North Ari Atoll, also known as Alif Alif Atoll, epitomizes the thriving tourism sector of the Maldives, boasting 70 idyllic islands fringed with lush tropical greenery and pristine white sands, interspersed with numerous sandbanks set against the backdrop of clear turquoise waters. This region is renowned for setting the gold standard in hospitality, with its array of luxury resorts and diverse accommodation options that cater to every preference.
Luxury seekers can find solace in high-end resorts like Kandolhu, Constance Halaveli, and Kuramathi Maldives. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, charming guesthouses on the local islands offer a unique stay.
North Ari Atoll is also a paradise for diving aficionados. With 23 dive sites and at least one shipwreck to explore, the underwater world here is rich with exotic marine life and vibrant coral reefs, promising unforgettable adventures for both novice and experienced divers alike.
To help you plan your stay, here is a curated list of 10 best hotels in North Ari Atoll, each renowned for their exceptional locations, exemplary facilities, and impeccable service. Whether you’re seeking luxury or local charm, North Ari Atoll offers a memorable escape into paradise.
Kuramathi Maldives
Price: $US 340-700/night Transfer fee: $US 190/adult Best for: snorkeling, diving, sand bank visiting, couples, families
Kuramathi Maldives stands as a premier destination, celebrated for its immaculate stretches of sandy beaches, exceptional diving opportunities, exquisite dining, and unparalleled spa services. Recognized as one of the finest accommodations in the Maldives, Kuramathi is a favored choice among travelers seeking a blend of diversity and tranquility. This expansive resort is woven into the lush greenery of the island, with paths leading to its impressive array of facilities. Guests can enjoy the luxury of two oceanfront infinity pools, a lagoon-style pool nestled under the shade of palm trees, and direct beach access for snorkeling along the vibrant house reef. Kuramathi Maldives offers an idyllic retreat for those desiring both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Price: $US 240-450/night Transfer fee: $US 410/adult Best for: snorkeling, diving, inhabited island visiting, couples, honeymoon
Gangehi Island Resort, nestled on a serene island, exemplifies the quintessential Maldivian getaway with its upscale accommodations set in a picturesque locale. Ideal for those seeking tranquility, the resort promises outstanding value and a splendid introduction to the Maldives for newcomers. With its small, exquisite setting and high-class amenities, Gangehi Island captures a certain enchantment, ensuring that guests experience nothing but delightful moments.
Just a 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé Airport, Gangehi Island Resort underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2008. The revamp introduced chic beach bungalows, eight luxurious Over-Water Deluxe rooms, and the exclusive two-bedroom Family Garden Villa, making it a perfect choice for both romantic retreats and family vacations. The refresh also extended to modernizing the interiors of the rooms and dining facilities, along with enriching the entertainment and excursion offerings, enhancing the overall guest experience at this magical destination.
Price: $US 240-450/night Transfer fee: $US 410/adult Best for: snorkeling, diving, all-inclusive, couples, honeymoon
Sandies Bathala, a gem in the Maldives, has become a sanctuary for both diving aficionados and snorkeling enthusiasts. As of today, this all-inclusive resort is embracing a significant change by reverting to its original management, promising a renewal of its cherished values. Nestled in the North Ari Atoll, this resort is a dream come true for anyone eager to explore the mesmerizing underwater realms. Freshly launched in 2019, Sandies Bathala offers an exceptional Maldivian experience at a great value, just a scenic 15-minute seaplane journey from Malé airport. It’s a beloved destination that continues to draw divers from around the world, and under the stewardship of the Planhotel Hospitality Group, it’s poised for a vibrant resurgence.
The resort, an integral part of the Sandies Resorts brand, stands as their third property, boasting a 4-star rating. It offers a blend of comfort and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for families, friends, couples, and especially diving enthusiasts. The renowned Warner Lau Diving Center is located here, making it a top pick for underwater adventures.
Price: $US 950-2,400/night Transfer fee: $US 540/adult Best for: snorkeling, diving, families, couples, honeymoon
Constance Halaveli stands out as a quintessential luxury resort in the Maldives, featuring one of the longest water villa jetties in the region, coupled with family-friendly luxury amenities and world-class diving opportunities. The resort’s unique layout mimics the curve of a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat, beautifully integrating into its pristine environment of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, all set against the lush greenery of the North Ari Atoll.
It’s an ideal choice for a lavish family getaway. The resort’s naturally sloping lagoon and expansive beaches are particularly accommodating for children. Additionally, Constance Halaveli offers the “Kuda Club,” a dedicated children’s club that hosts a variety of engaging activities tailored for youngsters aged 4 to 12, ensuring fun-filled days for all.
Price: $US 990-1,850/night Transfer fee: $US 520/adult Best for: all inclusive, snorkeling, diving, couples, honeymoon
Nestled in the heart of the North Ari Atoll, Constance Moofushi Maldives is a breathtaking island retreat where luxury meets tropical simplicity. Since its opening in 2010, this enchanting resort has become a jewel of the Maldives, celebrated for its crystalline turquoise lagoons and pristine white beaches that seem to tease the senses. It’s an idyllic spot that beckons diving enthusiasts to explore one of the world’s top diving destinations, offering a mesmerizing display of vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs.
