5 Indian Ocean Escapes To Have On Your Radar

There are few places better suited to a proper switch-off than the Indian Ocean. But while the Maldives and Seychelles might be known for powder-soft beaches and impossibly blue water, no two island escapes need to look the same. 

That's the idea behind Niva Hotels & Resorts – a collection of destinations across the Maldives and Seychelles, each with its own personality, setting and approach to island life. Some are made for spontaneous long weekends and romantic escapes; others are designed around family time, adventure or getting back to nature. United by the brand's 'Free To Be' philosophy, the collection is all about experiencing a holiday your way and creating moments that stay with you long after you've returned home.

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Niva Velassaru is a contemporary island escape that combines understated design, beautiful beaches and a relaxed approach to wellbeing. A short speedboat journey from Malé, it's particularly well suited to couples and groups of friends.

There's plenty to fill the days, too. Wellness is a major focus, with Reformer Pilates, barre, yoga and tennis all on offer. The overwater LIME Wellbeing Spa takes things up a notch, with an Indian Ocean-facing hydropool and treatments from Aromatherapy Associates and Elemis, including the Elemis BIOTECH facial – exclusive to Velassaru in the Maldives.

Food is another reason to visit. Five restaurants include SORA, the Japanese-Peruvian overwater restaurant that opened in 2026, alongside Mediterranean-inspired Etesian. Personalised experiences are also a big part of the stay, from private beach dining and couples' spa treatments to a starlight night spa and private Dhoni trips at sunset.

Accommodation ranges from the Beach Villa with Pool and Two Bedroom Deluxe Villa to a selection of overwater villas. For extra privacy, the Pool Villa has a private walled pool and fully enclosed front courtyard, while the Water Suite offers a secluded overwater escape with its own private pool. Both come with dedicated butler service.

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For families and groups who want to arrive, switch off and have everything taken care of, Niva Dhigali Maldives makes a strong case. Set in the remote Raa Atoll, this lush island brings together jungle, beach and reef, with a Premium All Inclusive offering and plenty to explore beyond the sun lounger.

The house reef is a major draw, with easy access from the beach for snorkelling. Its location also means diving and snorkelling excursions offer the chance to encounter some of the Maldives' most spectacular marine life, including manta rays.

Plenty is happening beyond the water, too, from padel and paddle yoga to watersports, Dolphin and Sunset Cruises. For a truly memorable day out, the Cast Away Sandbank Picnic takes guests by boat to a tiny desert island, where they can snorkel among colourful fish, turtles and rays before sitting down to a private picnic surrounded by crystal-clear water.

Wellbeing is also thoughtfully woven into the experience. LIME Wellbeing offers a peaceful inland retreat, including newly unveiled Sound Healing Sessions –  combining sound therapy and breathwork – alongside shared treatments designed for mothers and daughters, and fathers and sons. Meanwhile, the PLAY Kids Club keeps younger travellers entertained.

Reached via a 45-minute seaplane transfer, this is an island escape that balances proper relaxation with plenty of opportunities to get out and explore.

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