Le Méridien Maldives Resort and Spa is a luxury resort located on Thilamaafushi Island in Lhaviyani Atoll, approximately 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport in Malé. This Marriott Bonvoy Category 5 property opened in September 2021 and spans 9 hectares of natural island surrounded by pristine lagoons and coral reefs. The resort features 134 villas designed with mid-century modern aesthetics and European influences, offering both overwater and beach accommodations with comprehensive dining, spa, and recreational facilities.
Modern Maldivian Luxury in Lhaviyani Atoll
Marriott Bonvoy Category 5 property with exceptional points value, overwater villas, and sustainable tourism focus on pristine Thilamaafushi Island.
Location & Access
Situated on Thilamaafushi Island in Lhaviyani Atoll, 130 kilometers north of Velana International Airport.
35-minute seaplane transfer with Trans Maldivian Airways offering aerial views of coral formations and atolls.
Natural island spanning 9 hectares surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant house reef systems.
Secluded location in southeastern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll with pristine marine environment and minimal development.
Resort Highlights
134 luxury villas featuring mid-century modern design with European heritage influences and contemporary amenities.
Six distinctive restaurants and bars including Japanese teppanyaki, Spanish tapas, and beachside marketplace dining.
Marriott Bonvoy Category 5 status offering exceptional points value for overwater villa experiences.
Comprehensive sustainability programs including marine conservation hub and on-site greenhouse facilities.
Le Méridien MaldivesLhaviyani Atoll resortMarriott Bonvoy Category 5Overwater villas MaldivesThilamaafushi IslandMid-century modern design
Overwater Villas
Sunrise Overwater Villa: Base-level overwater accommodation with direct lagoon access, morning sunrise views, and afternoon shade on private deck.
Sunset Overwater Villa: Identical to sunrise villa but positioned for sunset views, can experience more afternoon sun exposure on deck areas.
Overwater Design: Glass floor panels for marine viewing, overwater hammock, direct ocean access ladder, and freshwater outdoor shower.
Spacious outdoor deck with dining table, two lounge chairs, and private lagoon access for swimming and snorkeling activities.
Beach Accommodations
Beach Bungalow: Ground-level accommodation with direct beach access, private garden area, and outdoor shower facilities.
Lagoon Villa: Beachfront positioning with enhanced amenities, spacious layouts, and immediate access to house reef snorkeling.
Garden Setting: Private outdoor spaces surrounded by indigenous flora and fauna with natural island landscaping.
Beach villas feature sand art installations, private garden courtyards, and direct access to pristine white sand beaches.
Villa Amenities & Features
King-size bed positioning for ocean views, modern bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tinted windows, and free-standing bathtub.
Air conditioning, flat-screen television, minibar, espresso machine, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout all accommodation categories.
Private bathroom facilities include walk-in shower, premium toiletries, and direct outdoor access from overwater villas.
Daily housekeeping service twice per day, bottled water from resort's own facility, and beach towel service.
Design & Layout
Mid-century modern aesthetic with European design influences, salmon pink accent walls, and turquoise color schemes.
Unique saloon-style doors, strategic furniture placement for ocean views, and contemporary lighting throughout villa spaces.
Outdoor spaces include private decks, dining areas, and lounging facilities with direct water or beach access.
LM002 signature scent throughout villas, blackout curtains for bedroom areas, and makeup area doubling as workspace.
All villa categories can be booked using Marriott Bonvoy points at standard redemption rates. Sunrise and sunset overwater villas are identical except for location and view orientation.
Signature Restaurants
Tabemasu: Japanese restaurant featuring teppanyaki counter, omakase menus, and premium sake selection with indoor and covered outdoor seating.
Turquoise: Beachside marketplace offering international buffet breakfast and dinner with daily rotating Maldivian specialties.
Riviera Tapas & Bar: Spanish-inspired adults-only restaurant serving paella, tapas, and grilled specialties with sunset views.
All dining venues emphasize fresh ingredients, local sourcing, and international culinary techniques with ocean view settings.
