40 Maldives Alternatives Around The World
Love the look of the Maldives but need to choose somewhere different? We’ve got the top Maldives alternatives around the globe…
The endless stretches of powdery white sand, the tranquil lagoons of the Indian Ocean, opulent resorts that are the epitome of luxury, culinary delights, and service that makes you feel like royalty.
There is nowhere quite exactly like the Maldives! So if the opportunity arises to visit this island paradise, seize it with both hands – it’s every bit as dreamy as it looks and sounds!
However, we understand that for some couples, there might be reasons you need to look at Maldives alternatives for your honeymoon.
The Maldives might not tick every box for your honeymoon plans. Perhaps the thought of long-haul flights and the ensuing jet lag is less than appealing.
Or, maybe you’re trying to weave the magic of a honeymoon on a tighter budget and finding that Maldives’ resorts are too expensive.
It could be that the timing isn’t right, and you don’t want to travel during the Maldives’ rainy season, or perhaps you’ve been lucky enough to visit the Maldives before and want to try somewhere new.
From the Caribbean to Africa, Europe to Asia to the Pacific, there are some stunning destinations around the globe that might, just might, be the perfect alternative to the Maldives for your honeymoon.
Whether you’re seeking cheaper Maldives alternatives or places like Maldives that are closer to home, these destinations have that perfect blend of beautiful beaches, romance, luxury, and even a dose of adventure. Some even have overwater villas or bungalows!
Read on to discover the best Maldives alternatives around the globe!
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Maldives Alternatives in the Pacific
1. Australia
It goes without saying that Australia has an unparalleled coastline and beaches that stretch for miles but for an alternative to the Maldives, look no further than the stunning Whitsunday Islands.
Whitehaven Beach, with its silica sand that squeaks when you walk on it and turquoise waters, is a true Australia bucket list highlight.
Stay on Hamilton Island, where the Great Barrier Reef is right on the doorstep. You’ll find the most stunning natural beauty and opportunities to snorkel and scuba dive. The Whitsundays are a true Australian paradise.
Why the Whitsunday Islands is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: May to November
How to get there: Fly to Hamilton Island Great Barrier Reef Airport (airport code: HTI) via Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane
Where to stay: qualia
2. Cook Islands
One of our top picks for Maldives alternatives, the Cook Islands are a South Pacific paradise with a tranquil vibe that only somewhere so remote can provide.
The islands’ unspoiled beauty, with pristine beaches and clear lagoons, is ideal for couples looking for paradise beaches off the beaten track. Discover the warm Polynesian culture and enjoy this underrated gem.
Why the Cook Islands is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches
Best time to visit: May to November
How to get there: Fly to Rarotonga (RAR) via Sydney, Auckland and Papeete in French Polynesia.
Where to stay: Pacific Resort Aitutaki
3. Fiji
Fiji is one of our top Maldives alternatives and along with Bora Bora is the closest to an Indian Ocean-like retreat (with a Pacific twist, of course!).
Its overwater bungalows, set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters, are divine. Fiji’s culture, infused with a warm, welcoming spirit, will enhance your heavenly honeymoon experience.
You can explore the lush rainforests with river tubing, waterfall hikes, zip lining, quad bike adventures and horse riding along with snorkelling and diving.
Why Fiji is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving and all inclusive resorts, overwater accommodation and honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: April to November
How to get there: fly to Nadi (airport code: NAN) from LA, San Francisco, Honolulu, Vancouver, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland, Christchurch
Where to stay: Six Senses Fiji | Likuliku Lagoon Resort
4. French Polynesia
A destination that needs no introduction, French Polynesia and especially its heavenly island of Bora Bora is the ideal alternative to Maldives.
In fact the overwater villa concept started in French Polynesia so it’s often touted as the Pacific’s answer to the Maldives (or the Maldives is the Indian Ocean’s answer to Bora Bora!).
Iconic overwater bungalows, set against the backdrop of Mount Otemanu, offer unparalleled luxury and privacy. The island’s vibrant coral reefs are a snorkeller’s paradise.
Why French Polynesia is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts and overwater accommodation.
