Alimatha Nakai Resort

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About this hotel

Alimatha Nakai Resort sits on a heart-shaped island in Vaavu Atoll, about 67 kilometers from Malé International Airport. Guests can reach this Maldives resort by seaplane in 20 minutes or speedboat in 90 minutes, with transfers arranged directly by the property. The island is known for its extensive house reef and the famous Alimatha Jetty night dive where nurse sharks and stingrays gather. Operated by NAKAI Group for over 20 years, the resort offers 156 rooms across four accommodation types.

Heart-Shaped Diving Paradise in Vaavu Atoll

Four accommodation types on a private island with 550 sqm infinity pool, famous night diving, and Italian-Maldivian cuisine. Known throughout the diving community for exceptional house reef access.

Location & Transfer

Located in Vaavu Atoll, approximately 67 km from Malé International Airport.
Heart-shaped island visible from above, surrounded by white sand beaches.
Seaplane transfer takes 20 minutes during daylight hours only.
Speedboat option available, approximately 80-90 minutes depending on conditions.
Transfer costs around $80 per person return trip via speedboat.

Resort Highlights

Managed by NAKAI Group with over 20 years of Maldives experience.
156 total rooms including overwater villas, beach bungalows, and garden accommodations.
New 550 sqm infinity pool with integrated jacuzzi and solarium area.
Famous for Alimatha Jetty night dive with nurse sharks and stingrays.
Extensive house reef accessible directly from beach and overwater rooms.

Alimatha Nakai Resort Vaavu Atoll diving Night dive Maldives Italian cuisine Maldives Seaplane transfer House reef snorkeling

Over Water Villas

34 overwater rooms built on stilts over the lagoon.
Direct ocean access via ladder from private deck.
Glass floor panels in some villas for viewing marine life below.
Wake up to ocean sounds with panoramic water views from bed.
Private sundeck with loungers for sunbathing and relaxation.

Beach Bungalows

96 beach bungalows positioned directly on white sand.
Few steps to the sea for immediate beach and reef access.
Private outdoor areas with garden elements and seating.
Traditional Maldivian design with modern comfort features.
Ideal for guests who prefer solid ground and easy beach access.

Garden Villa & Garden Rooms

26 garden rooms set in the resort's natural vegetation.
Private garden spaces providing shade and tropical atmosphere.
Budget-friendly option while maintaining quality standards.
Short walk to beach, pool, and main facilities.
More intimate setting surrounded by island greenery.

Standard Room Amenities

Air conditioning and ceiling fans for climate control.
Minibar and refrigerator stocked with beverages.
In-room safe for valuables and documents.
Work desk and seating area in most categories.
Private bathroom with hot water and toiletries.
Sound-proof windows in select room types.

All room categories at Alimatha Nakai Resort include daily housekeeping service. Specific amenities and layouts vary by accommodation type. Early booking recommended for overwater villas during peak season.

Main Restaurant

All-inclusive dining available with breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets.
Italian specialties prepared by Italian chefs using authentic recipes.
Maldivian cuisine featuring fresh local fish and traditional dishes.
International options to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Fresh ingredients prepared daily by experienced culinary team.

Barabaru Restaurant

À la carte dining for a more intimate meal experience.
Specialty menu items beyond standard buffet offerings.
Advance booking recommended especially during high season.
Option for romantic dinners and special celebrations.
Wine pairing suggestions available from staff.

Main Bar

Central social hub with indoor and outdoor seating.
Cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine, and spirits.
Light snacks and appetizers available.
Evening entertainment on select nights.

Beach Bar

Sand-side service with ocean views.
Cold beverages perfect for hot days.
Casual atmosphere for daytime relaxation.
Quick bites between activities.

Sunset Bar

Located by infinity pool with horizon views.
Best spot for evening cocktails.
Poolside service during the day.
Premium drinks and signature cocktails.

Alimatha Nakai Resort offers various meal plan options from room-only to all-inclusive packages. All-inclusive typically covers buffet meals at the main restaurant, selected beverages, and house wine with meals. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Infinity Pool Complex

550 square meters making it one of the largest resort pools in Vaavu Atoll.
Integrated jacuzzi with continuous water flow for relaxation.
Solarium area with loungers and umbrellas.
Swim-up bar access without leaving the water.
Stunning infinity edge overlooking the ocean horizon.

