In a historic milestone for the southernmost atoll of the Maldives, Canareef Resort Maldives has been awarded the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award “Best of the Best” for 2026 – the highest honour the world’s largest travel guidance platform can offer.
Out of over 8 million listings on Tripadvisor, fewer than 1% achieve Travelers’ Choice status. But “Best of the Best” is even rarer – granted to only approximately 1,500 to 2,000 elite properties worldwide. Canareef has now entered that exclusive circle for the very first time.
A First-Ever ‘Best of the Best’ – A Tribute to Our Team’s Dedication
While Canareef previously earned the standard Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2017 and then consecutively from 2023 until now, the 2026 “Best of the Best” title marks the resort’s first time receiving Tripadvisor’s ultimate recognition. This achievement is not built on distant history. It is built on recent, consistent, above-and-beyond service – the kind that comes only from a team that truly cares.
This award is a tribute to every single staff member who wakes up each day determined to create genuine, heartfelt experiences. From housekeeping to front office, from the dive centre to the kitchen – their passion and commitment have turned ordinary stays into unforgettable ones. The Tripadvisor community has spoken, and what they praised most is the hard work, warmth, and dedication of the people behind the Canareef name.
Guests Have Spoken: From Honeymooners to Families
From honeymooners enjoying quiet sunset walks to families discovering Addu’s lush, unhurried paradise, guests have shared their honest, heartfelt experiences. Their words – full of gratitude for the attentive service, cleanliness, and genuine care they received – propelled Canareef into the global spotlight.
One recent Tripadvisor review read: “We were surprised by the level of service. The team truly cares.” Another said: “This is not the same resort some old reviews describe. It has changed for the better – and beautifully so.”
A Win for the Canareef Team and Addu Atoll Tourism
The award is being celebrated across Addu City, as Canareef continues to be a major gateway to the atoll’s unique attractions – including the Addu Nature Park in Hithadhoo, the Mathikilhi Eco Park in Hulhumeedhoo, and the world‑famous Manta cleaning station that draws divers and snorkelers from around the globe.
“Receiving Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Award for the first time is a proud milestone for Canareef,” said the General Manager of Canareef Resort Maldives. “What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it comes directly from our guests – and it reflects the recent hard work, dedication, and collective effort of our entire team. This award is a tribute to each and every staff member who pours their passion into this island every day. We share this honour with our team and with the wonderful community of Addu.”
What Makes Canareef Stand Out Today
Guests consistently praise Canareef for its sprawling natural island, four kilometres of shoreline, a vibrant house reef, and a rare sense of space and serenity. Yet what travellers highlight most in their 2025–2026 reviews is the remarkable improvement in service – attentive, smiling, and genuinely warm.
The resort has listened, learned, and risen. And the world has taken notice.
An Invitation from the Equator
With the 2026 “Best of the Best” award now added to its legacy, Canareef invites travellers worldwide to discover Addu Atoll’s untouched charm. It can be reached via domestic flight from Velana International Airport or direct flight to Gan International Airport. Direct flights to Gan International Airport and seamless speedboat transfers make the journey easier than ever.
As one Tripadvisor review put it: “Don’t let the distance fool you – paradise is worth every mile.”
About Canareef Resort Maldives
Set on the serene island of Herathera in Addu Atoll, Canareef Resort Maldives features 271 beachfront villas, multiple dining outlets, a diving centre, and a sprawling wellness facility. It remains one of the few Maldivian resorts offering a true island escape without the need for seaplanes.
About Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards
Now in their 24th year, the Travelers’ Choice Awards honour destinations, hotels, restaurants, and attractions that consistently deliver excellent experiences. The “Best of the Best” designation represents the top 1% of listings globally – a badge of trust and excellence voted entirely by real travellers.
