Kandolhu Hotel Maldives
Kandolhu Island, located in the Rasdhoo Atoll, Maldives
When to visit
The best time to visit Kandolhu is from November to April , temperatures range from 28ºC to 32ºC , it is the best time to do water activities as the waters are crystal clear and calm.
We went in May and despite it being monsoon season (May – October ) we were lucky, as the weather was generally good, the diving was incredible and we barely had any rain.
Who is Kandolhu Maldives for?
This small island resort has stolen our hearts; it's a dream. It's aimed primarily at:
- Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, you'll find another underwater paradise just steps from your villa. It's a spectacle! If you dive, prepare for world-class dive spots.
- We also recommend it for couples , a honeymoon here is a dream.
- And finally, for all those who want to relax and enjoy paradise with an out-of-this-world gastronomic experience.
Kandolhu Highlights
- We highlight the privacy that this little paradise offers you.
- Diving in Kandolhu Maldives is simply on another level.
- It has 5 top à la carte restaurants , prepare your palate because the food here is incredible.
- Special mention to the staff , they were all magnificent.
How to get to Kandolhu Hotel Maldives
The only option is to travel by seaplane . From Male Airport, you can take a free shuttle to the seaplane terminal, from where you'll depart for Kandolhu Island. It's the fastest option, taking about 20-25 minutes.
We went with Transmaldivian Airways. The views and the experience of riding in a seaplane are truly spectacular!
The essence of the resort
Kandolhu Maldives is a luxury boutique resort in the heart of the North Ari Atoll , ideal for those seeking privacy, tranquility, and an intimate Maldivian experience. With just 30 villas surrounded by a spectacular reef, this small island offers an exclusive and serene environment, far removed from mass tourism.
Personalized service and authentic hospitality are Kandolhu's true signature. From the moment you arrive by seaplane, the resort team takes care of every detail with warm and discreet attention. The villas, perfectly integrated with nature, offer direct ocean access, total privacy, and top-of-the-line amenities, from king-size beds to minibars stocked with wine and gourmet snacks. Every gesture, every smile, reinforces the feeling of being in a luxurious home away from home.
Its coral reef is one of the best for snorkeling in the Maldives , accessible directly from the beach or from the pool villas. The culinary offerings exceed all expectations, with five restaurants that impress every night. Added to this is a signature spa nestled among lush vegetation and activities such as boat trips and private sunset dinners.
Top 4 types of rooms
Beach Villa
There are 6 in the resort.
These charming villas are located directly on the beach, surrounded by tropical vegetation and with direct access to the sand . They include a king-size bed, an indoor and outdoor garden-style bathroom, and a terrace with sun loungers and a seating area. They are ideal for those seeking an authentic beachfront experience , with privacy and a design that blends nature with the most thoughtful comfort.
Ocean Villas
There are 5 in the resort.
Located on the oceanfront, these villas offer a spacious and elegant setting with a private pool , king-size bed , indoor seating area, and a designer bathroom with a freestanding bathtub . The outdoor terrace features sun loungers , al fresco dining, and a poolside Balinese bed . They're perfect for those looking to combine the comfort of the beach with the luxury of a private retreat .
Duplex Pool Villas
There are 8 in the resort.
Spread over two levels , these villas feature a master bedroom upstairs with panoramic ocean views , and a living room downstairs with access to a private pool . They include a king-size bed , a dressing room , a bathroom with an indoor/outdoor shower , and a spacious terrace . They are ideal for longer stays or for those seeking spaciousness and complete privacy .
Ocean Villas
There are 4 in the resort.
These villas are built over the lagoon , with direct ocean access and endless views . They feature a king-size bed , an indoor seating area, a dressing room , a full bathroom with double sinks , and a spacious wooden deck with sun loungers. They're perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway over the water , with all the comfort and privacy of barefoot luxury .
Ocean Pool Villas
There are 7 in the resort.
These are the resort's most exclusive villas, suspended over the lagoon and equipped with a private infinity pool . They feature a king-size bed , walk-in wardrobe , a bathroom with an outdoor shower , and a terrace with a relaxation area . They combine ocean views , direct sea access , and modern design for a total luxury experience on the water .
Our room
On our visit we stayed in the Beach Villa .
The room was simply spectacular. The incredibly comfortable bed overlooking the turquoise waters of the Maldivian sea, transmitted an incredible calm, peace and privacy.
