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Soneva Jani

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Soneva Jani is an iconic overwater sanctuary located in a vast 5.6-kilometer private lagoon in the Maldives' Noonu Atoll. This exclusive luxury resort features 59 spacious villas including 51 overwater and 8 island villas, each with distinctive retractable roofs and water slides leading directly into the crystal-clear lagoon. Accessed via a 40-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport, Soneva Jani pioneered the integration of fun elements like slides into luxury accommodation while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and the 'Slow Life' philosophy. The resort operates as one of the world's most exclusive and lowest-density luxury properties, offering unmatched space and privacy across its innovative jetty-connected villas.

World's Most Exclusive Overwater Resort

Pioneering overwater villa design with retractable roofs, water slides, and the Maldives' first overwater observatory and silent cinema in a pristine 5.6km private lagoon.

Location & Access

  • Located on Medhufaru island in the remote Noonu Atoll, 185km north of Malé.
  • 40-minute scenic seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport.
  • Expansive 5.6-kilometer private lagoon with crystal-clear turquoise waters.
  • 59 villas connected by wooden jetties creating an iconic curved design over the lagoon.

Resort Highlights

  • World's first resort with retractable roofs in every villa for stargazing.
  • Original 'slide hotel' featuring water slides from upper decks into the lagoon.
  • First overwater observatory and silent cinema in the Maldives.
  • Soneva's renowned 'Slow Life' philosophy emphasizing sustainable luxury and wellness.
Soneva Jani Noonu Atoll Overwater villas Maldives Water slide resort Retractable roof Seaplane transfer Private lagoon

Overwater Villas

  • One-Bedroom Water Retreat: 555 sqm with retractable roof and private pool.
  • Two-Bedroom Water Villa: 724 sqm with water slide and separate master areas.
  • Three-Bedroom Water Villa: 1,100 sqm with multiple slides and entertainment spaces.
  • Four-Bedroom Water Villa: 1,421 sqm ultimate family villa with private gym and wine cellar.

Island Villas

  • One-Bedroom Beach Villa: 555 sqm beachfront sanctuary with direct lagoon access.
  • Two-Bedroom Beach Villa: 724 sqm family-friendly design with private beach.
  • Three-Bedroom Beach Villa: 1,100 sqm expansive living among tropical vegetation.
  • All beach villas feature oversized pools, outdoor bathrooms, and complete privacy.

Signature Features

  • Retractable Roofs: Button-operated glass roofs over master bedrooms for stargazing.
  • Water Slides: Multi-story slides from upper decks directly into the lagoon.
  • Private Pools: Large freshwater infinity pools in every villa category.
  • Observatory Decks: Rooftop terraces with telescope viewing and outdoor showers.

Villa Amenities

  • Personal Barefoot Butler service, high-speed Wi-Fi, and 24-hour villa dining.
  • Walk-in minibar with espresso machine and private wine cellar selection.
  • Outdoor rainfall showers in walled gardens and deep soaking bathtubs.
  • Catamaran nets suspended over water and lagoon access ladders.

Design & Layout

  • Sustainable construction using natural materials with minimal environmental impact.
  • Open-plan living with seamless indoor-outdoor flow and panoramic lagoon views.
  • Master bedrooms with adjoining children's sleeping areas for family convenience.
  • Oversized bathrooms with glass floor panels and direct water access.

All villas feature Soneva's signature design elements including retractable roofs and private pools. The smallest villa spans 555 square meters, making Soneva Jani one of the most spacious resorts in the Maldives.

Signature Restaurants

  • The Crab Shack: CNN's 'World's Most Romantic Restaurant' specializing in Sri Lankan mud crab curry and rosé wines.
  • Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren: Acclaimed Swedish chef's pescatarian and plant-based creations celebrating ocean flavors.
  • Director's Cut: Modern Japanese cuisine served at the overwater Cinema Paradiso silent theater.
  • So Wild by Diana Von Cranach: Raw food restaurant featuring ancient recipes and organic garden ingredients.

The Gathering

  • Down to Earth: All-day buffet dining with live cooking stations, wood-fired pizzas, and tandoor grills.
  • So Fresh: Healthy organic cuisine with fresh juices, salads, and garden-to-table dishes.
  • So Primitive: Beach grilling experience with fire pit cooking and South Beach setting.
  • The Gathering Bar: Central overwater bar with craft cocktails and extensive wine selection.

Unique Dining Experiences

  • So Starstruck Observatory: Four-table restaurant surrounding the telescope with astronomical dining.
  • Guess Who's Cooking: Mystery chef experience at secret locations revealed after the meal.
  • Private Island Dining: Secluded dining on Zuhairs Island and North Island locations.
  • Sunset Deck Dining: Multi-level restaurant decks for rosé tastings and lagoon sunset views.

