OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has announced that OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has been named a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award Winner for 2026, securing recognition among the top 1% of hotels worldwide. The resort was ranked No. 5 in Asia and No. 21 globally in Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts category, highlighting the growing international appeal of the Maldives as a premier destination for high-quality island hospitality and exceptional guest experiences.
The distinction is especially significant as Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Awards are based entirely on genuine guest reviews and ratings collected over the past 12 months. The recognition reflects the views of travellers who have personally experienced the property and chosen to share their impressions, making the award a strong endorsement of the resort’s service excellence, accommodation standards and overall guest satisfaction. For global travellers seeking trusted recommendations, the ranking places OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort among the most admired all-inclusive escapes in the world.
Set within the turquoise waters of South Ari Atoll, OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort has established itself as one of the Maldives’ most distinguished barefoot luxury retreats. The resort is celebrated for its intimate island atmosphere, refined all-inclusive offering and the natural beauty that surrounds it. With powder-soft beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and elegant villas designed to complement the tranquillity of the island environment, the property offers an experience that blends comfort, exclusivity and the timeless charm of the Maldives. Its appeal lies not only in its scenic setting, but also in the way it creates a strong sense of place for guests seeking both relaxation and discovery.
The resort’s dining experiences, thoughtful hospitality and access to the marine richness of South Ari Atoll continue to attract travellers from around the world. Guests are able to enjoy the essence of a Maldivian island holiday while also experiencing a destination known for remarkable encounters with marine life. South Ari Atoll is one of the few places in the world where whale sharks can be seen throughout the year, giving visitors the rare opportunity to witness the ocean’s largest fish in its natural habitat. The surrounding waters are also home to manta rays, sea turtles, vibrant coral ecosystems and a wide range of tropical marine species, making the resort especially attractive to those with a passion for the sea and nature-based experiences.
The natural setting of OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort plays a defining role in its international reputation. Its house reef and surrounding waters offer memorable underwater experiences, while the island itself provides a peaceful and immersive escape shaped by the beauty of the Indian Ocean. For many guests, the resort stands out not only for its luxury and comfort, but also for its ability to create meaningful connections with the environment. Whether through marine excursions, quiet moments by the lagoon or restorative treatments at Navasana Spa, the resort presents a well-rounded experience that speaks to modern travellers seeking both indulgence and personal renewal.
The recognition also draws attention to the resort’s commitment to marine stewardship and environmental awareness, particularly during World Ocean Month. Supported by an on-site marine biologist, Chloe Mclanachan, the resort’s marine team helps guests build a deeper understanding of the Maldives’ extraordinary underwater world through guided snorkelling experiences, educational programmes and coral conservation initiatives. These efforts reflect a broader commitment by OUTRIGGER to safeguard the ocean environments that define its destinations, while encouraging guests to appreciate the fragile beauty and ecological importance of marine ecosystems.
At the same time, the resort has continued to strengthen its wellness offering, introducing immersive experiences that encourage guests to reconnect with themselves and the natural rhythms of island life. Restorative spa rituals and holistic wellness treatments at Navasana Spa have become an integral part of the Maafushivaru experience, complementing the peaceful surroundings and enhancing the sense of balance and renewal that many travellers seek in the Maldives. This focus on wellbeing adds further depth to the resort’s identity as a destination where luxury is closely tied to serenity, nature and personal enrichment.
Commenting on the achievement, John Allanson, General Manager of OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort, said the team was deeply honoured to be recognised by Tripadvisor’s global community as one of the world’s leading all-inclusive resorts. He noted that being ranked No. 5 in Asia and No. 21 worldwide reflects the passion and dedication of the resort’s team in creating exceptional guest experiences for all who visit the island. His remarks underscore the importance of service culture and operational excellence in shaping the resort’s international standing.
The recognition of OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort also forms part of a wider success across the OUTRIGGER portfolio. Tripadvisor’s 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards recognised 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. This broader achievement reinforces OUTRIGGER’s growing reputation for delivering exceptional beachfront hospitality across some of the world’s most iconic island destinations.
From the overwater villas of the Maldives to the celebrated coastal destinations of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, OUTRIGGER continues to build experiences that connect guests with the natural beauty, culture and character of each location. The strong international performance of OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is therefore not only a success for the property itself, but also a positive reflection of the Maldives’ enduring position as one of the world’s most desired luxury travel destinations. For global audiences, the latest Tripadvisor recognition serves as another powerful reminder of the exceptional experiences that await visitors in the heart of South Ari Atoll.
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