Jumeirah Vittaveli

Jumeirah Vittaveli is a luxurious private island resort that opened in December of 2011. The swanky property takes up the entirety of the Bolifushi Island and has suites that dot the lagoon surrounding the island. Built in the style of a traditional Maldives village, the property maintained the essence of the island group, while adding luxe touches such as a beautiful large pool, restaurants on white-sand beaches, and suites and a spa that are placed directly over the water. With villas and suites that have private pools, gorgeous flora and fauna, and stretches of sand, there’s absolutely a romantic vibe to the resort, plus with only 89 units, it doesn't get crowded or busy. Though it's removed from other Maldives islands, the resort tries to keep things local. The spa team produces their own 100-percent pure coconut oil, souvenirs are sold by a local NGO that funnels profits back into the community, and traditional Bodu Beru performances are held every Sunday, so guests can participate in a cultural experience. 

Elite travelers are attracted to this property for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of cities, as there’s nothing else on the island besides the resort. Though most visitors are couples on romantic getaways, a good portion of families are attracted to the island resort for its kid-friendly amenities like a supervised kids’ club.

Jumeirah Vittaveli has a superb private location on the Bolifushi Island of the Maldives. It’s the only property on the whole island. Upon arriving at the Velana International Airport, guests are whisked away on a 20-minute boat ride to the island. Note that boat transfers require a fee. The entire island is covered by the resort, so guests should be aware that there isn’t anything outside of the resort to do or see, unless they plan on taking a boat. However, there's plenty to see on the island: a private beach, six shipwrecks in the ocean, and a coral reef. 

Villas and Suites at Jumeirah Vittaveli are placed right in front of sandy private beaches or directly over the lagoon. Due to wooden floors, predominantly white and cream color schemes, and architecture like that of a Maldivian village, these villas and suites give off a luxe, airy, and relaxing vibe. Amenities are unsurprisingly top-notch in each unit. They all have private pools -- even those in overwater villas -- plus many have outdoor showers or baths. Air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, kettles, minibars, and free Wi-Fi are also provided. Those located on the water have free boat service to and from the main island. Bathrooms are huge and spa-like, with bidets, hairdryers, separate showers and tubs, and toiletries. Thoughtful extras like loungers, cabana beds, life jackets, swings, fruit, and bottled water help guests feel at home. In 2017, the hotel added the five-bedroom Royal Residence with a guest house, spa pavilion, two pools, stocked kitchen, private jetty, and even staff quarters.

Features are designed to keep guests happy, occupied, and relaxed on a private island. Though all of the villas and suites have their own private pools, the resort also has a large, geometric pool that overlooks the ocean and is surrounded by wooden sundecks, cabanas, and padded loungers. In addition to the pool, there are a private beach and diving center from where guests can scuba dive and explore six different shipwrecks in the immediate ocean area. There’s also a semi-submarine coral trip available, along with water sports activities and free snorkel gear. Talise Spa is set up in overwater buildings and offers pampering sessions like baths, massages, and beauty treatments. The fitness center also overlooks the ocean and the room is filled with cardio and weight-training equipment. Fitness classes and outdoor yoga are on offer, plus bikes are available to borrow. 

There are several dining options on-site, starting with a free hot breakfast buffet every morning. Destination dining means staff will set up a meal on the beach, by the pool, in the pool, and in rooms. Swarma is the hotel’s Indian restaurant, while the indoor Samsara serves international and Asian cuisine. Fenesse is an overwater restaurant with endless ocean views, and Mu Beach Bar & Grill has a beachside location. Bar-ee provides an assortment of drinks.

There are a supervised kids' club and teen lounge with a children’s pool. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Traditional Bodu Beru performances take place every Sunday.