Action
Vibrant, enchanting undersea world awaits guests at Seaside Finolhu
Having recently undergone extensive renovations and upgrades as part of an elaborate transition from luxury Maldives resort to proud member of the exclusive Design Hotels portfolio, Seaside Finolhu’s bold new design concept is described as a kaleidoscope of colours that are inspired by the vibrant hues of the island’s natural wonders.
While guests will find this kaleidoscope concept brought to life in splashes of colour throughout the resort when it reopens on October 1, nowhere is the spectrum of living colour more evident than when they venture beneath the waves to explore the stunning flora and fauna of the nearby reefs.
Enjoying a prime location in Baa atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Seaside Finolhu offers an idyllic base from which to explore the reserve’s sheer diversity and abundance of underwater life, some of which is found nowhere else on the planet.
Under the expert guidance of the resort’s professional and highly knowledgeable dive centre team, guests at Seaside Finolhu can explore the Baa atoll’s most enchanting sites on small group tours or private excursions that can be individually designed to optimise the guest experience through the centre’s Dive Butler.
The options available to guests include diving, snorkelling and even a semi-submersible boat for those who want to stay dry. Guests can also engage in a spot of sport fishing in designated areas and under the close supervision of the dice centre team.
In addition to the vibrantly coloured corals, the reefs of the Baa atoll teem with a wide diversity of marine life, some of which are extremely rare or even unique to the area. While the reefs are home to an array of exotic fauna, there are also some exciting visitors which come from the open ocean to breed or eat in the shallow waters of the Baa atoll.
Sea turtles
The green sea turtle is the most commonly sighted sea turtle in the Maldives.
Although these beautiful marine reptiles spend their lives out at sea, they breathe air and lay their eggs on land. After the baby sea turtles hatch, they can frequently be found swimming in the shallow reefs and lagoons of the Baa atoll.
In addition to seagrass and algae, green turtles also enjoy the occasional jellyfish. Unfortunately, they have been known to die after ingesting discarded plastic bags which can look just like jellyfish drifting in the water.
As an endangered species, sea turtles are protected in the Maldives where their friendly and curious nature make them a favourite among tourists and locals alike.
Eagle ray
Another very popular visitor from the deep ocean is the white-spotted eagle ray, which comes to the shallow waters of the Baa atoll in large schools to feed on invertebrates such as clams, shrimps, oysters, and worms.
Growing up to three meters in wingspan and five meters in tail-length, these ocean giants can often be seen cruising close to the surface making them easy to spot even from a boat.
One of the most spectacular sights in the Maldives is when these majestic creatures remove parasites by breaching and then slapping down on the surface.
Under the water, they are graceful and fast swimmers.
Although white-spotted eagle rays have a defensive venomous barb at the base of the tail, they pose no danger to divers or snorkelers as they are quite shy and easily frightened.
Blacktip reef shark
In addition to these visiting ocean giants, there are also a few large creatures that call the Baa atoll home.
Named for their distinctive black fin tips, the blacktip reef shark spends much of its life in and around the reefs feeding on smaller reef fish. They can grow up to 1.8 metres in length but pose no danger to humans.
Juveniles can often be seen using the Baa atoll’s shallow lagoons as a nursery ground before venturing out into deeper waters.
Moray eel
The most common of the 40 species of eels in the Maldives is the giant moray eel.
Growing up to 2.4 metres in length, only their black-spotted heads are generally visible poking out of rocky coves from where they ambush shrimps, fish, octopus, and even smaller eels.
Although generally shy and peaceful creatures, they will use their extremely sharp teeth to bite if they are provoked.
Clark’s anemonefish
One of the most colourful inhabitants of the Baa atoll reefs is the Clark’s anemonefish.
Closely related to the clown fish and with similar colouration, these small fish get their name from the anemones in which they make their home. The stinging tentacles of the brightly coloured anemones provide protection for their small lodgers as part of a symbiotic relationship that also benefits the anemone.
Clark’s anemonefish can grow up to 14 centimetres and their markings depend on the type of anemone in which they make their home.
Peacock mantis shrimp
One of the more elusive occupants of the Baa atoll reefs is the peacock mantis shrimp.
Although they can grow up to 18 centimetres in length, they can be difficult to spot as they make their home between the rocks and will only leave to hunt for clams and oysters in the surrounding area before quickly returning to their burrows.
As they scurry over the reef tops, however, they are easily distinguished by their bright green colour and curious, high stalked eyes.
