Haa Alifu Atoll

JA Manafaru

JA Manafaru is a lush 5-star private island resort at the northern tip of the Maldives — nestled in Haa Alifu Atoll, the northernmost atoll in the archipelago. Accessible via scheduled domestic flight to Hanimaadhoo followed by a 40-minute speedboat transfer, this award-winning resort spans 35 acres of tropical island with 84 spacious Beach Pool Villas, Water Pool Villas and Residences ranging from 135 to 2,000 sqm. The award-winning Dine Around All Inclusive package offers unlimited dining across 7 restaurants and bars, over 150 wines and cocktails and 55+ complimentary activities. Highlights include Calm Spa — winner of two World Luxury Spa Awards — an on-site PADI certified dive centre, Kids Club, four outdoor pools including a children's pool, and The Cellar — the Maldives' first subterranean wine cave. Multiple World Travel Award winner including Indian Ocean's Leading Honeymoon Resort 2024.

Published packages

No published packages currently match this page. A Maldives specialist can still help with a tailored option.

Transfers and meal plans

  • Domestic Flight + Speedboat — 50 min domestic flight to Hanimaadhoo + 40 min speedboat / Seaplane option available

Meal plans in source: Breakfast, All Inclusive.

Villas

  • 2-Bedroom Beach Residence — 600 m² · up to 6 guests

    Multi award-winning two-storey beach residence with two bedrooms, two spectacular pools and a private spa pavilion with both steam room and sauna. Perfect for large groups of family or friends, or couples wanting space. Ample indoor and outdoor areas for the most relaxed island living. Flat-screen TV, Nespresso, free WiFi, AC, minibar, in-room safe.

  • Sunrise Water Pool Villa — 225 m² · up to 3 guests

    Wake up to the Indian Ocean sunrise as it emerges on the horizon. Watch the ocean below your water villa with pool, reflecting the morning glow from your sun deck. Truly connect with nature directly from the villa or watch in comfort from the glass floor panel. Refresh in the private infinity pool or lounge on the deck with the most magical of vistas. Flat-screen TV, Nespresso, free WiFi, AC, minibar, in-room safe.

  • Sunset Water Pool Villa — 225 m² · up to 3 guests

    Showcases magnificent sunset views over the water with direct access to the abundance of marine life in the ocean below. Enjoy up-close observations of diverse ocean life through a glass panel in the floor, refresh in the infinity pool and unwind in luxurious interiors. Flat-screen TV, Nespresso, free WiFi, AC, minibar, in-room safe.

  • 2-Bedroom Ocean Residence — 450 m² · up to 6 guests

    Perfectly perched at the tip of the longest water villas pier at the edge of the island's reef — marvel at the expansive views of the Indian Ocean's turquoise waters and two uninhabited islands. Lavish living area opens to reveal an inviting family infinity pool. Both bedrooms offer sunrise or sunset views for the best of both worlds. Flat-screen TV, Nespresso, free WiFi, AC, minibar, in-room safe.

  • The Manafaru Residence — 2000 m² · up to 6 guests

    The most exclusive villa at JA Manafaru — 2,000 sqm of ultimate luxury. Complete privacy with spectacular infinity pool, sauna, steam room and exclusive spa treatment room. Two-storey beach residence accommodating up to 6 guests. Two bedrooms, outdoor bathrooms featuring i-Spa facilities, private sundeck, wine refrigerator, minibar, lounge, private dining.

  • Beach Pool Villa — 135 m² · up to 3 guests

    A beach villa with private pool surrounded by tropical greenery, just a few steps to the pristine beach and your private beach cabana. Cosy living areas, with open-air bathroom leading to an inviting sundeck, pool, daybed and sun loungers in the garden and on the beach. Enjoy the breeze while dining al fresco in your private beach dining cabana. Flat-screen TV, Nespresso, free WiFi, AC, minibar, in-room safe.

