Maldives Dec 2025 unavailable now? Any alternative destinations?

I was looking at resort availability for the Dec 23 – 30ish in the Maldives, and Hilton lists everything sold out, Luxury Escape lists everything sold out. Is it too late to try to get something there?

If available, would might the price range be then? Some places were showing up on Booking for $20k total, but that's out of budget for me.

I was mostly looking for over-water huts/villas for 7-8 nights stay. Tried cutting out the New Years even but not a lot of luck.

Any alternative locations in Maldives that might be available or perhaps just different destinations that might not be in full rainy season? Might this need the service of travel agents? Was hoping to do honeymoon trip for USD 10-12k exclusive of plane tickets.