Mirihi Island Resort is an intimate 5-star boutique eco-friendly resort located on one of the smallest islands in the Maldives, measuring just 350m x 50m in South Ari Atoll. Named after a local flower, this historic property opened in 1989 as the first resort in Maldives to feature overwater bungalows. Accessible via 30-minute scenic seaplane from Velana International Airport, Mirihi features 38 villas with barefoot luxury policy, no television in accommodations, award-winning Ocean-Pro dive center, spectacular house reef accessible directly from beach, and year-round whale shark and manta ray encounters just minutes from shore.
Historic Boutique Eco-Resort with Barefoot Luxury
One of Maldives' smallest and most intimate resorts featuring first overwater villas (1989), world-class diving, and pristine house reef on powder-soft white sand island.
Location & Heritage
Located in South Ari Atoll, 85km south of Male on tiny 350m x 50m private island.
30-minute scenic seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport with dedicated Mirihi lounge.
Historic resort since 1989, featuring Maldives' first overwater bungalows and barefoot luxury concept.
Named after local "Mirihi" flower with powder-soft white sand beaches and palm-fringed coastline.
Resort Highlights
38 intimate villas with no television, no motorized water sports, and tranquil eco-friendly atmosphere.
Award-winning Ocean-Pro 5-star PADI dive center with over 40 dive sites and marine conservation.
Spectacular house reef accessible directly from beach with 6km reef system and dedicated wreck site.
Year-round whale shark encounters and manta ray spotting just 25 minutes by boat from resort.
Mirihi Island ResortSouth Ari Atoll resortBoutique eco-resortWhale shark divingHistoric Maldives resortBarefoot luxury
Beach Villas
Beach Villas (6 units): 53 sqm beachfront accommodations with polished wooden floors and direct beach access.
Designer furnishings with king-size or twin beds in premium linens and spacious outdoor wooden decks.
En-suite bathrooms with soaking tubs, rain showers, bathrobes, slippers, and premium toiletries.
Private sun loungers, umbrellas, and immediate access to powder-soft white sand beaches.
Water Villas
Water Villas (30 units): 53 sqm overwater accommodations built on stilts over crystal-clear lagoon.
Private decks with direct water access via steps, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
En-suite bathrooms with ocean views through large sliding glass doors and luxury amenities.
Minimum age 8 years for safety reasons, ideal for couples and adults seeking privacy.
Premium Suites
Mirihi Maa (2-Bedroom Beach Suite): 180 sqm beachfront suite with spectacular ocean views.
Fehurihi (2-Bedroom Water Suite): 160 sqm overwater suite above best part of house reef.
Multiple bedrooms with open-air bathrooms, spacious living rooms, and kitchenette facilities.
Perfect for families and groups with office space, dining areas, and sunrise/sunset viewing decks.
Villa Amenities
Air conditioning, ceiling fans, premium bedding with pillow menu, and separate sitting areas.
No television policy maintaining peaceful atmosphere, CD player, and iPod connector for entertainment.
Free Wi-Fi, in-room safe, bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary snorkeling equipment.
Design & Features
Traditional Maldivian architecture with polished wooden flooring and natural material construction.
Individual villa decoration with designer furnishings and unique Maldivian character throughout.
Spacious outdoor wooden decks with sun loungers, dining areas, and direct ocean access.
Open-air bathroom design with soaking tubs, rain showers, and tropical garden privacy.
All villas maintain the resort's barefoot luxury concept with no television and eco-friendly amenities. Water villa minimum age is 8 years for safety reasons.
Main Restaurants
Dhonveli Restaurant: Main buffet restaurant with sand floors featuring international cuisine and local seafood.
Muraka Restaurant: Intimate overwater a la carte dining with only 8 tables and sunset views.
Themed buffet evenings showcasing global cuisines with creative presentations by Swiss executive chef.
Fresh seafood, lobster, premium Angus beef, and locally sourced ingredients in innovative preparations.
Specialty Dining & Bars
Ruhgandu Wine Lounge: Intimate venue with over 300 wines and champagnes from around the world.
Anba Bar: Beachside bar featuring Maldives' largest and most comprehensive rum collection.
Private dining options in wine lounge with special curry evenings created by executive chef.
Light snacks, tropical cocktails, and premium spirits served throughout the day in relaxed atmosphere.
