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Makunudu Island

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Makunudu Island Makunudu Island Makunudu Island Makunudu Island Makunudu Island Makunudu Island

Makunudu Island is an intimate 4-star resort located in North Malé Atoll, just 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. This small 6-acre island features only 36 traditional Maldivian-style thatched bungalows, making it one of the original and most authentic resort experiences in the Maldives since 1982. The resort embraces a "No News, No Shoes" philosophy with intentionally limited technology, focusing on genuine relaxation with an excellent house reef, PADI dive center, and personalized service that attracts 40% repeat visitors seeking an unplugged tropical escape.

Authentic Intimate Island Hideaway Since 1982

Traditional "No News, No Shoes" unplugged experience with only 36 bungalows, exceptional house reef, and genuine Maldivian hospitality in North Malé Atoll.

Location & Access

  • Small 6-acre private island in North Malé Atoll with authentic Maldivian charm and character.
  • Quick 45-minute speedboat transfer from Velana International Airport with warm staff welcome at jetty.
  • One of the original Maldivian resorts, established in 1982 with traditional design and atmosphere.
  • Intimate island size allows guests to walk the entire circumference, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

Resort Philosophy & Highlights

  • Intentionally unplugged experience with limited Wi-Fi and no TVs in rooms for genuine relaxation.
  • Only 36 traditional thatched bungalows ensuring peace, privacy, and personalized attention throughout stay.
  • Exceptional house reef with abundant marine life including turtles, reef sharks, and nurse sharks.
  • High staff-to-guest ratio with many long-term employees providing personalized, family-like service.
Makunudu Island resort North Malé Atoll hideaway Authentic Maldives experience House reef snorkeling 45-minute speedboat Intimate 36 bungalows

Beach Bungalows

  • 36 Traditional Bungalows: Authentic Maldivian-style with thatched roofs and wooden beam construction.
  • Direct Beach Access: Each bungalow has dedicated beach area with comfortable sun loungers and mattresses.
  • Private Garden Setting: Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation ensuring maximum privacy between accommodations.
  • Rustic Island Style: Tastefully decorated with customized furniture including teak writing desks and rocking chairs.

Room Categories & Layout

  • Deluxe Beach Bungalows: Enhanced beachfront locations with premium positioning and ocean views.
  • Queen or Twin Bedding: Flexible sleeping arrangements with comfortable beds and quality linens.
  • Separate Sitting Areas: Dedicated lounge space with local wood furniture and traditional design elements.
  • Private Entrance: Individual access ensuring complete privacy and authentic island accommodation experience.

Amenities & Features

  • Air conditioning, ceiling fans, minibar, and tea/coffee making facilities in all bungalows.
  • Personal safe, IDD telephone, hair dryer, and limited Wi-Fi access (2GB per person daily).
  • Sound-insulated walls ensuring peaceful rest despite natural outdoor environment and tropical sounds.
  • Writing desk, comfortable seating, and outdoor furniture for enjoying private beach areas.

Unique Bathroom Experience

  • Open-Air Garden Bathrooms: Private outdoor shower experience surrounded by tropical plants and natural elements.
  • Traditional Design: Built using local materials with coral walls and natural stone features.
  • Complete Privacy: Fully enclosed garden setting despite open-air concept ensuring intimate bathing experience.
  • Eco-Friendly Toiletries: Environmentally conscious amenities supporting sustainable island operations and marine protection.

All bungalows feature traditional Maldivian architecture with modern comfort amenities. Rooms intentionally lack TVs to encourage relaxation and connection with nature. Bungalows 17 and 18 are particularly recommended for optimal beach positioning.

Ara Iru Restaurant

  • All-Day Dining: Located on eastern end of island meaning "rising sun" in Dhivehi language.
  • Breakfast & Lunch Buffet: Extensive selections with fresh tropical flavors and international cuisine options.
  • Set Menu Dinners: Diverse evening menus featuring international dishes and fresh seafood specialties.
  • Quality & Variety: Fresh ingredients prepared daily with options for various dietary requirements and preferences.

Bars & Beverage Options

  • Sand Bar: Main bar with cocktails, hand-picked wines, and bar snacks with ocean views throughout day.
  • Miyaru Bar: Beach bar perfect for sunset cocktails with traditional Bodu Beru music on select evenings.
  • Two Beachside Bars: Additional locations including coconut bar near arrival jetty for fresh drinks.
  • Evening Entertainment: Live musicians and local cultural performances creating authentic Maldivian atmosphere.