Best time to visit: May to October
How to get there: fly to Papeete (airport code: PPT) and onwards to Bora Bora (BOB)
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
5. Hawaii
Hawaii, with its diverse islands, offers a range of experiences from volcanic landscapes to idyllic beaches. Each island has its own character, whether its the dramatic cliffs of Kauai to the surfing vibes of North Shore in Oahu.
Hawaii’s blend of natural beauty, native culture, and American convenience makes it a versatile and appealing alternative to Maldives.
Our top pick is Maui with activities like snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, hiking through lush rainforests, epic road trips and experiencing traditional luaus all await.
Why Hawaii is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: March to November
How to get there: Fly to Maui (airport code: OGG) via most major US & Canadian cities
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
6. Vanuatu
Vanuatu, a South Pacific paradise lies off the east coast of Australia. Just 3.5 hours from Sydney, it’s an off-the-beaten-path alternative to the Maldives
Its 80 islands are known for their volcanic landscapes, cascading water falls, beautiful white sand beaches, and Melanesian culture.
Discover the archipelago’s underwater world, including the famous SS President Coolidge wreck. With its rainforest interior there is plenty of exploring for adventure lovers.
Why Vanuatu is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: June to November
How to get there: fly to Vanuatu (airport code: VLI) from Brisbane, Sydney, Auckland or Fiji
Where to stay: The Havannah Vanuatu
Maldives Alternatives in Asia & Middle East
7. Dubai
Dubai might be a futuristic city honeymoon destination but it has a beautiful coastline with private beaches and even offshore islands and other emirates of the UAE to explore, too!
You stay in a luxurious beach resort but the city’s considerable number of fun things to do are never too far away. The hotels are opulent and lavish, perfect for a honeymoon treat.
With its busy airport, Dubai is a convenient alternative to the Maldives.
Why Dubai is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: September to May
How to get there: fly to Dubai (airport code: DXB)
Where to stay: Anantara World Islands Resort
8. Indonesia
Indonesia is known for its most famous island, Bali, which is a worthy alternative to the Maldives.
You’ll find a lot of adventure plus many luxury hotels, plus it’s very affordable. It’s one of our top picks for a honeymoon full stop, not just as one of the best cheaper Maldives alternatives!
The nearby tiny havens, the Gili Islands, known for their laid-back atmosphere and stunning coral reefs, are perfect for couples seeking a serene and picturesque white sandy beach vibe. You can even discover pink sand beaches on nearby Lombok.
But Indonesia has many other islands with private island resorts that would give the Maldives a run for its money. From Raja Ampas to the Riau Islands, Indonesia is one of our top picks for a honeymoon and particularly for a cheaper Maldives alternatives.
Why Indonesia is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts, overwater style accommodation.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Bali (airport code: DPS) or via Jakarta (CGK) or Singapore (SIN) to other islands.
Where to stay: Bawah Reserve
9. Malaysia
Malaysia is one of the more underrated cheaper Maldives alternatives in Asia with stunning islands and beautiful beaches.
Many couples head for Langkawi which is home to stunning resorts and coastline and rainforest-covered hills and waterfalls.
Get a little more off the beaten track in the Perhentian Islands with its unspoiled beaches and casual vibe, are perfect for couples seeking a laid-back backpacking style retreat.
Why Malaysia is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools, overwater style accommodation
Best time to visit: December to March
How to get there: fly via Kuala Lumpur (airport code: KUL)
Where to stay: Pangkor Laut | The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi | The Datai Langkawi
10. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of our top honeymoon destinations for cultural adventure and has a coastline of palm tree fringed wild beaches. Plus it’s one of the cheaper Maldives alternatives.
Many couples head straight for Negombo when they get off the plane as it’s just a short drive from the capital Colombia.
You can travel throughout the country stopping at highlights like Sigiriya Rock, Kandy and wildlife havens like Yala National Park.
There are golden sand beaches stretching from Tangalle along the southern coast to Bentota on the west coast. You can go whale watching in Mirissa and explore the Dutch architecture of Galle.
Trincomalee on the less visited east coast has untouched golden sands and clear waters that are ideal for a beach retreat, too.
