NAKAI Maayafushi Resort Maldives is a 4-star all-inclusive resort located in North Ari Atoll, just 25 minutes by seaplane or 90 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. This recently renovated island resort features 75 accommodations across four categories, from overwater bungalows to garden villas, set on a coral island surrounded by crystal-clear waters and an extensive house reef. Part of the established NAKAI Group with over 20 years of Maldivian hospitality experience, the resort combines traditional island charm with modern comfort, specializing in diving experiences and Italian-Maldivian cuisine.
4-Star All-Inclusive Island Resort
Traditional Maldivian island experience with extensive house reef, diving center, and authentic Italian-Maldivian cuisine in North Ari Atoll.
Location & Access
Located in North Ari Atoll on a private coral island with abundant marine life.
Quick 25-minute seaplane transfer or 90-minute speedboat from Velana International Airport.
Small island setting with lush vegetation and direct access to pristine house reef.
65 kilometers from Malé with convenient transfer options for all guests.
Resort Highlights
Recently renovated 4-star resort with traditional Maldivian architecture and modern amenities.
Part of the NAKAI Group with over 20 years of experience in Maldivian hospitality.
Extensive house reef perfect for snorkeling directly from the beach.
Professional NAKAI Diving Center with access to world-renowned dive sites.
8 Over Water Bungalows: Direct lagoon access with panoramic ocean views and glass floor panels.
Private sundeck with ladder access to crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and swimming.
Spacious interiors with traditional thatched roof construction and modern amenities.
Perfect for couples seeking romantic overwater experience with ocean sounds.
Beach Bungalows
60 Beach Bungalows: Beachfront accommodation just steps from white sand beaches.
Private terraces with direct beach access and views of the Indian Ocean horizon.
Traditional architecture with natural materials and tropical garden surroundings.
Ideal for guests wanting easy beach access and connection to island nature.
Garden Accommodations
Garden Rooms: Nestled among palm trees with natural island views and peaceful settings.
7 Garden Villas: Private villas with coral-walled gardens and individual character.
Each villa uniquely designed offering privacy and tranquility in tropical surroundings.
Perfect for guests seeking secluded accommodation away from beachfront activity.
Room Amenities
Air conditioning, ceiling fans, minibar, and en-suite bathrooms with modern fixtures.
Free Wi-Fi access, satellite TV, and mosquito nets for comfortable tropical stays.
Daily housekeeping with twice-daily cleaning service and fresh towels.
All rooms feature traditional Maldivian design with contemporary comfort amenities.
All accommodations include modern amenities and traditional design elements. Room categories vary in size and location; early booking recommended for overwater and garden villa preferences.
Main Restaurant & Specialty Dining
Two Main Restaurants: Featuring Italian and Maldivian cuisine with fresh daily preparations.
All-inclusive buffet dining with rotating international menu and local specialties.
À la carte options available with chef-prepared dishes using fresh ingredients.
Daily themed dinners showcasing regional flavors and international favorites.
Bars & Beverages
Main Bar: Located between reception and restaurant with all-inclusive drinks.
Beach Bar: Oceanfront location perfect for sunset drinks and light snacks.
Ocean Bar: Built over the water offering spectacular views and cocktails.
Full selection of tropical cocktails, wines, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Culinary Experience
Authentic Italian cuisine prepared by experienced chefs with imported ingredients.
Traditional Maldivian dishes featuring fresh seafood and local spices.
Daily fresh bread, pasta, and pizza prepared on-site in traditional ovens.
Special dietary requirements accommodated including vegetarian and halal options.
Meal Plans
All-Inclusive Plan: Three meals daily plus snacks, beverages, and selected alcoholic drinks.
À la Carte Dining: Individual meal ordering with extensive menu selections.
24-hour tea and coffee service available at main bar and reception areas.
Dietary accommodations available with advance notice for allergies and preferences.
Maadigha Spa
Traditional spa treatments using natural oils and aromatherapy techniques.
Massage therapies combining Oriental and modern wellness approaches.
Couples treatments available in peaceful tropical settings.
Body and mind wellness programs designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
NAKAI Diving Center
PADI certified dive center with professional multilingual instructors.
Access to world-class dive sites including protected marine areas.
Beginner courses and advanced diving certifications available.
Complete diving equipment rental and underwater photography services.
Sports & Recreation
Swimming Pool: Main pool area with sun loungers and poolside service.
Tennis Court: Full-size court available for guest use with equipment rental.
Fitness Center: Modern gym equipment with ocean views and air conditioning.
Beach volleyball court and mini-golf course for family entertainment.
Water Sports Center
Complimentary: Kayaking, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, and snorkeling gear.
Guided snorkeling trips to house reef and nearby coral gardens.