“Most of these beautiful animals can be seen year round while snorkelling and diving at Finolhu,” explained Dive Butler Finolhu’s Senior Diving Instructor Tom Zimmer.
“However, we are world famous for manta rays roughly between the months of May and October.”
Anyone interested in seeing these unique megafauna in large numbers should plan their trip for this time, although the sheer diversity and abundance of marine life in the Baa atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve means there’s never a bad time to visit.
As Zimmer adds, “Whenever you come, you’re sure to enjoy your diving experience here at Finolhu with our expert team of instructors and the five-star luxury service.”
Famed for its long white sandy beaches and spread across four islands, Finolhu has 125 beachfront and overwater villas (more than half with private pool) and four restaurants.
While popular with honeymooners, the expansive resort is also very family-friendly, with a kids’ club and a wide choice of fun activities. Finolhu also includes world-class wellness facilities and is famous for its entertainment.
Owned and managed by Seaside Collection, a Europe-based hotel group with an exclusive portfolio of high-end resorts and city hotels, Finolhu embodies the Seaside Collection’s criteria of quality, style, and holistic hospitality concepts.
Finolhu, which is a direct translation of sandbank in the local Dhivehi language, is located in Baa atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites travellers to embrace the rhythm of island life with the launch of its new Surf & Relax Offer — a thoughtfully curated experience blending world-class surf, elevated dining, restorative wellness, and unforgettable adventures in the heart of the Maldives.
Located just 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport in the North Malé Atoll, Kuda Villingili is home to the Maldives’ longest left-hand barrel wave, Chicken’s Break, making it one of the region’s most sought-after surf destinations. Framed by the resort’s philosophy of Time & Space Redefined, the new offer presents a seamless balance between thrill and tranquillity, designed for both experienced surfers and those discovering the sport for the very first time.
Applicable for direct bookings made through the Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives website, the Surf & Relax Offer is available for stays in Beach Villas with Private Pool and Water Villas with Private Pool (Sunrise and Sunset) for a minimum of four nights, with bookings open until 31 October 2026 using offer code KVSURF. The offer combines immersive surf experiences with moments of indulgence and relaxation. Guests staying in Beach Villas with Private Pool or Water Villas with Private Pool (Sunrise and Sunset) will enjoy USD 100 resort credit per villa, while guests staying seven nights or longer will receive a total of USD 300 resort credit during their stay. Resort credit can be redeemed towards dining experiences, spa treatments, and excursions.
The offer includes complimentary return shared speedboat transfers, daily breakfast at The Restaurant, and daily three-course dinner experiences across five of the resort’s signature dining venues — SPICE, EAST, EARTH, FIRE, and OCEAN. Guests will also enjoy a one-time three-course dinner at the award-winning Mar-Umi, celebrated for its Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and theatrical dining experience. Additional dining at Mar-Umi is complemented with a 15% discount under the Half Board meal plan.
Beyond the waves, the experience extends into wellness and island discovery. Guests can unwind with a 60-minute Deep Tissue Massage per adult at the resort’s private island spa, explore the vibrant marine life surrounding the island through the KV Faru Snorkelling Excursion, enjoy a traditional Sunset Fishing Excursion, and take part in a Cocktail Class at Raalhu Bar overlooking the surf.
For surf enthusiasts, the offer includes 15% savings on surfboard rentals and surf trips to nearby breaks including Cokes, Lohis, Sultans, Jails, and Ninjas. Beginner surfers can enjoy 25% savings on surf beach lessons and water lessons, while guests looking to capture their surf journey can also enjoy 15% savings on surf photography packages. Complimentary early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability, further enhance the ease of the island escape.
Whether chasing perfect swells at sunrise, slowing down through restorative wellness rituals, or simply embracing the laid-back rhythm of island life, Kuda Villingili’s Surf Offer presents a fresh perspective on the Maldives — one where adventure, connection, and serenity exist effortlessly side by side.
Discover Kuda Villingili’s latest special offers here, including the Surf Offer, here.
Action
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort combines marine adventure with wellness-focused island stays
The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, a five-star holistic wellness sanctuary nestled in the pristine Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, invites travellers to experience one of the Maldives’ most spectacular seasonal phenomena. From May through October, guests can witness the extraordinary feeding gatherings of manta rays that turn the waters of Hanifaru Bay into a world-renowned stage for marine life.
