Beach Villa Or Water Villa? Which Should You Choose?
We know what you’re thinking. There’s worse choices to have to make than picking between a beach villa or water villa for your ultimate island escape. But the choice does exist, so let’s dissect the argument to establish which one’s best for you.
Escaping to an untouched slice of paradise is never a bad idea.
And, we’re willing to bet that the fantasy paradise island getaway that pops into your head as you daydream away another boring, rainy Tuesday afternoon at your desk places you in either a luxurious beach villa or water villa. Right?!
Although many people’s ultimate escapes take them to either the Maldives or Mauritius, we’re also willing to stake decent money that the setting for your fantasy island is always the Maldives. After all, beach or water villas don’t come more iconic than on the amazing atolls.
But is your dream right for you? Or should you be hot-footing it across the sand or surf to the other accommodation? Let’s find out.
Beach Villa Or Water Villa: Water You Thinking?
You’re not going to be disappointed with either choice. But picking between a beach villa and overwater villa in the Maldives is absolutely dependent on your circumstances. We’d suggest that water villas are better suited to adults-only holidays. Meanwhile, younger families travelling to the Maldives going to be happier (and safer) back on land.
But there’s definitely more to the argument than that. So, why don’t we take a closer look at each option individually and run through some vital pro’s and cons of each option. So you’ll have all the info needed to make the best decision for you and your escape.
Why Stay In A Beach Villa?
More than just Maldives island huts, although they do try to remain authentic in their design, it’s better to think of Maldives beach villas as luxurious bungalows with direct access to the pristine sand.
White sands, azure waters, a slight ocean breeze, all just steps from your room door. The Maldives have some of the best beaches in the world, so it’s great being so close to this iconic landscape every day.
At some resorts, you can even personalise your room even further. There may be the option to have a pool alongside the beach, a sunset view, or even a garden. As we mentioned earlier, you will find that beach villas are better suited to family holidays in the Maldives, as opposed to couples.
This is because families can take advantage of the shade from the beach palm trees for little ones. Plus, it’s a little safer as young kids are not directly by the water all the time or running across potentially slippy decked verandas. There’s the fun of sandcastle building and paddling in the ocean too, so it definitely fits more for the needs of younger children.
What Else Is There To A Beach Villa?
If your villa has a private garden, you’ll find that this adds to the privacy of your beach. The greenery and plants will provide shade, but also mean you’re spot on the beach is a bit more secluded. Some resorts also have outdoor showers, so the vegetation is definitely welcome then!
Enjoy a late-night stroll across the beach? Well, it’s right there on your doorstep so there’s nothing stopping you from watching the sunset every evening. Having a beach villa adds to the whole ‘tropical island paradise’ vibes, as you get to feel the sand beneath your toes with magnificent scenic views in front of you every day. I mean, does anything else say paradise like that?
If you fancy yourself a bit of an adrenaline junkie, having a beach villa is the perfect excuse to take advantage of all of the water sports. You’re closer to the facilities, so that means you can fit in the time to take part in more. It’s a win-win situation.
What Are The Cons Of Staying In A Beach Villa?
Not necessarily ‘cons’, as these things can certainly be overlooked as they won’t dramatically affect your trip. But it’s always good to know of the things that you may not like as much, especially if you want to create a perfect getaway.
- Foliage can hinder the view
- Plants are home to bugs
- You might find more mosquitos in-land
- Sand on the floor
Foliage-Blocked Views
Remember we mentioned that there is usually some type of foliage to create privacy? This can sometimes hinder your view of the ocean, particularly if there is a lot of it. Of course, your whole view isn’t going to be blocked, but depending on where on the beach your villa is located, it could obstruct part of your view.
Watch Out For Bugs
We don’t want to scare anyone or anything. But one of the prices of being in such a beautiful, tropical location is different bugs. Some little creatures can make their homes in the greenery around your villa. However, if you leave them alone, they’ll leave you alone.
