Makunudu Island

Locally-owned Makunudu is one of the longest established island resorts in the Maldives and maintains its traditional Maldivian style, making for a unique tropical hideaway experience. Located in North Male Atoll, just 45-minutes by boat from Male International Airport, this natural paradise offers understated comfort and excellent hospitality.

There are no overwater bungalows: all rooms are on shore, benefitting from the coolness of the natural vegetation.  The island has an outstanding house reef and manta rays can be seen from November to April in the surrounding waters. There is an age limit of 10 years for children.

Guests can enjoy meals at the Ara Iru (rising sun) restaurant, either a la carte or buffet depending on the day. You can also opt for private dining experiences by the beach or on a tiny island near the jetty. The main bar has beautiful decking overlooking the lagoon, from which you can often enjoy sightings of the local heron resident or ray species. In high season, the sand bar (perfect for sunsets) and Miyaru beach bar are also available, offering drinks with stunning vistas.

All villas are nestled amidst lush vegetation with exclusive stretches of beach, offering wonderful privacy and tranquillity. Despite being less luxuriously appointed than some more modern resorts, the accommodation nonetheless offers a good level of comfort and amenities.

Makunudu benefits from an excellent house reef easily accessible from the beach. The PADI-certified dive centre is run by the extremely knowledgeable and welcoming Ricardo, who offers boat diving excursions to a variety of sites. If you choose to do a shore dive, you can find turtles, nurse sharks and  inquisitive resident batfish who will often follow divers as they explore the amazing undersea realm.