Just 45 minutes from the resort, Hanifaru Bay is among the planet’s most remarkable manta aggregation sites, famed for its “cyclone feeding” behaviour as mantas glide, spiral, and swoop through nutrient-rich waters in an awe-inspiring underwater ballet. With more than a thousand manta rays recorded in the bay, and the Maldives home to the world’s largest studied manta ray population, this protected sanctuary offers an unforgettable bucket-list opportunity to snorkel alongside these gentle giants.
“During peak season, it’s possible to witness dozens, sometimes over 100 manta rays, feeding in the bay, with occasional whale shark sightings, especially around the full moon,” shared José Daniel González, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort’s resident marine biologist.
Beyond Hanifaru Bay, the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve is celebrated for thriving reefs and abundant marine biodiversity. Divers and snorkelers can explore coral gardens filled with colourful reef fish, including batfish, fusiliers, and eagle rays, while dolphins are frequently spotted from the island. The resort also offers traditional line fishing and a wide range of watersports, from jet ski adventures to guided snorkelling experiences with turtles.
For guests who would like to learn more about the underwater world, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort hosts engaging marine education, including weekly marine biology presentations. Led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, these sessions highlight local ecosystems, marine conservation, and responsible tourism, helping guests connect more deeply with the island’s natural beauty.
After a day of exploration, guests can unwind with Westin’s signature wellness programs, from rejuvenating rituals at the overwater Heavenly Spa to energising movement at the WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio. Guests can also enhance post-adventure restoration with the WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending Program, which includes the Recover and Recharge Kit by Hyperice, designed to ease muscle fatigue and help the body reset. Evenings promise restful comfort in one of the resort’s 69 spacious villas, complete with the award-winning Heavenly® Bed and curated Sleep Well amenities.
Those looking to visit the Maldives for this extraordinary season, or throughout the year, can benefit from the Escape to More package, which includes a complimentary upgrade to an All-Inclusive meal plan featuring three meals daily, unlimited beverages, and a restocked minibar, plus kids under 12 dine free.
For more information, please visit westin-maldives.com.
There is a quieter side to the Maldives, one found beyond the familiar rhythm of overwater escapes and sunset rituals. In Angsana Velavaru, the ocean becomes more than a backdrop. It becomes part of the journey itself.
With Sun, Sea & Fishing in Velavaru, guests are invited to discover an island experience shaped by adventure, wellbeing and a meaningful connection to the nature. Thoughtfully curated for travellers who wish to balance exploration with relaxation, the experience combines the exhilaration of deep-sea fishing with the restorative calm of island living in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
As dawn unfolds across unique turquoise lagoons, mornings begin with gentle cruises over calm waters, where the sea reflects the changing colours of the sky. Later, the rhythm shifts as guests venture further offshore for a guided big game fishing experience, embracing the anticipation and excitement of the open ocean. Between each adventure, moments of stillness await, from unwinding beside the water to reconnecting with slower pace of island life.
Available with a minimum stay of 4 nights, the offer includes:
- 1 Big Game Fishing trip per stay for 2 people
- 25% savings on stays with a Half Board meal plan
- 20% savings on return seaplane transfers for 2 people
- 1 Morning Cruise per stay
Designed for couples, ocean lovers and modern explorers alike, the experience reflects the spirit of Velavaru, serene, grounding and deeply connected to its natural surroundings. Every detail encourages guests to rediscover balance through immersive experiences that awaken the senses while nurturing rest and renewal.
Whether you are casting a line into the open sea, gathering with loved ones after a day on the water or simply listening to the gentle movement of the waves, each moment invites you to embrace the essence of island life in a more meaningful way.
To discover more or reserve your island retreat, please visit the resort’s website.
-
Action1 week agoNight snorkelling reveals hidden underwater world at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
-
Culture1 week agoFamily adventures and romantic escapes await this Eid at Kandooma Maldives
-
News1 week agoMilaidhoo Maldives embraces mindfulness, movement and nourishment for Global Wellness Day
-
News1 week agoMandara Spa and Chavana Spa unveil family-focused wellness concept
-
Culture1 week agoCoco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu unveil Eid holiday offers
-
Awards1 week agoSun Siyam Iru Fushi earns nomination in Condé Nast Traveller 2026 awards
-
Honeymoon7 days agoSun Siyam Iru Veli introduces curated wedding and honeymoon experiences
-
Culture7 days agoMusic, culture and island entertainment headline Eid at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives