Barefoot luxury in the Indian Ocean at Velassaru Maldives.

Set amid the shimmering expanse of the Indian Ocean, Velassaru Maldives offers a seamless transition from the everyday into something truly extraordinary. Just a 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport, this chic island retreat is a rare blend of convenience and seclusion. As a proud member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Velassaru masterfully balances contemporary elegance with the untouched beauty of the Maldives, creating an idyllic escape for discerning travelers.

Velassaru is also part of Universal Resorts, the same hotel group behind the beloved Kuramathi Maldives. Having just come from our third stay at Kuramathi, we were already on a high from another unforgettable island experience. So, arriving at Velassaru, we had a feeling we were in for something special. There’s a quiet confidence in returning to a brand you trust—and yet, Velassaru still managed to surprise us in all the best ways.

The short distance from the airport is a welcome luxury—especially when traveling with a very active toddler who, in our case, was even more excited to get there than we were. No lengthy seaplane transfers or extended waiting times—just a quick, exhilarating glide across the lagoon to an island that feels a world away.

As if the ocean breeze and powdery white sands weren’t enough, Velassaru seemed to time our arrival with an extra splash of magic—the cheerful chime of the island’s ice cream tricycle. Twice a day, a smiling ice cream man pedals his cart around the island, offering guests complimentary scoops of freshly made ice cream and sorbet in a rainbow of homemade flavors. It’s one of those delightfully simple pleasures that instantly sets the tone. Watching Ryder light up as he clutched his first chocolate ice cream was the perfect start to our stay—and such a thoughtful, joy-filled welcome.

Upon arrival, the resort’s open-air reception, with its sand floors and minimalist design, immediately sets a tone of relaxed sophistication. The gentle sea breeze and panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon serve as a warm welcome to this slice of paradise.

The Island

Velassaru is a compact island measuring approximately 440 meters in length and 180 meters in width. Although it felt a lot bigger the time we were trying to track down the ice cream man for Ryder, the island boasts a lush tropical landscape, with dense vegetation providing natural shade and a sense of seclusion. The pristine white sandy beaches stretch around the island, offering ample space for relaxation and leisurely walks. The island’s orientation is perfectly positioned for both sunrise and sunset views—early mornings are kissed with golden light, while the evenings often melt into dramatic displays of pastel pinks and fiery oranges. The surrounding crystal-clear lagoon is teeming with marine life, giving the entire island a vibrant, living energy that’s hard to put into words but instantly felt.

The Accommodation

Velassaru boasts 129 villas and bungalows, each thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the island’s natural surroundings. From beachfront villas with private pools to overwater suites offering uninterrupted ocean vistas, every accommodation exudes understated luxury. Features like outdoor rain showers, L’Occitane bath amenities, and personal wine coolers enhance the indulgent experience. The Water Suite, in particular, stands out with its expansive layout, private infinity pool, and dedicated butler service, making it a favorite among honeymooners and those seeking the pinnacle of island luxury.

We stayed in a Beach Villa with Pool — Villa 206 — which was ideal for families with young children. It offered direct beach access, stunning views of the ocean, and magical sunsets every evening. The villa’s private plunge pool was a welcome luxury for cooling off after morning beach adventures, and the open-plan layout felt effortlessly spacious. Its location struck a perfect balance: not too far from the restaurants and bars, but far enough to feel blissfully private. We often walked along the beach to and from breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

A few hours before we left the island, I gave Ryder the choice of one last ocean swim, pool swim, or bubble bath. Without hesitation, he chose the bubble bath—and once you see the bathroom, you’ll understand why. A stunning alfresco space with a free-standing tub surrounded by smooth Maldivian stone and warm teak accents, it felt like something from a design magazine. The alfresco bathroom also included two showers—one indoor and enclosed, and one outdoor surrounded by tropical foliage. To top it off, there was a third outdoor shower tucked beside the private plunge pool, bringing the total to three showers in these beautifully designed Beach Villas with Pool!