Dining

  • Kuri - Treehouse Dining — Dining Experiences · Secluded treehouse built into a living tree

    Built into the branches of a living tree at the island’s edge, Kuri invites you to a romantic treehouse dinner at JA Manafaru. Beneath a canopy of rustling leaves, lantern light flickers across your table as the warm evening breeze carries the scents and sounds of the island creating a secluded setting for romance, conversation and time together.

  • Ocean Grill — Grills · Barefoot beach dining under the stars

    Ocean Grill delivers the quintessential Maldivian barefoot-dining experience beneath starlit skies. Set on the soft white sands, it showcases sustainably sourced seafood caught by local fishermen, complemented by expertly grilled meats and flavourful vegetarian dishes. With the ocean as your soundtrack and the aroma of the grill in the air, every dinner feels crafted for unforgettable island moments.

  • Andiamo Bistro and Pool — Italian · Tropical garden beside the Jungle Pool

    Andiamo Bistro brings the flavours of Italy to a tropical garden nestled beside the Jungle Pool at JA Manafaru. Enjoy handcrafted pastas and wood-fired pizzas made with authentic ingredients and heartfelt finesse. For sweet cravings, indulge in homemade gelato, refreshing sorbets, or traditional Maldivian frozen treats. Health-conscious guests can savour vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and low-carb ice-cream options for a lighter indulgence.

  • Infinity Pool Bar — Cocktails / Light Bites · Infinity Pool, Ocean Views

    Positioned at the lip of JA Manafaru's overwater infinity pool, this open-air bar offers uninterrupted views across the turquoise expanse of Haa Alifu Atoll. Guests move freely between the pool and the Indian Ocean while enjoying long drinks, fresh juices and light poolside bites — the resort's central daytime social hub, winding down as the sun dips.

  • The Cellar — Dining Experiences · Subterranean wine cellar carved into volcanic rock

    Carved into ancient volcanic rock, The Cellar at JA Manafaru offers one of the Maldives’ most exclusive dining experiences. This intimate subterranean wine cellar is a haven for discerning food and wine enthusiasts seeking rare labels, refined pairings, and an unforgettable setting beneath the island’s surface.

  • Veli Bar — Cocktails, Light Bites · Lagoon-facing bar

    With far-reaching views of the Indian Ocean, Veli is a bar at JA Manafaru with one of the best views in the Maldives, offering crafted cocktails and fine wines as well as wellness-forward tonics, tinctures, and homemade kombucha. Serene by day, the bar bursts into life in the evening with live music and karaoke fun.

  • Kakuni — International, Maldivian · Main island restaurant

    Start your day at Kakuni with a diverse breakfast buffet of fresh fruit, wellness bowls, and homemade yoghurts. Lunch features international favourites designed to fuel active days on the island. Dinner includes themed nights each week, from the regal Maldivian Malaafaiy experience to lively Asian Street Night and a Sustainable Seafood BBQ showcasing responsibly sourced ocean flavours.

  • White Orchid — Japanese, South East Asian · Overwater terrace

    White Orchid at JA Manafaru presents a contemporary Japanese dining experience elevated by some of the Maldives’ finest teppanyaki. Savour sustainably sourced seafood caught by local fishermen and homegrown island ingredients prepared with artistry and precision. Dine on the overwater terrace, where gentle waves, open skies, and sweeping ocean views create a romantic setting for a truly unforgettable evening.

Wellness

  • Calm Spa Sanctuary — Tropical forest sanctuary with treatment rooms, plunge pools, steam room, sauna, relaxation areas, walking meditation path and private yoga pavilion

    Calm Spa Sanctuary is a forest-hidden wellness retreat offering Eastern and Western therapies enriched by Dhivehi Beys, the Maldivian healing tradition. The current official page lists epigenetic testing, a walking meditation path, private yoga pavilion, steam room and sauna. Its narrative says eight private treatment rooms while its Unique Facilities list says 10; the numeric room count is therefore left unset pending confirmation.