Special Dining Experiences

  • Rock Island Private Dining: Exclusive barbecue experience on separate island connected by bridge.
  • Beach Breakfast: Early morning dining on sand while watching sunrise over Indian Ocean.
  • Weekly Beach Bonfire: Traditional evening gatherings with bean bags around fire and local singer.
  • MALAAFATH Treehouse: Private couples dining experience elevated above ground in romantic tree setting.

Meal Plans & Options

  • Full Board Package: All meals included with buffet breakfast/lunch and set dinner menus.
  • All-Inclusive Option: Meals plus daily minibar, selected drinks, snacks, and in-room Wi-Fi access.
  • Dinner Service: Evening meals start at 8:00 PM, later than many resorts to encourage sunset enjoyment.
  • À la Carte Options: Individual meal selections available with diverse menu choices and premium pricing.

Aavun Spa

  • Authentic treatments combining Maldivian, Asian, and European spa techniques and traditions.
  • Signature Maldivian massage using seashells and pure coconut oil for tropical wellness experience.
  • Ayurvedic Indian head massage and reflexology therapies for complete mind-body relaxation.
  • Deep-tissue massages, facials, and body treatments in peaceful island spa environment.

PADI Dive Center

  • Professional diving instruction with PADI certification courses for beginners and advanced divers.
  • Daily diving expeditions to nearby spectacular dive sites with abundant marine life encounters.
  • Night diving experiences and guided underwater tours with experienced multilingual instructors.
  • Complete diving equipment rental and underwater photography services for memorable experiences.

Recreation Facilities

  • Beach Sports: Volleyball court, badminton facilities, and table tennis for active entertainment.
  • Library: Quiet reading area with books, magazines, and single TV for relaxed indoor time.
  • No Swimming Pool: Intentional focus on natural beach and ocean experiences instead of artificial facilities.
  • Water Sports Center: Non-motorized activities including kayaking, windsurfing, and paddle boarding equipment.

Technology & Connectivity

  • Limited Wi-Fi: Intentionally restricted to 2GB per person daily to encourage unplugged relaxation.
  • Lobby Computer: Single internet access point with token purchase system for essential communications.
  • No Room TVs: Deliberate choice to maintain peaceful, technology-free accommodation environment.
  • Library TV: Single television available in communal library area for shared viewing experiences.

Guest Services

  • Warm personal welcome from management and staff upon arrival at resort jetty.
  • High staff-to-guest ratio with many long-term employees providing personalized attention and service.
  • Dry cleaning, laundry services, and daily housekeeping maintaining exceptional cleanliness standards.
  • Excursion planning for nearby islands, fishing villages, and cultural experiences throughout region.

Natural Environment

  • Lush Vegetation: Abundant tropical flora providing natural privacy and authentic island atmosphere.
  • Bird Watching: Native herons and exotic birds frequent the island for wildlife observation.
  • Garden Areas: Picnic spaces and outdoor furniture throughout island for relaxation and dining.
  • BBQ Facilities: Additional charge outdoor grilling options for special meals and celebrations.

House Reef & Marine Life

  • Excellent House Reef: Rich coral gardens accessible directly from beach with abundant marine life.
  • Turtle Encounters: Regular sightings of sea turtles during snorkeling sessions around island reef.
  • Shark Spotting: Nightly reef shark and nurse shark viewing opportunities in shallow waters.
  • Sunset Nurse Shark Snorkeling: Guided evening excursions for memorable marine encounters and photography.

Water Sports & Adventures

  • Non-Motorized Sports: Complimentary kayaking, windsurfing, and paddle boarding with quality equipment.
  • Motorized Activities: Water skiing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, and parasailing available for additional charges.
  • Traditional Fishing: Night fishing expeditions with local dhoni boats and experienced Maldivian crews.
  • Snorkeling Equipment: Free use of masks, fins, and snorkels with deposit for house reef exploration.

Cultural & Island Experiences

  • Sunset Dhoni Cruises: Private sailboat experiences for couples with champagne and canapés service.
  • Local Island Visits: Excursions to nearby fishing villages and inhabited islands for cultural immersion.
  • Traditional Entertainment: Weekly Bodu Beru performances and local musicians creating authentic atmosphere.
  • Movie Nights: Unique beach cinema experience watching films under stars on natural outdoor screen.

Relaxation & Wellness

  • Beach Relaxation: Dedicated sun loungers and beach areas for each bungalow ensuring privacy.
  • Spa Treatments: Professional massage therapies and wellness treatments at Aavun Spa facility.
  • Yoga Sessions: Guided yoga classes with certified instructors in tropical garden settings.
  • Nature Walks: Island circumference walks perfect for sunrise and sunset photography and bird watching.

