Among the glittering collection of superlative resorts that pepper the Maldives archipelago, it doesn’t get any more luxurious than Ithaafushi – The Private Island by Waldorf Astoria. Set apart from Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi on its own idyllic isle, this private sanctuary is paradise found: an exclusive-use tropical playground that’s home to just three elegant villas.
Feel the warm embrace of Indian Ocean sunshine as your private yacht sluices through the cerulean seas of the South Male Atoll on the 40-minute cruise from Malé, a transformational journey that ushers you into an island state of mind. Natural rhythms measured by time and tide set the tempo for unforgettable stays, choreographed by your private concierge and a team of chefs, mixologists and wellness therapists ready to cater to every need.
Nestled within the tropical greenery or perched above the cyan seas, three exquisite villas provide a base for island adventures or dreamy indulgence for up to 18 guests. You’ll be king and queen of your own water world in the two-bedroom overwater villa, where a hammock swings over gentle waves and an infinity pool overlooks the endless Indian Ocean. Drowsy coconut palms surround the three-bedroom beach villa, a princely hideaway with two infinity pools and lush beachfront gardens, while the four-bedroom residence has two king bedrooms and two queen bedrooms with hot tubs that lead directly onto fine white sands.
Wherever you stay, everyone comes together at Haali, which means ‘Nest’ in the local Dhivehi language. This breezy, light-filled living room and entertainment space is the heart of the island, home to a 35-metre infinity pool, private bar, LED cinema screen and plenty of indoor and outdoor lounge spaces in which to unwind and bask in the Indian Ocean sunshine. As well as their own dedicated pool and games room, younger guests can hop across to the main island where Stars Club and Club Nova have an immersive calendar of activities for adventurous junior jetsetters.
From the moment you arrive, everything is tailored to you. Lazy mornings by the pool or afternoons exploring the reef with snorkel and face mask can be complemented with personalised programmes at the Ocean Pavilion spa, where a wellness concierge will recommend customised therapies, spa treatments, acupressure and traditional herbal remedies based on individual needs. Endless horizons fill the view through floor-to-ceiling windows at the fitness centre; tennis and padel courts invite spirited competition among friends and family; while the overwater yoga pavilion provides the perfect stage on which to salute the sun at dawn and dusk as the sky erupts in fiery tones.
Wherever you look, the sparkling shores of the Indian Ocean offer an irresistible invitation to explore the underwater world on a diving excursion, fishing trip or water sports session, while off-island experiences like picnicking on a private sandbank or scouting for dolphins and rays forge unbreakable connections to the natural world.
The island’s dedicated culinary team can create bespoke menus served in the comfort of your villa, a secluded patch of powder-soft sand, or in your poolside gazebo. Additionally, guests at Ithaafushi – The Private Island can make the short journey to Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi to dine at 11 restaurants and bars including elevated bamboo dining pods at Terra, izakaya-style Japanese cuisine at Zuma Maldives, Middle Eastern cuisine at Yasmeen and grilled fare at The Ledge by Dave Pynt.
If your group is larger than 18 guests, the main island is home to 119 exquisitely designed overwater, beach and reef villas as well as a sumptuous spa sanctuary and aqua wellness centre. Whether it’s a special milestone, family celebration or an unforgettable wedding, Ithaafushi – The Private Island is a blank canvas on which you can script your own castaway adventures.