Spa & Wellness Center

Relax and Massage Center with trained therapists.
Range of massage treatments including Swedish, Thai, and Balinese.
Spa packages combining multiple treatments.
Couples' massage rooms for shared experiences.
Beauty services including facials and body treatments.

Fitness & Sports

Gym with cardio equipment and free weights.
Yoga classes in outdoor pavilion settings.
Fitness classes led by resort instructors.
Beach volleyball court on white sand.
Multiple sports courts available for guest use.

Sports Facilities

Paddle tennis court for guests of all skill levels.
Futsal court for football/soccer games.
Badminton court with equipment provided.
Bowls court for leisurely games.
Darts and table tennis available in game room.
Daily activity schedule posted at reception.

Essential Services

24-hour reception with multilingual staff (English and Italian).
Free Wi-Fi in public areas and selected zones.
Laundry service with extra charges.
Excursion desk for booking activities and trips.
Medical assistance available on call.
Boutique shop selling resort wear and souvenirs.

Diving Experiences

Alimatha Jetty Night Dive - the resort's signature dive where nurse sharks and stingrays gather under lights.
House reef diving accessible directly from beach and overwater bungalows.
Fotteyo Kandu - famous channel dive nearby with gray reef sharks and eagle rays.
PADI courses available from beginner Open Water to advanced specialties.
Equipment rental and dive packages for certified divers.
Multiple daily dive trips to different sites around Vaavu Atoll.

Snorkeling

House reef snorkeling from beach or overwater room steps.
Colorful coral gardens with hundreds of fish species.
Guided snorkeling trips to nearby reefs and marine sites.
Equipment provided including masks, fins, and snorkels.
Current-assisted snorkeling for effortless reef exploration.
Marine life briefings from dive center staff.

Water Sports

Complimentary kayaking around the lagoon.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) with boards provided.
Canoe rentals for exploring calm waters.
Motorized water sports including jet skiing (extra charge).
Banana boat rides and tube rides for groups.

Island Excursions

Dolphin watching cruises at sunrise or sunset.
Traditional fishing trips with local techniques.
Island hopping to nearby inhabited and uninhabited islands.
Sandbank trips for private picnics.
Malé city tours to the capital.

Evening Entertainment

Live music nights featuring local and international artists.
Cultural performances showing Maldivian traditions.
DJ nights at the main bar.
Theme evenings with special menus and decorations.
Beach bonfire nights on select dates.

Alimatha Nakai Resort is particularly known among divers for the nightly shark feeding at the jetty. Water activities depend on weather and sea conditions. Some excursions require minimum participants and booking in advance.

Alimatha Nakai Resort arranges transfers by seaplane (20 minutes, daylight hours only) or speedboat (80-90 minutes). Seaplane offers scenic aerial views, while speedboat is more budget-friendly at around $80 per person return. The resort coordinates your transfer based on flight times—contact them with your arrival details at least 3 days before travel.

Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas including the main restaurant, bars, and pool area. Some room categories have in-room Wi-Fi, though connection speeds can be limited compared to mainland standards due to the remote island location. A local SIM card purchased at Malé Airport provides an alternative for better connectivity.

The Alimatha Jetty night dive is famous throughout the diving community. After sunset, dozens of nurse sharks and stingrays gather under the jetty lights to feed. It's one of the Maldives' most unique diving experiences, allowing you to swim safely among these marine animals. Even non-divers can watch from the jetty.

The resort offers flexible meal plans: room-only, bed and breakfast, half board, full board, and all-inclusive. All-inclusive covers buffet meals at the main restaurant, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and house wine with dinner. The à la carte Barabaru Restaurant requires reservations and may have supplements depending on your package.

Yes. Alimatha Nakai Resort caters to all diving levels. The dive center offers PADI courses from beginner to advanced, including Open Water certification. The house reef provides easy, shallow diving perfect for newly certified divers, while more experienced divers can explore channels and thilas with stronger currents. Try dives are available for complete beginners.

