North Ari Atoll
Veligandu Maldives Resort Island
Step into a world where natural beauty, seclusion, and luxury harmoniously blend to create the perfect retreat. Established humbly in 1984, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island has evolved into a 5-star luxury property after a comprehensive 18-month renovation, reopening in November 2024. Nestled in the North Ari Atoll — just a 20-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport — this intimate island of 22 acres (600m x 150m) features 100 luxuriously appointed villas, including overwater villas with direct house reef access. With award-winning beaches, a world-renowned sandbank, vibrant marine life and the famous Hammerhead Shark Point nearby, Veligandu offers an unparalleled blend of romance, adventure and tranquillity. Himeyn Spa, four restaurants, three bars including the Raalhu Champagne Pavilion, an international dive centre and the All-Inclusive Dine Around Package complete this idyllic adults-preferred escape. Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards 2026 nominee — Best Beaches.
Published packages
No published packages currently match this page. A Maldives specialist can still help with a tailored option.
Transfers and meal plans
- Seaplane — 20 min
Meal plans in source: Bed & Breakfast, Half Board, Full Board, All Inclusive, Breakfast.
Villas
- Sunset Ocean Pool Villa — 152 m² · up to 3 guests
A sanctuary of luxury and tranquility perched over crystal-clear waters. Designed for ultimate indulgence with unparalleled sunset views from the bedroom and the pool, expansive deck and direct house reef access. Indoor bathroom with sea-view bathtub, 6.5x3m private plunge pool, sunset views, direct house reef access. AC, flat-screen TV, minibar, free WiFi. Max 3 Adults.
- Beach Villa — 71 m² · up to 2 guests
Designed for nature lovers, the Beach Villas offer a serene escape in Veligandu s most tranquil settings. These villas, located on the east and north ends of the island, provide an intimate connection with nature, just steps from the beach. Wake to the rustle of palm leaves, the soothing sounds of chirping birds, and the rhythmic waves. Enjoy sunrise views from east-facing villas or sunset hues from the north-end. With island-chic décor and partially open-air bathrooms, each villa is a private sanctuary. Surrounded by swaying palm fronds, you ll be fully immersed in the laid-back charm of Maldives. The 71 sqm space is thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the island’s natural beauty, featuring a spacious bedroom with a king-size bed and a partially open-air bathroom with deluxe amenities including rain showers and lounges, set amidst lush vegetation. The spacious veranda serves as a serene relaxation sanctuary tailored for nature enthusiasts.
- Ocean Jacuzzi Villa — 86 m² · up to 3 guests
Suspended over the lagoon on the island's eastern side, the Ocean Jacuzzi Villas lets you wake up to the first rays of the sun. Indulge in luxurious amenities, a private sea-view Jacuzzi and direct reef access. Partially open-air bathroom. Open-air Jacuzzi with sea view. Sunrise view. Direct house reef access. AC, flat-screen TV, minibar, free WiFi. Max 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 2 Children.
- Jacuzzi Beach Villa — 86 m² · up to 2 guests
Enveloped by lush tropical gardens, these beach villas offer seamless access to the water, with a private Jacuzzi awaiting on the veranda. Embrace romantic moments or peaceful solitude, with absolute privacy assured in our spacious retreats. Step right from your doorstep into the turquoise waters, or unwind on the serene garden beachfront veranda. The spacious bedroom features modern furnishings, a king-sized bed, and large windows offering serene garden and ocean views. The bathroom includes elegant fixtures, a luxurious shower, and high-end amenities, providing a sophisticated space for relaxation. Surrounding wild plant fences ensure a secluded and intimate environment. Enjoy ultimate relaxation with a personal jacuzzi, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.
- Sunset Ocean Villa — 102 m² · up to 3 guests
Uncover paradise in our coveted Sunset Ocean Villas, positioned for witnessing breathtaking sunsets. Perfect for couples seeking serenity — indulge in open-air luxury with sun lounges, romantic open-air bathtub and a hammock net for intimate moments. Partially open-air bathroom with indoor and outdoor rain showers, open-air sea-view bathtub, overwater hammock net, uninterrupted ocean and sunset views, direct house reef access. Max 3 Adults.
- Ocean Pool Villa — 125 m² · up to 3 guests
Perched in the tranquil northern part of the island, each of these spacious overwater pool villas offers breathtaking sunrise views. Designed for couples and solo travellers seeking serenity and elegance. Indoor bathroom with rain shower, private plunge pool, sunrise view, direct house reef access. AC, flat-screen TV, minibar, free WiFi. Max 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 2 Children.