Mozzies
While we’re on the subject of bugs. Those plants can also obviously be home to mosquitoes. Although, this is a problem you’ll probably face on any sunny escape ever. So, just make sure to pack plenty of bug repellent, you may not even notice them.
Sandy Floors
One small consideration for parents thinking of treating the kids to a luxury Maldives family holiday is sand in the room. Obviously, one of the main attractions of a beach villa is having the soft white coral sand right on your doorstep. But that also means excited little hands and feet can also track it inside and onto the furniture.
Why Stay In A Water Villa?
These unique retreats are the face of luxury breaks. You’re bound to have seen the photos of steps leading into beautiful clear waters, maybe even a hammock that hangs above the water from the villa built on stilts. Usually, these snaps are from a honeymoon photo album or a celebrity’s trip away. This may lead you to believe that a break to a water villa is an unachievable goal, but we assure you, it really isn’t!
Many water villas are available at a great price (especially if you book through Tropical Warehouse). They offer picture-perfect landscapes, vibrant marine life just steps away from your own bed, and the same luxury inside your villa that a beach villa offers.
It’s the perfect couples escape, and that’s why you’ll often see these types of villas used by honeymooners or those celebrating a special anniversary. But even if you aren’t celebrating a special event, there’s nothing stopping you from just enjoying a fantastic and memory-making trip to one of these villas!
What To Expect From a Stay In a Water Villa
Expect to be spending a lot of time on your sundeck soaking in the rays. Or taking dips in the beautiful sea catching a glimpse of the colourful marine life that surrounds your villa.
You may also find that your water villa has access to 24-hour butler service, something that locations like South Palm Resort offer.
Relax, unwind, and rejuvenate your mind and body with the amazing amenities that a water villa has. It is more of a secluded and private escape, this is what makes it a lot more romantic. It can just be you, your partner, the stunning scenery, and a luxurious villa to spend all of your time in.
If you enjoy swimming in the ocean, a water villa provides ocean access24/7. Wake yourself up in the morning with a refreshing swim or cool off in the afternoon after sunbathing all day on your deck.
Cons Of Staying In A Water Villa
As we explained with the beach villas; when it comes to staying in a water villa it’s more about considerations than cons. But some common queries about water villlas are:
- Proximity to main resort area
- Low lit jetties
- Shaded sun decks
- Slippery steps
Proximity To Main Resort
Part of the attraction of water villas is their seclusion and privacy on their ocean-facing jetty. But, as a result of this private retreat experience, you may find that you’re a long way from the resort’s main facilities.
Just something to consider if you don’t want a long walk to the restaurants and bars.
Low Lighting On Jetties
Elsewhere, water villa jetties can sometimes also be poorly lit at night. This is to help frame that uber-Insta-friendly aesthetic and not take away too much from the natural beauty all around you.
But If this is a worry, you could request a villa closer to the main facilities. However, this can depend on availability and the resort you are staying at. So always ask these questions when booking to ensure you get the ideal escape for you.
Shaded Sun Deck
One big consideration that most people don’t think about is; if your water villa isn’t sun-facing, you could end up in the shade for most of the day. It may sound like a first-world problem. But when you’re splashing out on a private sundeck, you want to be in the sun. Right?!
Again, talk to your resort and ask if it’s possible to have a villa that is facing the sun.
Slippery Steps
Staying on your sundeck for a moment, the other thing many people don’t realise about water villas is the ability for the wooden decking to become slippery. Especially on the steps down to the ocean.
We love the fact that you get that direct ocean access. But, it’s very common that the final few steps that enter the lagoon can become slightly algaefied and turn slippery. Resorts like Medhufushi Island Resort try hard to keep these steps clean and algae-free, but it’s best to take extra care when entering the water anyway.
Have You Decided On A Beach Villa Or Water Villa?
Both styles of villa offer an amazing and immersive experience, so it doesn’t really matter which you decide on.
Whether you prefer being steps from the soft white sands or sunbathing on your own private sundeck, a beach villa or water villa both offer that luxurious break that we all deserve.
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