Soneva Fushi

It was such a magical experience for our honeymoon. Lots of activities to do and it was such an extraordinary feeling to connect with nature especially with the barefoot walks around the island. The staff were extremely nice and we had the best barefoot butler by name of Miqdad who...

It was such a magical experience for our honeymoon. Lots of activities to do and it was such an extraordinary feeling to connect with nature especially with the barefoot walks around the island. The staff were extremely nice and we had the best barefoot butler by name of Miqdad who was really helpful and seems to be vert vast on the island and all fun things to be done and when to do them. We also had couples private photoshoot at different locations and the photographer HANEEN was very professional and also gives quality advices on what to where and locations and times for each picture and outfit; she’s extraordinary. The out of the blue restaurant had really nice foods and the chinese chef was also very good and had lots of good things we wanted. The female room cleaner was very nice too and she’s always available. We did lots of activities including snorkeling where we were lucky enough to see some tortoises inside wanter and On our last day we had Jungle dinner experience and the setup was sooo nice and matches the romantic vibe of the occasion thanks to the fresh in the garden restaurant manager Rilwan and Chef Chinthaka and his team. Overall it was a really good experience at Soneva Fushi and we would really like to come back.

We have twice visited Soneva Fushi over the past two decades (last in 2016) and combined a 5-night stay there this time with a stay at nearby Amilla (having visited neighbouring Anantara Kihava in 2018). We flew with Qatar Airlines from BHX to MLE via DOH, our trip arranged once...

We have twice visited Soneva Fushi over the past two decades (last in 2016) and combined a 5-night stay there this time with a stay at nearby Amilla (having visited neighbouring Anantara Kihava in 2018). We flew with Qatar Airlines from BHX to MLE via DOH, our trip arranged once again by Caroline at stylishresorts.com. Thanks to both for a great service. Our inter-island speedboat transfer went very smoothly, the Soneva launch arriving to collect us at the appointed time. We were introduced to our butler ("barefoot guardian" in Soneva-speak) Miqdad on the boat, and check-in completed easily. Since much has changed since our last visit (including the loss of the underground wine cellar and the library, but with the enlargement of the old sunset bar, the development of an overwater dining complex and 8 water-villas), Miqdad gave us a quick tour of the island before taking us to our "home", villa 54. As returning guests we enjoyed an upgraded room (2-bed, 1 bathroom, small kitchen), a bottle of champagne and free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks from the well-stocked fridge and minibar. The kitchen had both kettle and a Nespresso machine and cafetierre, perfect for the coffee addict. The villas still have the same island rustic charm, with an open-air bathroom featuring a great bath and two showers (one outside). The A/C and fans both worked well, being quiet and unobtrusive. Perhaps a few of the sockets could be updated to offer USB/USB-C charging? The Wi-Fi was not reliable throughout the stay, thankfully there was no need to work-from-the-island. The plungepool is 1.4m deep, but has no steps and had we been using the 2-bed villa with small children this might have been a safety concern. The front "garden" leads down to the