10 Incredible Features That Put The WOW In W Maldives

W Maldives was the very first retreat created by the W Hotels Worldwide. The CEO and creator of the W Hotels, Barry S. Sternlicht said, “With its’ pure white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and careful and pristine approach to tourism, the Maldives is an excellent location for our first W resort”.

W Maldives has come a long way since its official opening in 2006. Owned by the world’s fastest growing luxury brand, the W Maldives continues to thrive and flourish even a decade later. Let’s take a look at what makes this exotic island a ‘luxury playground’.

1. Whatever/ Whenever Policy

W Maldives’ Whatever/Whenever policy dares you to think up whatever your heart desires during your stay, and the staff will be happy to oblige. At the crack of dawn or midnight, the Whatever/Whenever team claims, “We’re always here for you. Anything. Just ask”. Now, this is a hotel policy we can get on board with.

2. W Airport Lounge

After exhausting hours of travel and multiple flights, the last thing you want to do is wait around in a crowded airport. Thankfully, this is where the W Lounge comes in. Your long-awaited holiday journey begins here, at the Velana International Airport of Maldives. W Maldives has it’s very own private airport lounge where you will be escorted to as soon as you land. With bags out of hand and welcome drinks instead, you have a chance to freshen up, relax, and even have some snacks while you wait for your seaplane journey to W Maldives.

3. House Reef To Die

As your 25 minute seaplane ride ends and you land on sea, the first thing you notice is the blindly beautiful hues of blue. W Maldives is home to the one of the best house reefs found in the Maldives. The resort offers an adventure of a lifetime, a chance to swim and snorkel with turtles, rays and reef sharks. The house reef is accessible anywhere on the resort, just walk a few steps outside your villa and jump in.

4. Gaathafushi Island – The Private Island

Gaathafushi is a pristine little secluded island, for guests to reserve to spend the day or stay overnight. You can escape away to this wild gem only moments away from W Maldives, to indulge in complete peace and serenity. You can reserve the island for romantic dinners, surprise proposals or just to lounge around on your very own island, because who hasn’t had that dream? The private island comes with a personal chef who will prepare your dinner, and if you do decide to stay the night, breakfast will be brought to you from the Resort. Hurrah!

5. ESCAPE – Luxury Yacht

W Maldives’ very own private luxury yacht, ESCAPE, is available for guests to charter and voyage over the dazzling Indian Ocean. Guests can charter the yacht for Dinner On Escape, with your own private chef preparing your favorite cuisine to wine and dine at sea. The luxury yacht is also available for a Sunset Cruise; for sunset lovers, and Overnight Experience; for guests to encounter whale sharks at the south of Ari Atoll. ESCAPE is also available as an airport transfer; for guests to cruise from W Maldives to the Airport, island hopping and snorkeling along the way.

6. Fifteen Below

Pushing the limits of the Whenever/Wherever concept, Fifteen Below is the one and only underground nightclub in the Maldives. Aptly named, the underground Sushi Bar and Nightclub is 15 feet below the sand. With a resident DJ playing electrifying music, you can enjoy the authentic Japanese dishes served at the club, inspired by the graffiti artist who designed the eccentric nightclub; Shiro One. For guests who want to dance with a vodka in hand, after a long lazy day at the beach, 15Below is the place to be.

7. AWAY Spa

For a much needed proper pamper session guests can visit the AWAY Spa, the private sanctuary located a long ways from everything else at W Maldives. The AWAY Spa is known for it’s unique and personalized treatments. The spa therapists will customize a special spa therapy suited solely for your body’s needs. Each treatment is at an outdoor veranda that comes with a bathtub, rain shower and lounge bed. It provides an unmatched view of the house reef and horizon, for when you just need to get AWAY.

8. Make WAVES, DOWN UNDER

To make sure the guests can venture deeper into the mystical waters and beach lifestyle of Maldives, the resort has WAVE; a water sports center, and DOWN UNDER; a diving center. W Maldives provides the best of the best water sports experience that you can have. WAVE is fully equipped to take you parasailing, water skiing, windsurfing, tubing, wake boarding, jet skiing; you name it. DOWN UNDER will take you to the best dive sites in the Maldives and offers free diving, beginner and advanced diving courses.

9. Taste Paradise At W

W Maldives offers incredible possibilities for dining and drinks. Visit KITCHEN for breakfast with a twist of Maldivian flavors. Stop by FISH for specialty seafood dishes and the origins of Maldivian cuisine. Enjoy a beach barbecue under the stars and dancing palm trees, at FIRE. Quench your thirst at SIP while you enjoy a breathtaking sunset. Have a cocktail during a dip, at the swim-up pool WET bar. W Maldives also offers the option to dine wherever you want on the island, just pick a spot and they will take care of the rest.

10. The W Talent

Last but not least, the team at W Maldives referred to as the ‘W Talent’ have an exceptional line-up of hard workers and friendly locals. A memorable holiday is not complete without warm and inviting islanders. The character and reputation of W Maldives would surely not be what it is today without the dedication of their staff. The 11 prestigious international travels awards received by W Maldives, is a testament to that.