Complimentary Treats

  • So Guilty Chocolate Room: Handmade chocolates, truffles, and artisanal confections available 24/7.
  • So Cold Ice Cream Parlor: Over 50 flavors including signature Soneva Jani limited editions.
  • Cheese & Charcuterie Room: International selection of artisanal cheeses and cured meats.
  • Organic Garden: Extensive vegetable gardens providing fresh ingredients for all restaurants.

Soneva Jani offers over 10 distinct dining venues with a focus on organic, locally-sourced ingredients. The wine collection features 50% organic and biodynamic selections housed in a distinctive glass tower.

Cinema Paradiso

  • World's first overwater silent cinema with Bluetooth headphones for wildlife protection.
  • Floating catamaran nets and overwater seating for movie experiences under the stars.
  • Twice-weekly screenings featuring classic and inspirational films for all ages.
  • Director's Cut restaurant integration offering Japanese cuisine during screenings.

So Starstruck Observatory

  • Maldives' first overwater astronomical observatory with 16-inch sophisticated telescope.
  • Four dining tables with screens linked to telescope views for 'dining with the stars'.
  • Resident astronomer providing guided celestial tours and educational programs.
  • Astronomy picnics, dawn sessions, and midnight stargazing experiences available.

Soneva Soul Spa

  • Holistic wellness center offering integrative treatments combining ancient wisdom and modern techniques.
  • Treatment pavilions designed for couples and families with children over six years.
  • Visiting practitioners program featuring renowned wellness experts throughout the year.
  • Yoga sessions, meditation classes, and movement workshops in tropical settings.

The Den Kids Club

  • Award-winning children's facility with zip lines, climbing walls, and swim-up juice bar.
  • Marine biology education programs with turtle conservation and reef protection activities.
  • Cultural workshops, cooking classes, and traditional craft sessions.
  • Professional childcare with age-appropriate activities for different developmental stages.

Water Sports Center

  • Comprehensive range of motorized and non-motorized water sports equipment.
  • Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing.
  • Professional diving instruction through PADI-certified multilingual instructors.
  • Snorkeling expeditions to pristine coral reefs and marine conservation sites.

Recreation Facilities

  • Tennis court accessible by traditional dhoni boat with professional coaching available.
  • Fitness center with ocean views and modern cardiovascular equipment.
  • Library, labyrinth gardens, and quiet meditation spaces throughout the resort.
  • High-speed Wi-Fi throughout all villas and public areas with business center services.

Marine Adventures

  • Dolphin Safaris: Dawn and dusk expeditions to encounter resident dolphin pods in Noonu Atoll.
  • Turtle Conservation: Educational programs with feeding experiences and release ceremonies.
  • Reef Exploration: Guided snorkeling tours to pristine coral gardens with marine biologist guides.
  • Deep Sea Fishing: Traditional Maldivian fishing techniques and sunset angling expeditions.

Astronomical Experiences

  • Observatory Dining: Gourmet meals while exploring celestial objects through the 16-inch telescope.
  • Sunrise Astronomy: Early morning stargazing sessions before dawn with expert guidance.
  • Astronomy Cruises: Dhoni boat expeditions for dark-sky viewing away from resort lighting.
  • Educational Programs: Learn about constellations, planets, and deep-space objects with resident astronomer.

Island Excursions

  • Seaplane Adventures: Scenic flights over atolls and aerial photography experiences.
  • Local Island Visits: Cultural exchanges with nearby communities and traditional craft workshops.
  • Sandbank Picnics: Private beach setups on uninhabited sandbanks with gourmet catering.
  • Sister Resort Transfer: Day trips to Soneva Fushi via speedboat or traditional Soneva in Aqua vessel.

Wellness & Recreation

  • Soneva Stars Program: Annual calendar featuring Michelin-starred chefs, wellness experts, and celebrities.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Daily classes in overwater pavilions and beachfront settings.
  • Fitness Programs: Personal training, aqua aerobics, and specialized wellness retreats.
  • Cultural Workshops: Traditional Maldivian music, dance, and handicraft sessions.

Soneva Jani's activities emphasize education, conservation, and authentic cultural experiences. Many programs support local communities and marine conservation efforts in Noonu Atoll.

