Indian Ocean Islands

Located in the Noonu Atoll, north of Malé, Velaa Private Island is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends Maldivian culture with modern luxury. Named "Turtle Island" in the local language, it honors the sea turtles that have nested there for generations. Founded by Czech businessman Jiří Šmejc, the island was created from his love for the Maldives and his vision of a private, luxurious resort. Today, Velaa Private Island stands as a testament to Šmejc's dream, offering an unmatched blend of privacy, luxury, and premier amenities.

The island, spanning just under 20 hectares, is a private sanctuary home to 47 self-sufficient villas, houses, and residences, each complete with a pool, ocean access, day beds, and elaborate outdoor living areas. These accommodations can house up to 134 guests, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience for all who visit.

ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES

Velaa Private Island is not merely a destination; it is an experience in itself. The island offers an array of amenities unseen across the Indian Ocean. From a short game golf facility designed by José María Olazábal to an overwater spa with a cloud 9 room, a covered tennis court, squash courts, a climbing wall, yacht rentals, a wine tower, and even a turtle nursery, Velaa caters to those seeking the unique and finest things in life.

GOLF

In golf, where precision, strategy, and skill are the keys to mastery, the Velaa Golf Academy by José María Olazábal stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. This esteemed institution embodies the legendary golfer's prowess in short games and offers a unique golfing experience. Central to the Velaa Golf Academy is its state-of-the-art studio, which allows its students to refine their technique and cultivate talent. The Academy also employs cutting-edge swing analysis technology, an advanced tool that allows for an in-depth examination of a player's swing, providing real-time feedback and detailed data to inform adjustments and improvements. The Velaa Golf Academy also has a Trackman simulator to enhance golf sessions. The Academy presents an opportunity for golf enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the sport under the guidance and mentorship of PGA professionals and aided by the most advanced golfing technology. Indeed, it is a testament to Olazábal's legacy and a tribute to the timeless allure of golf.

DINING

The island's culinary offerings are equally impressive, with restaurants such as Aragu presenting contemporary European cuisine with an Asian twist, and Tavaru celebrating a menu of Teppanyaki grill cuisine complemented by Velaa’s extensive wine cellar.

ARRIVAL

The journey to Velaa Private Island is an adventure in itself. A scenic 45-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport (MLE) transports guests to this tropical paradise. For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, a private charter can be arranged on a Velaa-branded 9-seater luxury seaplane.

Baros Island is a verdant gem hidden amidst the glimmering waters of the Maldivian archipelago. Formerly a humble coconut plantation, it has since evolved into an idyllic haven, inviting couples seeking respite from the mundane to immerse themselves in its beauty. The island has welcomed guests since 1973 and earned a reputation as one of the most cherished resorts in the Maldives.

The heart of Baros Island beats with the same pulse as its iconic coconut palms. This majestic tree, which offers sustenance and shelter, remains the island's centerpiece. Despite transforming into a luxury resort, the lush vegetation that includes the palms was maintained, lending it an authentic charm. Guests can take advantage of the property's 75 luxurious villas, 30 perched over the water and the other 45 on the beach. Each Villa has its private pool and direct access to a nearby lagoon, where vibrant reef wonders await exploring.

The island, known locally as 'beautiful little island' in the Dhivehi dialect, is a rare, secluded retreat. Located at the heart of the South Malé Atoll in the Maldives, it is an extraordinary refuge from the mundane. It is a place where time ceases to exist, and each moment is a memory in the making. \ The island has 20 sophisticatedly designed villas and cabanas, each nestled within verdant coconut groves for absolute seclusion. These residences feature weathered-wood exteriors that harmoniously blend with the tropical milieu. Each villa has a private infinity pool with hardwood decks that hover over the cerulean waters of the Indian Ocean. The interiors are bright and breezy, decorated in soft shades and tropical tints, with expansive living areas that transition effortlessly onto the outdoors. \ The villas feature cutting-edge amenities, including LCD satellite televisions, BOSE home theater systems, and round-the-clock steward services. Its al fresco bathrooms include sea-facing tubs for two and L'Occitane products, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

DINING

Naladhu Private Island also offers a distinctive gastronomic experience, with an array of dining options set in unique environments. Every meal is a culinary marvel, from gourmet breakfasts available 24/7 to unique Thai cuisine at Baan Huraa. The Living Room offers a blend of old and new world cuisine, while 73 Degrees presents extravagant buffet breakfasts with freshly milled coffee, oven-fresh pastries, and exotic fruits.

ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES

The island also provides a variety of recreational activities, from dhoni sailing cruises and private island picnics to snorkeling and scuba diving. If you seek tranquility, the Ocean Retreat Spa offers a revitalizing sanctuary with private saunas, swimming pools, and tropical rain showers. Naladhu Private Island is a paradise for its visitors and the marine life inhabiting its coral reefs. The island's Coral Adoption Programme safeguards these immaculate beaches and remarkable coral reefs, ensuring the conservation of this unspoiled paradise.

Located just off the southeastern coast of mainland Eastern Africa in the Indian Ocean, North Island, or Ile du Nord, is a luxurious retreat in the Seychelles archipelago. It offers a striking blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. Whether watching the sunrise from a private terrace, enjoying a massage with an ocean backdrop, or dining under the stars, a stay on the North Island is an unforgettable experience. \ The Ile du Nord is a crown jewel among the 42 inner islands of Seychelles, a destination celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant biodiversity. The historical tapestry of the island is as captivating as its topography. It was the first Seychelles island to witness a seafarer landing, an expedition led by Captain Sharpeigh in 1609. Once, it was a sanctuary for a thriving population of giant land tortoises, underscoring its rich biodiversity. In the present day, the name Ile du Nord has become synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. The island offers unprecedented exclusivity, with only 11 villas dotting its landscape. The villas are constructed using organic materials, mirroring the island's unwavering commitment to environmental preservation.

ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES

The island's commitment to luxury goes beyond just lodging; it also offers a range of activities like mountain biking, scuba diving, kayaking, and deep-sea fishing. The resort's unique dining approach lets chefs tailor meals to guests' tastes, using locally sourced ingredients or fresh catches from the nearby sea.

Located just 30 nautical miles off the Tanzanian coast in the Indian Ocean, Thanda Island offers a secluded retreat near Mafia Island. Its name, 'Thanda,' means 'love' in Zulu, reflecting the devotion of its owners, the Olofsson family. The island combines natural beauty, privacy, and luxury, serving as a place where love and nature merge.

The island's villa boasts five lavish, climate-controlled suites that open onto a glass-edge infinity pool and outdoor area surrounded by blue seas and soft sands. For guests seeking a more local experience, two open-air Tanzanian bandas or beach chalets offer an authentic touch.

Thanda Island is committed to conservation, partnering with the Tanzanian Marine Parks and Reserves Unit to protect local biodiversity, including marine turtles and whale sharks. The island also supports community projects on nearby Mafia Island, focusing on education, sustainable fishing, and wellness.

ARRIVAL

The journey to Thanda Island is itself a luxurious escape. International travelers arrive in Dar es Salaam via private jet or first-class flights provided by renowned airlines. A private helicopter then whisks you away on a 35-minute flight, offering breathtaking views before landing on the island's pristine beaches.

ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES

The island is a haven for nature lovers, featuring an 8-hectare marine reserve filled with vibrant coral and diverse marine life. Guests can explore this underwater paradise through snorkeling and diving or relax on the beach to the calming sound of the waves. On land, a floodlit tennis court invites sports enthusiasts, and a well-equipped gym is available for those who want to maintain their fitness routine in the island's peaceful setting.

Escape to Anantara Veli Resort in the Maldives, a secluded paradise in the heart of the Indian Ocean, where you can leave life's worries behind. Just a 30-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, the resort is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. It offers luxurious overwater bungalows and caters to surfers of all skill levels with various wave types, including reef and point breaks.

