Velassaru Maldives: The Epitome of Modern Island Luxury
Just a short 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, Velassaru Maldives offers the ultimate in island luxury, blending contemporary design with the breathtaking natural beauty of the Maldives. This exclusive private island resort, part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is an ideal retreat for both families and couples seeking a sophisticated yet serene escape.
Arrival at Velassaru Maldives
Your journey to Velassaru begins the moment you arrive at Malé International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by a hotel Velassaru representative. From there, a private, air-conditioned speedboat swiftly transports you to the resort, skimming across the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. The short journey is a perfect prelude to the paradise that awaits.
As you approach Velassaru, the contrast between the powder-white sandy beaches and the vibrant turquoise lagoon immediately captivates. The island’s lush greenery, with its swaying palm trees and tropical blooms, creates a serene atmosphere that perfectly complements the resort’s modern architecture and understated elegance.
Accommodation at Velassaru
Staying in an Overwater Villa at Velassaru Maldives was an experience like no other. Perched above the crystal-clear lagoon, my villa offered panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, creating a feeling of being completely immersed in the natural beauty of the Maldives. The villa’s design seamlessly blended modern elegance with tranquility, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that opened onto a spacious private deck. This was my personal retreat, complete with sun loungers and direct access to the lagoon—perfect for a peaceful moment in the sun or a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters.
The interior was equally luxurious, with a plush king-size bed, a spacious bathroom with an outdoor rain shower, and elegant furnishings that reflected contemporary Maldivian style. Watching the sunset from the deck, with the sky ablaze in hues of orange and pink, was a moment of pure bliss, making the Overwater Villa the ultimate sanctuary for those seeking seclusion and luxury.
For travellers looking for something different, Velassaru offers a variety of other accommodation options. The Beachfront Villas and Deluxe Bungalows are nestled within lush tropical gardens, offering direct access to the pristine white sands. These villas are perfect for guests who prefer to stay closer to the shore while still enjoying the resort’s signature blend of privacy and sophistication.
For those seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, the Water Suite is an exclusive retreat that extends over the lagoon, offering a private infinity pool, expansive ocean views, and personalised butler service. It’s the perfect option for honeymooners or those looking for an even more elevated luxury experience.
Whether you choose a beachfront retreat or an overwater haven, each accommodation at Velassaru Maldives is designed to provide the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and elegance, ensuring an unforgettable stay for every type of traveller.
Dining at Velassaru
The dining experiences at Velassaru Maldives are as varied as they are exceptional. Every meal felt like an event in itself, with the chefs curating dishes that reflected both International flavours and local Maldivian ingredients.
I started each morning at Vela, the resort’s main restaurant, where breakfast is a lavish affair. Freshly squeezed juices, tropical fruits, and pastries that would rival any French bakery were on offer, as well as a wide selection of hot dishes. Whether I was in the mood for a traditional Maldivian breakfast or an indulgent stack of pancakes, Vela catered to every craving.
One of my most memorable dining experiences was at Sand, an intimate beachfront restaurant where the catch of the day is prepared to perfection. There’s something so special about dining with your feet in the sand, under the stars, as the gentle sound of waves accompanies your meal. The freshness of the seafood and the skill of the chefs made this dinner a true highlight of my stay.
For something a bit more theatrical, Teppanyaki is a must. Perched over the lagoon, this Japanese restaurant not only serves some of the freshest sushi I’ve ever tasted, but the chefs also put on a spectacular show, grilling dishes right in front of you with flair and precision. Watching the sunset while enjoying a perfectly prepared sashimi platter is an experience I won’t soon forget.
And of course, there’s Chill Bar—the ultimate spot to wind down after a day of sun and sea. With a cocktail in hand, watching the sun dip below the horizon, this overwater bar is where I found myself most evenings. The Tapas menu, featuring delights like grilled prawns and arancini, was the perfect accompaniment to the breathtaking views.
Staying at Velassaru
One of the defining features of Velassaru Maldives is the exceptional level of service. From the moment I arrived, I felt as though I was being personally taken care of, with every staff member going above and beyond to ensure my stay was nothing short of perfect. Whether it was arranging a private dinner on the beach or remembering my favourite cocktail at Chill Bar, the attention to detail was remarkable.
For those staying in the Water Suite or other premium villas, the dedicated butler service adds another layer of luxury. Having a personal butler available at all times to assist with everything from arranging activities to planning special moments made the experience feel even more exclusive.
Activities and Experiences
What truly sets Velassaru Maldives apart is its ability to offer both adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a moment of pure tranquility, there’s something here for every type of traveller.
For the adventurers, the Immersion Dive and Watersports Centre offers everything from snorkelling and diving excursions to kayaking and paddleboarding. I spent one morning snorkelling just off the island’s lagoon, and although Velassaru doesn’t have its own house reef, the surrounding waters are home to a variety of marine life. Schools of vibrant fish swam just below me, and I was lucky enough to spot a graceful turtle gliding through the water.
One of the most memorable experiences of my stay was the dolphin-watching cruise. As the sun set, we set out across the calm waters in search of dolphins, and we were not disappointed. Watching pods of dolphins leap and play alongside the boat as the sky turned shades of pink and orange was a moment of pure magic.
For those looking to unwind, the Velassaru Spa is a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. Set over the water, the spa offers panoramic views of the lagoon, and each treatment room is designed to make you feel as though you’re floating above the ocean. I opted for the Velassaru Ritual, a combination of a seaweed wrap and a full-body massage that left me feeling rejuvenated and completely at ease. The spa is the perfect place to disconnect and recharge, with treatments inspired by local Maldivian healing traditions.
Final word on Velassaru
"The service is always so personal, discreet and thoughtful. Everyone knows your name, remembers your drink and food preferences and chat to you like guests in their own home."
Tip - I advise you get to the Chill Bar at 17.00hrs to grab a front row seat/recliner and watch one of the magnificent sunsets.
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!