Arrive as a guest , leave as a friend, return as family. The maxim for the little slice of paradise that is Finolhu Maldives. A picture perfect island, located in the UNESCO world biosphere of Baa Atoll in the Maldivian Archipelago.

From above, Finolhu looks like a comet shooting across the heavens, its tail formed by a 1.2-mile platinum white sandbank. If resorts were ranked solely on their beaches, Finolhu would be a serious contender. From the hard-to-believe aqua blue lagoons and powdery white sand, it is sophisticated beach-chic to a T.

NEED TO KNOW

In 2020 Finolhu underwent a major upgrade and renovation, orchestrated by UK design studio – Muza Lab. Bespoke works were created by artisans from all around the world to help achieve a total transformation. It saw a modernising of the villas, restaurants, wellness facilities, public areas, fitness facilities and an introduction of possibly the coolest art lab, kids club and teens club in the Maldives. It will also soon be home to the worlds largest freestanding overwater villa, ‘Private Reserve’.

STAY

In one of 125 luxury beach or over-water villas, 76 with their own private pool. The vibe – There are no polished surfaces or smooth veneers, instead expect thatched roofs, wood varieties, floor to ceiling glass and a modest pop of colourful hues. Focusing on a kaleidoscope theme, the villas were recreated to reflect the surreal surrounds and orientated to capture as much of the sea and sun as possible.

For that pinch yourself bucket-list experience, we always opt for overwater villas when staying in the Maldives. Here, they are all perfectly placed along a central pier that stretches 850m referred to as “Sunset Boulevard”. Those facing towards the lagoon have sunrise views whereas those facing towards the ocean have sunset views. We were lucky to experience a villa on both sides and I honestly can’t say I prefer one over the other.

ROOM TIP: Splurge on a villa with pool and keep an eye on any prevailing winds. If necessary, request your villa on the protected side of the pier (if staying over water) or island (if staying in a beach villa).

EAT

Dining here transcends mere meals – It’s an immersive experience that tantalises all of the senses. For lovers of Japanese cuisine, Kanusan is a pure delight. Perched on stilts over the Indian ocean, the ambience with its dimmed lighting and ocean breeze sets the scene for holiday romance. Serving classical and modern Japanese cuisine, our favourite was the Salmon Yuan Yaki.

For a more relaxed setting my favourite is Crab Shack. Taking prize position at the end of the sandbank, its rustic barefoot-chic atmosphere is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood while gazing out to the lagoons, listening to the beats of the resident DJ. Not only is the vibe here surreal, the seafood is top notch. You absolutely must try the seafood platter.

The Beach Kitchen is the resorts all-day dining restaurant serving daily buffets and live cooking stations. Each night brings a new theme to the kitchen. We loved the Maldivian night where we were spoilt with traditional dishes prepared by the men & woman from the local islands.

Another favourite and teaser for the tastebuds is Arabian Grill. An authentic Middle Eastern dining experience that transports guests to the heart of North Africa and the Middle East. Set in a boho-chic beachside atmosphere, this restaurant serves an array of dishes including sizzling grilled meats, aromatic tagines and a variety of mezze platters. I love the open kitchen, it adds to the sensory experience. Particularly when the ocean breeze catches the aromas of exotic spices, cumin, cinnamon and turmeric.

5 degrees North offers destination dining in the middle of the lagoon under the sky, surrounded by turquoise waters and a magical sunset glow.

For your post workout smoothie or a mid afternoon Matcha, check out Milk Lab. Finolhu’s cool little cozy corner for guilt free indulgence and healthy cravings.

SWEAT

At Finolhu your fitness game doesn’t take a vacation – it levels up. Whether you are in to sunrise yoga, high-energy personal training or a late-morning lift with panoramic views, this place delivers. The gym is packed with state-of-the-art equipment, free weights, cardio gear, a private personal training room and pilates reformer. An excellent group class schedule is also on offer throughout the day. It is complimentary and suitable for all fitness levels. As a gym lover, I was very impressed. They really do offer a dynamic fitness experience that seamlessly blends luxury with wellness.

