A long sweep of white sand and shallow turquoise water surrounds Taj Exotica Resort & Spa on Emboodhu Finolhu, reached by speedboat from Male. Sixty-four villas extend along the beach and over one of the Maldives’ largest natural lagoons, combining thatched roofs, warm timber and broad decks; many add private pools. Twenty Four Degrees and The Deep End move dining between the island and the water, with Equator Bar facing sunset. J Wellness Circle, diving and water sports occupy quieter edges of the resort, where a slender jetty traces the lagoon.