- Ocean Pool Villa 2 Bedroom — 270 m² · up to 6 guests
Ideally located on the serene northeast corner of the island. These opulent two-bedroom overwater villas provide an exceptional setting for group getaways, with breathtaking sunrise ocean views. Spacious living area with ocean view, indoor bathrooms with rain showers, two 5.8x3m private plunge pools, sunrise view, direct house reef access. AC, flat-screen TV, minibar, free WiFi. Max 6 Adults or 4 Adults + 2 Children.
- Sunset Jacuzzi Beach Villa — 90 m² · up to 3 guests
An idyllic retreat nestled on a private beach with direct sunset views, just steps from the inviting blue ocean. Enjoy the vibrant marine life of one of the island's finest house reefs. Open-air Jacuzzi area. Tropical birds including graceful herons frequently visit the area. Direct house reef access. AC, flat-screen TV, minibar, free WiFi. Max 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 2 Children.
- Sunset Ocean Pool Villa 2 Bedroom — 319 m² · up to 6 guests
Experience the ultimate luxury in our two-bedroom Sunset Ocean Pool Villas. Glass floors reveal the mesmerizing underwater wonders below. Dive into your own private pool, explore vibrant marine life at the house reef and relax in chic sophistication with breathtaking sunset views. Spacious living area, indoor bathrooms with sea-view bathtubs, two 6.5x3m private plunge pools, panoramic sunset views, direct house reef access. Max 6 Adults.
Dining
- Dhonveli Restaurant — Asian and international · Beachfront restaurant with outdoor ocean-view deck
Dhonveli Restaurant is Veligandu's buffet and live-cooking restaurant, with a fusion of Asian and international cooking for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Themed menus change through the week, including a Maldivian theme, and breakfast is laid on an outdoor deck where dolphins, blacktip reef sharks and herons are sometimes seen along the shore. The room has been part of the island since 1984.
- Thundi Bar — Cocktails, beverages and light snacks · Sandbank-side bar connected to the infinity pool
Thundi Bar is an all-in-one chillout haven on the famous Veligandu sandbank and is interconnected with the infinity pool. A unique viewpoint for both sunrise and sunset amidst an uninterrupted 180-degree ocean view featuring world-class beverages and light snacks from signature to classic. The east side of the bar provides direct access to one of the mesmerizing house reefs of the resort. The evening events like beach parties, live music, and traditional shows uplift your spirits and keep you entertained as you wile away the evening. View Beverage Menu in English View Beverage Menu in Korean View Wine List in English View Beverage Plan Package Menu in English View Beverage Plan Package Menu in Korean Open daily from 08:00 until the last guest leaves the bar for the night. The Infinity Pool unlocks the key to a harmonious blend of relaxation and fun. An oasis for taking a revitalizing plunge or relaxing sunbathing. A serene ambiance with stunning views of the crystal-clear ocean and the glistering sand for a leisurely brunch, lunch, or late afternoon light bite that will leave your palate enticed for more. Open daily from 08:00 – 20:00. The Snack Menu offers a wide range of light delicacies from salads to tapas-style bites to pair with your favorite signature to vintage and classic alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages— flexibility to order by the poolside and Thundi bar at any time from 11:00 – 22:30. View Snack Menu in English View Snack Menu in Korean
- Beach Bar — Bar & Cocktails
Open-air beach bar serving cocktails, cold beers and refreshments around the clock — the perfect spot to unwind after a dive or snorkel session.
- Ahima — International
Adults-only buffet restaurant reserved for guests staying in Jacuzzi Beach Villas and Jacuzzi Water Villas, offering a more exclusive dining experience.
- Asian Wok — Asian
Casual over-water venue on the eastern tip of the island specialising in sushi, Thai, Vietnamese and live teppanyaki, with views across the Indian Ocean.
- Madivaru Teppanyaki Grill — Japanese teppanyaki, sushi and sashimi · Six-seat grill within the Madivaru complex
Madivaru Teppanyaki Grill is the Japanese grill inside Madivaru Restaurant at Veligandu. Chefs cook at the table, with theatrical knifework, at both lunch and dinner, so the meal is a live cooking performance. It uses the restaurant's southern sunset setting, while the menu and the show belong to the grill.
