Sun Island Resort | South Ari Atoll

Sun Island Resort & Spa is a popular luxury resort located on Nalaguraidhoo Island in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives. Known for its beautiful natural surroundings, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional service, it offers an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a stunning tropical environment.

Geography and Location

• Location: Sun Island Resort is located in the South Ari Atoll, about 62 kilometers south of Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Guests can reach the resort via a 30-minute seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport (Malé International Airport). The resort is set on the island of Nalaguraidhoo, which is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
• Island Size: The island is large enough to accommodate the resort's facilities while still maintaining a sense of privacy and seclusion. It features spacious areas with beautiful beaches on all sides and a clear lagoon, offering excellent views of the surrounding waters.

Accommodation

Sun Island Resort offers a variety of accommodation options designed to provide a luxurious experience for its guests. The resort offers both beachside and overwater options, allowing visitors to choose according to their preferences and budgets.

• Beach Bungalows: These are simple but comfortable beachfront rooms with direct access to the white sandy beaches. They feature essential amenities like air conditioning, satellite TV, minibars, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocean from their verandas and relax under the tropical sun.
• Superior Beach Bungalows: For those looking for a little more space and luxury, the Superior Beach Bungalows offer larger rooms with additional features like outdoor rain showers and a more spacious veranda. These bungalows are located in quieter areas of the resort, offering greater privacy and comfort.
• Water Villas: For a more exclusive experience, Sun Island Resort offers Water Villas that sit above the lagoon. These overwater bungalows offer panoramic views of the sea, private sundecks with direct access to the water, and luxurious amenities like Jacuzzi bathtubs. The Water Villas are perfect for honeymooners, couples, or anyone seeking a romantic and luxurious getaway.
• Sun Villa: These are the most luxurious accommodations on the island, offering spacious interiors, private pools, and direct access to the beach. The Sun Villas provide the ultimate in comfort and privacy, with expansive living areas, elegant design, and top-tier amenities.

Dining Options

Sun Island Resort provides a variety of dining experiences, offering both local Maldivian flavors and international cuisine.

• Maaniya Restaurant: This is the resort’s main restaurant, offering buffet-style meals with a wide range of international and local dishes. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at this open-air restaurant with views of the lagoon.
• Ristorante al Pontile: For those looking for a fine dining experience, Ristorante al Pontile offers Italian cuisine in a romantic setting. It’s located on a pier extending over the water, providing breathtaking sunset views and a unique ambiance.
• The Sunset Bar & Grill: Located by the beach, this outdoor dining venue serves fresh seafood and grilled meats. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for casual dining with a view of the sunset.
• Baani Coffee Shop: This coffee shop serves light snacks, pastries, and freshly brewed coffee. It's perfect for guests who want a quick bite or a refreshing drink during the day.
• In-Room Dining: Sun Island Resort also offers in-room dining for those who prefer to enjoy their meals in the comfort of their room or private villa.

Activities and Attractions

Sun Island Resort offers a wide range of activities and experiences that allow guests to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Maldives.

• Snorkeling and Diving: The resort is surrounded by rich marine life, with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and the possibility of encountering larger creatures such as manta rays and whale sharks. Guests can enjoy snorkeling right off the beach or join diving trips arranged by the resort’s PADI-certified dive center. The South Ari Atoll is one of the top places to spot whale sharks, and diving enthusiasts can explore the area’s many underwater treasures.
• Water Sports: Guests can enjoy a range of exciting water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kite surfing. The resort offers equipment rentals and lessons for beginners.
• Fishing: The Maldives is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, and Sun Island Resort offers a range of fishing trips, including big game fishing, night fishing, and traditional Maldivian fishing experiences.
• Excursions: The resort offers a range of excursions such as sunset cruises, dolphin watching, and island hopping to nearby inhabited islands. These excursions provide guests with the opportunity to explore the local culture and wildlife.
• Spa and Wellness: The resort features a luxurious Duniye Spa that offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, body scrubs, and aromatherapy. There is also a fitness center for guests who want to maintain their exercise routine while enjoying the island's beauty.
• Yoga and Meditation: For those seeking relaxation and wellness, Sun Island Resort offers yoga and meditation sessions. These activities are ideal for guests who want to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul in a tranquil setting.

Family-Friendly Services

Sun Island Resort is also family-friendly, with activities and accommodations suitable for families traveling with children.

• Kids’ Club: The resort offers a kids' club where children can engage in supervised activities like arts and crafts, games, and beach sports. This gives parents the opportunity to relax while their children are entertained.
• Family Accommodations: Spacious family accommodations are available, including larger bungalows and villas that can comfortably accommodate families with children.

Sustainability and Eco-Tourism

Sun Island Resort is committed to eco-friendly practices and sustainability. The resort takes steps to reduce its environmental impact by implementing energy-efficient systems, conserving water, and protecting marine ecosystems. It is also involved in coral reef restoration projects and other conservation initiatives to preserve the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Accessibility

• Transfers: Guests can reach Sun Island Resort via a 30-minute seaplane ride from Malé, which offers stunning aerial views of the Maldives' islands and lagoons.

Summary

Sun Island Resort & Spa offers a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure in one of the most beautiful regions of the Maldives. Whether guests are looking to relax on the beach, explore the vibrant underwater world, or indulge in world-class dining and spa experiences, Sun Island Resort provides a variety of options to suit all preferences. Its beautiful location, range of accommodation types, excellent service, and extensive list of activities make it an ideal destination for families, couples, and honeymooners alike.