News
Aqua Season celebrated at Six Senses Laamu in Maldives: June – October 2013
Maldives Promotion House – Aqua Season at Six Senses Laamu brings together a raft of water-focused activities which incorporate the surfing season’s International Surfing Day on 20 June, Turtle Nesting and Hatching Season from May through October, Maldivian by the Sea – which showcases local cuisine in July at Longitude restaurant, and Jaafai Dinners hosted at local islands.
To celebrate the season, Six Senses Laamu offers a selection of complimentary benefits and savings. These include No Rush Hours with a resident DJ, savings at the Six Senses Spa, free Cinema on the Beach plus ice-cream is on the house!
International Surfing Day, held annually on or near the date of the summer solstice—usually on 20 June – is an unofficial, environmentally conscious, sports-centered event that celebrates surfing and the surfing lifestyle, and the sustainability of ocean resources.
At Six Senses Laamu and in partnership with Ocean Dimensions arrange a reef and beach cleaning detail, a surf competition with children of Mamendhoo school, followed by the screening of surf documentaries and presentations on surf culture. The day ends with a delicious Lobster Barbecue. The day’s events are complimentary, with the evening barbecue commencing at 7pm. and costing US$150 per person, plus taxes.
Surfing Season is from April through October, and with Six Senses Laamu being the only resort in this southern atoll, surfers have the break to themselves most of the time. The biggest swells are likely to occur in June to September. From the resort, you can see the impressive white spray of the most famous break in the atoll – the Yin Yang- an eight-foot right hander which breaks on the outer reef of the local island, Hithadhoo.
Daily morning and afternoon boat trips are organized to Yin Yang from the resort from April to October, with single surf passes available for US$69 per person, plus taxes.
Turtle Nesting and Hatching Season. From May to October, Olhuveli Island is a nesting ground for both Green and Hawksbill turtles. The female turtles return to the same beach on which they were born to lay their own eggs. These turtles will nest at anytime and Rachel Lambert, our resident Marine Biologist will be responsible for checking the beaches for nest and turtle tracks. Guests who would like to join her are most welcome to watch the hatchlings run to the sea. The whole nesting and hatching procedure is carefully monitored to protect the females and the new youngsters.
For further awareness and education, Rachel will be conducting a series of conversations, presentations and courses during the season. All activities on turtle nesting and hatching are provided on a complimentary basis.
Jaafai Experience: The cooking style of Maldives is highly influenced by both India and Sri Lanka. Gradually, rice and curries became an integral part of Maldivian food. Today, one can virtually find all kinds of food in the country. Maldivian cuisine gives you an opportunity to savour the different mouth-watering dishes with exotic flavours ranging from mild, spicy and hot to sweet.
Originally Jaafai meant feast for the Kings. This summer, from June to October, we invite you to Hithadhoo to join a Maldivian family at their home for a few hours. Discover their lifestyle and cuisine. Listen to local stories about the past as well as learn about ingredients the Maldivians use in their kitchen. During your visit to the local island, you will also be accompanied by the sounds of Boduberu, the local drums and music. The all-inclusive priceis US$220 per person, plus taxes, and departure from the resort is at 7pm.
Maldivian by the Sea: In July, Chef Nicholas Loubser and his brigade bring Maldivian flavours to the menu of Longitude, our overwater restaurant where you can tantalize your palate with the freshest and most delicious dishes. Maldivian by the Sea is yet another way to discover the cuisine of the Maldives, right at Six Senses Laamu. Dinners are limited to six tables so reservations are suggested, and dinner commences at 7pm. The price is US$125 per person, plus taxes.
Other Activities and Benefits: During May to October, many Aqua Season activities are complimentary or have significant savings:
- No Rush Hours are each evening between 6-7pm and 9:30-10:30pm at Chill bar, with resident DJ Garry Tee, Sydney and Kuala Lumpur DJ who has created unique musical experience for events, clubs and restaurant audiences. His unique blend of music elements has lead to exciting collaborations with art, stage and fashion creatives across Asia. His reputation has been built over twenty years as DJ, Producer, Radio Host and Music Curator. Garry has been nominated for Best Music/Sound at ‘A The 6th Boh CameronianAwards’ in 2008 for his collaboration with Lena Ang’s butoh dance performance called PINK. The upcoming performances at Chill are focused on the gentler beats and sound that is complementing the overwhelming presence of beauty in both nature and design. The creative process of Garry Tee’s performances is made of personally selected tunes from the collection that spans almost 30 years.
- Ice Cream: Enjoy delicious homemade ice cream from the Ice and Chocolate Studio, with compliments. Savour more than forty flavours of ice cream and sorbets with a variety of toppings and sauces.
- Six Senses Spa: Creating awareness and enlightening guests, The Six Senses Spa at Laamu introduces additionalwellness activities this summer. Six Senses Spa launches a variety of weekly workshops from Detox to De-Stress, Acupressure to Ashtanga as guest are guided through a variety to techniques and basic principles that they can implement during their stay or once they return home. Book a Six Senses Spa massage within 48-hours after arrival at the resort and enjoy an introductory 50% savings for a second person’s treatment; a perfect treat for your partner.
- Beach Cinema: A dream or reality? Should you like a little action or a classic movie, enjoy an unusual open-air cinema experience that takes place beneath a canopy of stars on the white sandy beach. The cinema bar is open during the film for those wishing to treat themselves with a glass of Champagne!
Local
Atmosphere Foundation supports 1,440 households, 3,599 students in 2025
The Atmosphere Foundation has published its inaugural annual report, bringing together the stories and results of its work across the Maldives during 2025. The report documents a year shaped by close collaboration with island councils, schools, universities, community organisations and individuals working to create lasting opportunities within their communities.
Established as the community and sustainability arm of Atmosphere Core, Atmosphere Foundation works by listening to communities and supporting ideas grounded in local priorities. The Annual Report 2025 offers a detailed account of this approach in action, covering initiatives in education, livelihoods, health, community wellbeing and environmental protection.
During the year, the Foundation worked alongside 47 implementing partners and engaged 37 experts across its programmes. Its initiatives supported more than 1,440 households and 3,599 students across 38 schools and two universities. The Foundation also conducted 91 training sessions, engaged 913 parents through awareness programmes and provided skills development opportunities for 463 teachers.
Environmental action remained a major focus. Through the Foundation’s flagship Bamboo for Climate Mitigation project, 3,722 bamboo plants were planted across 48 islands in every atoll of the Maldives. The programme has involved more than 23 community groups and 18 island councils. At the Vaikaradhoo Bamboo Park, the local council extended the initiative by replanting 200 bamboo cuttings across the island, demonstrating how a supported project can grow under community ownership.
The Foundation also partnered with the Maldives National University on a scientific study examining how different bamboo species grow in island environments. The research will help establish a stronger body of local knowledge to guide future cultivation and understand bamboo’s potential ecological role in the Maldives.
Alongside its environmental programmes, the Foundation supported practical routes towards income generation. In HDh. Vaikaradhoo, a soft toy initiative involving 14 households began producing fabric turtles and crabs for young guests visiting Atmosphere Core resorts.