The resort exudes a ‘wedding-honeymoon’ aura, making it a favored choice for romantic getaways, thanks to its golden beaches and intimate villas. Constance Moofushi doesn’t just promise a stay; it offers an experience, blending the rustic charm of its ‘Crusoe Chic Barefoot’ elegance with the uncompromising quality of Constance Hotels and Resorts. The culinary offerings are nothing short of spectacular, with a focus on sumptuous, gastronomic delights.
Price: $US 1,050-2,750/night Transfer fee: $US 600/adult Best for: snorkeling, diving, couples, honeymoon
Starwood’s W Hotels blend luxury with an edgy, youthful vibe, focusing on design, fashion, and music to captivate a trendy clientele. At the W Maldives, meticulous attention to detail elevates the guest experience, showcasing the brand’s signature style consistently throughout the property. From the iconic ‘W’ sculpture that greets guests on the resort’s pier to subtle branding on toilet paper rolls and elegantly etched window panels, every element underscores the hotel’s commitment to a seamless and stylish experience. However, the allure of this five-star resort extends beyond its clever use of the ‘W’ motif, ensuring a thoroughly memorable stay.
Price: $US 1,050-2,750/night Transfer fee: $US 600/adult Best for: snorkeling, diving, couples, honeymoon
Kandolhu Maldives not only promises an unforgettable honeymoon experience but delivers a dreamy escape steeped in romance. This cozy island, renowned for its superior house reef snorkeling, is an idyllic setting for couples. Experts and enthusiasts agree that Kandolhu Island boasts one of the finest house reefs in the Maldives, rivaled only by select resorts in the southern atolls. The island’s allure is further enhanced by its pristine, soft sandy beaches encircling its uniquely round shape—a distinctive feature in the Maldives. From the luxurious water villas to the beach and gourmet dining at its five-star boutique hotel, Kandolhu Maldives offers unparalleled snorkeling opportunities, ensuring a magical retreat for visitors.
Price: $US 200-450/night Transfer fee: $US 240/adult Best for: snorkeling, families, couples, honeymoon
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, nestled in the Ari Atoll, is renowned for its stunning house reef and its proximity to some of the Maldives’ most spectacular diving sites. This resort, a jewel in the portfolio of a prestigious Sri Lankan luxury brand, offers 112 rooms that strike a balance between affordability and luxury, making it ideal for both couples and families.
Guests can indulge in pristine surroundings on this idyllic island, complemented by an array of amenities. These include a spa, squash and tennis courts, a children’s playground, a swimming pool, and a variety of exciting excursions. Among the accommodation options, the newly introduced Water Villas stand out as particularly enticing, although the resort offers several room categories that deliver excellent value. Diving enthusiasts and snorkeling aficionados will find the famous Ellaidhoo house reef an unmissable highlight. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy the tranquil ambience, lush greenery, and the charming, rustic vibe of Ellaidhoo.
Price: $US 250-400/night Transfer fee: $US 400/adult Best for: snorkeling, scuba diving, families, couples
Nestled in the picturesque North Ari Atoll of the Maldives, Safari Island Resort offers a blend of sumptuous luxury and warm hospitality that makes it a dream destination. This exclusive resort boasts its very own fleet of luxury safari boats, making it a prime spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
From the moment you arrive via a brief 20-minute seaplane ride from Malé airport, you’re welcomed into a world where pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters beckon. The resort is renowned for its exceptional house reef snorkeling, allowing guests to explore vibrant marine life right at their doorstep.
If you’re in search of a tranquil yet captivating escape, Safari Island strikes the perfect balance between luxury and value, ensuring that every moment of your stay is spent in sheer bliss. Whether it’s lounging by the water, exploring underwater wonders, or simply enjoying the exquisite setting, Safari Island is the ideal sanctuary for a memorable getaway.
Price: $US 720-1,050/night Transfer fee: $US 200/adult Best for: all-inclusive, snorkeling, scuba diving, honeymoon, couples
Experience unparalleled luxury at Diamonds Athuruga, a gem in the Maldives where tradition meets modernity. Following a transformative redesign by a renowned Italian architect, the resort now boasts 25 water villas with breathtaking views, blending effortlessly with the azure waters through a striking use of white and open spaces. The resort retains its authentic Maldivian charm with visible coral wall panels throughout.
Guests enjoy a lavish all-inclusive package that covers all meals, snacks, and drinks (excluding champagne and premium spirits), along with complimentary water sports, laundry services, and an island tour. Exclusive access to a special lounge at the Maldivian Air Taxi terminal adds an extra touch of comfort. Daily entertainment includes music, shows, and tranquil evening activities, all set in a stunning over-water restaurant exclusive to water villa guests. This is truly Maldives at its best—where every detail ensures a sublime and carefree escape.