The Restaurants and Bars

Dining at Velassaru is a celebration of global flavors and culinary artistry. The food here is, without exaggeration, some of the best I’ve experienced in the entire Maldives. The chefs are remarkably talented, with world-class menus that deliver perfection on every plate—prepared and presented with care, creativity, and finesse.

Each of the resort’s five restaurants and two bars offers a distinct dining experience:

• Vela: The main restaurant serves an international buffet with a diverse selection, from freshly baked pastries to made-to-order omelets.

• Sand: Set directly on the beach, Sand offers al fresco dining under the stars with a focus on grilled seafood and premium meats. We enjoyed a candlelit dinner here with the sand between our toes and glasses of champagne in hand—fine dining with a barefoot luxury feel at its best. Ryder joined us and was on his best behaviour, mesmerised by the moonlight dancing on the ocean and the endless canopy of stars overhead.

• Teppanyaki: This overwater restaurant is a standout not only for its food but for the unforgettable setting. As Jason and I dined, we watched reef sharks swim by in the clear waters below while feasting on freshly caught local lobster and Australian wagyu beef, all expertly grilled live before us. It was, without doubt, one of the best meals of our lives—flavourful, theatrical, and utterly unforgettable.

• Etesian: An intimate venue with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a quiet, refined ambiance.

• Turquoise: Casual yet elevated, Turquoise quickly became a favourite of mine thanks to their sashimi plate—so fresh, delicate, and beautifully presented that I ordered it every single day paired with a glass of crisp chardonnay.

• Chill Bar: The ideal location for sundowners, Chill Bar is perched over brilliant aquamarine waters with uninterrupted sunset views. It offers expertly crafted cocktails, light bites, and international tapas-style fare. While we loved spending time here, its water’s edge location made it a little hard to fully relax with a very active toddler in tow.

For those looking to indulge fully, the Velassaru Indulgence package includes dining at all the main restaurants along with selected beverages, creating a seamless gourmet journey. Dietary needs are handled with ease and enthusiasm—something we especially appreciated with Ryder who wanted penne bolognese on repeat. Whether you’re a foodie, a romantic, or simply hungry after a day in the sun, dining at Velassaru is a true highlight of the experience.

The Marine Life

One of Velassaru’s most captivating features is its thriving marine ecosystem. Go on snorkelling expeditions in the shallow lagoon surrounding the island—beneath the crystal-clear surface, a kaleidoscopic world awaits. The resort offers live demonstrations for first-time snorkellers both on land and in the water, making it an ideal place to try snorkelling for the very first time or to refresh your skills.

Jason and I took full advantage of the on-site snorkelling adventures, both just off the beach and out on guided excursions. The underwater world here was bursting with colour and life—reef sharks, parrotfish, and radiant angelfish danced through corals like living brushstrokes. Floating weightlessly above it all, we were struck by how effortless and immersive the experience was. Velassaru makes it easy to explore the vibrant marine life that surrounds the island, and each outing felt like stepping into a hidden paradise.

In addition to snorkelling, the resort also offers a range of diving opportunities for every level of experience, from beginner to advanced. Whether exploring the house reef or venturing out to deeper dive sites, the underwater world never ceased to amaze. For those curious about marine conservation, Velassaru provides access to engaging marine biology experiences, offering a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystem that makes the Maldives so magical. A selection of water sports is also available—from kayaking and paddleboarding to more adrenaline-fueled jet skiing.

The Spa

Suspended over the turquoise lagoon on stilts, The Velassaru Spa is a sanctuary in every sense of the word. Experience a rare retreat at this overwater spa nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean. With breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon and open ocean, the spa captures the energy of the Maldivian elements—combining simplicity with precious ingredients. Treatments are rooted in ancient tradition, designed not only to heal the body physically but also to elevate overall well-being.

I indulged in the Velassaru Signature treatment—a 90-minute experience that was both intuitive and transformative. This medium to strong massage is specially designed for precision and results, using warm coconut wooden tools as an extension of the therapist’s hand. With the addition of warm coconut oil, the treatment melted away every trace of stress, soothed sore muscles, and left me with a profound sense of calm and clarity.

