Maafushivaru Maldives

Name: Maafushivaru Maldives
Rating: 4.5

Combining a Maldivian paradise with contemporary indulgences, this is the epitome of an island hideaway.

Just 350m in length, Maafushivaru is small and romantic, with two wide beaches and a glorious lagoon. There’s a house reef for snorkelling and if you board one of the dive centre’s boat trips there’s a great chance of spotting turtles, manta rays and whale sharks nearby. The main buffet restaurant is the Cuisine Gallery, which offers Mediterranean cuisine infused with local flavours. In the evenings it also gives the option of an à la carte menu. Dining in the intimate overwater Japanese sushi and teppanyaki restaurant, 135° East, is recommended at least once. The infinity pool is perfectly placed on the beachfront, next to the bar with comfy chic sofas for lounging.

Maafushivaru’s secret delight is its beautiful uninhabited sister island, Lonubo. For an authentic Crusoe-esque experience, take a short boat ride across to this tiny desert island for romantic picnics, candlelit dining or even an overnight stay in the Lonubo Beach Villa with new outdoor hot tub. We recommend pre-booking a Lonubo dinner or private island stay – only one couple can visit at a time and it’s deservedly popular.

The villas are stylish with Maldivian touches. Beach Villas are just steps from the beach with a semi open-air bathroom, while Pool Villas are in groups of two with a shared pool; ideal for families and couples travelling together. Light and airy Water Villas sit on stilts over the lagoon, with floor-to-ceiling windows and direct access to the water.

Kuoni Insider

This authentic Maldivian island is one of the most beautiful I’ve visited. Its soft, gleaming beaches filter into the resort with sandy paths winding throughout, and individual thatched-roof rooms add to the island’s charm. As well as fantastic diving, there’s an uninhabited island nearby that you can visit for a secluded adventure. I went to the overwater spa for a treatment – it was so relaxing! I just loved this island and can't wait to go back."

Linda Pedler, Kuoni's Contracting Manager

TripAdvisor rating

Based on 863 reviews

Key information

In the South Ari Atoll

Airport transfer time: Approx. 25 minutes by seaplane from Malé airport

Rooms: 48

Kuoni extras -

† Kuoni is proud to be the only UK tour operator to offer Maafushivaru. See booking conditions for further details. You’ll receive complimentary access to a private seaplane lounge on arrival in Malé

Good to know

Minimum stay: 5 nights 28 Dec-02 Jan.

Accommodation information

48 beach and water villas

Activities

• Cast away onto the uninhabited island of Lonubo* • Book one of the fantastic snorkelling excursions* • Take the island tour • Sip sparkling wine on a sunset cruise*.

Dining

Buffet restaurant, à la carte restaurant, bar

What's included

Full Board • Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Cuisine Gallery • 20% discount on food at 135° East (dinner only, advance booking required).

Meal upgrade options (per person per night)

All Inclusive from £36 • Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Cuisine Gallery • Selected drinks including branded spirits, cocktails, house wine by the glass, draught beer, soft drinks and mineral water • High tea 3-5pm • 20% discount at 135° East (dinner only, advance booking required) • Minibar soft drinks and house water • Snorkelling equipment • 1 sunset cruise per stay.