Diving

  • Best Dives Manafaru — PADI 5-Star team

    Best Dives Manafaru operates the on-island PADI 5-Star dive, watersports and excursion centre. Current first-party sources cover introductory sessions, entry-level and continuing-education PADI courses, guided diving, snorkelling, watersports and island excursions. JA Manafaru lists Coral Diving operating hours as 09:00–18:00.

Experiences

  • Windsurfing — Water sports

    Let the wind take you on an exciting ride as you glide across the water surface on a windsurf. A beginner lesson is available for those who have never tried this watersport before. Our watersports instructor will teach you how to keep your balance on the board while you hold onto the attached sail. Once you learn the basics, you’ll be able to effortlessly manoeuvre the sails and keep your balance as the wind propels you across the blue lagoon.

  • Glass Kayak — Water sports

    Explore the island at your own pace with our kayaks, pedalos, or stand-up paddles. You do not need a lesson to use any of this non-motorised watersports equipment. Even if you have never tried it before, our recreational kayaks and pedalos are ideal for both adults and children. It is easy and safe to use. For stand-up paddle, it requires a little more balancing skill, and if it is your first time, our watersports staff can assist you and get you going. Head to the watersports centre and choose your own paddling adventure.

  • CoolZone Kids Club — Kids

    Designed for children aged three and above, CoolZone at JA Manafaru offers a world of creativity and play. Located beside the Recreation Pavilion, it features arts and crafts, storytelling, and fun educational games. A safe and engaging space where young guests can learn, laugh, and make unforgettable memories in the Maldives.

  • Yoga & Mindfulness — Wellness
  • Cooking Classes — Indoor Activities

    Discover the authentic flavours of the Maldives with a hands-on cooking class led by Executive Chef Moosa Nazeer and his talented culinary team. Learn the art of traditional Maldivian short eats in a group session or elevate the experience with a private masterclass designed to bring island flavours to life.

  • PADI Specialty Courses — Diving

    Create your diving adventure with PADI Specialty courses. Choose a Specialty course to deepen your knowledge and improve your skills in your field of interest. There are plenty of PADI Specialty courses available. Whether you want to increase your bottom time, improve your buoyancy, see what goes on during nighttime underwater, or get a better understanding of the marine ecosystem, there will be something for you. Visit the dive centre and speak with your dive instructor to assist you in choosing the right Specialty course to take.

  • Swimming pools — Outdoor Activities

    Surrounded by swaying palms and tropical greenery, the main pool at JA Manafaru feels like a serene coastal lagoon. Unwind with a refreshing dip, float beneath the sun with a cocktail or gelato in hand, while little ones enjoy safe splashes in the dedicated kids’ pool near the CoolZone Kids Club.

  • Island Excursions — Outdoor Activities

    Discover the spirit of the Maldives with island excursions from JA Manafaru. Visit Utheemu, the cultural heart of the archipelago and home of national hero Boduthakurufaanu, or set sail in search of playful dolphins. For adventure seekers, try traditional line fishing or the thrill of big game fishing on open waters.

  • Snorkelling Lesson — Water sports · 45 min

    Snorkelling is a MUST DO when in the Maldives. If you have never tried snorkelling before or you’re a little bit nervous about going snorkelling, you can join the snorkelling lesson session. In just forty-five minutes, you’ll get the skills and techniques you need to become a competent snorkeller under the guidance of our professional staff. After the session, you’ll feel more confident in the water, and you can join the daily snorkelling excursions on the island.

  • Sunset Dolphin Cruise — Outdoor Activities

    Set sail on a traditional dhoni for our unforgettable Sunset Dolphin Cruise. Watch playful dolphins dance through the waves of Haa Alifu Atoll as the sun melts into the horizon. Savour the chef’s selection of nibbles and refreshing drinks while golden skies fade to starlit tranquillity—an enchanting Maldivian experience from afternoon to evening.

