The Maldives has its share of islands that whisper tranquillity and others that radiate energy. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, set in the conveniently located North Malé Atoll, sits comfortably somewhere between the two — a relaxed, polished island that embraces barefoot living while offering the reassuring warmth of a globally trusted luxury brand. It’s the kind of place where life smooths out almost instantly: touch down at Malé, glide across the water on a short speedboat transfer, and within minutes you’re stepping onto soft sand with the lagoon stretching wide and impossibly blue before you. This close proximity to the international airport is a huge plus for many – as it means you can be relaxing in our own pool whilst others are waiting hours for their sea plane.
The island itself is generous — more spacious than many boutique atolls, and designed so that families, couples and groups can each find their own rhythm. Whether wandering along long crescents of beach, lingering at oceanfront restaurants or retreating to one of the villas, there’s a sense of easefulness that defines the Sheraton experience here. Days unfold without effort: sunlight glittering across calm shallows, the sound of palm leaves shifting in the breeze, the quiet pleasure of knowing that everything you need is within a barefoot stroll.
Our Stay: Ocean Villa — Where the Sea Fills Every Frame
Perched along a prime stretch of the resort’s shoreline, the Ocean Villas offer exactly what their name promises: unobstructed, panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, framed through wide glass doors and the open expanse of a private deck. These villas are among the most atmospheric places to stay on the island — ideal for travellers who want constant connection to the water without being perched on stilts above it. And of course absolute privacy. Each Ocean Villa blends the Sheraton’s contemporary warmth with classic Maldivian touches: natural timbers, high ceilings, soft sandy tones, and wide spaces designed for living rather than simply sleeping.
The interiors are beautlifully designed, airy and uncluttered, while outside, the private deck becomes the focal point of daily life — a place for morning coffees as the lagoon shifts from pale aquamarine to deeper blue, for sunbathing in complete tranquility, or simply for watching waves ripple gently against the shore. The pool is large and practical with steps to enter and sit on when you don’t fancy a full dip. Bathrooms are beautifully laid out, featuring outdoor showers and deep soaking tubs that allow guests to unwind with the sound of the sea. We particularly loved our villa for its stunning interior design, large pool, ocean view and sounds of the waves, and found it incredibly relaxing.
An Island with Room to Live
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa distinguishes itself through its sense of space. Many Maldivian islands lean towards smaller footprints, but here, guests can explore multiple beaches, stroll along shaded pathways, and choose from a variety of lounging spots throughout the day. It’s a layout that gives the island both privacy and atmosphere — and allows guests to move at their own pace. Do look out for the very pretty orchid garden during your walks.
The resort offers diverse accommodation options, from Beach Cottages and Deluxe Rooms shaded by palms to Water Bungalows and Water Villas suspended above the lagoon. Yet, regardless of location or category, every room type maintains certain hallmarks: open, breezy interiors; nature-inspired palettes; and the feeling that the sea is never more than a few steps away.
Dining: Varied, Relaxed, and Designed for Island Living
Dining at Sheraton Maldives is marked by variety. Feast, the resort’s main restaurant, serves international dishes from interactive stations — ideal for guests who enjoy choice and casual sociability. In contrast, Sea Salt is wonderfully atmospheric, offering refined seafood dishes at the water’s edge, where torches flicker in the evening breeze and the lagoon glimmers softly in the background. The lobster we savoured here was wonderful!
Baan Thai’s fragrant curries and rich, delicate flavours offer authenticity and comfort, while Masala Hut serves Indian classics crafted with warmth and finesse. At ChopstiX enjoy homemade dumplings, noodles, and other flavourful Asian specialties in a laid-back poolside setting, and for sunset cocktails, Kakuni Hut and the Anchorage Bar are perfect choices.
The resort’s culinary identity is woven around friendliness, comfort and variety rather than formality, making it especially appealing to guests who enjoy relaxed luxury with consistently good food and genuine service.
Shine Spa for Sheraton — A Spa Island Floating in its Own Serenity
One of Sheraton Maldives’ most distinctive features is its Shine Spa, set on a dedicated island accessible via a small wooden bridge. The moment you cross the walkway, the world seems to quieten — palms rustle overhead, treatment pavilions look out onto endless shades of blue, and a sense of separation from the busier areas of the resort settles in almost immediately.
The spa menu blends global wellness traditions with Sheraton’s signature approach to relaxation. Massages, body wraps, facials and rituals are performed in tranquil spaces filled with natural light and ocean breeze. Couples’ suites offer a particularly serene experience, with private outdoor areas for resting after treatments and views that make you linger long after the therapist has left.
Do allow yourself time to really enjoy the spa’s very pretty pool garden – with waterfalls and tropical flowers, and sound of the waves beyond, it’s one of our favourite spots to sunbathe, swim and relax.
Activities for Every Mood
Because the island is larger than many Maldivian resorts, Sheraton Maldives naturally lends itself to variety. Guests can snorkel in the clear lagoon, join diving excursions to explore nearby reefs, take sunset cruises on traditional dhonis, or try stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking in the shallow waters. Families find plenty to enjoy through the Sheraton Kids Club, while couples gravitate to the quieter beaches and the romance of private dining or quiet walks at dusk.
Those who prefer a slower pace can station themselves by the pools, stroll the island, or simply spend the day on the villa deck watching the ocean shift through an astonishing kaleidoscope of colours.
Service with Genuine Warmth
Despite its size and its established brand identity, one of the resort’s greatest strengths is its warmth. Staff recognise guests from day to day, remember preferences, and offer assistance in a way that feels natural rather than scripted. It’s a style of service that suits the resort’s atmosphere: friendly, unpretentious, and highly attentive when you need it.
Whether arranging a romantic dinner, a birthday surprise (it was my mum’s birthdat whilst out there), a particular bottle of wine, or a sunset excursion tailored to your timing, the team moves with an easy confidence — a balance of familiarity and professionalism that instantly puts guests at ease.
Final Thoughts
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers a relaxed, sunlit take on Maldivian luxury — one that prioritises comfort, accessibility and the simple pleasure of waking up beside a calm, shimmering sea. It is a resort where the pace slows, where service feels heartfelt, and where the sea is a constant companion. Warm, welcoming and effortlessly enjoyable, Sheraton Maldives is a place that makes island life feel wonderfully easy.
Visit: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlesi-sheraton-maldives-full-moon-resort-and-spa/overview/
By Lisa Curtiss
