A Boutique Resort Offering Authentic Maldivian Experiences.
An Idyllic Escape at Fushifaru Maldives
Nestled in the balmy Indian Ocean, Fushifaru Maldives is a boutique resort that embodies the essence of Maldivian charm. With its pristine white sands and gently swaying palm trees, this idyllic island paradise offers an authentic experience of local culture, making it a top choice for your next Maldivian escape.
From the moment you arrive, Fushifaru’s warm welcome and emphasis on local traditions set it apart. Owned by a Maldivian and staffed predominantly by locals, the resort is deeply rooted in the culture of the Maldives. This authenticity shines through in everything from the cuisine to the traditional dances and attire showcased throughout your stay. Every Friday evening, guests are treated to a captivating coconut show during Maldivian Night, where the integral role of coconuts and palm trees in daily life is beautifully demonstrated. The main restaurant also hosts a Maldivian food night, complete with a traditional dance performance that rounds off the evening.
Located in the serene Lhaviyani Atoll, a scenic 40-minute seaplane ride north of Malé, Fushifaru is surrounded by thriving reefs that are showing signs of recovery from the 2016 global bleaching event. The area is home to a vibrant array of marine life and is frequented by bottlenose and spinner dolphins at dawn and dusk, making it a paradise for nature lovers and diving enthusiasts.
Join me on this journey as I share the highlights of my stay at Fushifaru, or dive right into my Instagram story for a real-time experience.
Accommodation
Fushifaru features 49 villas, each offering a cozy retreat nestled on the island. Among these, five water villas on the east side are ideal for dolphin spotting. While smaller than some Maldivian resorts, each villa provides direct beach access and charming outdoor bathrooms equipped with rain showers and bathtubs. Notably, 18 beach villas come with private pools. The interior design is warm and inviting, with pitched roofs, slate floors, wooden alcoves, and beautiful curtains that create an Instagram-worthy environment.
Beach Villa with Pool
Our beach villa was located on the island's scenic sunset side, offering a serene escape with direct access to the sandy shores. Surrounded by lush greenery, the villa featured a terrace and a private pool, perfect for relaxation. Inside, the spacious villa was centered around a large double bed, with a convertible sofa suitable for an additional adult, accommodating up to three guests. The tropical bathroom included both a covered area for rainy days and an open-air shower surrounded by vibrant plants, adding an elegant touch to the experience.
Water Villa
During my stay, we also experienced one of Fushifaru's newly constructed Water Villas. Originally, the resort had five water villas, but it expanded with a second jetty during the pandemic and renovated the existing villas to match the new design. These spacious villas feature bedrooms that open onto private terraces with stunning views of the azure lagoon. The bathroom, accessible through a fully retractable sliding door, includes a freestanding bathtub.
Outside, the private terrace offers a covered relaxation area and a sun deck with loungers and a jacuzzi. Guests can also choose water villas with private pools or overwater hammocks, but the most breathtaking 'pool' is undoubtedly the expansive, turquoise lagoon itself.
Dining
Korakali Restaurant
Korakali is the resort’s main dining venue, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a buffet format that exceeds expectations. Although I’m generally not a buffet enthusiast, the quality and variety here are exceptional. Each evening, Korakali transforms with a themed night offering a range of cooking stations tailored to the theme. The lunch buffet, while more modest, is refreshed daily with fresh, tantalising options. Breakfast at Korakali is a global affair, featuring international favourites, made-to-order eggs, and a special Maldivian breakfast station, ensuring a new culinary adventure each morning.
Raakani Restaurant
For a more upscale dining experience, Raakani Restaurant offers a premium grill setting where diners can enjoy a live Japanese Teppanyaki Cooking Show. This captivating display of culinary art is complemented by a selection of freshly grilled meats and fish available from the à la carte menu. Raakani is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience with a touch of theatre.
The Spa
The spa at Fushifaru Maldives is a tranquil oasis set amidst the island’s lush tropical surroundings. Offering a variety of soothing treatments, from traditional massages to unique Asian wellness techniques, the spa features treatment rooms housed in quaint huts with open-air bathrooms equipped with bathtubs. Adjacent to the Heylhi Spa, there is a small pool and cabanas where guests can unwind in the outdoor area.
On my final day, I indulged in a delightful aromatherapy oil massage, providing the perfect conclusion to my stay in paradise.
Staying
Fanihandi Bar
The Fanihandi Bar, located by the large infinity pool, offers multiple sunbeds and sofas with stunning views of the blue lagoon. At sunset, the water turns into a reflective mirror, beautifully capturing the sky and surrounding palm trees. One of the most exquisite sights at Fushifaru is its pristine white sandy beach that encircles the island. The warm turquoise waters gently caress the long shoreline, creating a picturesque postcard-like setting.
Underwater Playground
Just in front of the infinity pool, the resort has created an underwater playground where young corals are planted through various installations to replenish the reef and attract fish. Among the sculptures, I particularly enjoyed seeing a bicycle and an underwater swing positioned at the edge of the reef. In addition to vibrant fish, we were fortunate enough to spot a turtle in this area.
Private Sandbank Experience
A short boat ride from Fushifaru brings you to a large sandbank, where you can arrange a private picnic experience. The Fushifaru team sets up a cozy shelter with sunbeds and pillows, allowing you to relax and take in the breathtaking blue vistas while enjoying your snacks and drinks. I was fortunate to have perfect weather during my visit, making the experience even more memorable.
Snorkelling
Fushifaru’s Diving Center offers guests the opportunity to book various tours and water sports activities, as well as complimentary rentals for kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkelling equipment.
I embarked on a Manta snorkelling tour and had the extraordinary chance to swim alongside a group of friendly mantas—an unforgettable experience and one of my top snorkelling adventures in the Maldives. For those visiting outside of Manta season, the underwater wonders still abound. I highly recommend the Turtle Quest tour, which takes you to a reef with a sunken shipwreck surrounded by numerous turtles. The experience is utterly captivating and not to be missed.
Final Word - Fushifaru Maldives
“For those seeking a tranquil retreat in a paradise setting, Fushifaru Maldives is the perfect resort to rejuvenate and unwind. Couples looking for a romantic escape or honeymoon destination will find the resort especially appealing, while families will enjoy the kids club and the exceptionally child-friendly staff.”
TIP: Glamp under the stars on your four-poster canopy bed draped in muslin, and enjoy a specially curated menu from the sea prepared by your personal chef. Watch the sunset and lull yourself to sleep with the waves lapping against the shore. Awake to a glorious sunrise and spend the day reminiscing about your once-in-a-lifetime castaway experience!
If you feel inspired to visit or have more questions about picking the perfect resort, you can contact me, and I'll help curate your ideal trip. Book with me
Jane
PS - I can't wait to return, I might just see you there, if so, say hi!
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