The Maldives! An archipelago of over a thousand coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, scattered across the Indian Ocean like pearls. It’s renowned for its stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. While public islands may not offer the same level of luxury resorts and amenities as private islands, they provide insight into local Maldivian life, culture, and traditions. Private islands in the Maldives are owned by individuals, companies, or resort operators. They are primarily developed for tourism purposes, offering exclusive accommodations, beaches, and amenities. In this blog we’ll share our experience in visiting a public island named Maafusi and private resort island named Sun Siyam Olhuveli.
After reaching Male airport we headed to visit a public island nearby named Maafushi Island. It’s easily accessible from the Maldives’ capital city, Malé, by speedboat or public ferry. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes by speedboat and a couple of hours by ferry. With its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Maafushi offers a perfect tropical getaway.
Visitors can indulge in a range of water sports, from snorkeling and scuba diving to dolphin watching. The island also features local guesthouses, providing an authentic experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the Maldivian culture. Furthermore, Maafushi boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional Maldivian cuisine to international dishes. Whether it’s relaxation or adventure, Maafushi Island has something to offer to every traveler.
We spent 3 days in Maafushi island. Here is our itinerary of Maafushi island visit.
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time
Morning: After arriving in Maafushi, we checked into your accommodation. We spent the morning relaxing on the beautiful beaches and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.
Afternoon: We explored the island on foot. We discovered local cafes and restaurants for a taste of the Maldivian cuisine.
Day 2: Water Adventures
We embarked on a snorkeling excursion to explore the mesmerizing underwater world of the Maldives. There are plenty of tour operators who offer half day and full day tours. They provide the snorkeling gears also. The took us to white sand islands for drone photography. We also go a chance to swim with nurse sharks.
Day 5: Departure
We enjoyed a final sunrise on the beach and take in the serene surroundings of Maafushi. We checked out from your accommodation and depart from Maafushi with beautiful memories.
Our next destination is a private island Sun Siyam Olhuveli. Situated in the picturesque Maldives, Sun Siyam Olhuveli offers an unforgettable tropical getaway. With pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, this luxury resort is the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Sun Siyam Olhuveli promises an unforgettable experience, blending natural beauty with top-notch hospitality.We took a private boat from Maafushi to reach the island. We spent our next 3 days in this beautiful island resort.
The accommodations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli are nothing short of luxurious, with lavish villas and suites that exude elegance and comfort. Whether you choose a beach villa for direct access to the powdery sands or an overwater villa for the ultimate seclusion and panoramic ocean views, each abode is designed to provide a private sanctuary infused with modern amenities and authentic Maldivian touches. We spent our first two days here in the beach villa as those are relatively less pricey than over-water bungalows.
When it comes to dining, Sun Siyam Olhuveli presents an array of culinary delights at its diverse restaurants and bars. From exquisite fine dining experiences to casual beach-side bites, guests can savor a variety of international cuisines and local Maldivian flavors, all prepared with the freshest ingredients and served with genuine Maldivian hospitality. We had opted for full board options which includes all three meals. The wide variety of food was a feast for our three days stay here.
For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort’s spa offers a sanctuary of tranquility where guests can indulge in a range of holistic treatments and wellness rituals. With a serene ambiance and skilled therapists, the spa is the perfect place to unwind and pamper the body, mind, and soul.
We also immersed ourselves in a range of water sports, including snorkeling, and sailing, allowing us to discover the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface of the ocean. For those who prefer land-based activities, the resort offers tennis, beach volleyball, and yoga sessions, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.
We spent our last day in the island in a overwater bunglow. The overwater bungalows at Sun Siyam Olhuveli offer a unique and idyllic retreat in the Maldives. Perched above the turquoise lagoon, these luxurious accommodations provide stunning panoramic views and direct access to the crystal-clear waters. Each bungalow is tastefully designed with modern amenities and spacious sundecks, allowing guests to indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience. Whether you’re lounging on your private deck or taking a dip in the lagoon, the Sun Siyam Olhuveli water bungalows are the epitome of tropical luxury.
After immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the Maldives, it’s time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and the natural beauty that this tropical paradise has to offer. From the crystal-clear turquoise waters to the vibrant marine life, the Maldives has undoubtedly left a lasting impression.
As we bid farewell to this mesmerizing destination, we carry with us the memories of breathtaking sunsets, the sense of serenity that comes with each ocean breeze, and the warmth of the Maldivian hospitality. The Maldives has surely left an imprint on our heart, inviting us to return and create even more cherished moments in the future.
Whether it was a romantic retreat, an adventurous escapade, or simply a peaceful getaway, the Maldives has undoubtedly woven its magic into our travel memories, making it a destination we will cherish forever. Until next time, may the allure of the Maldives continue to beckon you back to its idyllic shores. Safe travels!
Escape Explore Experience 