Soneva Jani is accessed via a scenic 40-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport in Malé. Transfer costs are approximately $600 per adult and $300 per child (ages 2-14), with complimentary transfers for children under 2. Transfers are included in some package rates and arranged at checkout.
Every villa features a retractable roof over the master bedroom for stargazing, private infinity pools, and many include water slides from upper decks into the lagoon. All villas are exceptionally spacious (starting at 555 sqm) with personal Barefoot Butler service, private wine cellars, and outdoor rainfall showers.
So Starstruck Observatory is the Maldives' first overwater astronomical facility where guests dine while viewing stars through a 16-inch telescope. Cinema Paradiso is a silent overwater cinema using Bluetooth headphones. Both are complimentary and represent unique experiences available nowhere else in the Maldives.
Absolutely. The Den kids club is considered one of the world's best, featuring zip lines and swim-up juice bars. Children under 12 stay complimentary on full board plans, and family villas include adjoining children's sleeping areas. Educational marine programs and turtle conservation activities engage children of all ages.
Soneva Jani offers over 10 dining venues including The Crab Shack, Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren, and the Observatory restaurant. Meal plans range from breakfast-only to full board plus ($1,220 per adult daily) including premium beverages. Complimentary chocolate, ice cream, and cheese rooms are accessible 24/7.
Complimentary activities include non-motorized water sports, snorkeling equipment, fitness center, tennis court, Observatory stargazing, Cinema Paradiso, and kids club. Additional charges apply for seaplane scenic flights, diving courses, spa treatments, fishing expeditions, and private dining experiences.
Soneva Jani operates year-round with consistent 26-30°C temperatures. December to April offers drier conditions ideal for families and first-time visitors. The monsoon season (May-November) brings occasional rain but also vibrant marine life and dramatic skies perfect for photography and stargazing.

Marine & Natural Sites

  • Noonu Atoll Marine Protected Areas with pristine coral reefs and diverse ecosystems.
  • Manta ray cleaning stations accessible via diving expeditions during peak seasons.
  • Turtle nesting beaches on nearby uninhabited islands for conservation programs.
  • Christmas Tree Rock - famous diving site with coral formations and abundant marine life.

Cultural & Historical Sites

  • Holhudhoo Island - local community known for traditional lacquerware and woodcarving.
  • Manadhoo Island - administrative center with historical mosque and cultural sites.
  • Traditional fishing villages showcasing authentic Maldivian lifestyle and customs.
  • Archaeological sites with evidence of ancient Buddhist and Islamic civilizations.

Sister Resort & Connections

  • Soneva Fushi - sister resort in Baa Atoll accessible via scenic speedboat journey (1 hour).
  • Soneva in Aqua - luxury yacht connecting both Soneva properties with overnight cruises.
  • Male International Airport - gateway with VIP services and private jet facilities.
  • Seaplane terminals offering scenic flights and aerial photography opportunities.

Conservation Areas

  • Noonu Atoll Biosphere Reserve with protected marine ecosystems and research stations.
  • Turtle conservation sites with nesting monitoring and protection programs.
  • Coral restoration projects supported by resort's marine biology team.
  • Mangrove conservation areas crucial for local biodiversity and coastal protection.

Check-in & Reservations

  • Seaplane transfers operate during daylight hours only (06:00-18:00) with weather dependency.
  • Advanced arrival notification required for coordinating seaplane schedules and villa preparation.
  • Flexible check-in and check-out times available based on seaplane flight schedules.
  • Same credit card used for booking required at check-in for incidentals and verification.
  • Early arrival and late departure lounges available with shower facilities and refreshments.

Family & Age Policies

  • Children under 12 stay complimentary on full board plans when sharing parents' villa.
  • Children 12 and above charged as adults for accommodation and meal supplements.
  • All ages welcome for most activities with safety guidelines and age-appropriate equipment.
  • Spa treatments available for children over 6 years with parental consent and supervision.
  • Professional childcare and babysitting services available with advance booking.

Environmental & Safety

  • Carbon-neutral operations since 2016 including guest travel offset programs.
  • Sustainable mosquito management system reducing insecticide use and protecting ecosystems.
  • Strict marine conservation guidelines during diving, snorkeling, and wildlife interactions.
  • Photography and drone restrictions to protect guest privacy and nesting wildlife.
  • 24-hour medical assistance and emergency evacuation procedures in place.

Sustainability Commitments

  • 40% of electricity supplied through solar power with ongoing renewable energy expansion.
  • Waste-to-wealth center recycling programs and zero-waste initiatives.
  • On-site water production and treatment systems minimizing environmental impact.
  • Organic garden cultivation providing fresh ingredients for resort restaurants.
  • Local community partnerships supporting traditional crafts and sustainable practices.