The bathroom is lavishly detailed , with the bathtub standing out as a highlight. Stepping out of it leaves you feeling rejuvenated , not to mention the outdoor shower surrounded by greenery . The terrace with a pool is truly delightful, allowing you to relax in the sun and jump into the ocean whenever you want .
The room exceeded our expectationsIt allowed us to sleep one day with all the windows open, hearing the sea and seeing the stars, and it was a totally unforgettable experience.
We loved the feeling of being totally integrated in nature, without giving up any comfort. For those who value privacy, direct contact with the beach and an authentic Maldivian Lojusa experience, this villa is a perfect choice.
Resort Facilities
Diving in Kandolhu: Noovilhu Sport Center
The hotel has a dive center , geared toward both beginners and experienced divers. They offer three dives daily , as well as special boat trips to explore Ari Atoll's famous sites, such as Maaya Thila and Fish Head . They take you aboard their elegant dhoni, and we were mesmerized by swimming alongside manta rays, reef sharks, and turtles in crystal-clear waters.
Cornelia, the dive center manager, left an unforgettable impression on us. Her approach was warm, professional, and filled with a passion for the sea. We were fortunate enough to have a long conversation with her about diving, marine life, and her years of underwater experience. Beyond being an exceptional divemaster, we found Cornelia to be a fascinating person, one of those who exudes calm, knowledge, and a genuine love for what she does.
We always felt supported by her, safe, and well-advised, with Scubapro equipment and the option of diving with Nitrox. She also had infinite patience, allowing us to stop and take photos of the fascinating marine life we encountered.
The truth is, without a doubt, diving in Kandolhu was one of the most memorable experiences of the trip .
Varu Spa
The Varu Spa is an oasis hidden among the tropical vegetation of Kandolhu, designed to offer a deep and personalized wellness experience. From the first step in its facilities, an atmosphere of total calm is perceived: wood, floral aromas, silence and sea breeze. The architecture is beautiful and everything is designed for the body to relax and the mind to disconnect.
We had the massage as a couple and each of us chose our own type of massage. The session began with a small conversation to choose the type of oil we wanted -each one with different properties: relaxing, revitalizing or balancing-. Afterwards, we were offered a welcome ritual with a foot massage. That alone was enough to put us in a different state.
The therapists, with impeccable technique. The room had dim lighting and soft music, which multiplied the feeling of intimacy and disconnection. It is one of those moments you wish you could stretch out.
At the end, the experience does not end: the spa has a hydrotherapy area with sauna, Turkish bath and relaxation pool, where we could continue the relaxation session with herbal teas, fresh fruit and the sound of birds as the only company. A natural extension of the massage that turns the treatment into something more: it is a complete ritual.
In short, the Varu spa is one of the great secrets of Kandolhu. Here everything is cared for, personalized and wrapped in nature. If there is a place where body and mind are aligned to disconnect from the world, it is this hidden corner between palm trees and white sand.
Resort Food & Beverage
Signature cuisine in the middle of the Indian Ocean
One of the great surprises of Kandolhu was its great gastronomic offer. Despite the resort's small size, it is home to five unique restaurants, each with its own identity and culinary proposal. Here there are no impersonal buffets or repetitive menus: each meal is an experience thought out with care, with fresh products, impeccable service and locations that invite you to savor each bite without rushing.
During our stay, we tried them all, and each meal was a completely different experience.
The Market
This is the main restaurant and where breakfast is served a la carte. Every morning we started the day with good, freshly brewed espresso coffee, fresh juices, fresh fruit and a menu of hot dishes ranging from eggs benedict to Asian options (they even serve the famous Entrecotte de Café de Paris!). We loved ordering breakfast on the terrace, overlooking the sea and bare feet in the sand. In the evening, The Market offers international cuisine with an elegant approach: fresh pastas, grilled meats and fish of the day, all served with that homemade yet sophisticated touch.
Olive
A Mediterranean corner in the middle of the Maldives. This open-air restaurant, located on a platform overlooking the sea, specializes in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. We dined here on a particularly starry night and still remember the seafood risotto and fresh burrata as if it were yesterday. The combination of quality ingredients, thoughtful presentation and relaxed atmosphere made it one of our favorites.
Sea Grill
If fresh fish and grilled meats are your thing, this is the place for you. Sea Grill combines grilled cuisine with tropical flavors. We ordered a seared Maldivian tuna and a perfectly cooked veal fillet, accompanied by grilled vegetables and homemade sauces. Everything cooked on the spot, in front of the diner, on an open grill that gives it a theatrical and delicious touch. It is also ideal for special dinners by the sea.
