1. The Muraka, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives
The Muraka is a Hilton underwater hotel, which is part of the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Submerged 16 feet below sea level, this two-level villa debuted in November 2018 and has a master bedroom and a bathroom, both featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls to take in the Indian Ocean’s marine life. The word muraka translates to coral in the local language of Dhivehi.
At sea level, guests can enjoy two bedrooms and a bathroom, an outdoor deck with an infinity pool, 24-hour butler service, and access to a private chef. You can also have a fitness trainer and reserve some spa treatments in your suite.
If you are traveling with children, the resort will set up a teepee in the undersea suite, complete with a pillow fort and treats selected by you. The resort also offers a kids’ club and Junior Diving Course.
The suite sleeps up to nine people, and prices start at $50,000 per night. You can arrive at Muraka via a private seaplane or travel from Conrad Maldives Rangali on a speedboat, which you can keep for the duration of your stay. Access to private jet skis is also available.
The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island opened its first undersea restaurant a decade ago. Considered a first-of-its-kind, the Ithaa (meaning «mother of pearl») restaurant, also located 16 feet below sea level, is surrounded by coral gardens and has set menus featuring a six-course meal.
2. The Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Tanzania
Located off the east coast of Tanzania, Pemba Island belongs to the Zanzibar archipelago, featuring some of the finest beaches and the most beautiful azure waters. In 2013, The Manta Resort unveiled its exclusive Underwater Room, a three-level floating suite offering crystal-clear views of the reef from its submerged bedroom in the Indian Ocean.
This all-inclusive villa, perfect for a honeymoon, can be accessed by a quick wooden boat ride from the beach. It’s close enough to the beach, but provides the ultimate seclusion and has a living room, bathroom, and a sundeck crafted from local hardwood.
At night, this underwater hotel lights up on the sides to shed light on the sea turtles and reef sharks swimming alongside you as you rest. Prices start at $900 per night, and the hotel offers dive trips along the Pemba coast.
