Hurawalhi is a resort of perfect contrasts: barefoot but modern, comfortable yet minimalist, serene and exciting. Designed by New York-based Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, we’d also describe it as contemporary, tasteful and mature. Ideal for adults looking for a chic slice of paradise.
The island itself is relatively small and edged with swathes of glistening white sand. The villas - all blended earth tones and natural materials - are not the most spacious in the area, but offer calm comfort and privacy. Although it doesn’t have the lavish sheen of some of our other Maldives favourites, a little extra pizazz is undoubtedly added by the chance to dine beneath the waves at the world's largest all-glass undersea restaurant. Lavish lunch or delicious dinner? It'll be an indulgence, but arguably an unforgettable one.
From Male International airport it’s a picturesque 40-minute seaplane ride to Hurawalhi and the idyllic Lhaviyani Atoll.
Beachside and overwater villas
Pampering spa treatments
Dedicated island host
Adults only
I never thought I would say this about any holiday, but Hurawalhi was perfect. I might even have had a little cry on the day we had to leave.
Discover what to expect from staying at Hurawalhi Island Resort
Hurawalhi’s modern vibe and over-15s only policy make it the perfect place to relax and indulge alongside your significant other, especially if you avail yourselves of the optional all-inclusive plus package. For those who prefer to be a little more active, the package includes use of the fitness center, tennis and badminton courts, complimentary kayaks, and group snorkelling, windsurfing and yoga, so you can fill your days as much or as little as you like.
Hurawalhi offers scope for a number of particularly romantic activities, and why not start by enjoying a multi-course tasting menu underwater? Just don’t let all those colourful fish distract you from gazing into each other's eyes! Visit the aptly named ‘Dream Island’, charter Bella (the resort's luxury yacht) or luxuriate in a couples’ spa treatment. Hurawalhi is set between two channels that feed nutrient rich water into the Lhaviyani Atoll, creating some superb snorkelling and diving nearby. Guests with fortune on their side can see a cornucopia of marine life, including the amazing manta rays.
Like its sister resort, Kudadoo, Hurawalhi has pioneered the use of solar power in the Maldives. After all, it makes perfect sense to use one of the area's best natural assets - nearly year round sunshine - to power the resort. The showers pipe out hot water produced by an efficient heat recovery system, desalination and water bottling is done onsite to further reduce the carbon footprint and, where possible, produce used in the restaurants is grown in the island’s greenhouses.