Lost among the seemingly endless swathes of mesmerising blue water in the South Malé Atoll, lies a little slice of paradise, Ithaafushi. A million miles away from the cares of the world, this idyllic isle of swaying palm trees, sugar-white sand and dreamy, thatched-roof villas provides the perfect playground of possibilities for young and old. Here, you are invited to do as much or as little as you like while embracing the very best of Indian Ocean splendour at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
Begin your island adventure by heeding the call of the ocean and exploring your vast, cerulean surroundings. Go beneath the surface to experience the magnificent wildlife including nurse sharks, dolphins and the mighty whale sharks that inhabit these balmy waters, with a diving or snorkelling expedition. If you prefer to stay dry, discover the hidden marine gems of the deep with a glass-bottomed boat tour, or hook yourself a red snapper or barracuda with a spot of sunset fishing. Raise the tempo of your ‘aqua-tainment’ by mastering the waves through a plethora of water sports including kitesurfing, water skiing and thrilling hydrosport, X-Jetblade. Or explore the sapphire blue lagoons on a guided jet ski or kayaking tour.
Return to terra firma where you can unleash your passion for padel tennis. Under the shadows of towering palm trees, you can take a swing at one of the world’s fastest growing sports under the auspices of the resort’s coaches, who will guide you through proceedings, from the first serve to match point. However, if you are a tennis traditionalist, wander over to the strikingly blue tennis court to showcase your racket skills.
For those escaping to romance, the property boasts an array of activities to bring you even closer over your stay. Home to 11 distinct restaurants and bars, savour an intimate dinner at the globally acclaimed Zuma Maldives or the beautiful, Li Long. Or you can elevate your dining to a new level by taking your place at blissful treetop restaurant, Terra, before cosying up with cocktails as you watch the sun set for another day at beachfront lounge, Amber. Seize an opportunity to learn a new recipe from one of the supremely talented chefs on the island with a cooking masterclass, or why not immortalise your stay with your very own complimentary photoshoot to keep those special memories fresh until you return?
Little ones take centre at the Stars Club where there is a sparkling array of facilities for kids to enjoy. They can go for a dip at the Splash Pad and Waterpark, get creative at the Arts & Craft Area or immerse themselves in fun at the Adventure Playground that boasts sensory trails, activity walks, obstacle game and scavenger hunts. There’s even a Kids Concierge programme that will see a dedicated team member providing individual attention to each child, as well as curating an activity plan that suits your child’s interests. For older kids, Club Nova offers an escape from the watchful eyes of Mum and Dad, where they can socialise with other teenagers through beach volleyball, art classes, kite flying and more.
When it’s time to slow down, enhance the wellbeing of all the family with a group spa treatment at Spa in Maldives. Let stress and strain melt away with treatments inspired by the natural elements of earth, water, fire and metal on your wellness journey to relaxation and rejuvenation. Whatever your pleasure, whatever your whim, you will find it in this place for everyone.