Why Sri Lanka is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: West Coast – December to March | East Coast – February to September
How to get there: fly to Colombo (airport code: CMB)
Where to stay: Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort
11. Thailand
Thailand is a tropical paradise and although the emerald limestone karst scenery differs from the Maldives, it’s no less stunning.
Palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, delectable dining and a super abundance of luxury resorts, Thailand is one of our favourite cheaper Maldives alternatives.
You can just hit the islands and beaches but if you have time opt for a few days in Bangkok and in the north of the country around Chiang Mai for cooking schools, hikes, waterfalls and temples. Thailand is one of our top picks for a honeymoon.
Why Thailand is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with pools.
Best time to visit: West Coast (Phuket) – December to April | East Coast (Samui) – January to September
How to get there: fly to Bangkok (airport code: BKK) or Phuket (HKT) or Koh Samui (USM)
Where to stay: Six Senses Yao Noi | Banyan Tree Samui
12. The Philippines
For couples seeking some of the most dazzling beaches on the planet look no further than The Philippines.
Palawan, with its dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters is a heavenly spot.
El Nido and Coron with their secluded beaches and world-class diving spots, teeming with marine life are perfect for a romantic island hopping honeymoon in Asia
You’ll even find some rustic overwater bungalows, too.
Why The Philippines is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, overwater style accommodation
Best time to visit: December to May
How to get there: fly via Manila (airport code: MNL) or Cebu (CEB)
Where to stay: Cauayan Island Resort & Spa
Maldives Alternatives in Europe
13. Greece
Greece with its iconic islands, is a delightful alternative to the Maldives.
While only a few of the islands have the white sands similar to what you’ll find in the Maldives, there is an abundance of beaches with everything from volcanic black sands to golden sands.
Voutoumi Beach in Antipaxos in the Ionian islands and Balos Beach in Crete are two of our favourites for heavenly beaches.
The insta-worthy island of Mykonos has a mix of golden sands and idyllic honeymoon hotels.
The beautiful island of Santorini may have more volcanic beaches but the stunning boutique hotels with caldera views and magical infinity pools along the islands’ dramatic cliffs with whitewashed buildings, and azure seas more than make up for the lack of tropical beaches.
Add on Greek cuisine, ancient ruins, a city stop over in Athens and endless options for a Greek islands itinerary, you’ve got one of our top picks for Maldives alternatives.
Why Greece is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, honeymoon suites with private pools, all inclusive resorts.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Athens (airport code: ATH), Santorini (JTR), Mykonos (JMK) or Crete (CHQ or HER)
Where to stay: Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel | Adorno Beach Hotel & Suites | Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa
14. Italy
Italy might be more known for itineraries full of history, culture and design but it’s home to some beautiful beaches, too.
Add in the heavenly cuisine and crystal clear waters of the southern European seas and it’s honeymoon heaven.
Our top pick is Sardinia with its stunning waters and picturesque Costa Smeralda. With beaches like Cala Brandinchi dubbed ‘little Tahiti’ you know you’ve got one of the best Maldives alternatives in Europe.
Sicily is also a great option and packed with golden sand gems like Mondello near Palermo. The Tuscan island of Elba is also worth checking out.
The southern region of Puglia. Home to the best beaches on the Italian mainland including Spiaggia di Pescoluse, affectionately known as the Maldives of Salento.
Why Italy is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury hotels.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: Fly to Sardinia (airport codes: OLB, CAG or AHO), Sicily (PMO or CTA) or Bari (BRI)
Where to stay: Baglioni Resort Sardinia | 7Pines Resort Sardinia | La Peschiera Puglia
15. Spain
Spain’s coastline is packed full of beaches but our top picks to consider as an alternative to the Maldives is the Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca.
These Mediterranean havens are stunning with crystal waters and beautiful beach coves. In Ibiza take a day trip to Ses Illetes in Formentera near Ibiza, Torrente de Pareis in Mallorca or Cala Macarelleta in Menora.
Palma in Mallorca is also one of Europe’s loveliest small cities and there are luxury hotels dotted throughout the islands.
