Kandolhu Maldives

From the moment we stepped off the speed boat and were welcomed by the management team, until the moment we were waved off the pier when left the island, we experienced nothing but 5* luxury. The reception staff explained that our Duplex villa was being prepared for us (we arrived before 10am) and proceeded to show us around the island and took us for breakfast at the Market restaurant, which was delicious. We were then shown to our Villa....Wow, Room 115 was everything we'd hoped for, the duplex rooms have everything you could ask for. The private pool was a must, along with two outdoor sitting areas (one on the upper floor and one on the ground level), these allowed the most amazing views, especially at sunset. The outside shower, bath and toilet seemed strange at first sight, but we loved it (also an inside shower and toilet upstairs). The coffee/tea/soft drinks were replaced daily. My request for Tiger beer in the fridge was granted immediately. The wine chiller and wine selection was astonishing, we barely scratched the surface but loved all we tried. The four spirit bottles were untouched although a welcome sight. The food was a big incentive for us choosing Kandolhu, and we were not disappointed! Surely plenty of choice for anyone. The chefs were in total control, none seemed rushed at all, while the waiting staff were so attentive, and always with a smile. Our favourite was the Sea Grill (we love fish and seafood), the Ata Roa for Ceviche and Tacos at lunch... bliss (you need to book). I'd the most amazing seafood tagliatelli in the Olive, while the Banzai chef provided a wonderful experience. The Market is the standard for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plenty of choice on each menu, while the staff would accommodate any request if you wanted something special (we had a plate of fresh mango one morning). I can honestly say I loved everything we tried, I only wish we had been there longer to experience more. All the guests we talked with, loved the house reef for snorkelling, being afraid of deep water, I was happy to mess about in the lagoon outside our villa, lots of colourful fish even in the shallow waters. The cocktail menu at the Vilu Bar is extensive, every cocktail expertly prepared and delivered by the friendliest of staff. The Spa was unbelievable, my wife enjoyed four treatments, I had reflexology and a full body massage. So, so relaxing. You can choose how intense you want the treatment to be, the young masseuse had me squirming with her strong thumbs. I'd recommend the Ultimate Inclusion package, everything other than lobster and champagne included. I'd also recommend interacting with the staff, they have so many wonderful stories to tell are are so friendly. We are already planning a return visit, this time with friends. Thank you to everyone on Kandolhu who made our holiday so enjoyable.

Our week at this incredible Maldives resort was nothing short of magical. From the moment we stepped off the speedboat transfer and entered Kandolhu, we were greeted by name and welcome drinks, setting the tone for the personalized and intimate experience that awaited us. Our bungalow was ready at 11am and we were checked in right away! With only 30 overwater bungalows, the resort felt exclusive and peaceful, offering a true escape from the outside world. The resort was almost at capacity but we never felt it was crowded. The accommodation was perfect—our overwater bungalow was spacious, elegantly designed, and offered breathtaking ocean views. Housekeeping was done twice daily, always discreetly, ensuring our space remained pristine without ever feeling intrusive. Dining was another highlight. With five restaurants to choose from, we were spoiled for choice, and every meal was outstanding. The variety of cuisines and the quality of ingredients made every dining experience a treat. Our favorite were Sea Grill, Japanese Banzai, and Mexican Atta Roa. We loved the daily fresh reef fish choices. Shout out to Nasru, Effam, Estella, Ameen, Zinadh, Nareen, Mann, Anjelita, Suraj and the whole food and dining team and the chefs for their awesome services! The snorkeling right from the house reef was beyond words. We swam alongside blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, spotted stingrays, and even a friendly house reef turtle who seemed to recognize us each time we saw him. The coral was in great shape, with vibrant purple sea anemones and thriving marine life. However, it’s important to check with the dive center about currents and safe entry and exit points. Resort also offered complementary snorkeling gear, complimentary GoPro loan, paddle board, catamaran, kayaking, gym, and massage services. My husband, an avid diver, went on four dives and was blown away by the abundance of marine life—countless sharks, “fish soup” formations, stingrays, and moray eels. The dive team was professional and knowledgeable, making each dive a safe and thrilling adventure. Service throughout the resort was impeccable. Every staff member was warm, attentive, and genuinely invested in making our stay special. The resort is clearly well cared for, with employees up early each morning to ensure the beaches and grounds remain pristine. We also met the GM Claudio and Luciana and they are super sweet! Claudio and Luciana, you have an amazing team to work with! I had a medical mishap and was very well taken care of by the house doctor, Luciana, and dining team. The last day of our stay, we were able to stay in our room until it was time to catch the boat to get to the seaplane around 2:30pm. We were also offered complimentary one bag of laundry service so it was nice to get home with not much laundry to do. If you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate, and nature-filled escape in the Maldives, this resort is truly exceptional. We left with unforgettable memories and ca