Culinary Experiences
Sail and Dine: Romantic dinner experience aboard traditional dhoni boat with sunset views.
Beach BBQ: Grilled specialties served on pristine white sand with ocean breeze dining.
Cooking Classes: Learn traditional Maldivian cuisine and international cooking techniques with chefs.
Wine Tastings: Guided sessions in Ruhgandu Wine Lounge with sommelier recommendations.
Meal Plans & Options
Half Board Plus: Breakfast and dinner with drinks included in Dhonveli and beverages in Anba Bar.
Full Board Plus: All meals plus soft drinks, beers in minibar, and sunset cocktails at Muraka.
A la carte dining at Muraka with sunset views and intimate atmosphere for special occasions.
Special dietary accommodations including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly menu options available.
Signature Specialties
Fresh daily catch including premium seafood, lobster thermidor, and grilled specialties with ocean views.
International buffet featuring Asian, European, and Maldivian dishes with live cooking stations.
Premium Angus beef selections, creative vegetarian options, and tropical fruit presentations.
Swiss chef-inspired cuisine combining international techniques with local Maldivian flavors and ingredients.
Beverage Programs
Extensive wine selection from old world and new world regions with professional sommelier guidance.
Maldives' largest rum collection featuring rare and premium spirits from Caribbean and international distilleries.
Tropical cocktail menu with fresh fruit juices, creative mixology, and traditional Maldivian drink preparations.
Champagne service for special occasions with sunset cocktail hours and romantic villa service.
Facial treatments, body treatments, aromatherapy, and reflexology using premium natural products.
Peaceful oceanfront setting with traditional Maldivian spa techniques and modern wellness practices.
Couples treatments, private sessions, and specialized wellness programs for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Ocean-Pro Dive Center
Award-winning 5-star PADI dive center operating since 1994 with multilingual experienced instructors.
Over 40 dive sites accessible within 10-60 minutes by comfortable dive dhoni boats.
Specialty courses for all abilities including night diving, wreck diving, and marine conservation programs.
Equipment rental, underwater photography services, and gear washing included in diving packages.
Recreation & Wellness
Fitness Center: State-of-the-art gymnasium with modern equipment and ocean views.
Yoga & Meditation: Morning sessions in peaceful beachside settings with certified instructors.
Library: Quiet reading area with books, magazines, and comfortable seating for relaxation.
Beach volleyball, table tennis, darts, board games, and football available for active recreation.
Water Sports Center
Non-Motorized Sports Only: Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing.
Complimentary snorkeling equipment with masks, fins, life jackets, and safety gear provided.
Ocean kayaks for island exploration and lagoon paddling in crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Eco-friendly policy maintaining peaceful environment without jet skis or motorized water sports.
Marine Conservation
Project Hope: Coral conservation and regeneration program successfully restoring bleached reef areas.
House Reef Protection: 6km pristine reef system completely surrounding island with marine sanctuary status.
Marine Biology: Educational programs with resident marine biologist and conservation activities.
Sustainable tourism practices including reef protection guidelines and environmental education programs.
Business & Services
Free Wi-Fi throughout resort with reliable connectivity in all villas and public areas.
24-hour reception, concierge services, and guest services for excursion planning and assistance.
Laundry and dry cleaning services, luggage storage, and shopping facilities on-site.
Chinese newspaper available, international phone access, and business support services.
Marine Adventures
Whale Shark Seeker Cruises: Year-round encounters with gentle giants just 25 minutes from resort.
Manta Ray Snorkeling: Visits to nearby Madivaru "Manta Reef" for close encounters with manta rays.
House Reef Diving: Unlimited diving on spectacular 6km reef system accessible directly from beach.
Night Snorkeling: Guided evening adventures to observe nocturnal marine life and reef activity.
Diving Experiences
Wreck Diving: Explore the famous "Madi-ge" wreck at 22 meters depth with batfish and glassfish.
PADI Courses: From beginner Open Water to advanced specialty certifications with expert instructors.
Boat Diving: Two daily trips to over 40 dive sites with small groups and personalized service.
Marine Photography: Underwater photography instruction and equipment rental for capturing memories.
Island Excursions
Sunset Cruises: Traditional dhoni boat trips with spectacular sunset views and dolphin watching.