Why Spain is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, luxury hotels, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Mallorca (airport code: PMI), Ibiza (IBZ) or Menorca (MAH)
Where to stay: Cap Rocat Mallorca | Six Senses Ibiza | Villa Le Blanc Gran Melia Menorca
16. Turkey
The Turkish Riviera aka the Turquoise Coast is the perfect Maldives alternative in Europe.
Stunning Mediterranean landscapes, ancient ruins, and luxurious resorts. The area’s beaches and clear waters are perfect for a relaxing beach honeymoon.
Kabak Beach in Fethiye and the Blue Lagoon in Ölüdeniz are just some of our favourite spots.
The Lycian Way provides opportunities for hiking and exploring historical sites. The blend of Turkish and Mediterranean cultures is evident in the region’s cuisine and architecture, adding a unique flavour to your heavenly Turkey honeymoon.
You could add in a side trip to Istanbul or to see the heavenly hot air balloon filled skyline of Cappadocia.
The great thing about Turkey is the sheer choice of places to stay so if you’re seeking cheaper Maldives alternatives, you’ll find an array of resorts for every budget.
Why Turkey is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts.
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Bodrum (airport code: ) or Dalaman (DLM)
Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental Bodrum | Six Senses Kaplankaya | D Maris Bay Datça
Maldives Alternatives in Africa
17. Kenya
Planning a safari honeymoon in Africa? Then you’ll need some post safari downtime. Kenya is known for its magical national parks and reserves like Maasai Mara but it’s also home to some of East Africa’s best beaches.
Diani Beach is easily accessible and renowned for its soft, white sands and luxury resorts for an easy alternative to the Maldives.
Get off the beaten track in the Lamu Archipelago, with its Swahili culture and untouched spots like Shelaz beach.
Why Kenya is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: December to March and June to September
How to get there: fly to Nairobi (airport code: NBO)
Where to stay: The Sands at Nomad
18. Madagascar
Madagascar, an island of unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is one of the most adventurous Maldives alternatives
Its beaches, particularly on islands like Nosy Be, are beautiful and less frequented. Madagascar’s luxury island lodges provide a secluded and intimate setting.
The island’s unique wildlife, including lemurs and chameleons, and diverse ecosystems, from rainforests to baobab avenues, make it a fascinating destination for couples who want to get off the beaten track.
Why Madagascar is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, private islands
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Nosy Be-Fascene (airport code: NOS) via the capital Antananarivo (TNR)
Where to stay: Constance Tsarabanjina | Miavana by Time & Tide
19. Mauritius
In the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, you’ll find one of the best alternatives to Maldives with white sandy beaches and heavenly lagoons, Mauritius is an underrated gem.
There’s an array of luxury resorts with everything from ultra luxury jewels to more affordable gems (particularly worth considering if you’re looking for cheaper Maldives alternatives).
Beyond the beaches, the mountains are ideal for couples who want a touch of adventure with hiking, waterfalls and ATV tours.
Why Mauritius is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: April to June and September to November
How to get there: fly to Mauritius (airport code: MRU)
Where to stay: LUX* Grand Baie
20. Mozambique
Get off the beaten track in Africa’s stunning Mozambique. With its pristine beaches and unspoiled coral reefs, this hidden gem with its Indian Ocean coastline and offshore islands is a wonderful alternative to the Maldives.
The Quirimbas and Bazaruto archipelagos offer secluded luxury resorts, perfect for a romantic and exclusive castaway honeymoon experience.
Mozambique’s rich marine life, including whale sharks and manta rays, provides exceptional snorkelling and diving experiences.
The blend of African, Portuguese, and Arab influences is evident in the country’s unique culture and cuisine.
Why Mozambique is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving.
Best time to visit: June to October
How to get there: fly via Johannesburg to Vilanculos (airport code: VNX)
Where to stay: Azura Benguerra Island
21. Seychelles
One of our top picks for Maldives alternatives is the heavenly archipelago, Seychelles, a jewel in the Indian Ocean.
Seychelles differs from the Maldives in that there aren’t many all inclusive resorts and it has a rainforest interior for hiking and exploring.
Both have the most heavenly beaches and are an idyllic honeymoon escape.
