Makunudu Island 

Seclusion and simplicity on a castaway isle

There’s a refreshingly uncomplicated approach on this small island. A single restaurant, one bar, and just one type of accommodation keep things utterly simple.

Makunudu Island is the epitome of an original Maldivian retreat. There’s an untouched, far-flung, desert island feel about this tiny resort, where there are always fewer than 100 guests at any moment. It’s a place that’s shunned grandiose overwater villas and myriad restaurants to appeal to those who want to enjoy pure simplicity where the location does all the talking.

Why we love Makunudu Island

  • Experience genuine escapism on an island that celebrates its location above all else

  • For special occasions, dine by candlelight beneath a starry sky on Makunudu Island’s beach

  • Upgrade to All Inclusive to have your drinks taken care of and enjoy a complimentary snorkelling trip

  • Gorgeously understated thatched bungalows are nostalgic and traditional

4 stars
Nov - May
Maldives
Malé 10¼ hours
In the North Malé Atoll surrounded by the Makunudu Lagoon.
Approx. 50 minutes by speedboat from Malé airport
Beach, All Inclusive Option

Facilities

  • Restaurants & bars
  • Board
  • Spas & wellness
  • Activities
  • Diving & Watersports
  • Sustainability
  • Good to Know

Simplicity isn’t at the expense of variety – you’ll still get a great choice of options at the island’s main restaurant, Ara Iru. Elsewhere, Sand Bar brings guests together to enjoy the sunset over a tropical cocktail.

Ara Iru
All day dining venue on the eastern end of the island that blends impressive and colourful buffets with set menus and weekly barbeques (every Tuesday and Friday)

Sand Bar
Main bar open during the day. Ocean views and a drink in hand, what more do you need? Becomes a lively bar at night with music and traditional Bodu Beru on selected evenings.

Miyaru Bar
Conveniently located on the beachfront near the arrival jetty so you don't need to go far to grab a refreshing coconut before or after a dip in the crystal clear waters.

Sunset Bar
Head to the western side of the island during golden hour to sip on your favourite cokctail before dinner.

Malaafaiy - Private Dining Experience
Celebrating a special occasion on holiday, it is worth booking this special dining experience. Nestled in a private treehouse surrounded by lush greenery, indulge in a bespoke menu under the fairy lights.

Dinner on the Rocks - Private Dining Experience
Over the bridge on the edge of the Makunudu lagoon lies a hidden gem, Rock Island. Enjoy some quality time with your loved one with a private barbeque under the stars.

A beach bonfire evening is held weekly under the stars, subject to weather conditions, with bean bags around a fire and a local Maldivian singer.

Whats Included

Full Board • Buffet breakfast and lunch at Araa Iru Restaurant • Set-menu dinner at Araa Iru Restaurant • 500ml water bottle in your villa per room per day • Use of snorkeling equipment (deposit may be required)

Upgrade Options

All Inclusive • Buffet breakfast and lunch at Araa Iru restaurant • Set-menu dinner at Ara Iru restaurant with 2 speciality buffet nights per week • Minibar replenished daily • Selected drinks by the glass including house wine, draught beer, house spirits, selected cocktails, bottled water, concentrated juice, soft drinks and tea and coffee (cappuccino, café latte or mocha) • Snacks 10-11.30am and 4-5pm • Wi-Fi in rooms and public areas • Use of snorkeling equipment (deposit may be required) • Complimentary Catamaran Sailing once per stay (pre-booking is required) • Complimentary Sunset Dhoni Cruise once per stay • Discount on selected spa services

At the Aavun Spa, treatments combine the best of Maldivian, Asian and European spa techniques and traditions. Some popular therapies include a Maldivian massage using seashells and pure coconut oil and an Ayurvedic Indian head massage.

Head to the island's twist on movie night, where you can watch a movie under the stars on the beach. For something a bit more luxurious, opt for the sunset Dhoni cruise*. A private cruise for two on a Maldivian sailboat where you can admire the sunset whilst you feast on champagne and canapés.

PADI dive courses are available from the island’s dive centre. Choose from snorkelling lessons, including a memorable sunset nurse shark snorkelling, kayaking, fishing, windsurfing, and paddle boarding.

There’s no pool on the island. Instead, enjoy the gorgeous beach.

With its limited facilities, this island treads a little lighter than others

The resort welcomes guests over the age of 12 years.

Guest reviews

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