As close to your dreams of being on a deserted island paradise with all the comforts of home. Secluded, quiet, slow pace, and dreamy. Team members are very attentive and accommodating. Their only mission is to make your stay positive and memorable. Everything we have been looking for and can not wait to return. Thank you to everyone for making our stay so special.

A beautiful house reef and very easily accessible. Live corals. Excellent snorkeling. Not a strong current. We really liked the Ocean Pool villa. The location, stunning view and interior. The wine cooler with a good selection of wines and at a reasonable price. Excellent service. Cleaning and room service several times a day when residents are absent. Everywhere is in perfect order and cleanliness. Very good level of cuisine and restaurants, especially considering the small size of the hotel. You can always feel personal attitude and VIP service of any personal including top managers. Excellent organization of Christmas and any festive dinners. Diving is wonderful and also excellent organized and a very comfortable dive boat. Thanks all was great.

This is the fourteenth time we have traveled to the Maldives to spend our winter holidays. We usually visit a different resort each time, seeking out the best reefs for snorkeling and what we like to call rustic luxury. This year, we chose Kandolhu, a small island, a five-star resort, with excellent dining options and a nearby reef teeming with marine life. We were able to swim close to turtles, rays, and sharks, in addition to colorful fish of all sizes and shapes. It was stunning. Upon arrival at the airport, you are attended to personally, and until you have your boarding pass for your return, you are never unattended. Their presence is subtle, only appearing when needed, but you always feel that everything is perfectly arranged and on time. When you arrive, they ask how you would like to be addressed—by your first name, last name, nickname, or however you prefer—and from that moment on, everyone addresses you as per your choice. The dining experience is managed by five restaurants, each offering themed menus, allowing you to vary your choice every night. The Japanese, Mediterranean, or grill restaurants for dinner, the Mexican for lunch, and always the Market and the bar offer a wide gastronomic selection for such a small hotel. It is truly a small hotel where it is easy to meet other people from different countries, with a friendly and cordial atmosphere. The rooms are cleaned twice a day, and you never encounter the cleaning staff. They seem to know precisely when to come and leave your space perfectly prepared for you. Additionally, we had a significant issue when my husband suffered a drowning accident while snorkeling, requiring him to be transported to Male for hospitalization for three days. From the very first moment, the resort’s doctor, Dr. Saurav Acharya, arranged his urgent transfer via speedboat to the capital and accompanied us to the hospital. Hotel staff members Luciana and Claudio provided all necessary assistance, ensuring I had no concerns beyond my husband’s health. Yamin, another staff member, stayed with us in Male throughout the ordeal, arranging accommodations, transportation, a phone charger, money, and anything else we needed. I didn’t have to worry about anything but my husband’s recovery. Eventually, we were able to return to the resort and finish our vacation. Everyone was genuinely happy and relieved to see us back. They welcomed us with true care and affection. Kandolhu is truly a microclimate, not just of natural beauty and richness, but also of warmth, care, and humanity. Thank-you

Small, intimate and beautifully positioned island that truly makes you feel as though you've stepped outside of time. The warmth and hospitality of the staff is superb with so much attention and care given to the dining options. The food is excellent quality too. Hugest thanks to Claudio and the Kandolhu team for a wonderful stay!