Niyama Private Islands Maldives

The World's 14 Coolest Underwater Hotels

"Niyama Private Island Maldives is known for its family-friendly activities and dreamy overwater villas. But the resort's coolest attraction is actually below the waves—Subsix, an underwater restaurant with Champagne breakfasts and views of living coral. To get to Subsix, guests at the resort have to take a quick speedboat ride and descend a three-tier staircase before diving into the seafood menus—all appropriately dramatic (and exclusive) means to a dazzling end. Nightly rates from: $714" - Caitlin Morton, Jamie Spain

Niyama Private Islands Maldives

"Booking at Niyama Private Island Maldives is the first step toward doing the Maldives right, as it's the perfect resort for a honeymoon—but surprisingly great for families, too. Privacy is the operative word here, as the resort spans two islands, named "Play" and "Chill." On Play, you'll find water-based activities like zooming through the lagoon on an underwater rocket, or land-based ones, like a kid's Zumba. On Chill, you'll find incredible spa treatments and soothing, over-water studios. You don't have to choose just one island, however, so hopping between is encouraged."

8 Unique Restaurants Built Over, or Under, the Water

"At the uber fancy PER AQUUM Niyama resort in Maldives, tourists frolic between two private islands. They have lots of dining choices, but by far the most unique is Subsix, a gourmet restaurant six (hence the name) meters (about 20 feet) beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean. In order to even see Subsix, visitors must come by speedboat. It’s a 40 minute trip from the capital, Malé, or a 15 minute one from Niyama Resort’s islands. The entrance to the restaurant is inconspicuous, just a mysterious pair of doors atop a short dock. Once there, they descend three stories beneath the waves into the “clam-shaped” bar. The building (constructed on land then sunk below the waves) sits central to a thriving coral reef. Sea anemone chairs and soft blue light invite the diners into the ocean world, not to mention the Hawkbill turtles, eels, and parrotfish swimming just beyond the glass." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

The 10 Most Beautiful Luxury Hotels in the World, According to Instagram Data

"A luxurious resort in the Maldives, offering unique experiences and stunning natural beauty." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare

"Subsix at Niyama Resort Aptly named Subsix sits six meters (almost 20 feet) below the water’s surface at Per Aquum’s Niyama resort, reached by speedboat (and then a three-tier staircase that descends into the sea). The ocean-inspired decor complements the underwater surroundings, where guests sip gin-infused cocktails like the Swing ’n’ Swim while admiring coral reefs and keeping an eye out for the likes of parrot fish, eels, and turtles. Lunch is a four-course set menu, featuring chef creations like lobster medallions with heirloom tomatoes and blackberry essence, or swimmer crab accompanied by couscous pomelo and ocean foam. You can also arrange for a private dinner or champagne breakfast, and for those with energy to burn, Subsix hosts twice-weekly "glow party" club nights."