Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

A seaplane from Malé drops you onto a private island in Raa Atoll where bottlenose dolphins have been known to pace the sunset cruises. This Alila resort spreads beachfront and overwater villas across the island, each with a private freshwater pool and the kind of neutral-toned minimalism that makes you feel calm before you've even unpacked. Snorkeling with hawksbill turtles and beach volleyball fill the days; the spa handles the rest.