Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a resort of excess. The largest villas, the largest private island, 11 restaurants and bars, and just 20 minutes from the airport. If you want "everything at once" - Waldorf Astoria delivers.
Scale
Ithaafushi spans three islands totaling 54 hectares. This is the largest private island resort in the Maldives. For comparison, typical resorts cover 5-10 hectares.
Opened in 2019 as Hilton's Maldives flagship. 122 villas - each minimum 280 sqm. No "standard" rooms.
Airport Proximity
Ithaafushi's main advantage: 20-minute yacht ride from airport. No seaplanes. Arrive any time of day. Perfect for business travelers.
Villas
Beach Villa with Pool - from $2,000/night. 390 sqm. Yes, this is entry-level. 12m pool, jacuzzi, outdoor shower.
Reef Villa with Pool - from $2,500/night. 472 sqm, direct house reef access.
Overwater Villa with Pool - from $3,000/night. 335 sqm, infinity pool over ocean, glass floor.
Grand Beach Villa - from $5,500/night. 780 sqm, two bedrooms, two pools.
Stella Maris Ocean Villa - from $8,000/night. 900 sqm, three bedrooms over water. Named after original New York Waldorf Astoria.
Ithaafushi Private Island - $35,000+/night. An entire island: 32,000 sqm, up to 24 guests, 6 bedrooms, private spa, 2 pools. For those who find villas insufficient.
11 Restaurants
Waldorf Astoria doesn't joke about gastronomy:
Terra - signature restaurant. Tasting menu from $250.
Tasting Table - main restaurant. Breakfast and dinner.
Yasmeen - Arabic cuisine. Terrace restaurant with sunset views.
Li Long - Chinese cuisine. Dim sum, Peking duck.
The Ledge by Dave Pynt - collaboration with Singapore's Burnt Ends (1 Michelin star). BBQ and open fire.
Amber - Japanese cuisine. Omakase, sake bar.
Tangled - Italian trattoria. Pasta, pizza, gelato.
Peacock Alley - iconic Waldorf bar. Afternoon tea tradition.
Rock - poolside bar. Burgers, salads.
Plus private dining options on beach and in-villa.
Spa
Waldorf Astoria Spa occupies its own island - 2,000 sqm. Overwater and garden pavilions. Signature treatments, hammam, hydrotherapy. Prices from $200.
Activities
Diving - PADI center. South Malé Atoll nearby.
Snorkeling - excellent house reef, especially at Reef Villas.
Yachting - own yacht club. Sunset cruise, fishing, island hopping.
Fitness - two gyms, tennis, padel, boxing.
Kids Club - ages 4-12. Outdoor adventures, water activities.
Who It's For
Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi is ideal for:
- Business travelers (close to airport)
- Foodies (11 restaurants!)
- Large families and groups (3-6 bedroom villas)
- Those wanting "the ultimate"
- Celebrations: weddings, anniversaries
Not for:
- Barefoot casual style seekers (more formal here)
- Those wanting remote atoll experience
- Budget travelers
2025 Prices
- Beach Villa with Pool: from $2,000/night
- Overwater Villa with Pool: from $3,000/night
- Stella Maris Ocean Villa: from $8,000/night
- Ithaafushi Private Island: from $35,000/night
Prices include breakfast. Half-board and full-board available.
Tips
- Try The Ledge - unique experience
- Reef Villa offers best villa snorkeling
- Book sunset yacht cruise
- Afternoon tea at Peacock Alley is tradition
- Ithaafushi Island can be booked for single dinner
Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi is a resort without compromise. Everything is big, everything is included, and everything is top-tier. If budget is unlimited - you're home.