Casual Dining & Bars
Velaa Bar and Grill: Beachfront casual dining serving handcrafted cocktails, grilled specialties, and light meals throughout the day.
La Vie: Adults-only beachside bar featuring infinity pool access, private beach area, and premium cocktail program.
Pool Bar Service: Swim-up bar service at main infinity pool with tropical cocktails and light refreshments.
Multiple bar locations across the island providing convenient access to beverages and snacks during resort activities.
The Greenhouse Experience
Sustainability Focus: On-site greenhouse facility growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs for resort restaurant use.
Family Programs: Micro-green planting activities, family foraging experiences, and educational cooking classes available.
Farm-to-Table: Fresh produce integration into daily menus reducing food miles and enhancing flavor profiles.
Guests can participate in harvest activities and learn about sustainable agriculture practices in tropical environments.
Meal Plans & Dining Options
All-Inclusive Plans: Standard and premium all-inclusive packages covering meals, beverages, and selected activities with dining flexibility.
Half Board Options: Breakfast and dinner packages with à la carte lunch options and specialty restaurant access.
À La Carte Dining: Individual meal payments with advance reservations required for specialty restaurants during peak seasons.
Marriott Bonvoy members receive 20% discount on food and beverage purchases when not on meal plan packages.
Culinary Highlights
Daily breakfast buffet with international selections, fresh tropical fruits, and made-to-order stations for personalized dining.
Weekly themed dinner events showcasing different international cuisines and local Maldivian traditional dishes.
Premium ingredients including fresh seafood, Wagyu beef, and imported specialties from European and Asian markets.
WhatsApp room service ordering system for convenient in-villa dining with extensive menu options available 24 hours.
Explore Spa by Le Méridien
Overwater spa pavilion with four treatment rooms built above the lagoon providing serene water views during treatments.
Glass floor panels in treatment rooms for marine life observation during massage and wellness therapy sessions.
Comprehensive treatment menu including body massages, facial services, couples treatments, and wellness programs.
Premium spa pricing with 75-minute massages for couples available, Marriott Bonvoy members receive additional 15 minutes complimentary.
Swimming & Recreation
Two Infinity Pools: Main resort infinity pool and adults-only La Vie pool with swim-up bar service and ocean views.
Waves Lifestyle Hub: Central facility housing fitness center, recreation areas, and wellness programs with ocean views.
Fitness Center: State-of-the-art equipment including cardio machines, strength training, and personal training services available.
Padel court facility offering racquet sport activities with equipment rental and instruction available for all skill levels.
Le Méridien Family Kids Hub
Comprehensive children's programming with indoor play areas, outdoor playground facilities, and supervised activity schedules.
Educational programs including nature trails, folklore storytelling, art classes, and marine conservation awareness activities.
Day and night programming options with cultural activities, creative workshops, and age-appropriate entertainment for children.
Professional childcare staff providing safe, engaging, and educational experiences while parents enjoy adult facilities.
Marine Conservation Hub
On-site marine biology center dedicated to protecting and educating about coral reef ecosystems and marine wildlife.
Green and hawksbill turtle conservation programs with guest observation opportunities and educational presentations.
House reef protection initiatives including coral restoration projects and marine life monitoring programs.
Guest participation opportunities in conservation activities, snorkeling education, and environmental awareness programs.
Resort Amenities & Services
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout resort areas, reliable internet for video calls and streaming services.
24-hour front desk service, concierge assistance, and WhatsApp communication system for guest requests and information.
Resort boutique shop, laundry services, and currency exchange facilities for guest convenience during stay.
Buggy transportation service around the island, private island access arrangements, and seaplane coordination services.
Snorkeling & Marine Life
Exceptional House Reef: Easily accessible from beach with healthy coral formations, multiple shark species, rays, and abundant tropical fish.
Marine Wildlife: Regular sightings of blacktip reef sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, octopuses, sea turtles, and diverse fish schools.
Equipment Provided: Complimentary snorkeling gear available, though bringing personal equipment recommended for optimal fit and comfort.