The treatment rooms—open to the sea breeze and panoramic views—create an immediate sense of calm. I booked mine during golden hour, and the combination of soothing hands, essential oils, and the sound of water lapping beneath me felt almost transcendent. Couples can also book the exclusive overwater pavilion for a shared experience that’s both romantic and restorative.

Family-Friendly

Though Velassaru is often associated with romantic escapes, it’s surprisingly family-friendly. While there’s no traditional “kids club” facility, the island itself becomes a natural playground. Staff are warm, welcoming, and attentive to children—always ready with a smile, a coconut, or even an impromptu game of beach soccer. The beach villas offer a safe environment for little ones to play, and the shallow lagoons are perfect for supervised splashing and sandcastle building. In-room dining, early mealtimes, and high chairs in restaurants make family life easy. We never felt like we were compromising—if anything, it felt like sharing something extraordinary with Ryder

Sustainability

Velassaru demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, blending luxury with environmental awareness. The resort incorporates eco-conscious practices such as water conservation, energy-efficient systems, and responsible waste management. Marine conservation plays a central role in their operations, with efforts to protect the coral reefs and promote education through guided marine biology experiences.

A standout initiative is Velassaru’s Interactive Coral Reef Restoration Program, launched to engage guests directly in preserving the marine environment. This hands-on project allows visitors to plant coral fragments onto specially designed frames that are then placed in the lagoon to regenerate reef areas. It’s an enriching experience that not only contributes to the health of the ecosystem but also deepens one’s connection to the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Velassaru’s dedication to preserving its environment ensures that this paradise can be enjoyed by future generations.

How to get to Velassaru Maldives

Getting to Velassaru couldn’t be easier. Upon arrival at Velana International Airport in Malé, guests are greeted by a representative from the resort who escorts them to the speedboat transfer lounge. From there, it’s just a scenic 25-minute journey across the Indian Ocean to the island. With no need for a domestic flight or seaplane, this streamlined transfer is especially convenient for families or anyone seeking a hassle-free start to their Maldivian escape.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VELASSARU MALDIVES

Which villa did you stay in at Velassaru Maldives?
We stayed in Villa 206, a Beach Villa with Pool. It was ideally located with direct beach access, breathtaking sunset views, and just a short walk along the sand to the resort’s restaurants and bars. The villa was perfect for a family stay, with a private plunge pool, stunning alfresco bathroom, and plenty of space for relaxation and play.

Is Velassaru Maldives suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Velassaru is very family-friendly. While it doesn’t have a formal kids club, the beach villas with pools are ideal for families, and the staff are incredibly welcoming to children. There are plenty of child-friendly activities, calm lagoons for swimming, and even a roaming ice cream cart.

What kind of accommodations does Velassaru offer?
Velassaru offers a range of accommodations including beachfront villas, overwater bungalows, and luxurious suites. Many come with private pools, outdoor bathrooms, and direct beach or lagoon access.

What activities are available at Velassaru?
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, diving, a variety of water sports, marine biology programs, sunset cruises, spa treatments, and gourmet dining. There’s something for every type of traveler.

Does Velassaru Maldives have a house reef?
Yes, Velassaru has a house reef that is easily accessible and teeming with marine life. Guided snorkel trips and live demonstrations are also available for beginners.

Is Velassaru an all-inclusive resort?
Velassaru offers an optional all-inclusive package called Velassaru Indulgence, which includes meals at selected restaurants, beverages, and selected activities.

Does Velassaru offer sunrise or sunset views?
Velassaru is uniquely positioned to offer both sunrise and sunset views. Early risers can catch the golden glow of dawn from the eastern side of the island, while the western beaches are perfectly placed for dramatic, pastel-hued sunsets.

What sustainability practices does Velassaru follow?
Velassaru implements eco-conscious practices like energy conservation, water-saving systems, and responsible waste management. The resort also runs an Interactive Coral Reef Restoration Program to engage guests in marine conservation.