- Raalhu Champagne Pavilion — Champagne and premium wine · Champagne pavilion within the Raalhu complex
The Champagne Pavilion is a paradise of pleasure for those who long for the sight and taste of champagne and the magical colors of the setting sun. This intimate, luxurious sanctuary offers some of the world’s finest champagnes as the sun paints its hues of twilight in the sky. It is the perfect place for newlyweds and lovers to truly reconnect and celebrate their special love. Explore flavors, aromas, and the stories behind the finest wines with the In-house sommelier. Premium Wine Tasting on every Saturday at 18:00 Open daily from 10:00 – 23:00 Champagne Menu
- Madivaru Silk Restaurant — Mediterranean and Asian, including Chinese, Thai and Indian · Sunset-facing dining within the Madivaru complex
Madivaru Silk Restaurant stands on the south side of Veligandu, open to the sunset. The cooking mixes Mediterranean dishes with Chinese, Thai and Indian food, and the kitchen uses ingredients picked from the resort gardens and from nearby local islands. The resort sets it up as a room for long evenings and special occasions.
- Raalhu Bar — Cocktails, wine and beverages · Ocean-view bar within the Raalhu complex
This a lush spot for relaxation, indulging in a beverage, and re-energizing. Offering an inviting and sustained atmosphere to let loose and take a breather, it is the ideal spot to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or grab a pre-dinner drink soaking up the mesmerizing sunset views from the comfortable lounges. After a day of island activities, the bar provides the luxury of enjoying a tantalizing tropical cocktail while you unwind. View Beverage Menu in English View Beverage Menu in Korean View Beverage Plan Package Menu View Beverage Plan Package Menu View Wine List Open daily from 10:00 – 23:00
- Raalhu Restaurant — International signature dining · Lagoon-facing signature restaurant in the Raalhu complex
Raalhu Restaurant offers an exclusive culinary journey that transcends the ordinary. It brings you pleasure, joy, and sophistication through its signature dishes and vibrant ambiance. Once open exclusively for dinner, Raalhu now welcomes guests to begin their day with an Exclusive Breakfast. It’s an elegant à la carte experience inspired by the timeless cafés of Paris. Savor buttery croissants, freshly baked baguettes, and artisanal creations that celebrate the art of refined mornings by the lagoon. As evening descends, Raalhu transforms into a destination for fine dining, specializing in premium meat and seafood. The menu offers elegant cuisine that includes Maldivian lobsters, select cuts of meat, locally sourced fish, and premium international seafood, complemented by inventive vegetarian dishes and artisanal desserts. It is a haven for indulgence and luxurious dining. Crafted by skilled chefs, each dish is a masterpiece brought to life with passion and expertise. Amid the breathtaking natural vista, it offers an unbeatable view to truly take in the beauty of your surroundings and soothe your senses with the tranquil melody of nature. The succulent flavors and majestic sights captivate your soul, awakening your senses in every possible way and leaving you in a state of bliss. Amid breathtaking ocean views and the soothing melody of nature, Raalhu invites you to indulge in moments of pure delight — from the serene charm of morning to the enchantment of night. Each experience lingers long after the last bite, a memory woven in flavor, beauty, and emotion. Raalhu Restaurant invites you to savor moments of enchantment and delight with every visit.
Wellness
- Himeyn Spa — Oceanside island spa inspired by the Dhivehi word for calmness
Our spa environment is one of tranquility, relaxation, and harmony. We have carefully designed every element of the spa menu to provide you with a classic service and a luxurious experience. Our array of services does not simply include treatments but rather experiences that achieve your desired wellness results and a little more. We kindly request considering other guests’ experiences, speak in a gentle tone, and silence any electronic devices you might have before entering the facility. Spa opening Hours Opening hours are from 10:00 to 20:00 The last reservations are at 19:00 Reservation We highly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred times, especially if you plan to visit us multiple times during your stay. Walk-in appointments are available based on availability. Spa Arrival To enhance your spa experience, we encourage you to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled treatment. For your first visit, you will be asked to complete a brief Health & Wellbeing client form to identify any contraindications to any treatments. Kindly shower prior to your appointment to remove any sunscreen and body lotion. Relaxation Lounge As your treatment benefits both body and mind, we invite you to rest after your experience in our relaxation lounge to ensure you gain the full benefits of your spa experience, complimented by our famous and freshly prepared Ginger & Lemongrass tea. Minimum Age At Himeyn Spa, we welcome guests under 14 years old to enjoy our Family-Friendly packages or choose from a selection of specially designed youth experiences. Parents or guardians are required to accompany their children, ensuring a shared and memorable spa experience. Cancelation Policy & Late Arrivals If you wish to reschedule or cancel your booking please, note that we require at least 6 hours’ notice to accommodate your request. No-shows or last-minute cancellations will incur a 100% charge. Packages are non-refundable and non-transferable. Arriving late will limit the length of your spa treatment and unfortunately lessen your time spent with us. Treatments will always conclude at the scheduled time as a courtesy to our next spa guests. Valuables We advise you not to bring any valuables during your visit. Himeyn Spa accepts no responsibility for the loss or damage of any kind. Gift Certificate Our Gift Certificates make a wonderful gift for any special occasion. Choose from the complete menu of available treatments or give the gift of choice. Please ask our spa concierge for details and purchase. Payments All services are priced in USD and inclusive of 17% GST and 10% service charge. For your convenience, all charges will be billed directly to your Villa.
