Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives

When you conjure up an idyllic, tropical escape, chances are your fantasy getaway resembles Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives. This secluded private island comes with starched white sands, thatched-roof overwater villas, towering palm trees and impossibly blue waters. Perched on Emboodhu Finolhu island, the retreat rests in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives and feels adrift from the world, an oasis where your main stress is choosing whether to float in your private pool or sway in a hammock. While it’s tempting to spend your days lazing in the island sun, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa offers myriad activities for the restless. Take to the water for windsurfing, jet skiing, waterskiing, kayaking and wakeboarding. The Ocean Dive Center provides a range of PADI courses catering to everyone from beginner divers to rescue divers. Or you can just snorkel the pristine Indian Ocean on your own.