Professional instruction available for all water sports activities.
Quality equipment maintained to international safety standards.
Guest Services
24-hour front desk with multilingual staff assistance and concierge services.
High-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the resort (though connectivity may vary).
Computer room and library for guest use during stay.
Daily housekeeping, laundry services, and room service options.
Entertainment & Activities
Evening entertainment programs with cultural shows and live music.
Organized activities including beach games and group excursions.
Professional animation team providing family-friendly entertainment.
Astronomy programs taking advantage of clear Maldivian skies.
Diving & Underwater Exploration
House Reef Diving: Easy access snorkeling and diving directly from the beach.
Nearby Dive Sites: Professional trips to famous North Ari Atoll locations.
Marine Life Encounters: Opportunity to see reef sharks, turtles, and colorful fish.
Certification Courses: PADI open water and advanced certifications available.
Water Sports & Marine Activities
Snorkeling Adventures: Guided trips to pristine coral gardens and reefs.
Island Hopping: Catamaran excursions to nearby uninhabited islands.
Dolphin Watching: Early morning and sunset trips to spot dolphins.
Traditional Fishing: Experience local Maldivian fishing techniques with crew.
Island Activities
Beach Volleyball: Tournament-style games and casual play on sand courts.
Tennis Matches: Full-size court with coaching available and equipment rental.
Mini Golf: Family-friendly course set in tropical garden surroundings.
Nature Walks: Guided tours exploring island vegetation and wildlife.
Excursions & Special Experiences
Malé City Tours: Cultural visits to capital city markets and historical sites.
Sandbank Picnics: Private beach setups on secluded sandbanks with lunch.
Sunset Cruises: Traditional dhoni boat trips with cocktail service.
Manta Ray Excursions: Seasonal trips to famous manta ray cleaning stations.
Activities are subject to weather conditions and seasonal availability. Some excursions require minimum participants and advance booking.
The resort is accessible via 25-minute seaplane transfer or 90-minute speedboat from Velana International Airport in Malé. Seaplane transfers offer scenic aerial views but operate during daylight hours only. Speedboat transfers are available throughout the day but may be affected by weather conditions.
NAKAI Maayafushi features an extensive house reef accessible directly from the beach, perfect for snorkeling and diving. The professional NAKAI Diving Center offers access to world-renowned North Ari Atoll dive sites, including protected marine areas with diverse marine life including manta rays, sharks, and turtles.
The all-inclusive plan includes three daily meals at two restaurants featuring Italian and Maldivian cuisine, plus snacks, beverages, and selected alcoholic drinks. The Main Bar, Beach Bar, and Ocean Bar serve drinks throughout the day. À la carte dining options are also available.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, though connectivity can be inconsistent due to the remote island location. The resort also provides a computer room and library for guests needing reliable internet access for important communications.
Complimentary activities include kayaking, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, snorkeling gear, tennis, beach volleyball, and mini golf. Additional charges apply for diving courses, motorized water sports, spa treatments, and organized excursions like dolphin watching and island hopping.
Diving conditions are excellent year-round in North Ari Atoll. December to April typically offers calmer seas and better visibility, while May to November may have more plankton attracting larger marine life like manta rays. The house reef is accessible regardless of season.
Minimum stay requirements may apply during peak seasons and holidays. Check with the resort directly for current policies. Most guests find 4-7 nights ideal to fully experience the diving, water sports, and relaxation opportunities the resort offers.
Marine Protected Areas
North Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area - Famous for whale shark and manta ray encounters.
Maaya Thila - World-renowned dive site with abundant marine life and coral formations.
Fish Head (Mushimasmingili Thila) - Popular diving spot known for grey reef sharks.
Rasdhoo Madivaru - Protected area famous for hammerhead shark sightings.
Cultural & Urban Attractions
Malé Capital City - Historic mosques, local markets, and Maldivian cultural experiences.
National Museum - Maldivian history and cultural artifacts in Sultan Park.
Grand Friday Mosque - Modern architectural landmark and religious center.
Local Fish Market - Authentic morning experience with fresh daily catch displays.
Transportation & Connections
Velana International Airport (MLE) - Main gateway 65km away with seaplane and speedboat options.
Trans Maldivian Airways Terminal - Seaplane base for scenic transfers and island hopping.
Malé Harbor - Ferry connections to local inhabited islands and regional transport.
Nearby Resort Islands - Other NAKAI Group properties including Dhiggiri and Alimatha.
Natural Attractions
Hanifaru Bay - UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for manta ray aggregations.
Whale Shark Point - Seasonal viewing area for the world's largest fish species.
Uninhabited Sandbanks - Pristine beaches accessible by boat for picnics and photography.