Guests can indulge in couples' spa treatments, outdoor cinema nights under the stars, and unique Dining by Design experiences. You'll also have access to facilities at the sister resort, Anantara Dhigu. With well-appointed villas, daily breakfast, honeymoon perks, extensive watersports, and daily yoga classes, Anantara Veli ranks among the Maldives' top 5-star resorts.

Experience the beauty of crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and tropical vistas. Enjoy unforgettable moments under the stars, enhanced by a dedicated wellness host, pampering spa treatments, and delectable wellness cuisine. Anantara Veli is the perfect setting for your romantic journey.

DINING

Dining at the Maldives restaurant on Anantara Resort offers oceanfront views of the shimmering lagoon. Enjoy exquisite local seafood specialties infused with Thai or Japanese flavors for a culinary journey across the Indian Ocean. You can also explore more dining options at their sister resort, Anantara Dhigu, featuring some of the finest cuisines in the Maldives. For an authentic experience, the resort offers candlelit dinners accompanied by the rhythmic beat of traditional Maldivian bodu beru drummers.

ORIGAMI | JAPANESE

Relish in the lively show of teppanyaki chefs, slicing and dicing Japanese cuisine in a picturesque island setting. Start the night off with tantalizing sashimi and sushi featuring freshly caught yellowfin. Experience the ultimate seafood delicacies with Hokkaido scallops straight from the robata grill and unique dishes like paper-thin seabass adorned with yuzu, truffle oil, and salmon roe. For a truly entertaining evening, try a teppanyaki menu featuring mouth-watering Wagyu beef and succulent Alaskan king crab, expertly grilled and served right before your eyes.

FUSHI CAFE | INTERNATIONAL

Begin your day in the Maldives with a lavish buffet breakfast at Fushi! Indulge in a selection of fresh tropical fruits and juices, homemade breads and pastries, European cold cuts and cheeses, and have your eggs cooked to order by the chef at the cooking station. As the sun sets, savor an exquisite buffet dinner with live cooking stations, international classics, pizza and pizza counters, vegetarian options, and seafood and meat specialties. Finish your meal with a selection of delectable desserts and enjoy dining al fresco under the stars in a picturesque Maldivian sky.

CUMIN | INDIAN

Unlock a world of new South Asian flavors as you traverse the Indian Ocean. Savour the sweet spices of India, the tantalizing tastes of Maldivian tuna curry, and the deliciously complex flavors of Sri Lanka - all while enjoying a magnificent beach view at Cumin! The team of expert chefs hand-select the freshest ingredients from the sea and our garden to create dishes that take your taste buds on an unforgettable voyage.

BAAN HURAA | THAI

Step out over the tranquil lagoon and into a timeless teak house bathed in the setting sun's warm orange glow. Experience the distinct flavors of Thailand - discover an array of dishes from all around the kingdom: the sour-spicy salads from the Northeast, the hot coconut curries from the South, and the beloved dishes from the Central Plains, all served with fragrant jasmine rice. When indulging your sweet tooth, savor traditional desserts like mango sticky rice or poached bananas in creamy coconut milk.

AQUA | ITALIAN

Unwind at Aqua and experience a true medley of flavors! Take in endless lagoon views by the beach while savoring vibrant Italian flavors. Refreshments and light meals are served poolside all afternoon, and make sure to check out our ice cream hut with its delightful flavors and toppings. Indulge in the best Italian cuisine at night with freshly made pasta and pizzas.

DHONI BAR | MEDITERRANEAN, TAPAS BAR

Relish the sun's radiant glory while lounging in a tropical poolside bar in the Maldives. Indulge in a wide selection of refreshments, from iced coffees and smoothies to mocktails and international delicacies to tantalize your taste buds. When the sun sets, raise a glass of champagne as you browse the menu for signature cocktails and scrumptious tapas.

