News
The Small Maldive Island Co. launches Finolhu: a revival of classic beach chic

Maldives.net.mv – A stylish and eclectic retreat with a buzzy bon-vivant vibe, Finolhu, opening in June 2016, will be a refreshing, retro-inspired burst of fun for the region, bringing toes-in-the-sand relaxation to fun-loving beach-erati alongside the best DJs, live acts and most fabulously chic parties in the Maldives.
Having shaken up the hospitality scene in the Maldives with the launch of Amilla Fushi, which into its second year is pulling in an elite cult following amongst the cognoscenti, the Small Maldives Island Co. are continuing to make waves with their second venture.
Taking an unexpected cue from the halcyon days of the classic glamorous getaway, Finolhu recalls the heady allure of vintage beach vacations with its classic design, retro touches and laid-back ambiance. Set within the UNESCO biosphere reserve of Baa Atoll (served by the new Baa Atoll airport or accessible via a 30-minutes seaplane ride from Malé) Finolhu has all the hallmarks of paradise. Translucent waters, 1.8km long whitesand bank and perma-clear skies aside, what really sets it apart from its Maldivian competitors is its effortlessly stylish surrounds and beach clubby-ness.
The ultimate island experience for chic couples, fun-loving families and groups of friends alike, Finolhu’s 125 villas come on the ocean, the lagoon or by the beach, with or without pool, and are outfitted with Instagramworthy interiors and vintage-style Marshall speakers, while bathrooms and spa facilities are stocked with all natural, organic products from Neal’s Yard Remedies.

SPLASH AND PLAY
For power junkies and action seekers, situated on Palm Beach, Thunderball is home to a variety of water sports, beach games and a cool teens hangout. The Oceaneers Club, close by BAA BAA Beach Club, is ideal for tots to teens, with activities specially created to suit the kids who are on island, rather than a proscribed menu. From sports and games, cooking classes and crafts, and activities in and on the water, Finolhu Oceaneers (kids) won’t be bored – meaning parents can confidently check out of childcare for a few hours. Finolhu’s Marine HUB (i.e. Home of the Underwater Biosphere) hosts epic water activities including diving, snorkeling trips and excursions under the watchful eye of the Marine bio team.
The Cove Club is a happening hub of pastel-coloured beach Divans and a mellow retro revival area where massage, movement and chilling is medicinal – just drop anchor and relax! 10 chandelier-lit treatment Divans – each celebrating an iconic diva of the 60s and 70s- are complimented by a fitness centre, movement pavilion and outdoor ‘Palm Beach gym’. The island’s natural environment is the inspiration for fitness activities at The Cove Club, from capoeira and paddle boarding to ballet and kickboxing, while the facilities will also include a relaxation area overlooking the beach, steam/sauna, wellness areas, salon and retail pavilion.

GRAZE AND GROOVE
Finolhu offers laid-back yet elegant dining options, with the chilled-out Baa Baa Beach Club at its heart. Made for lounging away afternoons, sipping and nibbling from a daybed, Baa Baa is the place to be, day or night. Whether poolside or on the beach, the day starts with a leisurely long breakfast, grazing from the live cooking stations; all day tunes are the backdrop for cocktails created by world-class mixologists behind the decks and the bar.
For those who like their food with a side of fun, the Fish & Crab Shack is an oasis of rustic chic deliciousness halfway along Finolhu’s stunning 1.8km sandbar, just a swim, stroll or Dhoni ride across the lagoon: lipsmacking buckets of prawns, stunning sharing platters of fresh crab, vegetables and local seafood are served under coconut trees, accompanied by crisp glasses of rosé or crafted cocktails from the beach bar.
Located on the tip of the island with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, Finolhu’s star dining venue Kanusan spans three areas: a vibrant overwater bar area; a relaxed indoor space and an al fresco lower deck for an archetypal Maldivian experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of the sea. An open kitchen puts the cuisine centre stage, embracing the theatricality of Kanusan’s Asian spirit.
Classic favourites of Mandarin roasted duck and Larb Gai are given a refreshing Kanusan twist, while newly created signature dishes include steamed snapper and lobster, black truffle roast duck and sliced blue abalone in Kanusan sauce.
Bringing magical Maghreb flavours to the Maldives, the boutique-style Baahaa Grill restaurant will celebrate the legendary spice blends of pre-Moorish North Africa, where a town’s finest spice sellers were as famous as its rulers. Starting with mezze, this is a spice odyssey of mixes, rubs and marinades from Ras el Hanout to Baharat and Adwiya, where select cuts are spiced and grilled to perfection.
Playtime starts as nightfall draws the crowds to the magnetic two-storey Beach Club Bar. Every night is an invitation to step back in time and discover new fun and games. Nightly foodie showcases are matched with world-class wines – at refreshingly quaffable prices – from the island’s Wine Vault. Cinema Retro screens classic movies and live international sports action; gamers can hit the bar’s old school arcade for classic Pinball or PacMan action; or soak up 180 degree views from the panoramic upstairs bar and viewing lounge. Baa Baa Beach Club keeps things fresh with a nightly, weekly and monthly entertainment and events programme, including the weekly Retro Pool Party, the monthly Full Moon Tribal sandbar party… and, just four times per year, vibe-defining “Finolhu Blhu” events – exclusive one-off extravaganzas featuring appearances from the world’s coolest performers and hottest DJs.
Finolhu’s old-school tuck shop, Milk Bar is tantalisingly located on the corner where The Cove Club, Thunderball on Palm Beach and the tennis courts meet. Treats range from guilt-free wraps, smashed avocado and acai bowls, smoothies, juices, and Bodyism Shakes to carefree ice creams and chocolates, amazing coffees, cool beers and wine by the glass. Milk Bar is also a godsend for holiday ‘essentials’, stocking a seemingly telepathic variety of bathroom amenities, nick nacks and reading material.
Love
dusitD2 Feydhoo hosts multi-day wedding buyout with international guests
Following an elegant wedding celebration in Mumbai, a couple chose to extend their festivities in the Maldives with an exclusive multi-day post-wedding private island buyout at dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives.
Joined by close family, Bollywood celebrities, and elite business figures, the celebration transitioned from a traditional city setting to a vibrant island experience, transforming the resort into a private playground of curated moments. The presence of high-profile guests added to the exclusivity and prestige of the occasion, further highlighting the Maldives as a preferred destination for distinguished clientele.