  • Snorkelling Trips — Excursions

    Join our daily morning, afternoon, and evening guided snorkelling trips aboard a traditional dhoni. Discover the abundant marine life in this part of the Maldives. Our guide will bring you to some of the most colourful reefs, where sightings of turtles and reef sharks are common. During the season, it is also possible to spot some mantas in other snorkelling spots. We highly recommend joining the night snorkelling as the reef takes on a whole new look with a buzzing nightlife. Check with the dive centre for the daily schedule, or you can also arrange a private snorkelling trip at your convenience.View Details

  • PADI Discover Scuba Diving — Diving

    Try scuba diving with an easy scuba “taster session”. This program is for anyone aged 10 or older who is curious about scuba diving but is not yet ready to commit to a diving course. Under the supervision of a dive instructor, you will try scuba diving in the shallow part of the lagoon. You will learn some basic scuba diving skills and how to use scuba equipment. The fun part is that you will also get the chance to see some colourful fish. This program does not include certification. However, if you dive in open water, it may be credited towards a PADI Scuba Diver or Open Water Course later.

  • Watersports — Outdoor Activities

    Our watersports centres offer both motorised and non-motorised adventures for every level. Glide across calm waters on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, harness the wind on a sailboat or windsurfer, or feel the rush behind our wakeboats with wakesurfing, wakeboarding, and towable rides designed purely for fun.

  • Fitness — Wellness

    A fully equipped fitness centre pairs modern exercise equipment with island scenery for strength, movement and mindful wellbeing.

  • Kayaking — Water sports

    Explore the island at your own pace with our kayaks, pedalos, or stand-up paddles. You do not need a lesson to use any of this non-motorised watersports equipment. Even if you have never tried it before, our recreational kayaks and pedalos are ideal for both adults and children. It is easy and safe to use. For stand-up paddle, it requires a little more balancing skill, and if it is your first time, our watersports staff can assist you and get you going. Head to the watersports centre and choose your own paddling adventure.

  • Sunset Cruise — Excursions

    As the day comes to an end, it’s time to slow down and take a pause from an active day. Take your special someone on a romantic sunset cruise on board a traditional dhoni. Admire the stunning sunset views while in the middle of the Indian Ocean as you take in that fresh sea breeze. Enjoy a refreshing sparkling wine and canapes as you laze and cruise around. There’s no better way to cap off your day than spending it on a relaxing cruise with your special someone.

  • Cinema Under The Stars — Outdoor Activities

    Experience movie magic beneath the night sky with a private beachside screening. Choose your favourite film and relax with your loved ones, toes in the sand, surrounded by the sound of the waves. Enjoy a selection of delicious snacks as the stars above set the perfect scene for an unforgettable evening.

  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding — Water sports

    Explore the island at your own pace with our kayaks, pedalos, or stand-up paddles. You do not need a lesson to use any of this non-motorised watersports equipment. Even if you have never tried it before, our recreational kayaks and pedalos are ideal for both adults and children. It is easy and safe to use. For stand-up paddle, it requires a little more balancing skill, and if it is your first time, our watersports staff can assist you and get you going. Head to the watersports centre and choose your own paddling adventure.

  • Parasailing — Water sports

    Take a break from your underwater adventure and fly high above on an exciting parasailing flight. Get a spectacular view of the island as you cruise at a high altitude. You and your special someone will be securely strapped in a parachute connected to the back of a parasailing boat. As the captain slowly drives off and releases the winch line, you’ll slowly glide up until you reach a maximum height of approximately 80 metres. Take in the splendour of the view below before you slowly descend back to the boat.

