In the Maldives, we’re blessed with plenty of options when it comes to luxury island retreats. Across a series of blogs, we’ve handpicked some of our far-flung favourites so you can get a flavour of what each of these beautiful boltholes has to offer in terms of its whereabouts, food, accommodation and unique experiences. It’s the turn of island playground LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, Maldives…
Location, location, location
A laid-back escape on Dhidhoofinolhu island only a 25-minute seaplane hop from Malé, LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, Maldives boasts a beautiful 4km-long stretch of sand. Beyond its white fringes lies the bold blues of the Indian Ocean, the atoll’s iridescent reef a diver’s dream, with plenty of locations where you can glide alongside manta rays and whale sharks.

Food for thought
With eight restaurants and five bars, LUX* South Ari Atoll has one of the largest dining selections you can find on one island in the Maldives. Whatever your stomach fancies, you’ll find it here. There’s Middle Eastern mezzes to wood-fired pizzas on the beach and barista-grade coffee to cocktails above the water.
A good night’s sleep
Whether you’re suspended on stilts above the gin-clear lagoon or speckling the cashmere-soft sands, each villa (some of which come with their own private plunge pool) or pavilion emits a beach-chic vibe. Every one either faces the sunrise or sunset, so you can start or end the day right.
Fun fact
Have a wander around the island and you’ll stumble upon a vintage red telephone box. You can make as many international phone calls as you like – free of charge!
Our Turquoise tip
As well as diving, LUX* South Ari Atoll also has one of the Maldives’ best selections of complimentary water sports available to guests. You can go water-skiing, kayaking, windsurfing and more!