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Exclusive hospitality, unforgettable experiences: Waldorf Astoria Maldives launches Ithaafushi – The Private Island for discerning travellers

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi on Tuesday unveiled the exclusive Ithaafushi – The Private Island, the largest Maldivian private island spanning 32,000 square metres in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
Anchored in the timely yet timeless ethos of the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand, part of Hilton’s Luxury Brands, Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the ultimate escape offering unparalleled levels of privacy and personalised service that create unforgettable experiences for guests seeking only the most prestigious and coveted accommodations.
“Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the crown jewel of our luxury portfolio in Asia Pacific, limitless in the level of privacy and unrivalled hospitality guests are promised,” Nils-Arne Schroeder, Vice President, Luxury & Lifestyle, Hilton, Asia Pacific, said.
“Designed for the most discerning of travellers, the Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the epitome of exclusivity, perfectly placed within one of the most inspirational destinations in the world where a dedicated team anticipates every need and delivers the brand’s elegant and effortless service at every turn.”
Every aspect of the island has been expertly choreographed, featuring a refined, yet modern design with a nod to Maldivian charm. Its name, ‘Ithaafushi’ is translated to mean ‘Pearl Island’ in Dhivehi, the local language of the Maldives, and represents the isle’s beauty and distinction.
“The launch of this unique resort offering represents a momentous milestone for the Waldorf Astoria brand and truly speaks to our commitment to redefining luxury hospitality around the world,” Schroeder added.

Effortlessly convenient
Located in close proximity to Male, guests can be escorted directly to Ithaafushi – The Private Island via a 40-minute ride on one of the resort’s six luxury Ithaafushi Princess yachts or via a 15-minute seaplane flight.
From the moment they land on this piece of undisturbed paradise, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi’s Personal Concierge team will ensure their every need is met with utmost discretion.
To explore beyond the private island estate, direct access to the main island is available via speed boat.
Where endless space abounds
The sprawling estate accommodates 24 guests across two elegantly designed villas and one sweeping four-bedroom residence, perfect for bonding with loved ones or celebrating life’s significant milestones with close friends.
A two-bedroom overwater villa promises a unique ocean experience with two spacious master bedrooms complete with double dressing rooms, indoor and outdoor rain showers, a shared living room, infinity pool and jacuzzi.
A separate three-bedroom beach villa, set within lush gardens and coconut palm canopies, has its own beach access and two swimming pools.
Those staying in the four-bedroom residence will enjoy two king bedrooms, two queen bedrooms, jacuzzies and an expansive common living area, all with direct access to the beach.
Surrounded by never-ending tropical greenery and white sand, guests will be greeted by a sense of complete calm and relaxation.
Every inch of the expansive paradise is waiting to be discovered, whether by a leisurely stroll along the meandering pathways set amidst lush palms, by bicycle or on one of the island’s buggies.

World-class dining
The private island’s dedicated culinary team promises to take guests on a diverse culinary journey, offering bespoke menus to be enjoyed in an array of extraordinary settings.
Guests can savour world-class dining for any occasion, from in-villa dining to special celebrations in the estate’s common living room, Haali (translated to mean ‘the nest’ in Dhivehi).
Guests who want to explore the resort’s various dining experiences can journey a short distance to the main island, where culinary innovation meets excellence with 10 specialty dining venues such as The Ledge and Terra.
Created by Dave Pynt, the culinary mastermind behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends restaurant, The Ledge features an elevated Australian barbecue experience that can be savoured against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Guests can also enjoy the only private hand-crafted bamboo dining pods in the Maldives at Terra, located on the main island’s highest point for a unique gastronomic escapade.
Unforgettable experiences await
Ithaafushi – The Private Island holds no boundaries for guests with an appetite for adventure.
Beginning with the sparkling depths of the underwater world which is ripe for exploration, a plethora of watersports, diving activities and yacht excursions are available when the desire arises.
For those who wish to embark on an off-island experience, guests can castaway to a private sandbank in the middle of the ocean where they can indulge in a sunset dinner, a personal yoga session or simply take in the astonishing surroundings.
An abundance of options to soothe the body and mind await those wishing for some quiet time to rediscover and recharge.
A dedicated Wellness Concierge is on hand at the overwater spa to provide customised therapies catering to the needs of each guest, helping them reconnect with nature while indulging in a unique spa experience.
The meditation and yoga pavilion along with fully equipped gym offer magnificent ocean views, with personal training and classes upon request.
Guests will instantaneously be transported from everyday life as they unwind on one of the sea swings, take a moment to relax under the palm hammocks, sunken loungers, or bask in one of the five luxurious pools.
A myriad of entertainment choices are available in Haali, catering to guests of every generation.
The remarkable space features unblocked panoramic ocean views and extends across expansive indoor and outdoor areas, all set within a botanical sanctuary.
Guests can host memorable celebrations under the stars, watch a movie on the cinematic LED screen or bask in the 35-metre infinity pool.
Young visitors will be in a paradise of their own on the private island estate with a dedicated children’s pool and gaming area, or they can enjoy the Young Discovery Park at the main resort, which features a water recreation area and a variety of bespoke activities designed to capture the younger guests’ imagination.

