Escape to Tropical Island Bliss at Amilla Maldives

Step into paradise at Amilla Maldives, where sheer luxury meets unspoiled natural beauty. The fact that this resort is located within Baa Atoll, a world-renowned UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, already says something about the picture-perfect scenery that awaits you. Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a rejuvenating escape, this resort offers unforgettable experiences that will be etched in your memories forever.  In this article, prepare to be transported to a realm of pure bliss as we share the unique experiences to discover at Amilla. 

9 Blissful Experiences to Discover at Amilla Maldives

1. Toast to life’s most special occasions in a slice of paradise 

The captivating surroundings of Amilla provide an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable moments and cherished memories. After all, this resort is located within Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is also one of Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023’s  Top 10 House Reefs in the Maldives. 

Not only the waters are clean and well-maintained – the beach also looked like it was straight out of paradise. This then makes it the best spot for your wedding or any other special occasion. In fact, the beach is so captivating that we actually did our renewal of vows there in private. That location was one of the most breathtaking sights we ever saw. The set-up was prepared lovingly by the Amilla Maldives team, complete with a lovely wedding arch and a professional photographer, and was made even better by the presence of our adorable little ones. Please see some of our stunning photos from Shutterfish Photography Studios below. 

2. Discover the underwater paradise at Baa Atoll

Embark on an aquatic adventure like no other at Amilla, where the wonders of the underwater world beckon. From mesmerising snorkelling excursions to exhilarating diving experiences, this enchanting island paradise offers a treasure trove of aquatic delights. Prepare to be awe-struck as you plunge into the azure depths of the Baa Atoll, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystem.

Indulging in a snorkeling excursion is a must when you visit Amilla. Snorkelling there is amazing, and the best part is that there are plenty of snorkelling packages to choose from. You can go house reef snorkelling, night snorkelling, or even visit a snorkelling safari and coral gardens. The best of the lot, though, is a snorkelling excursion in the famous Blue Hole located on the island’s own house reef.

Just a short boat ride away, or accessible from the overwater villas, this tropical reef wonder invites you to snorkel above the entrance to its mysterious depths. Surrounding the Blue Hole, you will discover an array of coral blocks teeming with an abundance of schooling fish, creating a spectacle of natural beauty that will leave you in awe. If you are a strong diver, you can even try to dive through the blue hole which is around 12m deep. Divers can also experience the best of Maldives when staying at the resort as it is adjacent to a multitude of world-class dive sites.

3. Experience the magic of dolphin watching at sunset 

For those looking for a more laidback experience, the Sunset Dolphin Cruise at Amilla is simply one of the best. With this, you will have the opportunity to encounter two of the most common dolphin species in the Maldives, Spinners, and Bottlenose.

The playful dolphins dancing through the shimmering waters were nothing short of magical, and the experience is made even better as the golden hues of the setting sun create a picturesque backdrop. Without a doubt, this sunset cruise is perfect for families, couples, and even solo travellers. 

Our daughter, Ally, was especially captivated by the delightful spectacle of dolphins playing and swimming around, exclaiming with joy and even inventing her own word – “tata” – whenever she spotted a dolphin. It was a heartwarming moment when she asked me what “tata” meant, and to our surprise, the Maldivian captain informed us that it meant “bye bye” in the local language. Our little Ally also had the chance to steer the boat alongside the captain, making this Sunset Dolphin Cruise an even more memorable experience for our whole family.

Beyond that, you may also go to Hanifaru Bay, a world-renowned site within Baa Atoll. “Hanifaru” meaning “narrow reef” in the local language of Dhivehi, is a long and narrow channel-like bay and this is where the Maldives manta rays and the occasional whale shark aggregate in huge numbers from July to October when the tide, moon and conditions are right. The options for water adventures are simply endless at Amilla Maldives. From windsurfing and kayaking to thrilling jet skiing and serene sunset cruises, excitement and exhilaration await at every turn.