Big Game Fishing: Deep-sea fishing charters for tuna, marlin, and other pelagic species.
Dolphin Watching: Wildlife viewing expeditions to observe playful dolphins in natural habitat.
Uninhabited Island Picnics: Day trips to pristine sandbanks with private beach setups and dining.
Cultural & Wellness
Traditional Dhoni Excursions: Authentic Maldivian boat experiences with resident marine biologist.
Morning Yoga: Beach yoga sessions in peaceful tropical settings with ocean views.
Cultural Education: Learn about Maldivian traditions, marine conservation, and island ecology.
Meditation Sessions: Guided mindfulness practices in serene beachside environments.
Water Sports & Recreation
Complimentary Equipment: Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing gear.
Snorkeling Adventures: House reef exploration with guided tours and marine life identification.
Swimming: Crystal-clear lagoon perfect for swimming with direct villa access and safe conditions.
Beach Activities: Volleyball, football, and beach games on powder-soft white sand beaches.
Unique Experiences
Madi-ge Wreck Exploration: Dedicated wreck dive site with rich marine life and underwater photography.
House of Rays Experience: Close encounters with various ray species in natural lagoon environment.
Conservation Participation: Join Project Hope coral restoration efforts and marine research activities.
Barefoot Island Life: Authentic Maldivian experience with no shoes, no television, and peaceful atmosphere.
All activities respect the eco-friendly environment. Whale shark encounters are year-round with higher success rates during certain seasons.
Mirihi provides 30-minute scenic seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport with dedicated Mirihi lounge access. Guests are met at airport by resort representative who handles check-in and luggage. Seaplane transfers require advance notification and operate during daylight hours.
Mirihi is one of the smallest islands in Maldives (350m x 50m) featuring the first overwater villas (1989), barefoot luxury with no television policy, award-winning dive center, and spectacular house reef accessible directly from beach. The intimate 38-villa resort maintains eco-friendly atmosphere without motorized water sports.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort in all villas and public areas. Mirihi maintains a no-television policy to preserve peaceful atmosphere, instead offering CD players, iPod connectors, library, games room, and various outdoor activities focused on marine life and relaxation.
Four dining venues include Dhonveli buffet restaurant, intimate 8-table Muraka overwater restaurant, Ruhgandu Wine Lounge with 300+ wines, and Anba Bar with Maldives' largest rum collection. Half Board Plus and Full Board Plus plans include meals and beverages with specialty dining experiences.
Children of all ages are welcome in beach villas. Water villas have minimum age of 8 years for safety reasons. The resort caters to families with children's meals, games room, and family-friendly activities while maintaining peaceful adult-focused atmosphere.
Complimentary non-motorized water sports include kayaking, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, and snorkeling. The 5-star PADI dive center offers courses, equipment rental, and access to 40+ dive sites including the famous Madi-ge wreck. Whale shark encounters available year-round.
Year-round destination with consistent marine life. Whale sharks are spotted throughout the year with higher success rates December-April. Manta rays best spotted during northeast monsoon season. The house reef offers excellent diving and snorkeling regardless of season with calm lagoon conditions.
Marine & Diving Sites
Madivaru "Manta Reef" - Famous cleaning station where manta rays gather year-round for feeding and cleaning.
Madi-ge Wreck Site - Purpose-sunk trawler at 22m depth attracting batfish, glassfish, and jacks.
South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Areas - Over 40 dive sites within 60 minutes featuring diverse marine ecosystems.
Whale Shark Aggregation Areas - Year-round feeding grounds for whale sharks just 25 minutes by boat.
Cultural & Local Attractions
Local Inhabited Islands - Traditional Maldivian communities accessible via day trips and cultural excursions.
Traditional Fishing Grounds - Local fishing areas where guests can experience authentic Maldivian techniques.
Pristine Sandbanks - Uninhabited sand formations perfect for private picnics and photography.
South Ari Atoll Conservation Areas - Protected marine environments with coral restoration projects.
Transportation & Connectivity
Velana International Airport (MLE) - Main gateway 85km north accessible via scenic 30-minute seaplane.
Dedicated Mirihi Lounge - Private airport facility with refreshments and comfortable waiting area.
South Ari Atoll Regional Access - Central location for exploring multiple marine sites and excursions.
Inter-Resort Connections - Proximity to other South Ari Atoll resorts for day visits and activities.
