being in your face. Drawing inspiration from old sugar cane factories, it feels like it has always been a part of the island. One&Only Le Saint Géran features 142 rooms and suites. The rooms range from a Lagoon Room to a Beach Front Balcony Room to a Beach Front Balcony Suite. Plus, if you’re seeking a splurge, there is a standalone two-bedroom villa.
GO: Visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com for more information.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok
If you are thinking chic beach resort with a little taste of the island lifestyle, then Shanghai-La Le Touessrok is the place for you in Mauritius. You can choose from a range of luxury rooms, suites or beach villas, but the hotel also has a selection of esteemed restaurants and bars, meaning you don’t have to look far for top dining experiences. Making things even better is the resort’s prime location on Trou d’Eau Douce Bay. Bonus tip: be sure to take the short boat ride to Ile aux Cerfs Leisure Island and spend the day.
GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for more information.
The Oberoi Mauritius
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius sits on the white sands of Turtle Bay, set within 20 acres of subtropical gardens. Thatched-roof pavilions and villas feel quietly traditional, with many offering private pools and raised alfresco dining pavilions facing the sea. Days drift between snorkelling and sailing in the bay, yoga on the lawn and restorative treatments at the resort’s spa. Come evening, The Restaurant glows beside a candlelit reflection pool, serving Creole, international and Indian flavours, while sunsets paint the lagoon copper.
GO: Visit www.oberoihotels.com for more information.
Seychelles
Cheval Blanc Seychelles
Cheval Blanc Seychelles is LVMH’s sixth Cheval Blanc Maison, curled around Anse Intendance on Mahé. Designed by architect Jean-Michel Gathy as an ode to Creole traditions and nature, the resort balances drama and discretion across 52 villas on the beach or tucked into the hillside, each with a private pool. Days pivot from snorkelling and island-hopping to slow, barefoot lounging. Wellness is anchored by the Cheval Blanc Spa by Guerlain, hidden in lush jungle for element-inspired treatments and a full reset. Finish with sunset cocktails and refined dining, delivered with quietly attentive, bespoke service.
GO: Visit www.chevalblanc.com for more information.
Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts
You know you’re in for a luxurious experience, as Mango House Seychelles is part of Hilton’s LXR Hotel & Resort. The location was once the residence of the Italian photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri and has now been turned into a 41-room boutique resort. The accommodation ranges from rooms, suites and villas to beachfront residences with pools. All the rooms have classic four-poster beds and balconies with views. Excursions are given an upgrade: enjoy a private glass-bottom boat tour, hike the rocky coastline path at Anse Major Beach, take a scenic helicopter tour, and go with a park ranger to explore native wildlife.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for more information.
North Island
North Island Seychelles is the definition of barefoot luxury: a private isle about 1.3 miles long, roughly 18 miles from Mahé, where conservation comes as standard. You’ll stay in one of just 11 handcrafted villas, built from organic materials harvested during the island’s rehabilitation, each opening onto powder-white beaches and electric-blue water. Between snorkelling, kayaking and guided nature walks, the resort’s Noah’s Ark programme focuses on restoring endemic flora and fauna, and supporting nesting sea turtles and resident tortoises. Dinner is tailored nightly, and sunsets feel cinematic. Expect discreet, deeply personalised service and a castaway rhythm that feels worlds away.
GO: Visit https://north-island.com for more information.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Six Senses Zil Pasyon is a private-island escape on Félicité, where coral-fringed beaches meet sculptural granite boulders and jungle greenery. Arrive in style via a scenic 20-minute helicopter flight from Mahé, touching down at the resort’s own jetty helipad. Accommodation is villa-only, with private infinity pools, including 28 one-bedroom pool villas and two two-bedroom pool villas, plus larger residences tucked into the landscape. Spend days snorkelling with turtles, hiking, or simply drifting between beach and spa. Dining spans spice-route flavours at Island Café and seafood-led plates at Ocean, using local catch and garden produce.
GO: Visit www.sixsenses.com for more information.
Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island
This recently opened resort is the sole resident of Platte Island, a secluded paradise in the Seychelles. Lush tropical gardens surround each of the 50 luxurious beachfront villas with personal concierge service. Choose from one to three bedrooms, or for the ultimate getaway, the expansive five-bedroom villa with private gardens. Explore the island’s diverse ecosystems through expertly guided fly fishing adventures or dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the vibrant marine life on a snorkelling or scuba diving excursion. After a day of exploration, unwind at the Waldorf Astoria spa or savour exquisite cuisine at one of the six restaurants and bars.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for more information.
Sri Lanka
Amanwella
Amanwella is a sleek, low-slung sanctuary on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, tucked into a coconut grove above Tangalle’s golden crescent bay. Inspired by modernist lines and open-air living, each spacious suite opens to a private plunge pool and a terrace framed by jungle and sea. Days slip by between beach walks, paddling in the surf, and slow lunches of grilled seafood and bright Sri Lankan curries. The spa focuses on restorative bodywork, while excursions range from turtle nesting sites to temple visits and wildlife safaris in nearby parks. Come sunset, cocktails meet the soundtrack of waves under a fiery sky.