beach, although it is worth noting the properties lower in the 40s and lower 50s are onto a much wider beach - for 53-56 the beach disappears at high tide. There is also little direct sunshine, as the gardens are all quite overgrown. The large area given over to a water feature at the rear seems wasted, perhaps it could be reduced in size and a private sundeck built? We have always stayed on the sunset side, as we have no issue with the near-neighbour island of Eydhafushi, although some might. The calls-to-prayer and prayers of the muezzin and imam drift gently on the wind, and we found them sonorous and relaxing. The background hum of a generator/compressor less so, particularly on an otherwise still evening. Soneva has always impressed with its "Silent Service" - the room is always prepared while guests breakfast, and the housekeeping staff are rarely encountered. This has now been expanded by a service whereby any bottle of wine purchased one day "follows you" to your next dining venue. Smart. One feature which was very welcome and rarely seen was the free laundry service, which just attracts a "donation" of $11 to a local charity. Breakfast has always been a high-point for the resort, and it remains "Best in Class". It was especially good to meet Sira again, who has been with the resort since day 1. On our past visits he ran the fresh fruits offerings, earning our nickname "Mr Mango", a role which has passed to his son. Hopper with curry and dhal from Sira were superb, they'll be much-missed when he retires. We had the same waiter- Allu - looking after us for breakfast throughout our stay,and we also met Miqdad each morning. Nashifa at Out of the Sea was also most welcoming, as were the team of sommeliers. Soneva are moving towards catering for the "money no object" crowd, with an emphasis on larger groups and multi-generational families, rather than couples Soneva have adopted a policy of staff not wearing name badges, ostensibly to encourage guests to ask and to facilitate interaction. We make a great effort to engage with staff when we travel, but we felt the absence of name badges definitely discouraged this and raises the risk that staff are merely seen as nameless servants. We would also note that other than staff in guest-facing roles, there was often no greeting or even acknowledgement from staff passed on the island paths. The main negative about Soneva Fushi is the cost, and in some cases the poor value for money when compared with other 5* resorts, with prices for much of the F&B offering and experiences 50-100% higher. It's hard to know whether this is just general inflation, or a consequence of the involvement of Private Equity as a co-owner. For example, the So Primitive grill beach dining experience (grill & buried in sand) is $350 + service/tax (26%) ie $441 per person, excluding drinks! For that price two of you can dine at many UK Michelin-starred restaurants. At Out of the Sea (formerly Bar (a)Bara), a Cold Seafood Platter (for 2) is offered at $428. Plus 26%. A 90 minute glass-blowing session costs $300 for one, $500 for two. Plus 26%. 2hours on the Sandbank "with umbrella, water and towel" is $165 each. Plus 26%, A 330ml lager is $12, craft beers $21. Mocktails $19. Plus 26%. Oddly, the In-Villa dining offering is both broad and very reasonably priced, as are the mini-bar alcoholic drinks. We suggest a couple allow a minimum $1,000 per day for in-resort expenses during a stay. Would we recommend Soneva Fushi? It depends. If money is no object, absolutely, but for many people there is much better value to be had at other 5* resorts.