Seychelles’ powdery white beaches, such as Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio are amongst the best in the world. The unique granite boulders, turquoise lagoons and underwater world are like nowhere else on earth.
Why Seychelles is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: April to October
How to get there: fly to Seychelles’ Mahe island (airport code: SEZ)
Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Seychelles | Six Senses Zil Pasyon
22. Zanzibar
Zanzibar, is an island of safari favourite, Tanzania and known for its fascinating history and stunning coastline.
Zanzibar’s beaches, like Nungwi and Paje, are perfect for relaxation and water sports. There are plenty of honeymoon resorts to choose from too.
The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an absolute must. The blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences is evident in Zanzibar’s unique culture and cuisine.
Many couples will tag Zanzibar to a safari honeymoon in Kenya or East Africa but you could easily book a Zanzibar honeymoon in its own right!
Why Zanzibar is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: February to March and June to October
How to get there: Fly to Zanzibar Airport (airport code: ZNZ)
Where to stay: Baraza Resort and Spa Zanzibar
Maldives Alternatives in the Caribbean
23. Anguilla
Anguilla is a serene off the beaten track beach-focused Maldives alternative in the Caribbean.
Known for its soft, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, that would give the Indian Ocean a run for its money.
The island’s luxury resorts and villas offer a high level of privacy and exclusivity, making it ideal for a romantic and tranquil honeymoon.
The laid-back atmosphere and stunning beachscapes make Anguilla a perfect choice for couples seeking relaxation in a luxurious setting.
Why Anguilla is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts.
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly direct to Anguilla (airport code: AXA) or St. Martin / St. Maarten (SXM or SFG) and take ferry
Where to stay: Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel
24. Antigua
Antigua, they say, has 365 beaches, a sandy escape for every day of the year! You’ll find picturesque coves and vibrant coral reefs.
It’s a haven for beach lovers and one of the most picturesque Maldives alternatives in the Caribbean.
The island’s luxury resorts, many of which are nestled on private beaches, are heavenly.
Don’t miss the chance to discover Caribbean culture like Rastafarian tours and cooking classes. There’s epic hikes, snorkelling and diving too.
Why Antigua is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts and honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly to Antigua (airport code: ANU)
Where to stay: Hermitage Bay
25. Aruba
Aruba‘s charm lies in its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and Dutch-influenced architecture.
Lying outside of the hurricane belt, it’s rarely affected by adverse weather making it one of our favourite year round cheaper Maldives alternatives.
The island’s Palm Beach and Eagle Beach offer white sands and clear waters, ideal for couples seeking a beach retreat.
The island’s natural wonders, such as Arikok National Park, mean you can enjoy hiking and horse riding, too. Don’t miss the insta-famous Flamingo Beach.
Why Aruba is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: fly to Aruba (airport code: AUA)
Where to stay: Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
26. Bahamas
The Bahamas, with its array of islands, offers a diverse Caribbean experience.
From the bustling Nassau to the secluded Exumas where you can visit the famous swimming pigs, the Bahamas with its secluded beach resorts is a lovely alternative to the Maldives.
The islands are known for their powdery white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts. Take a tour of Nassau and go snorkelling and diving.
Why the Bahamas is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: November to April
How to get there: fly to Nassau (airport code: NAS)
Where to stay: Sandals Royal Bahamian
27. Barbados
Beautiful beaches combined with a rich cultural heritage, Barbados is one of our top picks for Maldives alternatives in the Caribbean.
The island’s west coast is famed for its calm, clear waters and luxury beachfront resorts, ideal for a relaxing honeymoon.
From calypso music to learning about the tragedy of transatlantic slavery at historic plantations, makes it the ideal choice for culture and history lovers who want a dose of beach.
Go hiking, biking and kayaking and afterwards, feast on heavenly seafood washed down with rum cocktails. Barbados has everything you need on a tropical island honeymoon.
Why Barbados is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly to Barbados (airport code: BGI)
Where to stay: Cobblers Cove
28. Belize
Belize is a unique blend of Caribbean vibes and Central American mystique, making it one of the most unique and cheaper Maldives alternatives.