Direct lagoon access from overwater villas allows immediate snorkeling without beach access, perfect for spontaneous marine exploration.
Water Sports & Recreation
Diving Services: Partnership with Caesar & Captain Dive Centre offering PADI courses and guided dive excursions to local sites.
Non-Motorized Sports: Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing with equipment and instruction available.
Fishing Excursions: Traditional Maldivian fishing trips, sunset fishing adventures, and deep-sea fishing expeditions available.
Crystal-clear lagoon conditions perfect for all water sports with shallow areas for beginners and deeper zones for advanced activities.
Island Excursions
Private Island Visits: Access to resort's private island Bodu Finolhu for secluded beach experiences and marine conservation activities.
Local Island Tours: Cultural excursions to nearby inhabited islands for authentic Maldivian lifestyle experiences and local craft shopping.
Sunset Cruises: Traditional dhoni boat trips with dolphin watching opportunities and cocktail service during golden hour.
Sandbank excursions to pristine uninhabited islands for private picnic experiences and photography in untouched natural settings.
Resort Activities & Entertainment
Stargazing Programs: Evening astronomy sessions taking advantage of minimal light pollution for exceptional celestial viewing.
Cultural Experiences: Traditional Maldivian music performances, local craft workshops, and cultural education programs.
Photography Tours: Guided sessions for capturing marine life, sunrise/sunset scenes, and resort architecture with professional tips.
Fitness classes, yoga sessions, meditation programs, and wellness activities conducted in tropical outdoor settings.
Activity availability depends on weather conditions, seasonal factors, and advance booking requirements. Marine excursions may be restricted during rough weather periods.
Le Méridien Maldives is accessible via 35-minute seaplane transfer with Trans Maldivian Airways from Velana International Airport. The resort coordinates all transfers and provides dedicated lounge access while waiting. Current seaplane cost is $565 per adult and $283 per child (2-11 years) roundtrip, with infants under 2 traveling free. Transfers operate daylight hours only (6:00-16:00) and must be arranged for international flights arriving by 15:30.
Le Méridien Maldives is a Marriott Bonvoy Category 5 property, offering exceptional value for points redemptions. Overwater villas can be booked for as low as 30,000 points per night (off-peak) or up to 40,000 points (peak season). This represents outstanding value compared to cash rates, making it one of the most accessible luxury overwater villa experiences in the Maldives for points users.
Yes, Le Méridien Maldives is very family-friendly with the Le Méridien Family Kids Hub offering comprehensive programming for children. The resort provides both indoor and outdoor play areas, educational activities, nature trails, and cultural programs. Family accommodations are available, and the shallow lagoon areas are perfect for children's swimming and snorkeling activities.
The resort offers six dining venues including Tabemasu (Japanese), Riviera (Spanish tapas), Turquoise (international buffet), Velaa Bar and Grill, La Vie (adults-only), and The Greenhouse. Meal plan options include breakfast-only, half board, full board, and all-inclusive packages (standard and premium). All restaurants emphasize fresh ingredients with many items grown on-site at The Greenhouse facility.
Sunrise and sunset overwater villas are identical in size, layout, and amenities - the only difference is location and view orientation. Sunrise villas offer beautiful morning views and afternoon shade, while sunset villas provide sunset views but can be more exposed to afternoon sun. Many guests prefer sunrise villas for the shaded deck areas during the hottest part of the day.
The resort offers exceptional house reef snorkeling directly from the beach or overwater villas, with complimentary snorkeling equipment provided. Non-motorized water sports typically included are kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The resort partners with dive operators for PADI courses and excursions. The house reef features healthy coral, multiple shark species, rays, sea turtles, and abundant tropical fish.
Yes, the resort features La Vie, an adults-only beachside bar and infinity pool area providing a tranquil environment for adult guests. Riviera Tapas & Bar also operates as an adults-only dining venue. These facilities offer peaceful spaces for couples while the main resort areas welcome families, creating options for different guest preferences throughout the island.