Education initiatives ranged from improving preschool learning environments to placing locally relevant books in schools and libraries. The Foundation supported the printing of 1,000 copies of the Dhivehi children’s book Ainee aai Velaa, created with the Olive Ridley Project Maldives, and contributed towards 1,000 copies of Atoll and Island Formation in the Maldives. The latter was distributed free of charge as an educational resource for students across the country.
Health and community care programmes included 779 vision screenings and screenings for 112 people through community-based hearing camps. Other initiatives addressed healthy ageing, nutrition, non-communicable diseases and domestic violence awareness, reflecting the range of needs identified through the Foundation’s community partnerships.
Commenting on the report, Ismail Faseeh, Senior Vice President of Atmosphere Foundation, said: “Real change does not happen alone. It grows when communities, councils, educators and partners come together, each bringing their own knowledge and strengths. This report is a reflection of the trust communities have placed in us and of what becomes possible when people work towards a shared purpose.”
Rather than presenting support as a one-way contribution, the report recognises the communities and partners who shaped each initiative. Eighteen focus groups were conducted during the year to better understand community needs and help ensure that programmes remained locally relevant.
Through the publication of its first annual report, Atmosphere Foundation aims to provide a transparent record of its progress while recognising the many people and organisations behind it. Together, the projects illustrate how practical support, shared knowledge and local ownership can help good ideas take root and grow.
News
Finolhu brings ‘Magic by the Sea’ to Maldives for festive season 2026
This festive season, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, invites guests to embrace the wonder of Magic by the Sea, an imaginative celebration of togetherness, discovery and island living. Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, the resort will transform its celebrated Island Playground into a world of festive enchantment, where cherished traditions meet contemporary creativity, exceptional gastronomy and the carefree spirit of the Maldives.
Unfolding from 21 December 2026 through early January 2027, the festive programme brings together an inspiring collection of experiences designed for guests of all generations. From sun-drenched days exploring the island’s natural beauty to atmospheric evenings beneath the stars, the celebrations capture Finolhu’s distinctive approach to luxury: vibrant, expressive and effortlessly relaxed.
At the heart of the festivities is a celebration of connection. The season begins with the traditional Festive Tree Lighting, bringing guests together for an evening of music, entertainment and holiday cheer against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Christmas takes on a distinctly tropical character, with Santa Claus making a special island arrival, while elegant Christmas Eve celebrations and a spectacular New Year’s Eve gala bring a sense of occasion to the shores of Finolhu. As the year draws to a close, live performances by the international Goldsingers, captivating entertainment and a dazzling fireworks display set the stage for an unforgettable welcome to 2027.
Gastronomy remains central to the festive experience, reflecting Finolhu’s reputation as one of the Maldives’ leading culinary destinations and its recent recognition as Best Culinary Resort at the TTM Awards 2026. Throughout the season, guests can discover a diverse collection of dining experiences that celebrate international flavours, local ingredients and the pleasure of sharing memorable moments around the table. From refined festive gala dinners and exclusive Anguru dining experiences to relaxed beachfront gatherings, seafood specialities and vibrant culinary celebrations, each occasion is thoughtfully designed to complement the island’s extraordinary setting.