4, Stay at an exquisite Reef Water Villa

Amilla Maldives presents a sanctuary of luxury where every detail is thoughtfully designed to ensure an unforgettable stay. As one of the best five-star resorts in the Maldives, this resort boasts 59 private luxury villas, each offering its own charm and element. There are Treetop Villas if you want to see the Maldives from a much higher vantage point, Beach Villas if you love to play in glittering white sands, as well as Sunset Water Villas and Lagoon Pool Villas for a picturesque view of the Maldives’ waters. 

However, if you love the underwater world as much as we do, the best accommodation for you would be the Reef Water Villas. Suspended right over the kaleidoscopic reef, these villas provide you direct access to the ocean, making it perfect for snorkellers or simply relaxation as you can easily dangle your feet off the azure waters. There is also a pool overlooking the ocean – the best place to lounge around after a long day. If you are looking to snorkel, you can simply borrow snorkelling gear from the backyard and dive straight into the waters. But then, make sure to watch the currents before fully going in as they can sometimes be unpredictable in the Maldives. 

With a generous living room area, a separate bedroom, and an open-concept shower, the Reef Water Villa offers ample space to unwind. The highlight, however, is the breathtaking view of the reef visible right from the comfort of your bed, creating a truly magical experience. 

Moreover, since we are travelling with our kids, the kind and attentive team members from Amilla Maldives also made sure that they provide us with plenty of baby amenities to make our stay even more comfortable. They provided us with Pigeon Bottle & Food Warmer, Philips Avent Steam Steriliser, and even a toilet potty trainer for our little ones, which we appreciated a lot. Their thoughtful gesture of wishing our baby boy Aaron a happy birthday also added a special touch to our stay.

Thoughtful baby amenities from Amilla Maldives

5. Soak up the sun and play with the sand at a private beach

With its unparalleled natural splendour and exclusive seclusion, the private beach at Amilla Maldives offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking the ultimate relaxation. We loved playing by the beaches and even looked for hermit crabs with our little kiddos on the pristine white sands. Evenings brought a special surprise as we witnessed the graceful presence of sharks swimming through the shallow waters, a truly awe-inspiring sight that left us in awe.

Create lovely memories at Amilla Maldives

A few steps from the beach is the resort’s main pool, which was absolutely stunning. There is even a cosy lounging area nestled in the middle, adorned with graceful coconut trees that provide a welcome touch of shade. Relax in this cosy place as you immerse yourself in the picturesque views surrounding you. However, it is during sunset when the magic truly unfolds. The pool becomes illuminated with vibrant hues as the sun gracefully sets, transforming into a scene of pure enchantment.

6. Go glamping under the starry skies 

For nature enthusiasts seeking a unique and immersive experience, Amilla Maldives offers the opportunity to indulge in glamping under the stars. Tucked away in a secluded spot amidst the island’s lush jungle, this extraordinary experience invites you to discover an exclusive air-conditioned bubble tent, where modern comforts meet the wonders of nature. Imagine being cocooned within a high-tech, climate-controlled inflatable pod, providing you with a 360-degree panoramic view of your surroundings. However, the true highlight is when you turn off all the lights inside the pod at night, transforming the entire area into an enchanting wonderland, with the stars above shimmering like glitters in the sky.

This unique experience at Amilla Maldives offers more than just a place for sleeping. Guests have access to bathroom facilities, both indoor and outdoor showers, a plunge pool, steam room, and sauna, ensuring a blend of comfort and adventure. Moreover, you can choose from a selection of personalised packages, each tailored to enhance your glamping experience. If you are seeking an extra touch of romance, you can even request a private cinema set-up, complete with delectable pizza and popcorn, for a truly unforgettable evening with your partner. With such exceptional offerings, it comes as no surprise why glamping is one of our top experiences in the Maldives. 