Soneva Jani maintains strict environmental standards while ensuring guest safety and comfort. All policies support the resort's commitment to sustainable luxury and marine conservation.

Best Time to Visit

  • Dec-Apr: Dry season with calm seas, perfect for families and stargazing experiences.
  • May-Nov: Monsoon season with dramatic skies, vibrant marine life, and fewer crowds.
  • Year-round: Consistent 26-30°C temperatures with gentle trade winds and warm lagoon waters.
  • Peak Astronomy: December to March offers clearest skies for Observatory experiences.

Ideal Duration

  • 3-4 nights: Perfect for couples seeking luxury overwater experience and unique dining.
  • 5-7 nights: Ideal for families to enjoy all facilities, kids club, and educational programs.
  • 7-10 nights: Comprehensive experience including sister resort visits and conservation activities.
  • Extended stays: Perfect for wellness retreats, Soneva Stars events, and complete disconnection.

Target Audience

  • Luxury Families: Multi-generational groups seeking space, privacy, and educational experiences.
  • Honeymoon Couples: Romantic getaways with unique overwater experiences and stargazing.
  • Wellness Seekers: Individuals interested in Slow Life philosophy and holistic experiences.
  • Experience Collectors: Travelers seeking unique elements like observatory dining and silent cinema.

Signature Experiences & Itinerary Ideas

  • Morning stargazing session at Observatory followed by dolphin safari and afternoon spa treatment.
  • Turtle conservation program with marine biologist and underwater photography workshop.
  • Multi-course dinner at The Crab Shack followed by movie night at Cinema Paradiso under the stars.
  • Sister resort discovery combining Soneva Jani overwater luxury with Soneva Fushi beach experiences.
  • Family adventure package with kids club programs, conservation activities, and cultural workshops.

Packing & Travel Tips

  • Reef-safe sunscreen mandatory, UV protection clothing, and polarized sunglasses for water activities.
  • Light tropical clothing, elegant resort wear for specialty dining, and comfortable water shoes.
  • Underwater camera gear, extra batteries, and waterproof storage for electronics.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting, star chart for Observatory visits, and mosquito repellent.
  • Luggage restrictions apply for seaplane transfers - soft-sided bags recommended under 20kg.

Weddings & Honeymoons

  • Overwater Ceremonies: Unique wedding venues on the lagoon jetties with retractable roof villas.
  • Observatory Weddings: Starlit ceremonies at the overwater observatory with astronomical themes.
  • Honeymoon Packages: Romantic experiences including private cinema screenings and stargazing dinners.
  • Vow Renewals: Intimate celebrations on private sandbanks or villa decks with sunset backdrops.
  • Custom wedding photography including underwater sessions and aerial drone coverage.

Family Celebrations

  • Multi-Generational Reunions: Multiple villa bookings with connecting jetties for extended families.
  • Birthday Parties: Customized celebrations with kids club coordination and special dining.
  • Anniversary Celebrations: Milestone events with personalized service and unique venue options.
  • Graduation & Achievement Parties: Educational themes incorporating Observatory and marine programs.
  • Professional event coordination with entertainment, cultural performances, and marine activities.

Corporate & Incentive Events

  • Executive Retreats: Privacy and luxury for small group business meetings and strategic planning.
  • Incentive Programs: Unique rewards featuring overwater experiences and exclusive activities.
  • Team Building: Marine conservation projects, sailing competitions, and collaborative dining experiences.
  • Product Launches: Extraordinary venues including Cinema Paradiso and Observatory for brand events.
  • Dedicated event management with audio-visual support and customized catering options.

Soneva Stars Special Events

  • Michelin-Starred Chef Residencies: Exclusive culinary events featuring world-renowned chefs throughout the year.
  • Wellness Expert Programs: Specialized retreats with internationally acclaimed wellness practitioners and healers.
  • Astronomical Events: Special stargazing programs during meteor showers, eclipses, and celestial phenomena.
  • Cultural Immersion: Traditional Maldivian cultural events, music, and dance performances.

Event Planning Services

  • Dedicated Soneva event specialists with comprehensive planning and coordination expertise.
  • Custom menu creation featuring resort's signature restaurants and celebrity chef collaborations.
  • Professional photography and videography including aerial and underwater documentation.
  • Transportation coordination for group arrivals via seaplane and inter-resort transfers.

All events at Soneva Jani emphasize sustainability and environmental responsibility. Seasonal availability affects certain activities, and advance planning ensures optimal weather conditions and unique venue access.

Resort

Domestic Flight + Speedboat
Seaplane

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

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Soneva Jani

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Soneva Jani

Maseeh

Member Since 2025