My island paradise in the Maldives was a dream come true, and it more than lived up to my high expectations. Not for the first time on this trip to Ifuru Island, I had to pinch myself to make sure my eyes were not deceiving me and I was truly staying in this pristine paradise.
Our private Sunset villa was just steps from the white sand of a 1km beach, lapped by a warm turquoise Indian Ocean where we could stroll to our loungers and totally relax and take in the gorgeous scene or stroll out to snorkel. It had been my lifelong wish to visit the Maldives, and even as a travel writer who has been privileged to see many beautiful locations, this was my ultimate dream, now delivered.
The Resort
Opened in September 2023, this luxury retreat on an island that is part of the Raa Atoll prides itself on its warm welcome and dedication to making the guest experience a stress-free one. Again, it totally delivered. From the first welcoming drink to the warm and friendly service throughout, we felt like part of the family. Each of the 147 suites and villas on this privately-owned resort have breathtaking ocean or sunset views. There is a 24-hour premium, all-inclusive programme called 'Exclusively Yours' that gives guests the chance to try out a vast variety of dishes and treats at six restaurants, two of which are a la carte, and four bars. There is also a beautiful spa, which we loved, and adventurous excursion opportunities are well worth taking advantage of. There is even sky diving, as the island has its own airstrip. Making everything gel are the super friendly and helpful staff who made us feel immediately at ease. The buddy system adds a lovely personal layer to the whole experience — you always feel like someone has an eye out for you.
The Accommodation
Our Sunset Villa had floor-to-ceiling sliding patio doors looking out to the sunset over the ocean. It was very private and secluded. Even though we were on a mission to detox, de-stress, and relax, we could not do without a connection to the outside world, and our three daughters, so free wifi was a big bonus. The villa was spacious, and our outdoor rain shower was a fun feature. I have to admit, the twice-daily housekeeping is something I could happily get used to as well.
Restaurants and Bars
Social House: This was our favourite choice during our all-too-short stay. A huge array of international cuisine was always on offer, from smoky American ribs and juicy Australian prawns to succulent South African braai and tender Argentine asado. If you are there on a Saturday, dress in your finest white attire for a party-style evening. It is a relaxed buffet-style service, complete with live cooking stations for breakfast and lunch, and an a la carte set menu for dinner. There is a big emphasis on the social side of the holiday. Friends for life are made here, I am sure, as couples and families chat poolside or in the bars and restaurants.
The Waterfront: This restaurant was quintessentially Maldivian with its dreamy location out on the water, views of the sunset, and decking where we watched sharks, stingrays, and parrot fish all mingling in the coral highlighted with sea lights. The food was sensational. We chose from dishes such as starters of lemon rice with avocado and tuna, beef tartare, and catch of the day ceviche. Mains included steamed fish, Teriyaki chicken, Hangzhou beef, and mushroom risotto.
Kai: A special experience to enjoy the art of Japanese teppanyaki around a communal table and watch chefs in what is a real performance in transforming seafood, meats, and vegetables into the freshest of dishes.
Cocktails and a Bite: For those who preferred a more relaxed meal, there were also options to grab steaks, beef burgers, or pizza. At the Hubba Hubba bar, we chose from well-known mixes and specially created cocktails such as The Gong Twist, Feel The Breeze, and Hubba Hubba, which is a gin-based drink with pineapple, rose water, and the resort's signature Chardonnay vinegar syrup. Another signature cocktail was the Coco Wizzy, a blend of whiskey, creamy coconut milk, and house-made pandan syrup, finished with a shot of caffeine. We were also able to order late-night nibbles to our door from the 'Ifuru Eats' buggy service.
The Xanadu Spa
My sunset yoga and sound healing session was incredible and very relaxing, one of the best spa experiences I have ever enjoyed. It was made more special as the spa is surrounded by the island's jungle vegetation. Our couples massage was also truly invigorating. Detox oils infused with lime and lemongrass left us feeling truly zen.
Activities
A highlight of our stay was a snorkelling boat trip where we had hoped to see manta rays. Unfortunately, we did not catch sight of any of these magnificent creatures as it was the end of the season. However, we did see a turtle, reef sharks, and clams in the coral. It was a magical experience and lots of fun. When we swam to a sand bank out to sea, it felt like being on a desert island. Guests can be as active as they want with fishing charters, non-motorised water sports such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, and sailing on offer. The Star Fitness facility is open 24/7, along with facilities for exercise and yoga. For those who arrive with children, there is a Play All Day recreation centre and indoor cinema. Kids can also have a blast at the Coconut Kids Club and Little Explorers Club, while adults relax by the beachfront infinity pool.
Getting There
Our whole Ifuru Island experience felt like a fairytale from the start as we took off straight from the water in a seaplane, which skimmed across the lagoon before lifting up over the water. Everyone was glued to the scene below of tiny islands scattered like dots across the ocean. It was surreal. The journey from Velana International Airport on Hulhulé Island near the capital city, Malé, took around 40–45 minutes following our 10-hour international flight. Memories of this faraway island will stay in our hearts forever.
Top Tips
- Don't check the weather apps before you go - they do not reflect what is happening. The cheaper 'rainy season' from May to November can often be a good time to travel.
- Bring a water bottle to refill with water.
- Bring reef shoes and a snorkel (there are snorkels available at the resort, but having your own is convenient).
- You only need swimwear and some dresses, no heels for women and casual wear for men. It is a very relaxed atmosphere.
Fact Box
Nightly rates start from £513 for a Sunset Sky Suite on a double occupancy all-inclusive basis. To book visit https://www.ifuruisland.com/ or call 0870 0267 145.
Virgin Atlantic Flights: Virgin Atlantic flies direct between London Heathrow and Male with return fares from £939 per person, including complimentary food, drink, inflight entertainment and taxes. For further information visit https://www.virginatlantic.com/ or call 0344 8747 747. This fare is available for departure on December 9, 2026 and is for 7 nights. (Prices given are correct as of May 5, 2026 and are subject to change.)
Parking and Airport Lounge: Holiday Extras is the market leader in UK airport parking, hotels, lounges, and transfers. Booking Meet and Greet airport parking means you can enjoy more holiday with less hassle. Plus with Flextras, if you need to cancel or amend you can without charge. Eight days parking with Maple Marking at London Heathrow Airport T3 is available for £128.99 based on arrival on June 1, 2026. Entry to Clubrooms Airport Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 3 is available from £104 for two adults with access for three hours, based on an arrival on June 1, 2026. For more information and to book, see HolidayExtras.com or call 0800 316 5678. *All costs supplied are the cheapest available rates for the product specified and therefore availability may be limited at this price. (Prices are correct as at 06/05/2026.)