Alimatha welcomes families. The infinity pool, calm lagoon, and beach are safe for children. Kids can snorkel the house reef, try beginner diving courses (age restrictions apply), and participate in water sports. However, the resort has more of a diving focus rather than dedicated kids' clubs, making it better suited for families with teenagers or water-loving children.

Standard check-in is at 14:00 and check-out at 12:00 noon. Early check-in or late check-out depends on room availability and may incur additional charges. If you arrive early or depart late, luggage storage is available, and you can use resort facilities including the pool and restaurants while waiting.

Dive Sites

Fotteyo Kandu - regarded as one of Maldives' best channel dives with dramatic overhangs and caves.
Devana Kandu - channel dive about 10 minutes by boat from Alimatha.
Alimatha House Reef - accessible directly from the island with healthy coral.
Miyaru Kandu - shark point known for gray reef shark encounters.
Multiple thila (underwater mountains) sites within 30 minutes of the resort.

Nearby Islands

Felidhoo - inhabited island with local guesthouses and dive centers.
Fulidhoo - local island offering cultural experiences and bikini beach.
Keyodhoo - fishing island with authentic Maldivian village life.
Thinadhoo - administrative capital of Vaavu Atoll.
Several uninhabited islands and sandbanks for day excursions.

Malé City Attractions

Grand Friday Mosque - modern Islamic center with golden dome.
Malé Fish Market - experience local life and see daily fresh catch.
National Museum - Maldivian history and artifacts collection.
Artificial Beach - public swimming area in the capital.
Local markets - souvenirs, spices, and traditional handicrafts.

Marine Protected Areas

Vaavu Atoll Marine Reserve - protected zone with diverse ecosystems.
Shark nursery areas - important breeding grounds for reef sharks.
Manta cleaning stations - seasonal manta ray encounters (best Jan-April).
Turtle nesting sites - green and hawksbill turtle habitats.
Pristine coral gardens under conservation management.

Check-in & Reservations

Check-in from 14:00, check-out by 12:00 noon.
Valid passport required with at least 6 months validity.
Advance booking essential during peak season (December to April).
Credit card required at check-in for incidental charges.
Cancellation policies vary by rate - confirm terms when booking.

Transfer Coordination

Notify the resort of flight details at least 72 hours before arrival.
Seaplane operates daylight hours only (approximately 6:00 AM - 5:30 PM).
Speedboat transfers can operate after dark with advance arrangement.
Weather may delay transfers - build buffer time for outbound flights.
Luggage limit for seaplane: 20kg per person plus 5kg hand luggage.

Payment & Pricing

Major credit cards accepted (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
Some services require cash payment - USD widely accepted.
Service charge and government tax added to bills (typically 23.2% combined).
Diving, spa treatments, and excursions charged separately unless in package.
All-inclusive packages exclude premium drinks and specialty dining.

General Rules

Maldives is a Muslim country - respect local customs and laws.
Alcohol only permitted on resort island, not on local islands.
No pork products available due to religious restrictions.
Smoking permitted only in designated outdoor areas.
Quiet hours from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Reef-safe sunscreen encouraged to protect marine environment.

Diving Safety & Marine Conservation

Valid dive certification required for certified dives - bring your card.
Dive insurance strongly recommended for all diving activities.
No touching or feeding marine life except during supervised experiences.
Maintain safe distance from sharks and rays - never chase or corner them.
Do not remove shells, coral, or any marine items from the environment.
Follow dive guide instructions at all times for your safety.

Policies at Alimatha Nakai Resort may change based on Maldivian government regulations. Full terms provided at booking. The resort operates under NAKAI Group management standards.

Best Time to Visit

December to April: Dry season with calm seas, excellent diving visibility (30m+), and minimal rain.
January to March: Peak season with the best weather but higher prices and more guests.
May to November: Southwest monsoon brings occasional rain but better rates and fewer crowds.
Year-round diving: Alimatha's house reef and jetty dive remain accessible in all seasons.
Water temperature stays 26-29°C throughout the year.