Its coastline is dotted with cayes (small sandy islands), ideal for a trip to paradisiacal beaches. Plus, you have ancient Mayan archaeology sites and plenty of adventure activities like zip lining, caving and tubing.
Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, for extraordinary snorkelling and diving adventures.
Why Belize is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, overwater style accommodation
Best time to visit: January to May
How to get there: fly to Belize (airport code: BZE)
Where to stay: Cayo Espanto
29. British Virgin Islands
If you’re seeking Maldives alternatives in the Caribbean that are a little off the beaten track, the British Virgin Islands is an archipelago of 4 main islands and upscale resorts ideal for a paradiscal honeymoon.
Known for their unspoiled beauty, the islands boast secluded beaches and hidden coves, perfect for island hopping.
Luxury yachting and sailing are the names of the game here with some beautiful private island resorts.
Why the British Virgin Islands is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches and private island resorts.
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly to St. Thomas (in US Virgin Islands) or to Beef Island (airport code: EIS)
Where to stay: Rosewood Little Dix Bay
30. Cuba
While the hotels may not be as refined as the luxury resorts in the Maldives, Cuba’s beaches more than make up for the lack of high end luxury.
Plan a tour of this fascinating island from Havana to Trinidad and explore the UNESCO-listed old towns, visit the tobacco region of Vinales and discover the history of this intriguing nation.
Most couples will finish up in Varadero, Cuba’s premier beach resort town. However, if you fly to heavenly Cayo Coco, you’ll find some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
Why Cuba is an alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: fly to Havana (airport code: HAV) via or Varadero (VRA) or Cayo Coco (CCC)
Where to stay: Melia Cayo Coco | Iberostar Selection Varadero
31. Curaçao
Curaçao, with its unique blend of laid back charm and Dutch heritage, is a lovely Caribbean alternative to the Maldives.
The quaint capital of Willemstad is worth exploring with its pastel-coloured buildings and is one of the prettiest towns in the Caribbean.
Its beautiful beaches, like Playa Kenepa, are perfect for relaxation, while the island’s coral reefs provide excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.
Why Curacao is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: fly to Curaçao (airport code: CUR)
Where to stay: Sandals Royal Curacao
32. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Caribbean from tropical rainforests to stunning beaches.
Punta Cana‘s luxurious resorts and idyllic beaches is one of our top picks for cheaper Maldives alternatives in the Caribbean.
There’s plenty of adventure, too. From horse riding, zip lining and uninhabited beaches to hiking to waterfalls and hidden lagoons and discovering uninhabited islands.
Why the Dominican Republic is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts and honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: fly to Punta Cana (airport code: PUJ)
Where to stay: Secrets Cap Cana
33. Grenada
Grenada, known as the ‘Spice Island’ is a lush, tropical paradise with an authentic Caribbean feel. The island’s Grand Anse Beach is a standout, with its soft sand and clear waters.
There’s rainforest hikes, plantations, waterfalls, chocolate and rum tours for couples who don’t want to be tied to their resort.
Why Grenada is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: January to May
How to get there: fly to Grenada (airport code: GND) via New York, Miami, Toronto
Where to stay: Spice Island Beach Resort | Sandals Grenada
34. Jamaica
With its unique culture and rainforest interior, Jamaica is a Caribbean gem and one of our favourite cheaper Maldives alternatives.
You can party the night away one night and be swimming in waterfalls to banish sore heads the next morning.
Its beaches, such as Negril’s Seven Mile Beach, are the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. You’ll even find some overwater villas, too!
Why Jamaica is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining, all inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools and overwater style accommodation.
Best time to visit: November to July
How to get there: fly to Montego Bay (airport code: MBJ) or Kingston (KIN)
Where to stay: Sandals Royal Caribbean
35. Mexico
Mexico is one of our top picks for couples seeking cheaper Maldives alternatives. The Riviera Maya is lined with beautiful beaches and resorts.
While you might not get that castaway feel, you’ll be surrounded by luxury. Plus, there are plenty of things to do, from swimming in cenotes and visiting ancient ruins.