SEA FIRE SALT | SEAFOOD

Enjoy the spectacular view of the Indian Ocean while dining on the finest cuisine in the Maldives! Savor freshly caught local seafood, quality imports, and prime-aged cuts perfectly complemented with fine wines and the fresh ocean breeze. Experience a luxurious meal over the gorgeous turquoise lagoon!

SPA & WELLNESS

Discover inner peace at Balance Wellness by Anantara, the premier wellness retreat in the Maldives. Nestled within a fragrant orchid garden, our spa offers ancient and modern treatments to rejuvenate body and mind. Choose from couples' treatments, therapeutic massages, and therapies rooted in Yoga, Ayurveda, and traditional Hammam rituals. Luxuriate in personalized villas and experience unique treatments like the Cleopatra 24-Carat Gold Facial or the Shanti Couple, designed for deep relaxation and peace. Reawaken your senses at Balance Wellness.

ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES

Anantara Veli Private Island is more than a resort—an adventure waiting to be explored. Surrounded by a stunning coral reef, the island offers many aquatic activities, from snorkeling trips to view turtles and nurse sharks to various water sports. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or looking for a tranquil escape, you'll find an array of unforgettable experiences here.

SURFING

Anantara Veli isn't just a relaxing paradise and a hotspot for surfing. Whether you're a beginner looking to catch your first wave at 'Henry's,' an intermediate surfer ready to tackle 'Noyans,' or a seasoned pro eager for the challenge at 'Boatyards,' you'll find the perfect wave here. The prime surfing season runs from late March to early October, peaking from May to September.

NURSE SHARK SNORKELING

Immerse yourself in the underwater wonders of the Maldives! Dive into the stunning Vaavu Atoll and discover spectacular marine life, from nurse sharks to manta rays. This is not just a snorkeling trip—it's a dive into an underwater paradise teeming with life.

DESERTED ISLAND DINNER

Elevate your dining experience with a private dinner on a secluded island. A personal sommelier will pair your sumptuous lobster meal with a crisp white wine. Cap off the evening with a wine-tasting session beside the lagoon, then return to your island paradise under a starlit sky.

MOVIE UNDER THE STARS

Delight in an enchanting open-air cinema experience under the Maldivian sky. Cozy up in plush beanbags while enjoying a selection of Hollywood and international classics, complete with popcorn and refreshments.

EXQUISITE BRITANNIC MICHELIN-STARRED GUEST CHEF SERIES

Indulge in Michelin-starred dining at Anantara Veli. Our rotating roster of British Michelin-starred chefs will take your culinary journey to the next level, featuring culinary talents like Gary Foulkes, Steve Lancaster, and Lewis Barker.

COOKING CLASSES

Sharpen your culinary skills with a hands-on cooking class by Anantara Veli, executive chef. After a tour of our herb garden, learn to create your favorite Maldivian or Thai dishes, and enjoy your culinary creations for lunch.

CORAL ADOPTION

Join us in preserving the fragile coral reefs around Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli, and Naladhu Maldives. Our Coral Adoption Programme allows guests to contribute to reef conservation efforts, including planting coral and tracking its growth.

WATERSPORTS & DIVING SAFARIS

Seek adventure with various water-based activities, from snorkeling and paddleboarding to wakeboarding and parasailing. Our PADI 5-star dive facilities offer a safe yet exhilarating underwater exploration experience.

DOLPHIN QUEST

Witness the playful antics of spinner dolphins from the comfort of a cruise, or try your hand at big-game fishing for a more adventurous oceanic experience.

BEACH GAMES & LIBRARY LOUNGE

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the resort offers beach games and a library lounge for a quiet reading retreat.

Voavah Private Island offers solitude and luxury within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This Four Seasons property boasts opulent bedrooms, luxurious bathrooms, and an array of natural wonders, including a resident pod of dolphins.

Nestled in the North Male Atoll, Coco Privé Kuda Hithi Island offers unparalleled luxury and privacy. Crafted by award-winning architect Guz Wilkinson, the island provides a lavish experience complete with a personal chef and various activities.