The Maldives is known for its overwater bungalows and picturesque, picture-perfect beaches dotted in warm turquoise seas, but it has so much more to offer the discerning traveler. The islands have a reputation for attracting honeymooners rather than foodies, but that reputation is quickly gaining the attention of foodies with mouth-watering dining and concepts pioneered by celebrity chefs.
Ithaafushi, a chain of small islands in the South Male Atoll, is at the forefront of this transformation, with restaurants such as the newly opened Zuma among its 11 dining options. The islands are home to Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi, and in addition to the delicious food, the resort also offers all the other mouth-watering Maldivian accompaniments – infinity pools set on azure ocean, palapa shaded by pristine white sands and schools of fish Swim along brightly colored coral reefs.
where to live
Waldorf Astoria Maldives
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
You might need to pinch yourself; Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is nothing short of a dream. In addition to the iconic overwater villas, there are serene beach villas and reef villas, both with private infinity pools and stunning views.
Although it’s on the larger side – 119 villas spanning three islands – because it’s so spread out, you’ll still feel the privacy and seclusion you’d get if you were on your own private island. In fact, you can too. The resort offers an independent private island of 32,000 square meters for the ultimate exclusive experience.
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what to do
Splash and swim in the Indian Ocean
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
Plunge directly from your villa into the warm, clear water and discover an incredible sea garden full of life. To mix things up, venture further with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak, or rent a jet ski to explore the offshore sandbar. Some nearby sandbars offer surprises for the intrepid traveler, such as picturesque swings.
watching the sunset in amber
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
Amber is a sunset destination on Ithaafushi, perfect for watching the sun sink over the sea. Stop in as the sun begins to darken and sip on the bubbles from our extensive range of Champagnes. A few feet away, the garden-to-table Glow Restaurant serves nutritious meals surrounded by gardens and twinkling lights.
Find Serenity at the Spa
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
The Waldorf Astoria Spa is the largest spa in the Maldives, so you have a variety of options for relaxing and pampering yourself with treatments. Their approach is based on the elements of nature: earth, fire, water or metal, and the spa venues are a tribute to the beauty of nature. Book a sunset massage to soak up the serenity of the changing sky, or visit a visiting health practitioner who brings expertise like acupuncture and traditional herbal medicine.
where to eat and drink
Dave Pinter’s Ledge
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
Foodies will be drawn to The Ledge, thanks to Chef Dave Pynt of Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurant Burnt Ends. Everyone else flocks to the poolside restaurant for high-end grills, including Wagyu steaks and Maldivian lobster.
Nava Beach Club
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
If you don’t want to leave the sand for a moment of your day, you can dine at Nava Beach Club just steps from the sparkling ocean. With vibrant dishes ranging from fresh salads to wood-fired pizzas, paired with cold cocktails, you’ll have no reason to leave the beach!
honey maldives
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
Global restaurant concept Zuma comes to the Maldives, bringing modern Japanese cuisine to the tropical island. The restaurant is located above the ocean, you won’t know whether to look out for the panorama or inward for the central sushi bar. Upbeat music sets the mood for a lively dinner filled with sake and specials such as yuzu-sliced sea bass with truffle oil and salmon roe.
your private pool
Photo: Courtesy of Michelle Stansbury
Get up and put on a bikini for breakfast. Enjoy a floating champagne breakfast including fruits, pastries, coffee and more in your villa’s private infinity pool.
Buying Ithaafushi, Maldives Packaging Essentials:
