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.
Awards
Sun Siyam Iru Veli recognised with 10 honours at Life Saving Leadership Awards
Sun Siyam Iru Veli, part the Privé Collection of House of Sun Siyam, has been recognised with 10 notable awards at the 3rd Life Saving Leadership Awards Ceremony held by the Maldives Swimming and Life Saving Skills Training School on 17 May 2026.
These accolades strengthens the resort’s position as one of the leading benchmarks for water safety and lifeguarding excellence in the Maldives. They are also a reflection of the continued investment in aquatic safety, emergency preparedness, and professionally trained lifeguarding operations and Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s commitment to creating a safe island experience for every guest.
Among the accolades received was the Maldives Water Safety Excellence Award 2025, the highest recognition presented during the ceremony. Additional honours included The Pinnacle Resort Award, Best Lifeguard Service Operation, Sustainability in Lifeguard Operation Award, and Water Safety Education and Advocacy Award. Together, these accolades reflect the resort’s continued efforts to integrate internationally aligned safety practices into the guest experience while maintaining the warm and intuitive spirit of Maldivian hospitality.
Alongside the organisational awards, five team members from Sun Siyam Iru Veli were also individually recognised for their contributions and leadership in the field of water safety and lifesaving training. General Manager Masdhooq Saeed received the General Manager of the Year Award, while Mohamed Athif Ibrahim was honoured for Water Safety & Life Saving Training Leadership. Additional recognitions included the Supervisor Excellence Award presented to Ahmed Shifau, the Trident Excellence Award awarded to Ahmed Jamsheed, and the Rising Star in Lifeguarding Award presented to Hassan Yousuf Adam Abbas.

Since launching its dedicated lifeguarding operation in 2023, Sun Siyam Iru Veli has continued to invest in training, prevention strategies, emergency preparedness, and water safety awareness. The resort’s approach combines proactive guest education and observation with structured emergency response systems, ensuring a safe and seamless experience across the island’s ocean and pool environments.
“Water safety is incredibly important for resorts across the Maldives, where the ocean is such a central part of everyday life and the guest experience,” remarked Mohamed Najah, Resort Manager of Sun Siyam Iru Veli, during the award ceremony. “As an industry, the way we approach safety and precautions must continue to evolve. Moving beyond simply warning guests to be cautious, it is our responsibility to ensure our teams are properly trained, prepared, and confident in responding when needed. It is an honour to see these efforts recognised, but this is only the beginning. Our focus now is on continuing to strengthen training across our frontline teams and further raising the standard of water safety within our industry.
Drink
Asia’s top mixology talent to lead cocktail takeover at JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll
JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort invites guests to discover an immersive three-night cocktail journey this June, featuring acclaimed mixologist Navjot Singh. Taking place across the resort’s distinctive venues from June 17 to 19, 2026, the exclusive bar takeover will present a curated series of innovative tropical cocktail experiences inspired by island living, craftsmanship, and storytelling.
Led by Navjot Singh, Beverage Program Leader at Lair Bar, the experience brings one of Asia’s most celebrated contemporary cocktail programs to the Maldives. Recognised as No. 8 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025, Lair Bar is renowned for its innovative approach to mixology, blending luxury spirits, creativity, and immersive storytelling. Navjot himself was recently crowned World Class India 2025, cementing his reputation as one of the industry’s leading talents.
Joining him is Nakul Dev, Senior Bartender at LAIR BAR, whose creative approach is deeply inspired by the flavours and ingredients of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. With over six years of experience in hospitality and cocktails, Nakul is known for crafting ingredient-driven drinks that reflect the essence of the mountains and local produce from his hometown. His passion for flavour development and exploration of new techniques brings an additional layer of creativity and depth to the collaboration.

Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the takeover will unfold across three distinct venues, each offering its own atmosphere and cocktail narrative. At Nikkei Bar, guests will enjoy an exclusive sunset activation where thoughtfully crafted cocktails elevate golden-hour moments with refined tropical flavours and interactive guest experiences. Wahoo Bar will host an elegant beachfront evening inspired by the serenity of the coast, pairing curated tropical cocktails with breathtaking sunset views and laid-back sophistication. The final experience will take place at JW Garden, where a “Garden to Glass” concept celebrates locally grown ingredients such as basil, lemongrass, and pandan, highlighting sustainability and creating an immersive journey.
“We are thrilled to welcome Navjot Singh to JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort for this exclusive guest bartender series,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager. “His expertise, creativity, and dedication to craft reflect our commitment to offering guests immersive moments that are aligned with our philosophy of contemporary luxury.”
Each cocktail hour has been carefully designed to reflect the spirit of the island through a contemporary lens, blending tropical influences with modern techniques and storytelling. Through this collaboration, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort continues to elevate its culinary and beverage programming, offering guests meaningful and memorable experiences rooted in connection, discovery, and craftsmanship.
Learn more about JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort here.
Culture
Eid al-Adha at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa blends family togetherness with island luxury
This season, as families from across the globe gather to honour the blessed occasion of Eid al-Adha, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa invites multi-generational travellers to celebrate the spirit of sacrifice, gratitude, and togetherness on the pristine shores of Shaviyani Atoll. Embracing the essence of this holy celebration, the resort has curated a deeply meaningful Eid experience, seamlessly aligned with its ongoing “Family Fun Summer” offer, giving loved ones the perfect framework to slow down, connect, and nourish the soul in an island sanctuary.
An Eid Culinary Awakening at Aailaa
Celebrating the occasion with gastronomic elegance, the resort’s vibrant all-day dining venue, Aailaa, will be transformed into a festive sanctuary alive with the warmth and spirit of Eid. Guests can look forward to a special Eid corner during breakfast, featuring traditional morning delicacies. As the day unfolds, a curated festive menu takes centre stage, showcasing rich, comforting flavours such as Chargrilled Lamb Chops and Beef Kofta Kebab.
The specialty of the day belongs to a true masterpiece: the ROYAL PRELUDE – Slow-Cooked Lamb Paya Shorba. A traditional, gelatinous aromatic broth simmered overnight, it is infused with Kashmiri saffron, delicate herbs, and finished with a golden, crispy onion garnish, offering a deeply comforting taste of heritage.

Spaces Crafted for Togetherness
At the heart of the experience is a commitment to providing a space for families to be truly present. The resort’s Overwater Duplex Villas and Two-Bedroom Duplex Beach Villas with Pool serve as private havens of comfort, specifically designed to cater to the nuances of multigenerational living. These sanctuaries are complemented by the intuitive care of Thakuru service and the freedom of complimentary bicycles, allowing guests to explore the island’s lush landscapes at a leisurely, intentional pace.
The journey extends beyond the villa, offering a curated collection of activities that celebrate the spirit of discovery. Younger guests are invited to the Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, with over 100 programs to spark curiosity and play. For a deeper connection to the environment, the JW Garden provides a tranquil setting for families to engage in culinary classes, offering a literal ‘farm-to-table’ experience that fosters a deeper harmony with the natural world.

The journey extends beyond the villa, offering a curated collection of activities that celebrate the spirit of discovery. Younger guests are invited to the Family by JW™ Little Griffins Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives with over 100 programs spark curiosity and play. For a deeper connection to the environment, the JW Garden provides a tranquil setting for families to engage in culinary classes, offering a literal ‘farm-to-table’ experience that fosters a deeper harmony with the natural world.

Family Sun Summer Package
Designed for ultimate connection, the Family Fun Summer package offers a comprehensive escape with a USD 300 resort credit to be used toward spa treatments, signature dining, or island adventures. The experience includes daily breakfast, along with three-course lunches and dinners for two adults and children under 12 at select venues. Families can also enjoy a signature floating breakfast in the privacy of their villa.
For more information and bookings, please visit the resort’s website.
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