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Waldorf Astoria Maldives offers luxury leisure seekers unforgettable escape

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Hilton’s luxury brand, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, welcomes guests to a world of visionary design at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.

Having opened on July 1, 2019, the all-pool-villa resort is designed for elite travellers with a discerning eye, with all 122 villas, dining venues and spa and wellness sanctuary boasting exquisite architecture and design that blends perfectly into the landscape.

Spanning three interlinking islands in the South Male Atoll, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a tranquil retreat surrounded by crystal-clear azure ocean. Designed to meet local environmental requirements and needs, every aspect of the resort has been guided by the natural setting and local architectural style, with a luxury edge. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a breath-taking view of villas nestled within the sparkling Maldivian landscape, inspired by the islands’ beauty, natural resources and local culture.

The resort was built with the preservation of the natural beauty and ecosystem of the area in mind. Where possible construction made use of durable and recyclable materials and native or naturalised plant species in landscaping. Special care was also taken to limit energy and water consumption.

The resort’s villas, ranging from one- to two- and three-bedroom layouts, are contemporary in style and clad in solid wood. The rich exterior is contrasted by the modern open plan interior, with a lofty seven-meter-high ceiling elevating the space. All rooms boast spectacular views, with each space facing an enticing lagoon, ocean or beach view, where sun, sea and sand awaits. Every villa also boasts a large (minimum 10 metres in length) infinity pool, a hanging gazebo and a sunbed, as well as a covered terrace with contemporary Maldivian outdoor furniture.

“Over the years, Waldorf Astoria has continued to define the hospitality experience for the modern-day traveler through sophisticated and timeless style,” Etienne Dalançon, General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, said.

“No effort was spared in designing, crafting, engineering and building Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, right down to the final finishing touches. We are delighted that we are able to bring guests to a truly inspiring destination, where serene, generous spaces were made for the perfect escape from the busy world.”

The sensorial design experience is also evident in the dining venues. Stickman Tribe, an internationally recognised boutique interior design studio, led the creative vision for four of the 11 dining venues: Terra, Glow, The Rock and Li Long.

Terra

Inspired by the Latin name for Earth or Land, Terra invites guests to ascend into the treetops along a feature staircase, where they’ll enjoy a unique dining experience in bamboo pods amongst a vast canopy of foliage. Strategically layered to optimise the vista, guests can expect sublime views of the Indian Ocean.

Glow

A greenhouse-like structure shaded by greenery, with modern, contemporary lines creating an airy dining experience, Glow is a welcoming space offering plenty of sunlight during the day and a glittering view of the night sky in the evening. The eatery serves up delectable dishes with a focus on well-being, which are created from the resort’s own on-island nurseries and on-site herb garden — so diners are guaranteed the freshest flavours and ingredients.

The Rock

Set in an atmospheric cave, The Rock is a sumptuous wine cellar and dining experience that caters exclusively to 12 people each night. Guests begin their evening in a sunken seated area where pre-dinner drinks are served, before proceeding into the carved-out space for dinner, where the venue’s piéce de résistance awaits — a remarkable four-meter-long table crafted from a 3,000-year-old reclaimed Jarrah tree from Western Australia, which was retrofitted and shipped to the Maldives specifically for The Rock.

Li Long

Li Long serves contemporary Chinese fine dining in a setting that combines traditional elements with a modern twist to create the perfect blend of old and new. An 800-kilogram Ming Dynasty inspired chinoiserie bell draws the eye upwards when first entering the space. The kitchen has been designed to be fully visible, allowing guests to witness the cooking process as they dine on authentic regional delicacies such as Peking duck, prepared in the first wood-fired oven in the Maldives and carved tableside by a Chinese master chef.

“When considering the dining design briefs for these venues — a treehouse dining concept, a cave wine cellar restaurant, an organic farmhouse and authentic Chinese restaurant — the architectural envelope and interior must go hand-in-hand to ensure that the end result is as iconic as the vision,” Marcos Cain, CEO of Stickman Tribe, said.

In addition to the restaurants designed by Stickman Tribe, meticulous design is integral to other key venues at the resort.

Yasmeen

Yasmeen is a unique beachside restaurant where guests can admire the lapping waves of the Indian Ocean. Created from a historic Arabian house discovered on the island during construction, Yasmeen is filled with decorative artefacts and antiques, including 31 Arabic doors and windows, some of which have a 400-year-old history. A village square–inspired courtyard, complete with towering fountain, acts as the centrepiece of the restaurant, with each dining area offering guests a view of the soothing sight.

The Ledge

A partnership with Chef Dave Pynt, the culinary mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends restaurant, The Ledge brings culinary theatre to the Maldives. With a warm, inviting ambience, the space embraces the sandstone of the surrounding walls and builds this texture throughout to give the feel of it being fused to the island. Complementing the fire from the chef’s custom-built oven, this warmth is further emphasised through the distinct selection of lighting, in-light troughs, fixtures and fittings, as well as the reclaimed timber floors, leather and antique bronze touches, exuding a sense of relaxed luxury.

Spanning three interconnected islands in the South Male Atoll, and a short 30-minute yacht journey away from Velana International Airport, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an iconic resort paradise surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldivian landscape and the crystal-clear Indian Ocean.

Aside from the excellent restaurants and bars, the resort also boasts 122 spacious villas, the Waldorf Astoria Young Discovery Park and a world-class spa.

For more information or to make reservations, please visit www.waldorfastoriamaldives.com or call +960-4-000300.

