New in the Maldives: Nilaa Coral Island and Avaani Open, Naagoashi Next

The resort map of the Maldives keeps growing as peak season draws near. This month brings two fresh openings, one in the deep south and one close to Malé, with a large new resort in the far north expected next year.

If you are planning a winter escape, here is a quick look at what's new, and where.

Nilaa Coral Island, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll

Down in the south, Nilaa Coral Island has opened on the island of Kodegalaa in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation announced the opening on 12 October, as reported by MV+.

This one is small and private. There are just seven oceanfront villas, a mix of two- and three-bedroom villas and a five-bedroom residence, with room for about 40 guests in total.

Getting there is simple once you reach the south. The island is a 15-minute speedboat ride from Maavarulu Airport.

The ministry has also linked openings like Nilaa Coral Island to the country's preparations for Visit Maldives Year 2027, so expect to hear more about new places like this over the coming months.

Avaani Maldives, North Malé Atoll

Closer to the capital, Pulse Hotels and Resorts has opened Avaani Maldives in North Malé Atoll. It sits 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, according to Maldives Insight.

The resort is built around a cultural-immersion idea it calls the "Island of Becoming". For anyone who loves the water, there is also a PADI five-star dive centre, run by Euro-Divers.

Being a short boat ride from the airport makes it an easy choice for travellers who would rather spend their first afternoon in the lagoon than on a connecting flight.

Coming next: Naagoashi, Haa Dhaalu Atoll

Further ahead, the far north has a big project on the way. Tourism Minister Mohamed Ameen says Naagoashi Resort in Haa Dhaalu Atoll is more than 50% complete and should open within about 11 months, reports MV+.

Its first phase is planned to have 183 guest units, according to Maaldif, which makes it a much larger property than the two openings above. Opening dates can shift, so it is one to watch rather than book just yet.

Choosing your island

Between a seven-villa hideaway in the south, a dive-friendly resort near Malé and a large new resort in the north, there is a growing range of ways to experience the atolls. The best choice comes down to how far you want to travel, how many people you are sharing the island with, and how much time you want to spend underwater.

Whichever island you pick, pack light. Our Embroidered Tote, made from 100% organic cotton, carries your sunscreen, a good book and a snorkel mask from the speedboat to the sandbank. Like everything we sell, it is made to order, so nothing is overproduced.

We will share more as new islands open their doors.