The hype
Reviewers rave about the staff's warmth and the massive size of the Overwater Suites, but many note the property feels a bit older with visible wear from the salt air.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives - Water Suites
$350-650/ night
Book this if You're a surfer chasing the legendary Pasta Point break or a couple wanting an overwater villa without the $1,000+ nightly price tag.
Why People Love It
- Exclusive access to Pasta Point surf break (if booked correctly)
- Overwater Suites get their own private restaurant and infinity pool
- Surprisingly affordable all-inclusive packages for the Maldives
Quick Take: A high-energy 4-star resort that trades polished luxury for world-class waves and a lively, unpretentious vibe.
Reviewed by @Moiz_bagasrawalla: I stayed in the Water Suite at Cinnamon Dhonveli and it was a total dream. Waking up to the sound of the ocean and having my own private ladder into the lagoon was the escape I desperately needed.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'All-Inclusive' has fine print—premium drinks, minibar items, and certain excursions often cost extra.
- You are a surfer with a pre-booked surf package
- You want a massive overwater suite for under $600/night
- You prefer a social, active atmosphere over dead silence
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Twice daily service (morning clean + evening turndown). Generally thorough.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean, but grout in older bungalows can show age. Suites have spa baths that are well-maintained.
- Maintenance: Wooden exteriors show salt wear (grey/weathered wood). Some peeling paint on railings due to humidity.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, though beach towels can sometimes run out by midday.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze dominates. Some thatch roofs have a faint earthy/musty smell after heavy rain.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud crashing waves directly under Overwater Suites (can be intense)
- Thumping bass from the bar heard in Water Bungalows (eastern tip)
- Seaplane traffic overhead during daylight hours
Before you book
Good to know
- The resort is on the same time zone as Male but operates on 'island time' (often +1 hour) to maximize daylight.
- Rehendhi Restaurant is exclusive to Overwater Suite guests—use it, the food is better than the main buffet.
- Currents around the water suites can be very strong; not always safe for casual swimming.
What to pack
- Your own mask and snorkel (saves you ~$100/week in rental fees)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (expensive at the resort shop)
- Rash guard (sun is brutal near the equator)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Overwater Suites 721 or 723 (Sunset side) for incredible views and privacy
- Beach Bungalows on the north side for quieter beach access
Rooms to avoid
- Water Bungalows near the bar (noise issues)
- Garden Bungalows if you want ocean views (they are tucked in the middle)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking an Overwater Suite and kindly request a unit on the Sunset side (like room 721) to maximize privacy. Please ensure we are NOT placed in a Water Bungalow near the main bar due to noise sensitivity.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Can I surf Pasta Point if I just book a room?
No. You must book the specific surf package through an authorized agent (like Atoll Travel). No exceptions.
Is the transfer by seaplane or speedboat?
Speedboat. It takes about 20-25 minutes from Male airport.
Are the Overwater Suites worth the upgrade?
Yes. You get a much larger room, a separate living area, and exclusive access to the Rehendhi restaurant and pool.
Is there a house reef for snorkeling?
Yes, but it's better on the lagoon side. The ocean side has strong waves. Coral health is recovering but not pristine.
Do the rooms have glass floors?
Yes, Overwater Suites have a glass viewing panel in the living room floor.
Is alcohol included?
Yes, in the All-Inclusive package, but premium brands and cocktails often incur an upcharge.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book a 'Sunset Fishing' excursion—if you catch a fish, the kitchen will cook it for your dinner the next day for free.
- ✨
The 'Pasta Point' viewing deck is a great spot to watch pros surf, even if you can't surf yourself.
- ✨
Walk to the 'Raalhu Bar' for the best sunset views, even if you aren't a surfer.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Green Tax' of $6 per person per day is charged at checkout, not always in your booking total.
💡The water under the Overwater Suites is often too rough for a casual dip; you'll likely use the ladder to dip in but not swim far.
💡The 'juice' at breakfast is often the sugary cordial type, not fresh squeezed.
💡You can see the skyline of Male and trash island (Thilafushi) in the distance from some angles—it's not totally isolated.
💡The wooden walkways get scorching hot—bring slides or flip-flops everywhere.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives - Water Suites is located and what's nearby.