Vakkaru Maldives: A Timeless Tropical Sanctuary
Tucked away in the crystal-clear waters of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, Vakkaru Maldives offers an exceptional blend of luxury, natural beauty, and Maldivian charm. This private island resort is an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an unforgettable retreat, whether for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or simply a tranquil break from the ordinary. In this post, I’ll take you through my recent experience at Vakkaru Maldives, highlighting everything from the incredible accommodation options to dining, spa treatments, and world-class snorkeling experiences.
Arrival: A Scenic Start to Paradise
The journey to Vakkaru is nothing short of spectacular. From Malé’s Velana International Airport, the resort is a scenic 25-30 minute seaplane flight away. I highly recommend having your camera ready—this is one of those experiences that feels surreal as you fly over the stunning turquoise lagoons and coral atolls of the Maldives. The aerial view is a perfect introduction to the breathtaking beauty that awaits at Vakkaru.
Upon landing, I was greeted by the warmth of the staff, who welcomed me with a refreshing drink and live drums at the jetty. The check-in process was seamless and stress-free, made even more comfortable by the private lounge at the seaplane terminal, where I was able to freshen up after my long-haul flight from the UK. Trust me, you’ll want to pack a pair of shorts in your carry-on, as the seaplane isn’t air-conditioned, and the Maldivian heat can be intense!
Accommodation at Vakkaru
Vakkaru Maldives boasts 113 villas and suites, offering both beachfront and overwater options, each designed to provide guests with ample space, privacy, and stunning ocean views. Whether you’re staying in a Beach Villa, surrounded by lush vegetation and soft white sands, or an Overwater Villa perched above the lagoon, you’ll be treated to an exceptional experience.
I had the pleasure of staying in the One-Bedroom Overwater Pool Villa, a stunning retreat that encapsulates the essence of luxury living. The villa’s open-plan layout, with floor-to-ceiling windows, brought the outside in, allowing me to wake up to uninterrupted views of the endless ocean each morning. The private infinity pool overlooking the turquoise waters was the perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon dip, while the spacious sundeck provided an idyllic setting for soaking up the sun or enjoying a good book. The villa also featured a separate living area, adding a touch of homey comfort to the experience.
For families, the resort offers a variety of family-friendly beach villas that provide ample space and separate sleeping areas for children, ensuring that both parents and little ones can relax in comfort. Each villa comes with modern amenities, including iPads to control the lighting, air conditioning, and curtains. You’ll never want to leave your villa, but when you do, bicycles are provided for a leisurely ride around the island, making it easy to explore.
Dining at Vakkaru
One of the most delightful aspects of staying at Vakkaru is its diverse dining options, catering to a wide range of tastes. The resort offers five restaurants and two bars, each with a distinct ambiance and menu.
Amaany is the resort’s main restaurant and the perfect place to start your day. Breakfast here is a lavish affair, with an impressive spread that includes fresh pastries, tropical fruits, and made-to-order dishes from live cooking stations. Whether you prefer a traditional Maldivian breakfast or international favorites like waffles and eggs benedict, Amaany has something for every palate.
For a fine-dining experience, Vakku is the resort’s signature beachfront restaurant, specializing in grilled seafood and premium cuts of meat. With the soft sand beneath your feet and the sound of the waves gently lapping the shore, the setting is as exquisite as the menu. I highly recommend the catch of the day, paired with a glass of wine from the resort’s extensive wine cellar.
At Onu, the resort’s Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant, you’ll be treated to a culinary journey through Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The open-air bamboo structure creates a laid-back yet elegant atmosphere, while the dishes—like the lobster yellow curry—are bursting with vibrant flavors.
If you’re in the mood for Italian, Isoletta offers authentic dishes in a poolside setting. From wood-fired pizzas to freshly made pasta, it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch. And don’t forget to visit Lagoon Bar, where you can enjoy sushi, sashimi, and signature cocktails while watching the sunset over the water. Trust me, it’s magical!
TIP: Don’t make the same mistake I did—leave enough time to experience a wine tasting at the Vakkaru Reserve. The cellar boasts an impressive collection of 8,000 bottles, and the sommelier-led tasting is an experience not to be missed. I paired mine with a cheese platter, and it was one of the highlights of my stay.
Merana Spa
No luxury island escape is complete without indulging in some spa treatments, and The Merana Spa at Vakkaru is one of the best I’ve experienced. Set over the water, the spa offers panoramic views of the lagoon, making it an incredibly serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The spa has six treatment rooms, each with glass floors, allowing you to watch the colorful marine life swim by as you enjoy your massage. I opted for the signature Balinese massage, and it was heavenly—hands down, one of the best massages I’ve ever had. The combination of the therapist’s expert technique and the tranquil setting made it a truly unforgettable experience.
The spa also offers a variety of wellness treatments, including Ayurvedic therapies, body scrubs, and facials. For those looking to keep up their fitness routine, Vakkaru’s overwater gym provides state-of-the-art equipment, while the Yoga Pavilion offers daily yoga sessions with spectacular ocean views.
After your treatment, make sure to spend some time in the whirlpool, cold plunge pool, sauna, and steam rooms, all designed to leave you feeling completely revitalised.
Family-Friendly Fun: A Tropical Playground for All Ages
Vakkaru Maldives is a family-friendly resort that caters to guests of all ages. The Parrotfish Club is a professionally run kids’ club offering a variety of fun activities for children aged 3 to 12, including treasure hunts, arts and crafts, and even cooking classes. With a dedicated team of childcare professionals, parents can enjoy some time to themselves, knowing their little ones are in safe hands.
For teens, the Coconut Club provides a chill space with pool tables, video games, and table tennis, making it the perfect hangout spot. There are also bicycles available for all ages, so families can explore the island together.
Snorkeling at Vakkaru
One of the most extraordinary aspects of Vakkaru Maldives is its proximity to some of the most biodiverse waters in the Maldives. Located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort offers easy access to some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving spots.
While the island itself has a vibrant house reef where you can snorkel right from the beach or your overwater villa, the real magic happens just a short speedboat ride away at Hanifaru Bay. From June to November, this marine protected area becomes a feeding ground for manta rays and whale sharks. Although I didn’t get to see any whale sharks during my stay, I did have the privilege of swimming with manta rays—an awe-inspiring experience that I’ll never forget. If you visit during the monsoon season, a trip to Hanifaru Bay should be at the top of your list!
The resort’s Splash Watersports Centre offers complimentary snorkeling equipment, and for those looking to dive deeper, their PADI-certified instructors can arrange diving excursions to nearby reefs. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, the marine life here is abundant and colourful, with everything from parrotfish and turtles to blacktip reef sharks.
Final Word on Vakkaru Maldives
"What sets Vakkaru Maldives apart is its perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and natural beauty. From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in a sense of serenity, thanks to the genuine warmth of the staff and the island’s stunning surroundings. Whether you’re lounging in your overwater villa, snorkeling with manta rays, or indulging in a massage at the Merana Spa, every moment at Vakkaru feels like a dream.:
This island sanctuary offers something for everyone—adventure seekers, families, couples, and wellness enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking for a Maldivian escape that captures the essence of paradise, Vakkaru Maldives is where you’ll find it.
If you feel inspired to visit, or if you have more questions about picking the perfect resort, you can contact me and i'll help curate your perfect trip
Jane
PS - I might just see you there, if so, say hi!
Comments