Our stay at Soneva Fushi was nothing short of perfection, a true celebration of luxury, privacy, and sustainability. From the moment we arrived, we felt deeply cared for and utterly pampered, making our 2-night stay an unforgettable experience. We were privileged to stay in the 2-Bedroom Crusoe Residence (Villa 24),...

Our stay at Soneva Fushi was nothing short of perfection, a true celebration of luxury, privacy, and sustainability. From the moment we arrived, we felt deeply cared for and utterly pampered, making our 2-night stay an unforgettable experience. We were privileged to stay in the 2-Bedroom Crusoe Residence (Villa 24), a spacious and beautifully designed villa offering over 300 sqm of space. Surrounded by tall frangipani, the villa ensured ultimate privacy, with our own secluded strip of pristine beach. Most of the time, it felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves—truly a magical experience. The villa also featured its own private pool, an outdoor shower, and a sunken bathtub, offering a luxurious and serene retreat that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of the island. Our host, Shan, deserves special recognition for his exceptional care and warmth. From the moment we met, we felt a personal connection, and his attention to detail made our stay even more special. As we celebrated our anniversary and my wife’s birthday during this trip, Shan surprised us with a beautiful message drawn in the sand—a heartfelt and touching gesture that we will treasure forever. Any guest would be lucky to have Shan as their host, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. The island’s commitment to sustainability mirrors that of Soneva Jani, with nearly self-sufficient electricity and a deep focus on eco-friendly practices. This ethos seamlessly blends with their exceptional culinary experiences. At Shades of Green, we delighted in vegetarian dishes crafted from the resort’s fresh produce. Special thanks to Winni, whose skillful preparation and passion for the cuisine made the experience even more memorable. Out of the Blue was our go-to spot for refreshing cocktails while enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean. Dining at Fresh in the Garden was an adventure in itself. The tree-top restaurant, accessible via a suspension bridge, offered a unique and thrilling approach. The food was exquisite, and the atmosphere unmatched. After dinner, we were thrilled to visit the island’s observatory, complete with its own telescope and an astronomer who was both knowledgeable and friendly, making stargazing a truly magical experience. Our journey to Soneva Fushi was as delightful as the stay. The 30-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport (MLE) to the resort offered mesmerizing views of coral reefs and lagoons. The experience began even before we arrived, with pampering at the Soneva lounge at the terminal, setting the tone for what was to come. We were greeted in our villa with a complimentary bottle of Leclerc Briant champagne, a thoughtful touch that perfectly aligned with the resort’s eco-friendly ethos. As enthusiasts of biodynamic champagne, this gesture resonated deeply with us, especially since we had the privilege of visiting this boutique champagne house in France. The Soneva Soul spa added an extra layer of relaxation to our stay. We enjoyed a guided meditation session, which was incredibly soothing and grounding, helping us connect even more deeply to the tranquil surroundings. We had the pleasure of meeting Jenny, the sales and marketing liaison at the resort. She is truly amazing—wonderful to get to know and share some time with. Also, Gerhard, the Guardian of the Experience, made it a point to come around every morning at breakfast, exchanging a few words with us, which was a lovely personal touch. As an extra charm, the island is home to over 500 friendly bunnies, who roam freely and add an unexpected and delightful element to the experience. After our unforgettable stay at Soneva Fushi, we took a seaplane over to Soneva Jani, which is also highly recommended. The journey was seamless, offering stunning views of the ocean, and Soneva Jani offers the same level of luxury, sustainability, and privacy as Soneva Fushi. We must also mention the founders and creative minds behind the Soneva resorts, Sonu and Eva, whose extraordinary vision has created an unparalleled standard in sustainable luxury. Their commitment to combining eco-conscious practices with the highest levels of comfort is truly inspiring and an example for all in the industry. In summary, Soneva Fushi offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, sustainable luxury, and heartfelt hospitality. Whether it was walking along our private beach, indulging in exceptional dining experiences, or stargazing after dinner, every moment felt special and unique. We cannot recommend this resort enough—Soneva Fushi is truly paradise redefined.

Walking in here is like stepping into a well-oiled machine of hospitality. The staff moved with purpose and precision, yet exuded warmth and genuine care. The atmosphere was a perfect blend of energy and calm, stimulating yet soothing. Every interaction felt personalized, as if the entire experience was crafted just...

Walking in here is like stepping into a well-oiled machine of hospitality. The staff moved with purpose and precision, yet exuded warmth and genuine care. The atmosphere was a perfect blend of energy and calm, stimulating yet soothing. Every interaction felt personalized, as if the entire experience was crafted just for me. I left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and already planning my next visit.

Soneva Fushi exceeded every expectation and then some! From the moment we arrived, the exceptional personal service set the tone for our stay, with our private butler ready to help with every little detail, making us feel like absolute royalty. And the food – wow! The buffet is hands down...

Soneva Fushi exceeded every expectation and then some! From the moment we arrived, the exceptional personal service set the tone for our stay, with our private butler ready to help with every little detail, making us feel like absolute royalty. And the food – wow! The buffet is hands down the best I've ever experienced, featuring an endless variety of world-class dishes that cater to every taste. Then there’s the iconic ‘Chocolate Room’ and ‘Ice Cream Room’ – these little slices of paradise are a true indulgence, offering artisanal treats that are simply unforgettable. Beyond the resort’s luxurious amenities, Soneva Fushi’s natural beauty is mesmerizing. The soft, silky white sand and stunningly clear waters offer a perfect escape, with incredible sea life all around – including adorable baby sharks that add an extra touch of magic to snorkeling adventures. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that we will cherish forever!

SONEVA is an amazing property, the island offers many activities, diving, all kind of water sports, finishing, aqua park for kids. From 1 to 9 bedrooms all luxury and calm. The best is the quality of the food and chefs, from a buffet to a fine dining everything is special...