Limitless possibilities
On this island, any desire can turn into reality. A team of Personal Concierges anticipates every need and takes the brand’s iconic True Waldorf Service to a new level, offering guests fully personalised service from day to night to guarantee curated experiences which will push the boundaries of imagination.
“We are committed to making Ithaafushi – The Private Island a highly sought-after, world-class destination for the privileged few,” Etienne Dalancon, the General Manager at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, said.
“Our dedicated team is devoted entirely to ensuring every moment is absolutely personalised, with exceptional service and unsurpassed attention to detail. We will pull out all the stops to ensure the most memorable stay for our guests, every single time.”
With the promise of ultimate exclusivity and every need being met with just a call, Ithaafushi – The Private Island is ideal for intimate group gatherings, from milestone celebrations with loved ones to an incentive trip planned for the most exclusive group of clients.
Ithaafushi – The Private Island also offers an idyllic stage for the ultimate dream wedding in paradise, with culinary offerings and experiences that are expertly tailored by the dedicated events team to create an iconic wedding with memories that last a lifetime.
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi operates with industry-leading standards of cleanliness and disinfection of the proprietary Hilton CleanStay programme, while adhering to the Maldivian health and safety guidelines.
From arrival to check in and throughout the entire stay, guests can experience an elevated standard of cleanliness and sanitisation which build upon Hilton’s already high standards of housekeeping and hygiene where hospital-grade cleaning products and upgraded protocols are currently in place.
Featured
Kuda Villingili’s iconic pool honoured in Travel + Leisure Asia Pacific Awards

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been ranked among the Best Resort Pools in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. This prestigious accolade, determined by votes from discerning travellers across the region, comes at a time of dual celebration for the resort as it marks its fourth anniversary.
Located in the picturesque North Malé Atoll, just 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili has garnered a reputation for its seamless blend of design, immersive experiences, and strong sense of community. Central to the resort’s appeal is its iconic 150-metre swimming pool—the largest in the Maldives. This architectural masterpiece redefines leisure and stands as a social and visual centrepiece of the island.
Encircled by swaying palms, luxurious daybeds, and jacuzzis, the pool connects effortlessly to the resort’s trio of lively bars and eight globally inspired restaurants. It is more than a swimming area; it is a meticulously designed space offering distinct zones to cater to diverse guest preferences. These include a 50-metre Olympic-sized lap pool for fitness enthusiasts, dedicated areas for daily aqua fitness and yoga sessions, jacuzzis tucked beneath tropical greenery, and shallow zones tailored for children. The pool also transforms into a romantic setting for candlelit dinners beneath the stars, offering couples a unique dining experience under the Milky Way.
Deepa Manuel, General Manager of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, commented on the recognition, “This award is a testament to our commitment to creating unforgettable, design-led experiences with heartfelt Maldivian hospitality. The pool was designed to bring people together—from families and fitness lovers to couples and solo travellers. It’s where our guests laugh, connect, and relax. To be ranked among the top three Best Resort Pools by Travel + Leisure readers just as we celebrate our fourth anniversary is a beautiful affirmation of what we have created here.”
Further affirming its status, Kuda Villingili also recently received the Reader’s Favourite Overseas Hotel award at the Travel + Leisure China Travel Awards 2024, underscoring its growing popularity across key Asian markets.
Kuda Villingili continues to push the boundaries of luxury island living, rooted in wellness, connection, and authenticity. The resort boasts eight exceptional dining venues offering 11 global cuisines, including the signature beachfront Japanese-Peruvian restaurant Mar-Umi and Earth, which celebrates Maldivian and vegetarian dishes. Guests also enjoy access to a wellness-focused private island spa, an active surf culture with proximity to the famed Chickens Break, and 75 luxurious villas and residences—many featuring private infinity pools and offering spaces for both solitude and meaningful connection.
Whether guests are swimming laps at sunrise, soaking in a jacuzzi beneath the stars, or toasting during a floating dinner at dusk, the pool at Kuda Villingili offers more than just a recreational space—it embodies an experience. This recognition from the Travel + Leisure Awards reflects the heartfelt appreciation of guests who consistently celebrate not only the beauty of the resort but the soulful experiences it provides.
Awards
Sirru Fen Fushi secures top spots in Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2025