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Angsana Velavaru plans Easter weekend of activities and dining

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Angsana Velavaru is inviting guests to celebrate Easter with a two-day island programme featuring family activities, ocean experiences and seasonal dining from 4 to 5 April 2026.

Located within a lagoon in South Nilandhe Atoll, the resort will host a series of activities designed for families, couples and travellers seeking a seasonal getaway by the sea. The programme includes a combination of wellness sessions, marine experiences and leisure activities intended to bring guests together during the Easter holiday period.

Mornings begin with yoga sessions overlooking the lagoon, followed by opportunities to explore the island’s marine environment through guided snorkelling excursions and discovery experiences organised by the Endheri Marine Centre.

Throughout the day, guests can take part in a range of recreational activities across the island. These include beach kite flying, aqua aerobics sessions and bird feeding at the island’s sanctuary. Adventure-focused experiences are also available, with water sports such as family tube rides and sunset cruises offering guests the opportunity to explore the surrounding lagoon.

Dining experiences form a central part of the Easter programme. Guests can participate in interactive activities including cocktail-making sessions and the Wok & Toss dining experience, which allows visitors to engage with the resort’s culinary team. The programme also includes Easter buffet lunch and dinner at Kaani Restaurant, where seasonal dishes are served in a relaxed island setting.

Evening entertainment includes live music performances, DJ sessions and outdoor film screenings under the stars, creating a relaxed atmosphere for guests to gather and socialise.

Children’s activities are organised through the Ranger’s Club, where a dedicated Easter programme features creative workshops such as bunny mask making, Easter egg painting and string art. Traditional activities including Easter egg hunts and beach races are also planned for younger guests.

The Easter programme at Angsana Velavaru combines marine exploration, family-friendly activities and seasonal dining experiences, offering guests an opportunity to celebrate the holiday while enjoying the island’s natural surroundings.

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Patina Maldives hosts Chef Shannon Bennett for exclusive April residency

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From 1 to 5 April 2026, Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will host Shannon Bennett, one of Australia’s most recognised culinary figures and the creative force behind Belongil. The residency brings together a chef known for shaping dining as an emotional and reflective experience with a destination defined by perspective, creativity and purpose.

Bennett’s career extends beyond traditional notions of cooking. Through projects such as Vue de Monde and Belongil, he has explored dining as a medium for memory, connection and emotion, placing emphasis on experience rather than consumption. His approach centres on creating moments that remain with guests long after the meal has ended.

At Patina Maldives, the residency represents a convergence of shared values. Over five nights, guests are invited to take part in a limited series of dining experiences shaped by intention, curiosity and a sense of place. Rather than recreating Belongil in another setting, the programme evolves its philosophy, drawing inspiration from the natural rhythm and clarity of the Maldivian environment.

Commenting on the collaboration, Bennett said Belongil was conceived as more than a place to eat, but as a space for ideas, connection and lasting moments. He noted that Patina Maldives reflects a similar sense of purpose, adding that bringing his work into the island setting offered an opportunity to create experiences that feel grounded, honest and meaningful.

Patina Maldives continues to develop its identity by providing a platform for global creative voices to shape new conversations and perspectives. The residency with Bennett aligns with this approach, positioning cuisine as one element within a broader cultural and experiential narrative.

Tom Bray, Director of Lifestyle at Patina Maldives, said the resort exists to bring people closer to ideas, creativity and self-discovery. He added that welcoming Bennett reflects this philosophy, describing the residency as an experience designed to shift perspective rather than focus solely on gastronomy.

The residency is presented as an experience defined by intention rather than spectacle. Taking place over five nights on a single island, it brings together Patina Maldives and one of the culinary world’s most reflective minds for a programme shaped by presence, purpose and a sense of moment that cannot be replicated in the same way again.

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You & Me Maldives unveils curated Premium All Inclusive programme

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You & Me Maldives, the adults-only luxury retreat under The Cocoon Collection, has announced the launch of its new Premium All Inclusive experience, aimed at enhancing island stays through a more seamless and comprehensive offering in the Indian Ocean.

The Premium All Inclusive experience is designed to begin from the point of arrival. Guests receive complimentary access to The Cocoon Collection Lounge at the seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, where services are provided to ensure a smooth transition before the journey to the resort.

On arrival at the island, guests are welcomed in their villas with a chilled bottle of sparkling wine and a selection of canapés. The Premium All Inclusive plan includes unlimited premium beverages by the glass, featuring a curated range of wines, signature cocktails, top-shelf spirits, international beers and non-alcoholic options. The in-villa minibar is replenished daily with soft drinks, international beers, red and white wines, as well as assorted snacks. For stays of five nights or more, guests also receive two bottles of premium liquor from a selected list, provided once during the stay.

The experience further includes a range of activities. Guests staying a minimum of three nights are offered one sunset cruise and one snorkelling excursion per stay, while those staying seven nights or more are entitled to a catamaran cruise. Unlimited use of snorkelling equipment and non-motorised water sports, including canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding, is also included, subject to weather conditions.

Dining forms a central part of the Premium All Inclusive concept. Guests can enjoy three themed dining evenings, including a seafood barbecue under the stars featuring prawns, lobster and oysters. For stays of five nights or more, guests may also take part in a complimentary group cooking class, with a choice between ethnic or Italian cuisine, led by the resort’s culinary team.

Wellness offerings are also incorporated into the programme, with guests able to participate in up to three complimentary sunrise yoga sessions per stay, subject to availability.

The introduction of the Premium All Inclusive experience reflects the resort’s focus on personalised service and carefully curated stays. The offering is positioned to appeal to couples seeking relaxation, romance or activity-led experiences within an adults-only island setting.

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