SONEVA is an amazing property, the island offers many activities, diving, all kind of water sports, finishing, aqua park for kids. From 1 to 9 bedrooms all luxury and calm. The best is the quality of the food and chefs, from a buffet to a fine dining everything is special Thanks to Shizu for the astronomy 🔭 class, Jen, Rahima, the amazing Chelsea 🥰 and the rest of SONEVA team for taking care of us

Wow, just wow! I gotta say, this place blew my socks off. Like, from the second I walked in, it was like BAM! Amazing vibes everywhere. The folks working there? Super cool and crazy helpful. They didn't just do their job, they went above and beyond, ya know? And don't...

Wow, just wow! I gotta say, this place blew my socks off. Like, from the second I walked in, it was like BAM! Amazing vibes everywhere. The folks working there? Super cool and crazy helpful. They didn't just do their job, they went above and beyond, ya know? And don't even get me started on how comfy everything was. It's like they read my mind or something. Seriously, if you're looking for a place that's gonna make you feel like a million bucks, this is it. Can't wait to come back!

Soneva Fushi is the epitome of barefoot luxury in the Maldives. The island is a natural paradise, with lush greenery, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The culinary experiences were out of this world! Every meal felt like a fine dining experience. From fresh seafood to gourmet vegetarian options, there was...

Soneva Fushi is the epitome of barefoot luxury in the Maldives. The island is a natural paradise, with lush greenery, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The culinary experiences were out of this world! Every meal felt like a fine dining experience. From fresh seafood to gourmet vegetarian options, there was something for everyone. Our favourite places to eat were Fresh in the Garden (the mushroom soup is a MUST try) and the Flying Sauces experience. Special mention to the cheese and chocolate rooms – a foodie’s dream! Whether you're into water sports, snorkeling, or simply lounging by the beach, there's never a dull moment. There is a massive kids club, a zipline, water slides into the ocean, outdoor cinema, covered tennis court (game changer in both the rain or the hot sun), a glass blowing studio, and a spa with SO many treatments. Soneva Fushi’s commitment to sustainability is truly commendable. They’ve managed to create luxury while minimizing their environmental impact, and it shows. From the recycling center to the organic garden, you feel like you're part of something meaningful. Overall, if you’re looking for an unforgettable luxury escape with a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and sustainability, Soneva Fushi is the place to be. Can’t wait to return!

Soneva Fushi is special! We stopped in a sunrise overwater villa, & it was excellent... & HUGE The water slide is a lovely touch... But we used it twice in a week... However the study, bedroom, deck, pool & bathroom are all incredible spaces. The food is excellent (would strongly...

Soneva Fushi is special! We stopped in a sunrise overwater villa, & it was excellent... & HUGE The water slide is a lovely touch... But we used it twice in a week... However the study, bedroom, deck, pool & bathroom are all incredible spaces. The food is excellent (would strongly recommend Out of the Blue), & breakfast is always special. This is NOT a cheap island to book, but once you're there, prices are very comparable with most other Maldivian resorts. Service superb throughout. If you only get to go to the Maldives once - Then this is the one to pick.

What a treat Soneva was. We came for a few nights as part of our honeymoon. Complete paradise, it's exactly what you dream it to be. We loved our villa on the beach, it was really nice to have direct access to the shore line. We went snorkelling most morning's...

What a treat Soneva was. We came for a few nights as part of our honeymoon. Complete paradise, it's exactly what you dream it to be. We loved our villa on the beach, it was really nice to have direct access to the shore line. We went snorkelling most morning's and evenings - so many fish! We had dinner one night at So Bespoke which was a highlight, a Japanese meal was made in front of us while we watched the sunset. The ice-cream / chocolate room was also a big highlight, this was open to enjoy at our leisure. I highly recommend the guided snorkelling. They take you on a boat out to see and you'll get to snorkel at a reef out in the middle of the ocean, we saw turtles, 1000's of beautiful fish and reef sharks. The sunset dolphin cruise was also stunning. We loved out time at Soneva Fushi! We also went to Soneva Jani, Soneva Fushi was our favourite out of the two.