Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is a luxury private island resort that occupies Kuda Huraa island, a tropical getaway with beautiful white-sand beaches and clear turquoise water. The collection of thatched villas – including overwater bungalows – resembles a charming Maldivian village, but with a luxe touch. Wooden walkways and sandy paths meander across the property, edged in lush greenery and bright flowers. Inside, decor is a mix of wood and wicker, with lovely intricately carved furnishings mixed with details like mosaic tiling and island-style touches. Most spaces are partially open-air pavilions, with beautiful views over the grounds or water. Restaurants spill outdoors, and there are charming areas to lounge in throughout.

The luxurious property does a great job at catering to both couples seeking a romantic holiday and families traveling with kids. Children are catered to with a great kids’ club, organized activities, and a pool, while adults have their own quiet pool (plus each villa comes with a private one) and features like a swish spa. There’s another impressive Four Seasons property in the Maldives, the Four Seasons Resort Maldives At Landaa Giraavaru, which is farther away and requires a seaplane.

Be aware that all-inclusive rates are not available at this Four Seasons Resort, so travelers seeking an all-inclusive getaway to help keep costs in check should consider Constance Moofushi, which is a luxury private island resort near stellar scuba diving sites.

The Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is situated on a private island in the North Male Atoll that’s accessible via a 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport. Gorgeous, immaculately maintained grounds include plenty of lush greenery and white-sand beaches. Kuda Huraa neighbors the island of Huraa, which is bigger and home to several hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The resort offers bungalows and suites, ranging from overwater villas to beachside pavilions. Luxurious and spacious, they include two- and three-bedroom units ideal for families and groups. All have private pools (either infinity or plunge) along with lovely outdoor areas with wooden decks, outdoor daybeds, and loungers.

Thatched roofs and stone walls set the Maldivian mood – local materials and traditional building techniques were used for construction. The chic spaces pair beautiful dark woods with crisp white bedding and soft colored textiles like pale sea greens. Four-poster beds are draped in mosquito netting for a romantic touch. Large windows and doors offer gorgeous views over the grounds, sea, or beach. All rooms have sitting areas, while larger units have full living rooms and dining areas.

Rooms are outfitted with modern amenities such as 42-inch flat screen TVs, DVD players, Nespresso machines, electronic  safes, and free Wi-Fi. Luxe bathrooms feature double sink vanities, soaking tubs, and separate walk-in rainfall showers. Most also have charming outdoor showers too. Bathrobes and slippers are provided, as are L’Occitane toiletries.

Food here gets good reviews and the four restaurants offer a variety of choice. The oceanfront Baraabaru serves Indian food and locally caught seafood. For something a bit more casual, the alfresco Reef Club offers wood-fired pizza and pasta. Café Huraa serves Western and Asian fare, while Kandu Grill specializes in grilled meats and fish. Room service is available 24/7 and breakfast is included in rates. All-inclusive packages are not available here.

There’s a poolside bar that offers salads and sandwiches as well as drinks. For evening cocktails, the Sunset Lounge is the best setting for a tipple with a view. It also serves snacks throughout the day, as well as afternoon tea.

The main attraction at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is the location itself – a gorgeous private island with stunning beaches and lush greenery. The beaches are beautiful, with palapa-shaded loungers provided for guests, plus a number of free water sports are available, including snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing. There’s a diving center here too. For an alternative to the beach, there are two attractive outdoor pools, including an impressive infinity-edge one that overlooks the sea and is bordered by padded loungers.

Wellness features include a luxurious spa, which is accessed via a dhoni ride – a charming, traditional wooden Maldivian boat. Treatment rooms are set on stilts over the water and offer calming sea views. A variety of treatments are available, including hair and nail services alongside a range of massages, facials, and bath rituals. Nighttime treatments and multi-day spa programs are unique offerings. The fitness center offers a good variety of equipment, with a great selection of Life Fitness cardio machines and strength-training equipment. Free yoga classes take place daily.

Families are catered to with a kids’ club, which includes indoor and outdoor play areas and a kids’ pool. There’s a Marine Discovery Center too, where kids can learn about the marine ecosystem. Other amenities include meeting and event space, and the resort offers multiple wedding venues and a wedding package with an on-site specialist to help plan the ceremony and reception.