Creativity also finds its place within Magic by the Sea, with Finolhu’s Art Lab offering opportunities for guests to explore artistic expression inspired by the surrounding ocean. A highlight of the season is the collaboration with Casa Adams, founded by ceramic artist Araceli Adams, whose hands-on pottery experiences invite guests to discover traditional techniques and create personal keepsakes inspired by the colours, textures and beauty of the Maldives. Alongside these artistic encounters, an engaging programme of painting, craft workshops and creative experiences encourages guests of all ages to embrace their imagination.
For families, the festive season promises a world of discovery and adventure. Finolhu’s Oceaneers Club and Teens Hut will host an extensive programme of experiences tailored to younger guests, from festive baking and treasure hunts to creative workshops, sporting challenges and island explorations. Family-friendly competitions, interactive entertainment and shared adventures offer opportunities for parents and children to connect, while dedicated experiences for teenagers introduce a contemporary mix of music, photography, creativity and outdoor activities.
Beyond the festivities, the natural beauty of Baa Atoll provides the setting for moments of exploration and renewal. Guided snorkelling experiences with Finolhu’s Marine Biologist offer a closer connection to the remarkable marine environment, while ocean-inspired educational activities introduce younger guests to the importance of marine conservation. For those seeking a gentler rhythm, sunrise yoga, meditation, wellness experiences and peaceful moments by the sea provide a welcome balance to the season’s lively celebrations.

As daylight gives way to golden sunsets, Finolhu’s signature social spirit comes alive. Beachfront cocktail gatherings, sunset celebrations, live music, DJ performances and the resort’s celebrated White Parties create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and refreshingly playful. Whether enjoying a leisurely afternoon at Crab Shack, gathering with loved ones on the sandbank or dancing beneath the stars, guests are invited to experience the festive season at their own pace.
Framed by turquoise lagoons, powder-soft beaches and Finolhu’s iconic two-kilometre sandbank, Magic by the Sea offers more than a traditional festive escape. It is an invitation to rediscover the joy of being together, embrace new experiences and create lasting memories in one of the Indian Ocean’s most extraordinary island settings.
With its distinctive blend of creativity, gastronomy, wellness and spirited entertainment, Finolhu welcomes guests to celebrate the season in true Island Playground style, where every day brings a new discovery and every evening holds the promise of something magical.
For more information and reservations, visit www.finolhu.com.
News
Kuredhivaru Resort & Spa marks eight years in Maldives with special guest experiences
Eight years of island moments, memorable stays, and Maldivian hospitality come together this November as Kuredhivaru Resort & Spa celebrates its eighth anniversary with a month of special experiences, culminating in a gala evening on 7 November.
Set against the turquoise waters of Noonu Atoll, the celebrations reflect what makes time at Kuredhivaru distinctive: the freedom to slow down, reconnect, and discover the island in unexpected ways.

The anniversary gala will begin with cocktails on Bodumas Beach before guests gather for dinner at Onu Marche. Live music, DJ performances, a special address from the General Manager, and the traditional cutting of the anniversary cake will bring the evening together in a festive celebration of the resort’s journey.
Throughout November, guests can also discover Eight Experiences for Eight Years, a collection of curated dining, wellness, and ocean adventures. Highlights include private dining in the resort’s Secret Garden, a castaway picnic on a nearby private island, and Cinema Underthe Stars, where a movie unfolds beneath the Maldivian night sky.

For those seeking a slower pace, multi-day spa journeys offer moments of renewal and relaxation. Guests looking for adventure can take to the waves with special offers on jetskiing or even explore the breathtaking underwater world with their first Discover Scuba Diving experience.
The celebrations extend beyond dining and wellness, with recreational activities and friendly competitions bringing guests together through beach sports, stand-up paddleboarding, fitness challenges, and family games.
More than marking a milestone, the eighth anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate the experiences and connections that have shaped Kuredhivaru over the years. From quiet moments by the lagoon to evenings shared beneath the stars, the resort’s November programme invites guests to make new memories while celebrating eight years of island living.

For any reservations or inquiries, guests are encouraged to contact the resort at Resort.Kuredhivaru.Reservations@ennismore.com or +960 656 3000.
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