Maldives Honeymoon: A Travel Guide & Dress Edit by Danielle Copperman

There’s never not a good excuse to escape winter and immerse yourself in island life. Add a romantic celebration into the mix, and it’s even better. Nothing quite says intimate quality time like being tucked away on a deserted island, far, far from the real world.

I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from my first time in the Maldives, or a Maldives honeymoon. I’d always thought of it as a luxury escape for honeymooners – the kind of place made for elaborate engagements and overwater villas. Since I’m already engaged, I figured it was the perfect chance to see what honeymooning there would actually feel like. I booked into two very different resorts, each offering its own take on island romance. With a carefully edited Maldives honeymoon wardrobe packed into my suitcase, I set out to experience each island as a true post-wedding retreat.

Island Beginnings: Life Aquatic at Soneva Jani

Starting at Soneva Jani – a vast resort with winding paths connecting water villas on stilts (yes, just like in the photos) – I settled in quickly, adjusting to the humidity and already familiar with the overcast blanket of grey skies. One thing to note: it’s near impossible to predict the weather in the Maldives (and it can vary dramatically from island to island), so a versatile, well-considered wardrobe is a must. But more on that later.

Soneva carries an air of elegance and effortless luxury, and the experience begins long before you reach your villa. In their private sea plane lounge, you’re welcomed with watermelon juice, a spread of homemade refreshments, private massages, and more. Upon arrival at the island, another tailored drink awaits – this one designed to soothe digestion, reduce inflammation, and relieve tension from the long journey.

Once you land, you’re immediately immersed in island life: endless horizons, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of serenity that seems to radiate from both the surroundings and the local team who make this place feel alive. Settling into our villa, we soaked up the view of shallow waters stretching in every direction – and of course, one of Soneva’s signature water slides leading straight into them.

With everything you need at the villa, it’s easy to forget there’s a whole world outside. But at Soneva, that world is full of discovery: a collection of restaurants, bars, hidden beaches, and wellness sanctuaries offering treatments and activities. Throughout my stay, I found myself reaching only for swimwear and easy layers – the ideal backdrop for my favorite kind of style: light, timeless, and effortless.

In my opinion, the perfect packing list for a place like this begins with staple swimwear that can be mixed and matched with loose, flowing dresses, skirts, and wide-leg pants. There’s hardly any need for shoes – barefoot is encouraged – though simple sandals or elevated evening footwear are perfect if you’re dining out at one of the resort’s restaurants.

If I had to sum up a stay at Soneva in two words: effortless elegance. You want to feel relaxed and comfortable, yet subtly elevated, in case the mood (or the meal) calls for it.

“If I had to sum up a stay at Soneva in two words: effortless elegance. You want to feel relaxed and comfortable, yet subtly elevated, in case the mood (or the meal) calls for it.”

Slowing Down: Wellness at Six Senses Kanuhura

Following my stay at Soneva, I hopped over to Six Senses Kanuhura. Six Senses properties have long been a favorite of mine – my go-to whenever I need something deeply restful, grounding, and rooted in wellness. For romantic occasions or celebrations, they create space for meaningful connection: quality time, shared rituals, and a sense of ease that invites you to truly slow down. What I especially love is how their approach to luxury goes hand in hand with self-discovery – offering moments that nurture both emotional well-being and physical restoration.

Upon arrival, you’re invited to join the barefoot movement – an immediate cue to exhale and connect with the earth beneath you. The resort is smaller than Soneva, with a gentle, intimate atmosphere. Personalized bikes await outside your villa, making it easy to explore at your own rhythm. With several restaurants on site and a variety of cuisines, dining never feels repetitive. A short boat ride away, the resort’s private island features a daytime restaurant serving a beautifully curated menu of fresh, local produce – a highlight of my stay.

What sets Six Senses Kanuhura apart is its embrace of nature. The beaches wrap around the entire island, and the passion for ocean life and sustainability is woven into every part of the experience. Guests are invited to learn about – and participate in – their daily eco-initiatives, creating a real sense of connection with the place. Their wellness offerings are ideal for couples or solo travelers alike, from deeply restorative treatments and a tranquil spa area to daily yoga and meditation sessions.

“Upon arrival, you’re invited to join the barefoot movement – an immediate cue to exhale and connect with the earth beneath you.”

While Soneva and Six Senses offered distinct experiences, both felt like peaceful, private sanctuaries — the kind of places where you can fully disconnect and re-center. Each resort blends raw natural beauty with thoughtful luxury, allowing you to adapt to island life entirely on your own terms.

As for what to pack: versatility is everything. The weather can shift quickly, so opt for outfits that transition effortlessly from day to night – or more specifically, from a barefoot beach walk to a sunset boat ride, then straight to dinner. Think elevated simplicity: natural fabrics, fluid silhouettes, and just the right touch of romance.

The Honeymoon-Proof Dress Edit

Below are the pieces from my trip that got the most wear – along with a few other options to consider as you curate an effortless, laid-back wardrobe for a tropical getaway.

Shop my wardrobe here.