Marine Protected Areas
Lhaviyani Atoll Marine Reserve - Protected waters surrounding the resort with pristine coral reef systems and abundant marine biodiversity.
Bodu Finolhu Private Island - Resort's dedicated private island featuring marine conservation hub and exclusive guest experiences.
Turtle Nesting Sites - Protected areas around the atoll where green and hawksbill turtles nest during specific seasons.
House Reef Systems - Extensive coral gardens directly accessible from the resort with high-density marine life populations.
Regional Dive Sites
Lhaviyani Atoll Channels - Deep water passages between islands offering encounters with pelagic species and large marine life.
Coral Thila Formations - Underwater pinnacles rising from ocean depths attracting schools of fish and larger marine species.
Manta Ray Cleaning Stations - Seasonal aggregation sites where manta rays gather for cleaning services from smaller fish.
Shark Point Sites - Areas known for regular shark encounters including reef sharks, nurse sharks, and occasional whale sharks.
Transportation Hubs
Velana International Airport (MLE) - Main international gateway located 130 kilometers south, serving as primary access point to Maldives.
Trans Maldivian Airways Terminal - Dedicated seaplane facility at Malé with Le Méridien private lounge for guest comfort.
Malé Capital City - Administrative center with cultural attractions, shopping, and connection point for inter-atoll travel.
Local Island Harbors - Traditional dhoni boat harbors on nearby inhabited islands accessible through resort excursion programs.
Natural Attractions
Pristine Sandbanks - Uninhabited coral sand formations accessible by boat for private picnic and photography experiences.
Mangrove Areas - Coastal mangrove systems on nearby islands supporting unique ecosystems and bird watching opportunities.
Coral Gardens - Shallow reef systems perfect for snorkeling with vibrant coral formations and tropical fish populations.
Deep Water Drop-offs - Areas where shallow lagoons meet deep ocean providing opportunities for pelagic species encounters.
Transfer & Arrival Policies
Seaplane transfers operate daylight hours only (06:00-16:00) requiring international flight arrival by 15:30 for same-day connection.
Late arrivals after 15:30 require overnight accommodation in Malé area at guest expense before next-day resort transfer.
Departure seaplane transfers accommodate international flights departing 09:00 or later from Velana International Airport.
Advance flight information required at least 7 days before arrival for seaplane coordination and private lounge arrangements.
Accommodation Policies
Children of all ages welcome with those 12 and above charged adult rates for accommodation and dining.
Photo identification and credit card required at check-in with matching cardholder verification for security deposit.
Special accommodation requests subject to availability with potential additional charges depending on requirements.
Cribs and extra bedding available separately based on room category and seasonal availability constraints.
Marriott Bonvoy Benefits
Platinum Elite and above receive welcome gift choice: daily breakfast, 1,000 bonus points, or traditional sarong.
20% discount on food and beverage purchases automatically applied for elite members, includes alcoholic beverages.
Room upgrade opportunities at check-in subject to availability, with preference given to higher elite status levels.
Late checkout until 16:00 for elite members, though seaplane schedule typically determines departure times.
Sustainability Practices
Third-party sustainability certification with comprehensive environmental protection and conservation programs.
On-site greenhouse facility reducing food miles by growing produce locally for restaurant consumption.
Marine conservation hub protecting coral reefs and sea turtle populations with guest education programs.
Resort water bottling plant providing complimentary bottled water while reducing plastic waste and transportation impact.
All policies subject to change based on operational requirements and government regulations. Complete terms and conditions provided during booking confirmation process.
Best Time to Visit
December-April: Dry season with minimal rainfall, calm seas, consistent sunshine, and ideal conditions for water activities and marine excursions.
May-November: Southwest monsoon period with occasional showers, excellent diving conditions, fewer crowds, and potential for better rates.
Year-Round Appeal: Tropical temperatures consistently 26-30°C with warm lagoon waters perfect for swimming regardless of season.
Marine Life Seasons: Manta ray encounters peak during certain months, sea turtle nesting seasons vary, whale shark sightings possible year-round.
