Ithaafushi, Maldives / Ithaafushi - The Private Island by Waldorf Astoria

Flying over this islet, it looks like any other Maldivian paradise; but from the daily adventures to what happens beneath the villa gables, this is island living on your own terms.

At a modest 32,000 square metres, Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi’s little sister takes the title of largest private island in the region. We must say, this isn’t somewhere you venture time and time again, although the urge to do so upon returning will never really leave. Instead, it is reserved for those special, one-of-a-kind moments – the milestones, the celebrations, the reunions. Complete customisation both before and during a stay and hospitality to rival some royal residences are what this place does best, with everything being done at a moment’s notice to the point where you’ll start to question if the staff are actually telepathic.

While a seaplane is available, what most choose to do is take the longer way round, setting the scene on a champagne-soaked yacht from Malé while being escorted by friendly dolphins when they're in the area. While on the patch of land itself, one of three villas (two are on land and one hangs over the water) greet each individual with stylish teak and white interiors and glassy pools. Going from dawn ‘til dusk testing out the various personal hangout spots is a great way to idle away the time, but the inventory of experiences succeeds in tempting lolling loungers with the likes of shipwreck dives, chartering a vessel from the largest yacht fleet in the Maldives, and resting sleepy and satisfied heads beneath the stars.  

Travel notes:

• Exclusive use private island with a 4-bedroom residence, 3-bedroom villa and 2-bedroom overwater villa sleeping up to 24 guests
• On-island chefs are on hand to create bespoke menus with a “dine when you like” policy
• Head over to Waldorf Astoria Ithaafushi’s main island where there's 11 more dining options just a 3 minute boat ride away
• The island is fully staffed and includes an entertainment clubhouse, spa and a fitness centre
• Watersports are on tap including parasailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking
• Being so close to Malé, the yacht transfer only takes about 40 minutes, while the seaplane journey is swift at less than 5 minutes