The W Maldives has most certainly lived up to Mr. Barry S. Sternlicht’s vision and idea for the resort when it was initially launched. Through out the years, W Maldives has wonderfully upheld their standards and reputation, all the while providing an incomparable holiday experience. See you in Maldives, see you in W.

A trip to the Maldives is more than just a vacation—it’s an invitation to experience paradise in its purest form. Picture yourself surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives, where every moment feels like a scene from a dream. From its crystal-clear waters to its vibrant coral reefs, this island paradise offers experiences that go beyond traditional travel. Nestled in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is known for its luxury resorts, white-sand beaches, and a serene atmosphere that stays with you long after you return. Here are five unforgettable takeaways that will leave you longing to return to this magical destination.

The Unrivaled Natural Beauty of the Maldives

The moment you set foot in the Maldives, nature’s charm captivates you. Walk along pristine beaches, feel the soft, cool sand between your toes, and hear the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore. Surrounded by vibrant, lush vegetation, the islands are a sanctuary of tropical flora, where palm trees sway gently in the breeze and colorful flowers dot the landscape. The Maldives’ beaches offer a sight to behold, with sparkling turquoise waters that stretch endlessly before you, so clear that you can see the coral beneath the surface.As you gaze at the vivid hues of a sunrise or sunset painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, you quickly realize that the Maldives is more than just a destination—it’s an experience.

Each resort is nestled in a private, secluded island, offering unmatched views of the crystal-clear waters, where the ocean shimmers in shades of blue and green, giving you a sense of peace and tranquility. Moreover, as evening approaches, the beauty of the night sky takes your breath away. With little light pollution, the Maldives’ clear night skies become perfect for stargazing. Just imagine lying on the beach, watching the constellations twinkle above you—it’s a tranquil experience that adds to the magic of the island.

Imagine the Ultimate Luxury Experience

Now, imagine waking up in a luxury overwater villa, with the sound of the ocean just beneath your feet. Maldivian luxury is about more than just opulence; it’s about complete personalization and serenity. From private beaches to infinity pools with panoramic ocean views, your stay feels like a dream. Whether you prefer a romantic dinner under a canopy of stars or taking a private sunset cruise, every detail gets curated to perfection. Wouldn’t it be incredible to have every need taken care of, from personal butlers to all-inclusive services? Luxury resorts in the Maldives offer just that, ensuring you fully unwind. For those on a honeymoon in the Maldives or anyone seeking the ultimate indulgence, the Maldives becomes the perfect escape where luxury meets tranquility.

The Maldives: An Underwater Wonderland

One of the most captivating aspects of the Maldives is its underwater world. From avid divers to first-time snorkelers, the marine life here leaves everyone speechless. Swim alongside whale sharks, sea turtles, and schools of colorful fish as they glide effortlessly through vibrant coral reefs. In other words, it’s not just a chance to see marine creatures up close—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level. Alternatively, for those who prefer staying above the water, take a glass-bottom boat tour to catch a glimpse of the ocean’s treasures without getting wet. The Maldives offers an unforgettable encounter with the ocean’s beauty, reminding us of the importance of protecting our planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Dive into Maldivian Culture and Warmth

Beyond the beauty and luxury, the Maldives offers a rich cultural tapestry. Stroll through local islands, where you can experience the warm hospitality of the Maldivian people. The rhythmic sounds of the bodu beru drums and the intricate designs of Maldivian handicrafts transport you into a world deeply connected to the sea. Furthermore, Islamic traditions and a centuries-old seafaring history blend to create a vibrant culture that welcomes visitors with open arms. When you explore the local culture, it gives you a deeper, more meaningful connection to the islands. Visit markets, interact with locals, and learn about their way of life to add another layer to your Maldives vacation, making it a journey of both relaxation and discovery.

The Art of Slow Living in the Maldives

Perhaps one of the most enduring aspects of a trip to the Maldives is the sense of slow living it instills. Time moves at a different pace here, and you quickly find yourself unwinding as you reconnect with nature. For instance, lounge in a hammock, feel the cool ocean breeze on your skin, or stargaze under an unpolluted sky—the Maldives offers a profound sense of peace. In today’s fast-paced world, this return to simplicity is a welcome change. The Maldives encourages you to embrace the present moment, savor the beauty of your surroundings, and enjoy the company of those you’re with. It’s a place where relaxation and mindfulness come naturally, making it the ideal destination for anyone seeking serenity.

The Lasting Impressions of a Maldives Getaway

The Maldives is more than just a destination—it’s a promise of unforgettable moments that linger long after you’ve left. From the stunning natural beauty that greets you with each sunrise to the peaceful stillness that settles in at night, every corner of this island paradise offers a unique experience. Indeed, the luxurious pampering, the vibrant underwater world, and the sense of peace that envelopes you all contribute to making the Maldives a place that leaves a mark on your soul.

Ultimately, imagine returning home with not just photos, but a treasure trove of memories. So, the only question left is: what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Maldives today and discover a world where time slows down, beauty surrounds you, and every moment feels like a dream come true.

Feature image: Ayada Maldives