Ideal Duration of Stay
3-4 nights: Perfect introduction to Maldivian luxury with overwater villa experience, house reef snorkeling, and spa treatments.
5-7 nights: Comprehensive resort experience allowing time for multiple dining venues, excursions, and full facility utilization.
7-10 nights: Extended relaxation with diving courses, multiple excursions, wellness programs, and complete digital detox experience.
Longer Stays: Ideal for special occasions, repeat visitors familiar with the island, and those seeking extended tropical retreat.
Target Audience
Couples & Honeymooners: Romantic overwater villas, adults-only areas, sunset dining, and intimate spa treatments for memorable celebrations.
Families: Kids club programming, family-friendly dining, safe lagoon areas, educational activities, and multiple accommodation options.
Points Enthusiasts: Exceptional Marriott Bonvoy Category 5 value for luxury overwater villa experiences at reasonable point costs.
Marine Life Lovers: Outstanding house reef, marine conservation programs, diving opportunities, and pristine coral ecosystems.
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
Local inhabited island visits for authentic Maldivian culture, traditional craft shopping, and community interaction experiences.
Private sandbank excursions to uninhabited islands for secluded picnics, photography sessions, and pristine natural environments.
Sunset dolphin watching cruises combining marine wildlife observation with cocktail service and romantic atmosphere.
Fishing expeditions including traditional hand-line fishing, deep-sea fishing adventures, and sunset fishing trips with local crews.
Travel Tips & Recommendations
Book seaplane transfers with careful attention to international flight times, allowing buffer for potential delays and daylight restrictions.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, underwater camera, lightweight clothing, and personal snorkeling equipment for optimal experience.
Consider all-inclusive packages for dining convenience, especially during peak season when restaurant reservations fill quickly.
Download resort WhatsApp contact for easy communication, room service orders, and activity bookings throughout stay.
Weddings & Honeymoons
Overwater Ceremonies: Romantic wedding ceremonies on overwater decks with lagoon backdrop and sunset timing for magical atmosphere.
Beach Celebrations: Traditional sand ceremonies on pristine beaches with tropical flower arrangements and ocean view settings.
Honeymoon Packages: Specialized romantic experiences including overwater villa upgrades, couples spa treatments, and private dining.
Anniversary Celebrations: Renewal of vows ceremonies, romantic dinner setups, and personalized service for milestone celebrations.
Corporate Retreats & Meetings
Executive Accommodation: Multiple villa bookings for corporate groups with meeting space arrangements and business services.
Team Building Activities: Water sports programs, marine conservation experiences, cultural activities, and group excursions.
Incentive Programs: Luxury reward packages for high-performing teams including premium dining and exclusive experiences.
Conference Facilities: Meeting room arrangements, presentation equipment, and connectivity services for business requirements.
Special Occasions
Birthday Celebrations: Custom cake services, villa decorations, special dining arrangements, and activity coordination.
Family Reunions: Multiple accommodation arrangements, group dining packages, and coordinated family activity programs.
Milestone Events: Graduations, retirements, and personal achievements celebrated with luxury service and tropical setting.
Cultural Celebrations: Traditional Maldivian performances, local craft activities, and authentic cultural experiences.
Event Planning Services
Dedicated event coordination team providing comprehensive planning services and personalized attention for special occasions.
Custom menu creation across six dining venues with wine pairings, dietary accommodations, and themed presentations.
Photography and videography services including underwater sessions, aerial shots, and traditional ceremony documentation.
Decoration services, entertainment coordination, and logistics management with European-influenced luxury standards.
Exclusive Experiences
Private Island Access: Exclusive use of Bodu Finolhu private island for intimate celebrations and group activities.
Marine Conservation Ceremonies: Eco-friendly celebration options including coral planting and turtle conservation participation.
Culinary Experiences: Private chef services, greenhouse tours with harvesting, and cooking classes for group activities.
Wellness Celebrations: Spa packages, yoga sessions, meditation programs, and holistic wellness experiences for groups.
All events require advance coordination with resort management. Additional charges apply for specialized services, premium decorations, and exclusive venue usage.
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