Over the course of four days, guests enjoyed a seamless blend of relaxed daytime gatherings, beachside experiences, and lively evening celebrations. The program featured a mix of themed events, entertainment, and social experiences, creating a dynamic atmosphere that balanced intimacy with high energy. From beachfront activities and sunset moments to music-led evenings and after-parties, the celebration reflected a modern approach to destination weddings.

dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for weddings and exclusive group buyouts, offering a fresh, lifestyle-driven concept tailored for today’s luxury traveler. The resort is fully equipped with high-quality event infrastructure, including advanced audio-visual systems, premium sound setups, high-performance speakers, dynamic stage lighting, and fully customisable staging solutions.

A key highlight is the resort’s versatile indoor event hall, designed to host everything from elegant ceremonies and gala dinners to high-energy parties and late-night entertainment. With flexible layouts and integrated technical capabilities, alongside expansive outdoor venues, the resort delivers a complete and seamless event experience.

This celebration further reinforces the Maldives’ growing appeal as a preferred destination for post-wedding experiences and group celebrations. By combining creative flexibility with world-class execution, dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives continues to redefine how modern weddings and events are experienced in the Maldives.
For more information or event inquiries, please visit dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives’ website or contact the events team at events.d2md@dusit.com.
Action
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru marks first Hawksbill turtle hatchling event since 2015
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has recorded the return of a Hawksbill sea turtle to its shores for the first time since 2015, with eggs laid in January hatching on the afternoon of 23 March, marking a meaningful moment for the island and its surrounding marine environment.
The eggs, laid on 24 January, have now hatched, with tiny hatchlings emerging beneath sun-warmed sands and making their way across the beach into the lagoon. The moment was quietly witnessed by guests and resort associates, offering a precious and moving glimpse into one of nature’s most delicate life cycles.
The return comes alongside Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru’s ongoing marine conservation efforts, led by its on-site Marine Lab – one of the first resort-based marine conservation programmes in the Maldives. For over two decades, the Marine Lab has contributed to coral restoration, reef protection, marine biodiversity monitoring and environmental education.
The Banyan Tree Marine Lab actively engages guests and associates through ongoing conservation activities, including Marine Talks on turtle and shark conservation, reef restoration and monitoring, as well as ongoing turtle identification and monitoring initiatives that support broader research efforts across the country.
Hawksbill turtles, listed as critically endangered, continue to face threats across the Maldives from habitat loss, marine pollution and climate change. Their rare return to shore serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder of the responsibility we share in protecting these fragile species and the ecosystems they depend on.
“Moments like are truly special,” said Alex Burden, Marine Lab Manager at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “The return of a sea turtle to our shores is a powerful reflection of what long-term commitment and genuine care for the marine environment can achieve.”
Family
Sun Siyam Iru Veli curates Easter experience with dining and live entertainment
This Easter, Sun Siyam Iru Veli invites guests to enjoy a magical island programme from April 2nd to 6th, 2026, inspired by shimmering ocean blues and playful coastal elements. Part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, the resort presents a five-day celebration where curated dining, family-friendly activities, wellness moments, and live entertainment come together to create an immersive Easter escape for couples and families alike.
At the heart of the celebration is Easter Day, when the island comes alive with experiences for all ages. Families can enjoy the Grand Easter Egg Hunt and Cocoa & Bunny moments, where little ones can meet and pet bunnies while sipping hot cocoa, while the Magical Splash Pool Party celebration brings together music, refreshments, and a lively island atmosphere. As evening falls, a Special Easter Buffet opens, followed by Wonders of the Ocean—a captivating live performance that brings a sense of magic to the lagoon setting.
The enchanting evening is brought to life through performances by magician Ahmed Shaman. Known for his engaging and interactive style, his work celebrates local talent while adding a sense of wonder to the island. From close-up illusions to playful mind-reading moments, each performance invites guests to become part of the experience, creating memories that feel both personal and unforgettable. His presence reflects the resort’s ongoing commitment to showcasing Maldivian artistry while enriching the guest journey.
Throughout the week, guests can explore a diverse lineup of experiences, including themed international buffets, beachfront lobster BBQ under the stars, cocktail nights, and live music. Younger guests are engaged through creative and playful activities, such as Easter card making, egg painting, kite flying, and musical games. The Ocean Spa welcomes all to unwind with special promotions that aim to bring a soft, seasonal glow to both mind and body. From sandbank picnics to sunset entertainment and wellness-led experiences, Easter 2026 at Sun Siyam Iru Veli invites guests to create lasting memories in a setting shaped by the shimmering lagoons and the rhythm of the ocean.
For more information and to book your Easter escape, please visit Sun Siyam Iru Veli Offers page.
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