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort has been honoured in the prestigious Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, securing top rankings in two highly sought-after categories:
- #2 Best Resort Pools in the Maldives
- #4 Best Resort for Families in the Maldives
These accolades underscore the resort’s unwavering commitment to providing immersive, meaningful, and luxurious experiences for guests of all ages.
Celebrated for its expansive villas tailored with families in mind, Sirru Fen Fushi offers serene sanctuaries in beach, jungle, and overwater settings. Accommodations include the unique Safari Tented Villas, Sirru Residences, and spacious two- and three-bedroom villas, along with deluxe family lodgings—each offering privacy, ample space, and direct access to either the lagoon or beach.
Beyond its thoughtfully designed accommodations, the resort presents a range of family-friendly experiences. Guests can enjoy an interactive Kids’ Club, curated cultural and nature-based activities, hands-on art and sustainability workshops, and unforgettable marine adventures such as turtle discovery, snorkelling safaris, guided dolphin cruises, and stargazing. Each offering is crafted to inspire connection, learning, and joy across generations.
Ranked as the #2 Best Resort Pools in the Maldives, Sirru Fen Fushi features an awe-inspiring 200-meter infinity pool that spans from the island’s eastern to western shores, symbolically linking sunrise to sunset. Framed by soft white sands and boundless ocean views, the pool has become an iconic centerpiece of the resort—captivating photographers, influencers, and leisure seekers from around the world.
Nestled on a pristine, untouched island, Sirru Fen Fushi seamlessly blends the quintessential Maldivian experience with sustainability, artistic expression, and cultural immersion. With this latest recognition, the resort continues to set new standards for modern luxury through meaningful travel and exceptional hospitality.
Awards
Travel + Leisure Asia Pacific awards Villa Nautica Best Resort Pool in Maldives

Villa Nautica’s signature infinity pool has been awarded the title of Best Resort Pool in the Maldives by readers of the Travel + Leisure Asia Pacific Luxury Awards 2025. More than just an architectural feature, the pool serves as the heart of the resort—a tranquil expanse of water that seamlessly mirrors the sea beyond and transforms swimming into a meditative experience. Here, thoughtful design blends effortlessly with the natural environment, creating a space where the boundaries between land, water, and sky dissolve into serenity.
Located in the North Malé Atoll, only a short speedboat ride from the capital, Villa Nautica’s 1,350-square-meter pool is both a focal point and a design statement. It does not clamor for attention but draws it gently, extending confidently toward the horizon and creating the illusion of merging with the open ocean—while still offering the comfort and stability of land.
What distinguishes this pool is not merely its size or the flawless infinity illusion, but the way it quietly becomes part of the guest’s daily rhythm. Sun loungers are thoughtfully spaced and positioned, offering just the right amount of shade and always seeming to face the light at its most flattering angle. From morning sunbathing to lazy midday naps and sunset refreshments, the space is designed for lingering.
Adjacent to the pool is Press & Pot, a favoured spot among guests who enjoy pairing their swim with an artisanal coffee. The scent of freshly brewed espresso mingles with the sea breeze and the subtle aroma of sunscreen. Here, pastries come warm from the oven, tropical fruits are sliced to order, and coffee is served to a standard that rivals any urban café—with the added luxury of an uninterrupted ocean view.
Villa Nautica’s approach is not one of ostentation but of elegance. Its luxury lies in the details: the coolness of the stone underfoot, the soft rustle of palm leaves, and the way the water reflects the sky like glass as dusk approaches. It is an environment where nature and design exist in perfect, understated harmony.
This is what set Villa Nautica apart and earned it top honors. Among a competitive field of exceptional Maldivian resorts, the Travel + Leisure panel identified a timeless quality here. This is not simply a pool to swim in—it is one to experience. A space that encourages guests to pause, disconnect, and simply be.
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