House Reef Extension - Coral garden snorkeling directly accessible from the beach.
Check-in & Reservations
Standard check-in time 14:00, check-out by 12:00 with early/late arrangements subject to availability.
Transfer coordination required with advance notice for seaplane or speedboat preferences.
Reservation confirmation and deposit policies vary by season and booking platform.
Same payment method used for booking may be required for incidentals and verification.
Speedboat transfers: 90 minutes, available day/night, may be affected by sea conditions.
Transfer costs vary by operator and season - confirm pricing when booking.
Baggage handling and temporary storage available for early arrivals or late departures.
Environmental Responsibility
Reef-safe sunscreen encouraged to protect the extensive house reef ecosystem.
Marine conservation guidelines enforced during snorkeling and diving activities.
Waste reduction programs and recycling initiatives throughout the resort.
Respect for local marine life with no-touch policies during underwater encounters.
General Resort Guidelines
All-inclusive packages include specified meals and beverages with some premium items excluded.
Activity bookings recommended in advance, especially for diving courses and excursions.
Resort operates with Italian management and maintains European hospitality standards.
Appropriate resort attire required in dining areas during evening meals.
Policies subject to change based on operational requirements. Full terms provided at booking confirmation.
Best Time to Visit
Dec-Apr: Dry season with calmer seas, ideal for snorkeling and diving activities.
May-Oct: Southwest monsoon with occasional rain but good diving conditions.
Year-round: Consistent 26-30°C temperatures perfect for tropical activities.
Manta Season: May-November offers better chances for manta ray encounters.
Ideal Duration
4-5 nights: Perfect for couples seeking relaxation with diving and spa experiences.
6-7 nights: Ideal duration for diving courses, water sports, and cultural excursions.
7-10 nights: Comprehensive experience including advanced diving and multiple excursions.
Extended stays: Best for serious divers wanting to explore all North Ari Atoll sites.
Target Audience
Diving Enthusiasts: Perfect for beginners to advanced divers with house reef access.
Couples: Romantic overwater bungalows and spa treatments in tropical settings.
Active Travelers: Water sports, tennis, and adventure excursions for energetic guests.
Culture Seekers: Italian-Maldivian fusion cuisine and authentic island experiences.
Signature Experiences & Itinerary Ideas
Early morning house reef snorkeling followed by Italian cooking class with resort chefs.
Multi-day diving package including PADI certification and North Ari Atoll exploration.
Sunset catamaran sailing combined with traditional Maldivian fishing experience.
Spa day at Maadigha Spa followed by private dinner on the beach under stars.
Cultural tour to Malé combined with local island community visit and authentic lunch.
Packing & Travel Tips
Reef-safe sunscreen essential for house reef protection, plus UV protection clothing.
Underwater camera gear recommended for capturing house reef marine life and corals.
Light tropical clothing and elegant evening wear for restaurant dining.
Personal snorkeling gear optional as quality equipment available for rent.
Comfortable water shoes recommended for coral reef walking and beach activities.
Weddings & Honeymoons
Beach Ceremonies: Traditional Maldivian wedding ceremonies on pristine white sand.
Overwater Celebrations: Intimate ceremonies on private water bungalow decks.
Reception Options: Beachfront dinners with Italian cuisine and local entertainment.
Honeymoon Packages: Romantic experiences including couples spa and sunset cruises.
Photography services and floral arrangements using local tropical flowers.
Diving & Adventure Groups
Dive Groups: Specialized packages for scuba diving clubs and certification groups.
Marine Biology Tours: Educational programs with NAKAI Diving Center marine experts.
Photography Workshops: Underwater photography courses with professional instruction.
Conservation Programs: Coral reef restoration participation and marine education.
Special Celebrations
Anniversary Parties: Romantic beach dinners with Italian specialties and wine.
Birthday Celebrations: Custom cakes and villa decorations with family-style dining.
Group Reunions: Multiple accommodation bookings with shared dining experiences.
Achievement Celebrations: Graduation parties and milestone events in tropical settings.
Live entertainment and cultural performances available on request.
Corporate Retreats & Meetings
Small group meeting facilities with ocean views and modern technology.
Team building activities including sailing competitions and diving experiences.
Incentive packages combining business meetings with luxury accommodation.
Professional event coordination with Italian culinary experiences and networking.
Event Planning Services
Dedicated resort coordinators for planning weddings, celebrations, and corporate events.
Custom menu creation featuring Italian and Maldivian specialties with wine pairings.
Transportation coordination for group arrivals via seaplane or speedboat.
Photography and entertainment services with local cultural performances available.
All events require advance planning and coordination. Seasonal availability affects certain activities. Additional costs apply for special decorations, entertainment, and external services.
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