ON THE GO

There are so many activities on offer. I often get asked if I get bored in the Maldives, but I can honestly say my answer is a strong NO! You can really do as much or as little as you like. There are loads of motorised and non motorised waters sports, snorkelling/diving, an inflatable waterpark (I could not get my girls off it!), tennis, paddle ball, a golf simulator, the list goes on and on.

If you prefer to venture off the island there are snorkelling and diving tours, fishing trips, private island picnics, sunset cruises, boat charters, local island visits. You name it and Finolhu will deliver.

CHILDS PLAY

One of my favourite things about Finolhu is their love and consideration for children. Kids are catered for so well here. There is the Oceaneers Club for 4-12 year olds. A vibrant happy space, where the little ones can let their imaginations run wild and engage in various activities, creative workshops and interactive play.

Or for the older kids, my absolute number one favourite thing about this beautiful island as far as facilities go is the brand new addition of the Teen Hut. One of the first in the Maldives, this is a dynamic new space designed specifically for guests age 12-17. It is seriously cool with a huge outdoor recreation area, chill zones, a gaming zone, mocktail bar and their very own music studio. This two storey facility offers a vibrant environment where teens can hang out, socialise, or engage in some fantastic activities. The schedule on offer here is nothing short of excellent. From DJ classes to drum lessons, acrobatics, art classes, paddle ball lessons, soccer games to cooking classes. The hardest part is deciding what to sign up for.

CREATIVE FLOW

Art Lab at Finolhu. Another one of my favourite facilities here. With ambient island beats, eco-conscious materials and expert-led workshops, it’s a sanctuary of self-expression where inspiration flows as freely as the ocean breeze. Nestled in the heart of the island, here the walls are alive with imagination. You can hop on the pottery wheels to spin some clay, paint ceramics, textiles, coconuts or canvases. It’s where vacation memories get turned into handmade keepsakes. We loved the private family art class, it was more than just an activity – it was an experience.

SOUL FOOD

Tucked into the lush heart of Finolhu, Fehi Spa is more than just a place to unwind – it’s a living breathing sanctuary of green. “Fehi” means green in Dhivehi and this spa lives up to its name with jungle style vibes, botanical beauty, and a deep connection to nature. Every treatment here feels like an escape within an escape. Make sure you check if there are any visiting practitioners during your stay and embark on a spiritual journey like no other. Whether you surrender to a deep tissue Ayurvedic massage, a coconut-infused body scrub, or enlighten the senses with breathing workshops, colour therapy or aerial yoga. Here it’s not just about pampering – it’s about resetting your rhythm.

GLAMPING

Imagine this: You’re lying on a king sized bed wrapped in soft linens, toes still sandy from the private beach BBQ and nothing above you but millions of stars. I’d love to spend a night in one of Finolhu’s Beach Bubble Tents. A climate controlled structure made from UV-protected, waterproof materials. There is an adjoining bubble bathroom with a proper shower and loo. No roughing it here! As far as glamping goes, it’s the ultimate wow factor. The surreal domes are a transparent, stargazer’s sanctuary, set on their own stretch of sandbank, far away from the rest of the world. Whilst we didn’t get to stay in one this time, it definitely sits high on our bucket list for the next.

GETTING AROUND

Finolhu is spread across four tiny islands, connected by sandbanks. Due to its unique layout and environmental considerations, there are unfortunately no bicycles for the guests here. Instead you rely on the buggy service. Or better still, get your steps in for the day and enjoy the walk barefoot on the powdered sugar white sand.

TO SUM IT UP

Finolhu really is the art of island living, perfected. It isn’t just a resort – its a mood. A place where you can dial up the adventure, switch off completely, or do both in the same day. It’s a luxurious family friendly haven where time seems to pause, just long enough for you to remember what joy feels like.

Until next time, island dreamers. xo Bec