For couples who prefer a more boutique vibe – try Tulum with its bohemian spirit, combined with its white sandy beaches and Mayan ruins. Isla Holbox, north of Cancun is a a car-free paradise with beautiful white sand and cute boutique hotels.
Plus you’ll find even more great honeymoon destinations on Mexico’s Pacific Coast!
Why Mexico is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining and all inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: December to August
How to get there: fly to Cancun (airport code: CUN)
Where to stay: Excellence Playa Mujeres | Le Blanc Cancun | La Valise Tulum | Ser Casasandra
36. St. Barts
Saint Barthélemy is a chic and upscale honeymoon experience, combining the allure of beautiful beaches with a touch of French glamour.
Known for its designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and luxury yachting scene, St Barts appeals to couples looking for a sophisticated yet relaxed Maldives alternative.
The island’s pristine beaches, like Anse du Colombier, Gouverneur and Saline, are heavenly. There are also beautiful hikes with stunning coastal views.
Why St Barts is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, delicious dining and luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: Fly to St. Barts (airport code: SBH) via Saint Martin (SXM or SFG) or San Juan (SJU)
Where to stay: Hotel Christopher Saint Barth | Rosewood Le Guanahani St Barth
37. St. Kitts & Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis are two islands forming one nation in the Caribbean. With a lush interior, unspoiled beaches and even dormant volcanoes – it’s a lovely alternative to Maldives in the Caribbean.
You’ll find heavenly golden sand beaches but also volcanic black sand gems, too.
You can go horse riding, hiking, mountain biking, zip lining and snorkelling. Learn the history of the towns and go on a rum distillery tour.
The combination of rainforests, beaches, and charming colonial architecture are ideal for a relaxing honeymoon with a touch of adventure.
Why St. Kitts and Nevis is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, snorkelling, scuba diving.
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly to Basseterre Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport on St. Kitts (airport code: SKB) via Miami and New York. There’s also an airport on Nevis (NEV)
Where to stay: Sunset Reef St. Kitts | Golden Rock Nevis
38. St. Lucia
St. Lucia is a volcanic dream with lush, dramatic landscapes and lovely beaches.
While there may not be quite as many dazzling white sand beaches, the island is beautiful with a mix of white sands, golden sands and volcanic sands and is ideal for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic scenery await with a range of activities in St. Lucia from zip lining, chocolate making, hiking, rum tasting. It’s one of our favourite Caribbean islands for a honeymoon.
And bonus is the views from the honeymoon resorts in St. Lucia are very special indeed!
Why St. Lucia is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, all inclusive resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools
Best time to visit: December to June
How to get there: fly to St. Lucia (airport code: UVF)
Where to stay: Jade Mountain Resort
39. St. Vincent & The Grenadines
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, are a chain of islands in the southern Caribbean. The islands, including St. Vincent, Mustique, Bequia and Canouan, are known for their lush green rainforest interiors, lined with white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.
The beaches are amongst the best in the Caribbean. The luxury resorts are ideal for couples seeking exclusivity and intimacy and are an upscale alternative to the Maldives in the Caribbean
Why St. Vincent & the Grenadines is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, honeymoon suites with private pools.
Best time to visit: January to June
How to get there: fly to St. Vincent (SVD)
Where to stay: Palm Island Resort & Spa | Mandarin Oriental Canouan
40. Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is home to some of the most pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters and is one of our top picks for a luxurious Caribbean alternative to the Maldives.
For couples seeking a lavish Maldives alternative, this archipelago’s luxury resorts cater to every whim. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are a haven for snorkelling and scuba diving, too.
Why Turks & Caicos is a great alternative to the Maldives: beautiful beaches, luxury resorts
Best time to visit: December to April
How to get there: Fly to Providenciales International Airport (airport code: PLS) via most major east coast North American cities
Where to stay: Como Parrot Cay
TL;DR? A quick summary
Too Long, Didn’t Read? HERE IS a QUICK list!
We hope you’ve got lots of inspiration from our favourite Maldives alternatives. Chat to us and let us know which one you pick!
Happy Planning x
Related Maldives Honeymoon Articles:
Ultimate Maldives Honeymoon Guide
Honeymoon Planning resources
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