The hype
The snorkeling is unbeatable and the island is impeccably clean, but the food variety could be better.
Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa
$350-$550 / night
Book this if You want world-class snorkeling right off the beach and a relaxed, barefoot luxury vibe without the ultra-premium price tag.
Why People Love It
- Incredible house reef with turtles, reef sharks, and rays
- Adults-only areas including a dedicated pool and restaurant
- Excellent dive center and whale shark excursions
Quick Take: The mandatory $400 seaplane transfer stings, and the buffet food gets repetitive after a few days, but the marine life makes it entirely worth it.
Reviewed by @karinsworldoftravel: I took a seaplane to this incredible island and it was the ultimate escape. The white sand beaches were practically empty, and staying in an overwater villa was a dream come true. If you need to disconnect, this is the place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You're a captive audience for dining, and the all-inclusive buffet loses its charm by day four.
- Avid snorkelers and divers
- Couples seeking a quiet adults-only zone
- Travelers who prefer barefoot, casual island vibes over glitz
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Immaculate daily cleaning with twice-daily service and turndown.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless open-air bathrooms; no mold or sand buildup despite the beach environment.
- Maintenance: Well-maintained facilities, though some older furniture in standard rooms.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, crisp linens and fluffy towels replaced regularly.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze; no musty or damp smells reported.
Sleepability™
9SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Occasional seaplane noise during the day
- Minor noise from neighboring renovations (rare)
Before you book
Good to know
- You must share your international flight details at least 72 hours in advance to secure the seaplane transfer.
- The island is divided into family-friendly and adults-only zones.
- The seaplane luggage limit is strict: 20kg checked and 5kg carry-on.
What to pack
- Your own high-quality snorkel mask (rentals are available, but having your own is better)
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect the incredible coral
- Casual resort wear—no need for formal clothes, it's a barefoot island
Room Genie
Best picks
- Jacuzzi Water Villas for direct lagoon access and adults-only privacy
- Standalone Beach Villas for families wanting direct sand access
Rooms to avoid
- Garden Rooms if you want ocean views, as they are located in the interior of the island
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“We are so excited for our stay! If possible, we would love a Jacuzzi Water Villa on the sunset side of the island, as far from the main walkways as possible for maximum privacy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
How do I get to the resort?
You must take a 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé airport, which costs around $400 per adult roundtrip and is arranged by the hotel.
Is there a house reef?
Yes, it's one of the best in the Maldives. You can snorkel right off the beach and see turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral.
Are kids allowed?
Yes, there is a dedicated family-friendly side of the island with a kids' pool, but there are also strict adults-only zones.
Is the all-inclusive package worth it?
Yes, considering you are on an isolated island where à la carte drinks and meals add up quickly.
Is there free WiFi?
Yes, free WiFi is available in rooms and most public areas, though speeds can be island-slow.
Do I need to bring cash?
Most expenses are charged to your room, but bringing some small US dollars for tipping the staff is highly recommended.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the full-day whale shark excursion early—it's a bucket-list experience and spots fill up fast.
- ✨
The sunset bar in the adults-only section is the best spot on the island for golden hour drinks.
- ✨
If you're prone to seasickness, take medication before the seaplane ride, as it can get bumpy.
5 things to know before you go
💡The seaplane luggage limit is strict: 20kg checked and 5kg carry-on. You will pay extra for overweight bags.
💡The sand is so soft and pathways are unpaved, so you literally won't need shoes for your entire stay.
💡The 'Garden Rooms' are the budget option but lack the quintessential Maldives water views.
💡There is a $6 per person, per night 'Green Tax' that isn't always included in the upfront booking price.
💡The island has its own time zone (island time) to give guests an extra hour of daylight.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.