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Soneva welcomes Maldives surf season with new documentary release
Soneva, the award-winning resorts operator, is welcoming the start of the new surf season in the Maldives with the launch of a short 15-minute documentary titled SALT: The Story of Maldivian Wave Riders.
Filmed over several months at different atolls, the film delves into the culture and history of surfing in the Maldives archipelago.
For this island nation, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, surfing has always been a way of life, long before modern surf boards landed on its shores.
SALT traces the captivating story of Maldivian surf, from the makeshift planks and boards once used to ride the waves, to the arrival of Tony Hinde Hussein in the 1980s, considered the ‘father of Maldivian surfing’, to the next generation of Maldivian surfers today.
Along the way, it meets surfing communities across a number of Maldivian islands and the pioneering individuals who are driving the local surf scene.
The surf season in the Maldives’ northern atolls peaks between May and September each year.
Soneva runs the world’s first 100 per cent sustainable surf programme from Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll and Soneva Jani in the Noonu Atoll.
With the nearest surf breaks just a short speedboat ride from each of the resorts, the programme caters to surfers of all levels and abilities, from absolute beginners learning the basics in the shallow waters of the lagoon, to seasoned surfers looking for the best secret breaks.
Guests are encouraged to leave their equipment at home: the programme provides full use of Soneva’s eco-friendly equipment, including surfboards made from recycled materials, rash vests made from discarded ocean plastics, and ocean-friendly sunscreens.
Many of the items in the surf shop are also available for retail.
Surfers who want to explore the Indian Ocean’s best surf spots can also charter a liveaboard Soneva Surfari on Soneva in Aqua, Soneva’s luxurious 23 metre, two-bedroom yacht.
Departing from both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, all voyages on Soneva in Aqua are completely bespoke, with itineraries tailored to guests’ exact needs, from a one-night cruise to an adventure around the best surf breaks in the Baa, Noonu and Goidhoo Atolls.
All three of the nearest atolls have an abundance of surf spots, with nearly all directions of swell.
Led by experienced surf guides, the Soneva in Aqua crew can cruise to the hidden breaks and secret beaches of the Baa and Noonu Atolls, or explore Goidhoo, one of the Maldives’ best known surf destinations.
At Goidhoo, the left and right breaks wrap around the reef at the entrance to the lagoon, lasting as long as 70 metres with the right swell direction. During their voyage, guests can also snorkel in sheltered spots, or explore the seas using the on-board paddleboards or kayaks.
As a base for an unforgettable surf holiday, Soneva in Aqua features the same level of luxurious comfort and hospitality as Soneva’s resorts on land.
After a session in the surf, guests can relax in the outdoor Jacuzzi, soak in the glass-bottomed spa tub or enjoy a massage from the resident spa and yoga therapist.
A personal sous chef will prepare delicious meals on board, while a Barefoot Butler is on hand to attend to every need.
SALT was directed by Alicia Warner. It can be viewed on Soneva’s Youtube channel here.
Soneva is a pioneering family of hospitality properties and products, offering holistic encounters in luxurious and inspiring environments – from world class hotels to outstanding natural locations.
Combining luxury with a conscientious approach to sustainability and the environment, and proactively changing the nature of hospitality, it delivers intuitive service and meaningful experiences to the guests.
Soneva currently owns and operates Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani and Soneva in Aqua in the Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Thailand.
Featured
Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration
Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.
Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.
During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.
The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.
Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.
Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.
Featured
SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration
SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.
Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.
The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.
Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.
On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.
The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.
The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.
Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.
Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.
Featured
Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences
Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.
The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.
The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.
Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.
The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.
Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.
Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.
Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.
Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.
For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.
The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.
The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.
Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.
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