Banzai
A gem for lovers of Japanese cuisine. Banzai offers an intimate experience with only a few seats available around a teppanyaki bar. Here they serve fresh sushi, sashimi, tempura and hot dishes cooked in front of you by chefs with great technique. We were surprised by both the quality of the fish and the chef's show (it's a spectacle!!!!). Reservations are required, and it's totally worth it.
Ata-Roa
The most colorful and creative corner of the resort. Ata-Roa offers a menu inspired by Mexican and Peruvian cuisine with a Maldivian touch. Here we tried Baja-style fish tacos and a ceviche with leche de tigre that we found spectacular. It is the perfect place for a casual, fresh and tasty meal between swims. The turquoise sea views and the vibrant presentation of the dishes make it irresistible. Reservations are also required and you are served at the bar, along with only 4 diners.
Types of Travel Plans
Kandolhu Hotel Maldives adapts to your travel needs, honeymoon, with your partner, with your family and why not even alone! For this purpose it offers you three options of food and beverage plans together with activity options.
Plan Bed & Breakfast - Freedom to explore
This plan includes daily breakfast at The Market, with a delicious variety of a la carte dishes in an oceanfront setting. It is ideal for those who prefer to maintain flexibility during the day and enjoy spontaneous meals. Also included is complimentary use of snorkeling equipment and unlimited access to a wide range of non-motorized water sports, such as paddle surfing and kayaking.
This is the most basic and flexible option, ideal if you prefer to pay for drinks or additional experiences as you need them.
Plan À La Carte - Unlimited gourmet experience
With this plan you will enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at any of the resort's five signature restaurants, all served a la carte. There are no buffets: only quality cuisine in intimate spaces, during regular opening hours. It also includes free snorkeling equipment and full access to non-motorized nautical activities.
An option designed for those who want to turn every meal into a special moment, without worrying about reservations or additional costs.
Ultimate Inclusions Plan - All-inclusive with luxury and detail
Kandolhu's most complete option. It includes all meals a la carte in the 5 restaurants, along with a selection of more than 30 international wines -also available in the private wine cellar of each villa-, premium distillates, craft cocktails, beers, soft drinks, smoothies, teas and specialty coffees in all areas of the resort. Plus, you'll get a 10% discount on Varu spa treatments, and you can choose between a guided snorkeling excursion on the reef or a sunset cruise with champagne and canapés (once per stay). All of this is accompanied by unlimited use of snorkeling and non-motorized water sports. It is the perfect option for those who want to be carefree and live an all-inclusive luxury experience.
It is the most exclusive option, ideal for gastronomy lovers and those who want the best experience without restrictions.
Our Experience at Kandolhu Maldives Hotel
Maldives
The place we will always want to return to
Coming back from Kandolhu was strange. Not because of jet lag, not because of the change in temperature, but because we felt we had left something there. We don't know if it was the island, the silence, the soft light at sunset or the conversations with the hotel team (thanks Jaleel for taking such good care of us at Kandolhu and also to Malsha from Universal Resort because she is one of those people you don't forget). Maybe it was all that together. But the truth is that it was not just a trip, it was an experience that stayed with us long after we packed our bags.
The nice thing is that we never felt like we were in a resort. There was no distance between guest and staff, no canned tourism feeling. Here they call you by name, ask you how you slept, tell you about their lives and listen to you when you tell them about yours. In a world where everything goes so fast, this kind of genuine connection is pure gold.
We came looking for calm and diving, and we found it. But we got more than we expected because when everything around you invites you to stop, you start to realize things that out there, with the noise, escape you.
There are details that have stayed with us: the sensation of floating in the spa after the massage, the embers of The sea and grill, the fish playing in the reef in front of our villa, the showcooking of Banzai, the fishead dive with Cornelia... and that last dinner in front of the sea, in silence, with the breeze and the certainty that we were exactly where we wanted to be.
It is not easy to find a place that has it all: beauty, intimacy, gastronomy and soul. Kandolhu has it, and you don't need to shout about it. There are no nightly shows or non-stop activities. There is something better: quality time, landscapes that do not tire and a human team that turns a beautiful place into an unforgettable place.
Maybe that's why, as we closed the door of our villa on the last day, we didn't say "goodbye", but "see you soon". Because when something makes you feel this good, you know it's not a period. It's a comma. A pause. And hopefully, a promise to come back.
- Web:https://www.kandolhu.com/
- Whatsapp: +960 666 0150