Diving
- Ocean Dive Centre — PADI courses and guided diving
Opening hours: 08:30 – 18:00
Experiences
- Introduction to Snorkeling — Snorkeling · 30 min
- Beginner’s Yoga Session — Yoga
- Adopt-A-Coral Line — Sustainable island experience · 60 min
- The Yoga Pavilion — Yoga
Nestled amidst lush greenery and serenity next to the Himeyn Spa is the newly unveiled yoga pavilion. It is an ideal location for sun salutations as the dawn’s first light casts a golden ray with the island’s professional yoga instructor.
- Beach BBQ: Sundays’ Starlit Sizzles — Private dining
An Evening of Fire, Flavor, and Falling Stars! Beneath the shimmering canopy of stars at the Main Pool Beach, Sunday nights are reimagined as an unforgettable seaside culinary journey. Let the irresistible aroma of sizzling grills and the gentle whisper of ocean breezes welcome you to a night of pure indulgence. Begin this journey with elegantly plated starters and soup, awakening your senses for a lavish buffet of perfectly grilled main courses crafted to perfection. As waves softly caress the shoreline and embers glow warmly in the moonlight, surrender to the romance of the evening where every bite is a taste of paradise, and every moment is a memory in the making. View Food Menu View Beverage Menu View Master Wine List Reserve your place for this exclusive beachside dining experience by contacting with your Lifestyle Host, emailing us at reservations@veligandu.com, or simply booking through this App.
- Raalhu Champagne Sunset — Diving
Intimate sunset champagne at Raalhu Champagne Pavilion
- Sunset Lobster Dinner — Private dining
- Floating Breakfast — In-villa dining
Served on a beautiful floating tray, this unique experience lets you enjoy a gourmet breakfast while relaxing in your pool, surrounded by turquoise waters and breathtaking views. Savor freshly baked pastries, exotic fruits, and a selection of breakfast favorites, making for an unforgettable start to your day in paradise. View Floating Breakfast Menu Service Hours: Morning service from 07:30 – 10:30
- Inflatable Rides — Water sport · 15 min
Inflatable rides are a great way for family and friends to have some splashy fun time together on the water. Find out who can stay on the longest as the boat slings you back and forth across its wake. Ideal for novices, just hop on and go.
- Veli Dinner | Sandcastle-Inspired Dining — Private dining
A Castle of Sand, An Evening So Grand Dine in a one-of-a-kind sandcastle-inspired setting, designed exclusively for you. Each Veli Dinner features bespoke tables and seating sculpted entirely from soft white sand by our F&B team, adorned with fresh tropical flower petals and candlelight to create a truly magical and romantic beachfront dining experience beneath the stars. View Food Menu View Beverage Menu Explore Signature Cakes List Explore Flower Bouquet Options Reserve this exclusive experience by contacting with your Lifestyle Host, emailing us at reservations@veligandu.com, or simply booking through this App.
- Premium Wine Tasting — Wine tasting
Explore the flavors, aromas, and stories behind the finest wines with the inhouse expert sommelier. When: Every Saturday from 1800 to 1900 at Raalhu Bar. Ready to book this experience? Reserve this exclusive experience by contacting with your Lifestyle Host, emailing us at reservations@veligandu.com, or simply booking through this App.
