Dusit Thani Maldives

Dusit Thani Maldives sits on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, a lush green island wrapped by an excellent house reef. The landscaping is clearly well cared for, the pathways wind through dense tropical foliage where fruit bats dart between the trees, and the overall feel is spacious, calm and thoughtfully maintained.

The villa refurbishment has been a real success. The two-bedroom beach residences are enormous — huge private gardens, plenty of beachfront, and an upstairs master bedroom with lovely island views. The water villas have had a smart refresh too, and the deluxe beachfront villa makes a strong impression. For families, the two-bed villas offer generous space, though the rooms don't connect internally so they're less practical for younger children who need parents nearby.

Food is a proper highlight. Breakfast at The Market is excellent — noticeably improved from earlier visits, with a new air-conditioned indoor section alongside the outdoor live station that changes its offering between morning and evening. The tuna curry was genuinely memorable. Sea Grill makes for a lovely evening with its wine cellar and sand underfoot, part of a bigger decked area that includes the Sand Bar and Wine Cellar, all sharing that same relaxed sandy-floor atmosphere. Benjarong is still a beautiful spot over the lagoon, and the new Sala — an upstairs bar and vegetarian restaurant above it — is a very welcome addition.

The treetop spa still feels like new, beautifully maintained. The signature massage was outstanding, and being up in the trees, tucked away above the island, makes it feel like a proper sanctuary that matches the resort's easygoing pace.

For anyone who wants to be active, the dive and watersports centre is in excellent shape. The house reef is absolutely packed — turtles everywhere, some of the biggest schools of blue triggerfish and longfin bannerfish we've come across. A drift snorkel from the dive centre towards Benjarong is brilliant, though the currents can be strong and the Benjarong end gets shallow at low tide, so best to get advice from the dive team on timing and route. There's a brand new padel court, freshly resurfaced tennis courts, a decent small gym, and an 800-metre jogging trail running through the middle of the island.

One standout was the sandbank cocktail evening for returning and VIP guests — far more generous than the usual weekly management drinks, with champagne, canapés, a photographer, and staff mingling properly throughout.

This is a resort that suits couples and families looking for a genuinely natural Maldivian island experience with strong facilities, warm Thai hospitality and room to find your own space. The team are wonderful, the atmosphere is relaxed rather than lively, and the whole stay feels well looked after. Pack mosquito repellent and you'll have a lovely time.

Set on the 16-hectare Mudhdhoo Island in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Dusit Thani Maldives combines Thai hospitality with a classic Maldivian island setting. The resort is encircled by white sand beaches and a sweeping house reef, with 94 villas and residences blending contemporary Thai interiors with traditional Maldivian architecture.

Getting there is straightforward — a 35-minute seaplane transfer or a 25-minute domestic flight followed by a short speedboat ride, with representatives meeting guests at Velana International Airport and accompanying them to the lounge.

Accommodation ranges across beachfront and overwater villas, plus larger residences, all fitted with modern amenities including Nespresso machines, Bose sound systems, outdoor rain showers, and a pillow menu.

Dining covers four restaurants and a bar. The Market Restaurant serves international buffets in an indoor-outdoor brasserie setting. Benjarong is the signature overwater restaurant offering authentic Thai cuisine. Sea Grill sits beside the infinity pool focusing on seafood and grilled dishes. Sala, opened in 2024, is a plant-based restaurant using locally sourced and resort-grown produce. The Sand Bar sits alongside the infinity pool for drinks and light bites.