The captivating Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a travel experience that will stay with you for life

Words: Selma Day

The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi experience begins as soon as you arrive at Velana International Airport in Malé, where you are whisked on to a private yacht for the 45-minute journey to the luxury resort (the champagne was already on ice when we stepped on board). Located in the South Malé Atoll, it offers 119 villas ranging from beach, reef and overwater accommodation to Ithaafushi Private Island – the largest private island in the Maldives that caters for up to 18 guests.

After a warm welcome on the jetty by the resort team, we were transported to our overwater villa, which even by uber- luxe Maldivian standards is off the charts. Combining a contemporary feel with Maldivian charm, the interiors, which are inspired by nature, are connected to the outside by the floor-to-ceiling windows. You immediately feel a sense of calm.

A closer inspection of the exquisitely furnished and spacious villa reveals an obvious commitment to quality and craftsmanship, with every mod con you might expect.

The luxury continues, with a large dressing room and dreamy bathroom complete with indoor and outdoor showers, double sinks, Aesop amenities, a Dyson hairdryer and a deep-soak bathtub – perfect for relaxing in with a glass of bubbly while you take in the breathtaking ocean views.

The doors open on to a huge terrace, with a private infinity pool, swinging sofas, deck chairs and overwater hammocks if you want a closer look at the teeming marine life – although a glass floor panel in the villa allows you to see a range of fish, from black-tipped reef sharks to trigger fish and more without even venturing out. If you’re an early riser, you’ll catch them all searching for breakfast.

It’s utterly mesmerising. Of course, there are opportunities to get closer to the marine life, whether that be snorkelling or a deeper underwater adventure with the resort’s dive experts. Other ocean adventures range from jetskiing to paddleboarding at sunset. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or something more relaxed, the water sports centre offers an array of experiences for all skill levels.

For tennis or padel fans, the resort provides world-class facilities, social matches, exclusive events and personalised training sessions with professional coaches.

Families are also well catered for – there’s a kids’ club where children (and parents) can enjoy engaging activities, creative workshops and interactive experiences.

While the little ones are busy, you can head to the spa, where you’ll find a range of holistic wellness treatments designed to restore balance. From ocean-inspired therapies to bespoke rituals, each is tailored for deep relaxation and renewal.

A quick chat with Ttj Joulak, the new managing director of waldorf astoria maldives ithaafushi

What sets waldorf astoria apart from other luxury resorts in the maldives?

At Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, what truly sets us apart is the scale and diversity of the experience we offer, combined with an uncompromising sense of privacy.

Set across three interconnected islands, the resort allows guests to enjoy a wide variety of dining, wellness and recreational experiences, while each villa remains a private sanctuary. This balance of space, choice and personalisation creates a stay that feels both expansive and deeply intimate.

What is your vision and focus for the resort?

Our vision is to continue evolving Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi as a destination that defines modern luxury in the Maldives, one that is thoughtful, immersive and highly personalised. Our focus remains on creating meaningful experiences for our guests, whether through curated programming, exceptional dining or intuitive service, while ensuring that every stay feels seamless, refined and memorable.

What trends are you seeing among high-net-worth travellers and what do they look for when they come to a resort like this?

We are seeing a clear shift towards more purposeful and experience-led travel. High-net-worth travellers are increasingly seeking privacy, space and flexibility, but also meaningful ways to spend their time – whether that is through wellness, learning new skills or sharing experiences with family. There is also a growing appreciation for personalisation, where every detail is tailored, and a desire for destinations that offer both variety and a strong sense of place within one setting.

What's new – and what can we look forward to in the near future?

We continue to introduce new experiences that reflect how our guests are choosing to travel today. This includes expanded wellness offerings with visiting practitioners, more structured and immersive activity programmes and a continued focus on culinary innovation across our restaurants. Looking ahead, our priority is to further enhance the guest journey through thoughtful programming and refined experiences that bring together families, couples and individuals in meaningful ways.

The resort is also home to the Maldives’ first aqua wellness centre, which features a custom-built hydrotherapy pool, ice fountain, steam room and sauna with zones dedicated to different parts of the body. Jets and massagers use varying temperatures and intensities to improve circulation, boost the immune system and help you sleep more soundly.

Gastronomy is at the heart of the resort and if you’re a foodie you won’t be disappointed. With 11 distinct dining venues – from romantic tree-top dining at Terra to what is probably the most beautiful Zuma in the world – you are spoilt for choice. A standout experience for us, in addition to enjoying sushi at the Zuma bar surrounded by the ocean (accompanied by sake of course), was dining at The Ledge by Dave Pynt (from Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends), famous for his bold, wood-fired cuisine.

Don’t miss the Ledge burger, which is served at lunchtime poolside at Nava, and reputed to be one of the best burgers in the world (it tasted pretty damn good to us).

Another not-to-be-missed dining experience is the signature Peking Duck at pan-Chinese restaurant Li Long – roasted in the Maldives’ first classic wood-fired oven. Again, the spectacular ocean views make for a truly memorable evening.

Also unique to Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is The Rock – a private Jordanian limestone cave with an extensive wine cellar where guests can sit around a 200-year-old Jarrah table for food and wine pairing dinners.

One of our favourite spots was the Amber bar – a tranquil setting where each evening we sat and watched the sun setting over the Indian Ocean while enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail. It is one of many magical moments at this unique resort that will stay with us for ever.

Nightly rates for a reef villa at Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi start from $2,650 including breakfast.