- Big Game Fishing — Fishing trip · 120 min
- TKO Electric Jetsurf Board — Water sport
- Game Zone — Sport and fitness
- Stand-Up Paddle Board — Water sport · 60 min
- House Reef Snorkelling — Snorkelling
Direct access from all villas — vibrant coral gardens
- PADI Open Water Diver Course — Scuba diving
Obtain PADI certification to dive down to 18 meters. Learn the theory of scuba diving before your instructor takes you into the lagoon to practice your skills and explore the amazing underwater world. For more information about this activity, contact your Lifestyle Host or Ocean Centre directly.
- Whale Shark Talk & Snorkeling — Snorkeling · 300 min
A not-to-be-missed experience for guests of Veligandu Maldives Resort Island. Swim with the gentle giant while it feeds on planktons and enjoy every moment of this incredible encounter. All you need is your snorkeling gear and underwater camera to take the best Instagrammable shots. For more information about this activity, contact your Lifestyle Host or Ocean Centre directly.
- Nurse Shark Snorkeling — Snorkeling · 120 min
A unique, unforgettable face-to-face encounter with giant nurse sharks of the Maldives. Don’t forget your camera for this once-in-a-lifetime experience! Watch these fascinating creatures glide gracefully through the waters, and enjoy the thrill of swimming alongside them. Our expert guides will provide an educational talk, sharing interesting facts about nurse sharks and their role in the marine ecosystem. Click below to book via this App or send an email to reservations@veligandu.com
- Paddle Boat — Water sport · 60 min
- Local Island Visit — Excursion · 120 min
Experience the Maldivian way of life on a local island! This island nation is also unique in its geography and topography, with over 26 natural atolls, 200 locally inhabited islands and thousands of other coral islands and sandbanks. Take your camera and capture a few shots of the natural beauty of local villages.
- Wake Boarding, Water Skiing and Knee Boarding — Water sport · 20 min
Wake Boarding Gear up with our wide range of boards and enjoy the thrill of this adrenaline rush sport. Tune in your own playlist on the boat and get airborne, cutting across the wake from side to side. Water Skiing The Maldives is a great place for your first water skiing lesson thanks to the year-round warm water. Learn all the basic techniques so you can balance on the skis and up your skills with simple steering moves. Knee Boarding Play with the wake of the boat as you are pulled along while seated and strapped on the kneeboard. Make 360 degree turns, ride backwards or simply glide through the water and feel the speed, freedom and limitless energy. Wake Skating Wake skating is similar to wakeboarding except that you are not bound to the board. Ride the boat wake and enjoy the fun of being towed across the turquoise water. Give it a go today! For more information or to reserve this exclusive experience, please contact your Lifestyle Host, visit the Ocean Dive Center, email us at reservations@veligandu.com , or simply book through the app.
- Sundowner SeaScape — Private dining
- Wonder Rock Snorkeling — Snorkeling · 60 min
Discover one of our guests’ most-loved snorkeling excursions at the mesmerizing Wonder Rock, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. Perfect for beginners, this guided adventure takes you through vibrant schools of striking yellow bluestripe snappers; commonly known as banana fish. Keep an eye out for lionfish hiding beneath the coral. If you are lucky, you may even spot one or two sea turtles gracefully swimming around the wonder rock. With excellent visibility and breathtaking colors of the ocean, Wonder Rock is the perfect place to capture stunning photos and videos. Don’t forget to bring your underwater camera! Scheduled Trips: Morning: 09:00 – 10:00 Afternoon: 15:00 – 16:00
- Snorkeling Safari | By Speedboat — Snorkeling · 120 min
Ever dreamt of swimming with abundant marine life? Join us on this magnificent trip to swim alongside colorful fishes and beautiful corals. You will experience snorkeling at two different locations on this two-hour trip. For more information or to reserve this exclusive experience, please contact your Lifestyle Host, visit the Ocean Dive Center, email us at reservations@veligandu.com , or simply book through the app.
- Pickleball & Padel Tennis Courts — Sport and fitness
- Wing-Surfer — Water sport · 60 min
- Sunset Cruise | By Luxury Yacht — Excursion · 120 min
Set sail aboard our spacious NOMAD 65 for an unforgettable sunset cruise. Unwind as the sky paints itself in gold and amber, and enjoy the serene beauty of the natures artwork from the comfort of our luxury yacht. Elevate the moment with a glass of bubbly and a selection of gourmet canapés.
- Fiberglass Dhoni — Private charter · 120 min
- Water Sports Centres — Snorkelling
Kayaking, windsurfing, wing surfing, banana boat