Ayada Maldives: Comprehensive escape to seclusion, luxury, nature

Ayada Maldives is located in the southern Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, which is accessible via a 55-minute domestic flight from Velana International Airport followed by a 45-minute speedboat ride. Situated on a private island, the resort offers guests access to pristine beaches and a vibrant coral reef, providing a unique blend of seclusion and proximity to the natural beauty of the Maldives.

The resort presents a wide range of accommodation options, ensuring that guests can select the option that best suits their preferences. The various accommodations include overwater villas, beachfront suites, and garden residences, each designed to meet different needs. All rooms come equipped with private pools and outdoor spaces for relaxation. The interiors of these accommodations are thoughtfully designed, incorporating elements of modern style while incorporating traditional Maldivian craftsmanship. This combination creates a warm, inviting environment. In addition, amenities like high-speed internet, entertainment systems, and personal minibars ensure that guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay.

Overwater villas are a key feature of Ayada Maldives, offering guests direct access to the lagoon. These villas are ideal for those interested in marine activities, such as snorkelling and diving. The beachfront suites are surrounded by lush vegetation, providing an added sense of privacy and direct access to the beach. Larger families or groups can opt for the residences, which offer spacious living areas and private gardens, making them well-suited for extended stays or group gatherings.

Ayada Maldives features an array of dining venues, each offering distinct culinary experiences to cater to a variety of tastes. The resort offers a diverse selection of restaurants, including both casual and fine dining options.

• Ocean Breeze is an overwater restaurant that focuses on European cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner, it serves a selection of dishes, including grilled seafood, homemade pasta, and premium steaks. The unique location of the restaurant allows guests to enjoy a meal while overlooking the lagoon.
• Mizu is a teppanyaki grill where guests can watch chefs prepare their meals on a hot iron plate. The menu emphasises high-quality ingredients, and guests can also enjoy a selection of sakes and wines to complement their meals.
• Kai offers a taste of Asia with dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of China, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Sushi, sashimi, and local seafood are highlights of the menu, offering a diverse range of flavours and textures.
• Zero Degree is a more casual venue, located by the pool. This restaurant offers international dishes, including fresh salads, Middle Eastern options, and European meals. It provides a relaxed setting for those looking to enjoy a lighter meal.
• Magu serves as the resort’s main restaurant, offering a buffet with nightly rotating themes. Guests can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including Mediterranean, Maldivian, and Mexican dishes, ensuring a wide range of options.
• Sea Salt, located on the beach, offers an informal setting where guests can enjoy barbecue nights. Grilled meats and seafood are served under the stars, allowing diners to experience the natural surroundings of the island while enjoying their meal.
• Ottoman Lounge is a Turkish-inspired café offering traditional coffee and tea. The café features low-seating arrangements, providing a unique and intimate experience for guests looking for a quiet moment.
• Ile de Joie is located over the water and specialises in wine and cheese pairings. Guests can also enjoy a curated selection of cognacs and whiskies, making it an ideal venue for those who appreciate fine beverages.

For those who prefer customised dining experiences, Ayada Maldives offers private options, including beach barbecues and in-villa meals that can be tailored to individual preferences.

The resort also focuses on wellness and relaxation, with AySpa offering a comprehensive range of treatments. The spa spans 3,500 square metres and features eight treatment villas, some of which include hydrotherapy baths, private courtyards, and outdoor showers. Among its signature offerings are the Turkish Hammam and a Vichy shower room, which provide unique relaxation experiences.

Guests can access several relaxation areas, including heated vitality pools, cold plunge pools, steam rooms, and saunas. The spa menu includes massages, facials, and body treatments that combine traditional Maldivian and modern wellness practices. In addition, yoga and meditation sessions are available, helping guests to find balance and relaxation during their stay.

Ayada Maldives offers an extensive range of activities and excursions to keep guests engaged during their stay. For those interested in marine exploration, the house reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, and guided snorkelling tours as well as scuba diving experiences are available. The resort also offers surfing excursions to nearby surf breaks, with the trips tailored to the current weather conditions.

Fishing enthusiasts can partake in sunset fishing trips aboard traditional dhoni boats, allowing them to engage in local fishing practices. Dolphin spotting trips are also popular among guests, with boat rides providing the opportunity to observe spinner dolphins in their natural habitat. Additional excursions include glass-bottom boat tours and island safaris, both of which focus on exploring the region’s biodiversity. These activities offer guests a deeper connection with the natural environment surrounding the resort.

Ayada Maldives also serves as a popular destination for weddings, offering various packages and venues to suit the preferences of couples. The ‘White Room’, the resort’s largest wedding chapel, is surrounded by landscaped gardens, making it a primary venue for those seeking a traditional wedding ceremony. Couples can also exchange vows on the beach or aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni boat. A dedicated wedding planner is available to assist with the logistics and personalisation of each ceremony.

The resort is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, incorporating waste recycling, energy-efficient operations, and coral conservation programs into its day-to-day activities. In addition, Ayada Maldives sources ingredients from local communities, reducing its carbon footprint while supporting the nearby economy.

Service at Ayada Maldives is centred around personalisation. Staff members assist guests with planning activities and provide discreet yet attentive service throughout their stay. High-speed internet is available throughout the resort, allowing guests to stay connected for work or leisure during their visit.

Ayada Maldives offers a comprehensive range of accommodations, dining options, and activities, catering to a variety of traveller preferences. Its emphasis on sustainability and personalised service ensures a fulfilling and responsible stay. The resort’s ability to blend cultural authenticity with modern amenities positions it as an attractive option for those visiting the Maldives.