Ideal Duration

3-4 nights: Minimum for relaxation, house reef snorkeling, and a few dives.
5-7 nights: Ideal for divers wanting to explore Vaavu's famous dive sites.
7-10 nights: Perfect for PADI course completion plus recreational diving.
10-14 nights: Extended diving holidays to see everything Vaavu Atoll offers.
Consider staying longer if combining with island hopping excursions.

Perfect For

Diving enthusiasts: From beginners to advanced divers seeking famous sites.
Underwater photographers: Nurse sharks, rays, and healthy coral provide great subjects.
Couples: Romantic overwater villas with direct ocean access.
Italian travelers: Italian-speaking staff and authentic Italian cuisine.
Budget-conscious divers: More affordable than North Malé resorts with excellent diving.

Recommended Experiences

Alimatha Jetty night dive - don't miss this signature experience with nurse sharks.
Sunrise snorkel at the house reef when visibility is crystal clear.
Fotteyo Kandu dive - day trip to one of Maldives' best channel dives.
Sunset cocktails at the infinity pool with ocean horizon views.
Local island visit to Fulidhoo for authentic Maldivian culture.
Traditional fishing trip at dusk using handlines.
Sandbank picnic on uninhabited islet for complete privacy.

Packing Essentials

Reef-safe sunscreen and UV protection clothing (sun is intense year-round).
Underwater camera or GoPro for capturing marine encounters.
Dive certification card if you're certified - don't forget it!
Own mask if you're particular (rental available but personal fit matters).
Light clothing - it's tropical so bring minimal layers.
Water shoes for rocky areas and coral protection.
Power adapters (UK-style three-pin plugs used in Maldives).
Modest clothing for visiting local islands (shoulders and knees covered).

Money-Saving Tips

Book all-inclusive packages to control costs - food and drinks add up quickly.
Travel during green season (May-Nov) for significantly lower rates.
Choose speedboat over seaplane transfer to save approximately $150-200 per person.
Garden rooms offer best value - you'll spend most time at beach and diving anyway.
Bring your own dive computer and mask to avoid daily rental fees.
Book dive packages in advance - bulk rates are cheaper than single dives.
Buy local SIM at airport for internet rather than paying resort Wi-Fi charges.

Weddings & Vow Renewals

Beach ceremonies on white sand with ocean backdrop.
Sunset timing for romantic photos during golden hour.
Overwater villa honeymoon packages with special amenities.
Private dinner arrangements for the couple on the beach.
Italian wedding coordination available through resort staff.
Photography services can be arranged with advance notice.

Anniversaries & Honeymoons

Overwater villa upgrades for special occasions.
Champagne and treats delivered to room on arrival.
Couples' spa packages at the wellness center.
Private sandbank excursion with picnic lunch setup.
Romantic sunset cruise with drinks and canapés.
Room decoration with flowers and candles available on request.

Diving Celebrations

PADI certification parties after course completion.
Dive milestone celebrations (100th dive, 500th dive, etc.).
Group dive trips for clubs and societies.
Underwater photography workshops with professionals.
Special dive packages for birthdays and anniversaries.

Group Events & Reunions

Family reunions with multiple room bookings at group rates.
Dive buddy groups - Alimatha is popular with Italian dive clubs.
Friend getaways combining beach time and water sports.
Special group dinners can be arranged at the restaurant.
Beach volleyball tournaments and water sports competitions for groups.
Group excursions to nearby islands and dive sites.

Planning Services

Contact resort directly to discuss special occasion requirements.
Italian-speaking event coordination for Italian guests.
Menu customization available with advance notice to chefs.
Decoration and flower arrangements coordinated by resort team.
Photography and videography must be arranged independently.
Best to book 2-3 months ahead for peak season events.

Alimatha Nakai Resort accommodates special celebrations with advance planning. Additional charges apply for customized services, decorations, and premium arrangements. Contact the resort at reception.alimatha@nakairesorts.com for detailed event planning.

Property Type

Resort

Transfer Method

Seaplane

Speedboat

Rules

Check In	12:00 pm
Check Out	12:00 pm

Availability