GO: Visit www.aman.com for more information.
ÀNI Sri Lanka
When only exclusivity will do, look no further than ÀNI. If you haven’t heard of it, there’s a reason why: money talks, wealth whispers. The private resort is one of the high-end hotel sector’s best-kept secrets. Founded in 2010, ÀNI’s resorts can be found in Anguilla, the Dominican Republic, Thailand and Sri Lanka. ÀNI Sri Lanka can accommodate between six and 30 guests, but couples have rented out the whole resort. Spanning 700 square feet, the rooms include eight split-level suites, four classic suites and three family suites. Head Chef, Cyril Human and his team can create any cuisine. Facilities include two infinity pools, massages on demand and excursions. Your wish is their command.
GO: Visit https://aniprivateresorts.com for more information.
Galle Face Hotel
Galle Face Hotel is Colombo’s grand old dame, a storied seafront landmark that has hosted everyone from royalty to writers since the 19th century. Step through the collonaded halls, and you’ll find polished period charm, sea-breeze verandas and the kind of service that feels reassuringly old-school. Rooms and suites blend heritage details with modern comfort, while the location makes it an easy base for the city’s markets, museums and galleries. Come sunset, the terrace is the place to be: gin and tonics, salty air and the Indian Ocean turning copper as Colombo winds down.
GO: Visit https://gallefacehotel.com for more information.
Granbell Hotel Columbo
Granbell Hotel Colombo was created by the Japanese hospitality company Belluna Co. Ltd. and opened in the spring of 2022. Less of a resort and more of a hotel, it is in the capital and boasts Indian Ocean views, which are best experienced from the swoon-worthy rooftop infinity pool. While the rooms are compact, many have terraces and baths with views. Plus, there’s a spa, rooftop bar and, reflecting the creators, an authentic Japanese restaurant, Minori.
GO: Visit https://granbellhotel.lk for more information.
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Wild Coast Tented Lodge is Sri Lanka at its most cinematic: a safari-style retreat where cocoon-like tents sit just beyond the sand dunes of Yala’s wild edge. Days begin with the hush of the jungle and end with sunsets over the Indian Ocean, the air salted and still. Inside, the tents lean into luxury without losing their sense of adventure, with curated design details, deep baths and serious beds made for post-game-drive collapses. The heart of the lodge is a striking, bamboo-clad pavilion for cocktails and elevated local flavours, with wildlife never far away.
GO: Visit www.resplendentceylon.com for more information.
Zanzibar
Bamboo Zanzibar
Bamboo Zanzibar is great for grown-ups. The hotel opened is a little piece of luxury in Jambiani, which is 450-metres from Jambiani Beach. The venue only has 10 ocean view suites – the rooms are doubles and there are no twin or triple rooms, and guests must be above 15 years old. The fine dining restaurant offers seafood, salads and traditional Zanzibar curries. Plus, there’s a private beach, outdoor swimming pool and barbeque facilities.
GO: Visit www.bamboozanzibar.com for more information.
Meliá Zanzibar
Meliá Zanzibar is a breezy all-inclusive escape on the island’s northeast coast, set along Kiwengwa’s powder-soft beach and framed by palms and coral-blue water. Rooms, suites and private villas are spread across lush gardens, with The Level upgrades unlocking quieter pools, a dedicated lounge and elevated dining. Days revolve around the ocean: snorkelling, dhow cruises and kite-surfing, or simply drifting between sunbeds and the infinity pool. For a reset, the spa delivers hammam rituals and deep massages scented with local botanicals. Evenings bring seafood grills, Swahili flavours and sundowners at the Jetty Bar. Stone Town and spice farms are close.
GO: Visit www.melia.com for more information.
The Zanzibella Hotel & Spa
The Zanzibella Hotel and Spa opened at the start of 2022, and is located in Kiwengwa. It’s more on the rustic side and includes rooms with a balcony and sea view, plus suites with a kitchenette. Moyo Restauracja & Bar sources its ingredients locally to create Zanzibar-inspired dishes. When you want to unwind, enjoy spa treatments on the beach – choose from Swedish massages to facials that draw on Japanese kobido techniques.
GO: Visit https://zanzibella.com for more information.
The Residence Zanzibar
The Residence Zanzibar is a classic Indian Ocean hideaway on the island’s southwest, where palm-lined paths lead to white sand, calm lagoons and stand-alone villas with private pools. The look is elegant and colonial, with airy interiors, shaded terraces and the feel of a private home rather than a big resort. Days move at a gentle pace: cycling the grounds, kayaking offshore, long lunches by the beach and sunset swims in the pool. The spa is a highlight, offering wellness rituals and couple treatments in tranquil pavilions. Add a cooking class, a spice tour or a Stone Town day trip.
GO: Visit www.cenizaro.com for more information.