Activities focus on natural marine experiences and cultural immersion. The resort's small size ensures personalized attention and flexible scheduling for all excursions and water sports.

Makunudu Island is reached by a 45-minute speedboat from Velana International Airport. Transfer costs are USD 240 per adult and USD 120 per child (3-11 years) roundtrip, with infants under 3 traveling free. Transfers are mandatory and must be arranged through the resort. Guests need to provide flight details at least 72 hours before arrival for coordination.
Wi-Fi is intentionally limited as part of the "No News, No Shoes" philosophy. Each guest receives 2GB of Wi-Fi daily, and there's a computer in the lobby for essential internet access (tokens can be purchased). This encourages genuine relaxation and unplugged experiences during your stay.
The house reef is easily accessible directly from the beach and offers exceptional marine diversity. Regular sightings include sea turtles, reef sharks, nurse sharks, and abundant tropical fish. The reef is rich in coral formations and provides excellent snorkeling opportunities just steps from your bungalow.
Children are welcome, though age policies vary by season. Currently, guests over 12 years are welcome until October 31st, after which guests over 10 years can stay. The resort attracts primarily couples seeking a quiet, intimate experience, so it may be better suited for older children and teenagers.
Ara Iru Restaurant serves buffet breakfast and lunch, with set menu dinners starting at 8:00 PM. The resort offers half-board, full-board, and all-inclusive packages. Five total dining venues include Sand Bar, Miyaru Bar, and two beachside bars. Special experiences include Rock Island private dining and weekly beach bonfires.
No, there's intentionally no swimming pool. The resort focuses on natural beach and ocean experiences, encouraging guests to enjoy the pristine white sand beach and crystal-clear lagoon waters. Each bungalow has dedicated beach area with comfortable loungers just steps from the ocean.
The house reef provides excellent marine encounters year-round. December to April offers calmer seas and drier weather, while May to November has more rainfall but good diving conditions. Marine life including turtles and sharks are present throughout the year, with nightly shark viewing opportunities.

Marine Sites & Dive Locations

  • Madivaru Beyru Dive Site - Spectacular diving location with diverse marine ecosystems nearby.
  • North Malé Atoll Marine Protected Areas - Rich coral formations and protected marine habitats.
  • Nearby Dive Sites - Multiple world-class diving locations accessible by boat from resort.
  • House Reef Extension - Continuous coral garden system extending around island perimeter.

Cultural & Local Attractions

  • Traditional Fishing Villages - Authentic local communities accessible by excursion boats from resort.
  • Inhabited Islands - Cultural visits to see traditional Maldivian lifestyle and local crafts.
  • Local Markets - Traditional trading posts where visitors can experience authentic island culture.
  • Historical Sites - Ancient settlements and traditional architecture throughout North Malé Atoll.

Transportation & Connections

  • Velana International Airport (MLE) - Main gateway approximately 45 minutes by speedboat transfer.
  • Malé Capital City - Cultural and administrative center accessible by speedboat for day excursions.
  • Inter-Atoll Ferry Services - Traditional transportation links connecting regional islands and communities.
  • Resort Speedboat Fleet - Multiple vessels for transfers and excursions to nearby attractions.

Natural Attractions

  • Rock Island - Private dining location connected by bridge offering romantic barbecue experiences.
  • Sandbank Excursions - Pristine uninhabited beaches accessible by boat for picnics and photography.
  • Coral Gardens - Shallow reef systems perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography.
  • Bird Watching Sites - Natural habitats where herons and tropical birds can be observed daily.

Check-in & Reservations

  • Standard check-in procedures require photo ID and credit card verification upon arrival.
  • Advance arrival time notification required for speedboat transfer coordination and planning.
  • Guests under 18 years must check in with parent or official guardian for accommodation.
  • Personal welcome by management and staff team upon arrival at resort jetty dock.

Transfer & Transportation

  • Mandatory speedboat transfers costing USD 240 adult, USD 120 child (3-11 years) roundtrip.
  • Flight details required 72 hours prior to arrival for transfer coordination and scheduling.
  • Payment for transfers due directly at resort property upon check-in or check-out.
  • Airport representative assistance provided at numbered kiosks for seamless departure logistics.

Age Policies & Family Guidelines

  • Current policy welcomes guests over 12 years until October 31st, then guests over 10 years.
  • Resort primarily caters to couples seeking intimate, quiet experiences with limited family facilities.
  • Children's transfer rates apply for ages 3-11 years with infants under 3 traveling free.
  • Family-friendly activities available though resort atmosphere focused on adult relaxation and romance.