Natural Marine Attractions
Mirihi House Reef - 6km pristine coral reef completely surrounding island with direct beach access.
Deep Blue Channels - Pelagic species viewing areas for large marine life encounters.
Coral Gardens - Shallow reef areas with vibrant coral formations perfect for snorkeling.
Marine Sanctuary Zones - Protected areas supporting diverse marine ecosystems and conservation research.
Check-in & Reservations
Advance arrival notification required for seaplane transfer coordination and luggage handling.
Check-in process completed at airport lounge eliminating resort reception procedures for seamless arrival.
Photo identification and credit card required for all guests during check-in process.
Luggage transferred directly from seaplane to villa without guest handling required.
Same credit card used for booking required for verification and incidental charges.
Resort Closure & Renovations
Resort closed for major renovations from May 5, 2025 to November 30, 2025 (December 1 reopening).
Planned enhancements include four new 2-bedroom water pool suites and main infinity pool.
Upgrades to villas, public areas, and recreational facilities with improved amenities.
Alternative accommodations and rebooking assistance provided for affected reservations.
Post-renovation features will include enhanced luxury amenities and expanded facilities.
Family & Age Policies
Children of all ages welcome in beach villas with family-friendly amenities and activities.
Water villas minimum age 8 years for safety reasons due to direct lagoon access.
Cribs and extra beds available for additional charges subject to villa capacity and availability.
Children's meals, games room access, and family activity programs included in stay.
Babysitting services available on request with advance booking and additional charges.
Environmental & Safety
Eco-friendly resort policy with no motorized water sports maintaining peaceful marine environment.
Barefoot policy throughout resort encouraging natural connection with soft white sand island.
No television in villas policy preserving tranquil atmosphere and encouraging outdoor activities.
Marine conservation guidelines enforced during diving, snorkeling, and reef interactions.
Safety protocols for water activities with life jackets provided and professional instruction available.
All policies designed to maintain intimate resort atmosphere and protect pristine marine environment. Renovation closure affects 2025 bookings.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round: Excellent diving conditions and whale shark encounters throughout the year.
December-April: Northeast monsoon with calmer seas and higher whale shark success rates.
May-November: Southwest monsoon with dynamic weather and fewer crowds for better rates.
Manta Season: Best manta ray encounters during northeast monsoon at nearby Madivaru Reef.
Ideal Duration
3-4 nights: Perfect for couples seeking intimate getaway with diving and snorkeling experiences.
5-7 nights: Ideal for comprehensive experience including diving courses and marine encounters.
7-10 nights: Ultimate relaxation with multiple dive certifications and all excursions included.
Extended stays: Perfect for repeat visitors and diving enthusiasts exploring all 40+ dive sites.
Target Audience
Couples & Honeymooners: Intimate 38-villa resort with romantic dining and peaceful atmosphere.
Diving Enthusiasts: Award-winning dive center with house reef access and whale shark encounters.
Eco-Conscious Travelers: Sustainable resort with marine conservation programs and eco-friendly policies.
Luxury Seekers: Boutique barefoot luxury with personalized service and unique Maldivian character.
Signature Experiences & Itinerary Ideas
Morning house reef snorkeling followed by whale shark seeker cruise and sunset dinner at Muraka.
Multi-day diving package with PADI certification, Madi-ge wreck exploration, and manta ray encounters.
Romantic escape including sail and dine experience, couples spa treatment, and wine tasting at Ruhgandu.
Conservation experience with Project Hope coral restoration and marine biology sessions with resident expert.
Cultural immersion including traditional dhoni excursions, cooking classes, and barefoot island living.
Packing & Travel Tips
Reef-safe sunscreen mandatory, UV protection clothing, and high SPF lip balm for marine conservation.
Underwater camera essential for whale shark photography, waterproof cases, and extra memory storage.
Comfortable beachwear for barefoot policy, elegant evening attire for Muraka restaurant dining.
Personal dive logbook and certification cards if planning underwater activities and courses.
Minimal footwear needed due to barefoot policy; water shoes recommended for reef walking.
Weddings & Honeymoons
Intimate Beach Ceremonies: Small wedding ceremonies on powder-soft white sand with ocean backdrop.
Overwater Celebrations: Water villa ceremonies with direct lagoon access and tropical ambiance.
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