  • Romantic Beach Picnic — Island Picnic

    Private candlelit beach picnic experience

  • Night Cruise — Cruise

    Romantic night cruise under the stars

  • Big Game Fishing — Excursions
  • PADI Bubblemaker — Diving · 60 min

    Let the kids join the underwater fun with the PADI Bubblemaker program. If your kids are aged 8 to 10, this is the perfect program to blow bubbles through scuba diving. Under the supervision of a dive instructor, the kids will learn how to use scuba equipment specially designed for them and take their first breath underwater. The session will take place in the pool or a pool-like environment at a maximum depth of 2m/6ft for about an hour. Kids do not need to be expert swimmers but must at least be comfortable when in the water.

  • Magical Sandbank Experience — Excursions

    Get that magical sandbank experience! You and your partner can enjoy an idyllic picnic or lunch set up on a stretch of sand in the middle of the ocean. We will set up the entire spread, and all you have to do is enjoy the spectacular view accompanied by delicious cuisine. Soak in all the vitamin D from the sun, and then go for a swim in the refreshing turquoise water to cool off. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also go snorkelling around the sandbank and discover what lies beneath this patch of sand in the middle of the ocean.

  • Water-skiing — Water sports

    Learn about this extreme watersport that has been around for decades. The calm lagoon of the Maldives is the ideal place for beginners to learn. For experienced water skiers, it’s a perfect place to master new tricks. This challenging watersport will test both your physical strength and endurance. Wearing a special ski, you hold onto a towrope while being pulled by a speedboat. The goal is to be able to stand up and remain standing as you zoom across the water. Our watersports instructor will teach you all the techniques and skills needed to achieve this.

  • Flyboarding — Water sports

    Have you ever tried a ride where you can rise high above and dive back into the water? Now is your chance to experience one of the latest watersports attractions for thrill-seekers. Our qualified watersports instructor will teach you the basic techniques and skills to stand up on a board with attached boots as you propel up in the air. It only takes a few minutes of instructions and a lot of determination to rise above the water and stay on top for as long as you can. Once you’ve mastered the skills you need, you’ll be flying high above and diving back into the water in no time.

  • Manta Ray Encounter — Outdoor Activities

    Witness one of nature’s most graceful spectacles with a Manta Ray encounter at JA Manafaru. From November to April, these majestic creatures glide through the Haa Alifu Atoll, visiting nearby cleaning stations just 30 minutes away. A rare and awe-inspiring experience that showcases the Maldives’ extraordinary marine life at its most captivating.

  • Wakeboarding — Water sports

    Try one of the most popular and fastest-growing watersports of all time. In wakeboarding, you will use a small board with foot bindings and hold onto a towrope connected to a speedboat. Much like other board sports, the goal is to stand up and keep your balance. If you’ve tried surfing or snowboarding before, some of the skills you learned will be useful when learning to wakeboard. Once you’ve picked up the basics, you’ll find yourself having fun crisscrossing along the wake. For experienced wakeboarders, it’s time to refresh your skills.

  • PADI Scuba Diver — Diving

    Take the PADI Scuba Diver course and become a qualified diver in just one and half days! This is the first step to becoming a certified Open Water Diver. The course includes three knowledge development sections, three confined water sessions and two open water dives. You must complete both the knowledge review quizzes and the practical skill assessments. At the end of the course, you’ll get a certificate and be able to dive anywhere under the supervision of a dive instructor to a maximum depth of 12m/40ft. While at home, you can register with PADI eLearning to save time studying the basic principles of scuba diving. All training may be credited towards the PADI Open Water course.

  • Jet Ski — Water sports

    Try one of the most thrilling rides on the water to make your holiday a more memorable one. You can do a quick fifteen-minute ride or go on a jet ski safari to explore beyond the lagoon. It’s easy to learn and suitable for youngsters aged 10 and above. Riding and driving a jet ski is almost like riding a motorcycle. Safe and stable, you can go on speeding across the calm water or at a relaxed pace. No matter how you want to ride it, this experience is something that will keep the inner adventurer in you alive.

Ask a Maldives specialist