Special Charges & Seasonal Policies

  • City tax of USD 6.00 per person per night payable at check-in or check-out.
  • Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve gala dinners: USD 160 adults, USD 125 children (2-11 years).
  • Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type and booking conditions.
  • Additional charges apply for motorized water sports, spa treatments, and premium dining experiences.

Resort policies emphasize maintaining peaceful, intimate atmosphere. Technology limitations and unplugged philosophy are intentional features rather than restrictions.

Best Time to Visit

  • Dec-Apr: Dry season with calmer seas ideal for snorkeling, diving, and house reef exploration.
  • May-Nov: Southwest monsoon with occasional rainfall but excellent marine life activity and diving.
  • Year-round: Consistent tropical temperatures perfect for beach relaxation and marine encounters.
  • Marine Life: House reef active throughout year with turtles, sharks, and tropical fish consistently present.

Ideal Duration

  • 4-5 nights: Perfect for couples seeking digital detox and intimate relaxation experience.
  • 6-7 nights: Ideal duration for diving courses, cultural excursions, and complete island exploration.
  • 7-10 nights: Extended stays popular with repeat visitors enjoying slow island pace and personalized service.
  • 2-3 weeks: Many European guests choose extended stays for complete relaxation and island immersion.

Target Audience

  • Couples: Primarily European couples seeking authentic, intimate Maldivian experience with genuine relaxation.
  • Repeat Visitors: 40% return rate among guests who appreciate traditional charm and personalized service.
  • Digital Detox Seekers: Travelers wanting to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature.
  • Marine Enthusiasts: Snorkelers and divers attracted by excellent house reef and professional dive center.

Signature Experiences & Itinerary Ideas

  • Morning house reef snorkeling followed by traditional Maldivian massage with coconut oil and seashells.
  • Sunset nurse shark snorkeling expedition combined with romantic dinner on Rock Island private location.
  • PADI diving certification course with evening beach bonfire and traditional Bodu Beru music performance.
  • Cultural local island visits followed by sunset dhoni cruise with champagne and canapés service.
  • Beach breakfast at sunrise combined with island circumference walk and bird watching photography.

Packing & Travel Tips

  • Reef-safe sunscreen essential for marine conservation plus high SPF protection for tropical exposure.
  • Underwater camera recommended for house reef photography and marine life documentation.
  • Light casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes for island exploration and beach activities.
  • Books and analog entertainment for unplugged relaxation without constant digital connectivity.
  • Formal attire optional as resort maintains relaxed, casual atmosphere throughout all dining venues.

Weddings & Honeymoons

  • Beach Ceremonies: Intimate wedding celebrations on pristine white sand with tropical garden backdrop.
  • Rock Island Private Dining: Exclusive honeymoon dinners on separate island with barbecue under stars.
  • Anniversary Celebrations: Special recognition and arrangements for milestone relationship celebrations.
  • Romantic Packages: Sunset dhoni cruises, couples spa treatments, and private beach dining experiences.
  • Traditional Maldivian elements including local music, cultural performances, and authentic island atmosphere.

Intimate Gatherings

  • Small Group Retreats: Perfect size for intimate corporate groups seeking unplugged team experiences.
  • Family Reunions: Multiple bungalow bookings for extended family gatherings in peaceful setting.
  • Anniversary Groups: Friends celebrating milestone occasions together in authentic Maldivian environment.
  • Digital Detox Retreats: Organized programs for groups seeking technology-free relaxation and reconnection.

Special Celebrations

  • Birthday Parties: Personalized celebrations with private dining and traditional entertainment options.
  • Cultural Immersion Events: Local island visits, traditional fishing, and authentic Maldivian experiences.
  • Marine Life Celebrations: Organized diving expeditions and snorkeling adventures for special occasions.
  • Milestone Celebrations: Retirement parties, achievement recognition in tranquil island setting.
  • Weekly beach bonfire events providing natural gathering opportunities for celebration and socializing.

Unique Island Experiences

  • Traditional Maldivian cultural performances with local musicians and Bodu Beru drumming.
  • Movie nights under stars creating unique outdoor cinema experience on natural beach setting.
  • Sunrise breakfast celebrations on beach with personalized service and tropical fresh fruit.
  • Turtle and shark encounters during special marine life celebration snorkeling expeditions.

Event Planning Services

  • Personalized coordination by resort management with high staff-to-guest ratio ensuring attention.
  • Flexible dining arrangements including private beach setups and Rock Island exclusive experiences.
  • Cultural entertainment coordination including traditional music and local performer arrangements.
  • Photography assistance and special decorations using natural tropical flowers and island materials.

Small resort size ensures intimate, personalized event experiences. Advanced booking recommended for special occasions and exclusive dining arrangements during peak seasons.

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

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