7. Enjoy world-class cuisine with breathtaking views

Embark on an extraordinary gastronomic journey at Amilla Maldives, where a diverse range of culinary offerings awaits to tantalise your taste buds. The resort caters not only to a variety of cuisines but also to individual dietary preferences. Carefully crafted menus are available at each world-class restaurant, allowing guests to embrace their unique eating lifestyles while on vacation. Whether you follow a vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, or paleo diet, their dedicated culinary team is committed to providing exceptional dining experiences that align with your preferences. The best part is, as you savour these delectable creations, you will be treated to mesmerising views of the stunning Maldives, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Fresh

Start your day off with a nourishing and satisfying breakfast experience at Fresh. Delight in a tempting selection of tropical fruits, wellness bowls, and homemade yoghurt to kickstart your morning on a refreshing note. Whether you prefer a la carte dishes or the bountiful buffet spread, Fresh offers a variety of options to suit your taste and dietary preferences. We especially loved the curry selection at breakfast, as well as the Shakshuha (which reminded us of our lovely time in Cappadocia and Istanbul!), Eggs Benedict, and Chicken Dumplings.

Start your mornings right with a healthy and delicious breakfast from Fresh

Our breakfast at Fresh also caters to the little ones, with a flexible menu that allows you to customise their meals according to their preferences. From avocado and quinoa to various egg recipes and porridge, Fresh is dedicated to ensuring a delightful dining experience for the whole family. For an added treat, the outdoor waffle station awaits kids and kids-at-heart, offering a delectable and crispy delight.

Feeling Koi 

Immerse yourself in the epitome of fine dining in the tropical Maldives at Feeling Koi, an extraordinary Japanese restaurant located at Amilla Maldives .  Set on an overwater deck, the tables offer stunning views of the surrounding currents as fish gracefully dart by, creating a mesmerising backdrop for your culinary journey.

Start your journey with a delightful and impeccably prepared Salmon Tartare, a dish that showcases the vibrant flavours of the sea. Indulge in the Sashimi Platter, which is hailed as one of the best in taste and quality. For a truly unforgettable main course, the Miso Crusted Black Cod is a must-try. You may also try their Japanese Fried Rice as a lovely side dish. 

Delightful Japanese selection from Feeling Koi

Barolo Grill

Taste the rich and enticing flavours of Northern Italian cuisine with a unique Maldivian twist at Barolo Grill. Nestled in a charming open-air setting overlooking the pool, this Italian restaurant at Amilla Maldives provides the perfect ambience for an unforgettable dining experience. Our top pick? The Tuna Carpaccio & Avocado – the delightful combination of flavours are just to die for. 

Indulge in comforting Northern Italian dishes at Barolo

If you are a steak lover, do not miss the opportunity to savour Barolo’s Cape Grim Tenderloin MB2 200g, known for its robust flavour and succulent texture. For those who prefer more marbling, the Cape Grim Striploin 200g or the Cape Grim Cube Roll MB4 250g are excellent choices. Pair your steak with a glass of Piedmont red wine for a perfect combination. The delectable Truffle Risotto is also a must-try, but save room for dessert as the Dark Chocolate Ingot and Chocolate Fondant will surely satisfy your sweet cravings.

Don’t forget to make room for desserts! 

Emperor Beach Club Cafe 

Savour meals by the sand and indulge in a delightful dining experience at Emperor Beach Club. This vibrant beachfront restaurant is not only known for its relaxed atmosphere but also for its three weekly theme nights, including a showcase of authentic Maldivian cuisine. 

One of the must-try dishes at Emperor Beach Club is the Poke Bowl, featuring a delightful combination of rice, edamame, sesame, avocado, radish, egg, and soya mirin, all topped with the freshest Maldivian Tuna. Their tacos, calamari, and lobster roll paired with a side of sweet potato fries are also highly recommended. 

Enjoy these tasty meals on the breezy beach 

Joe’s Pizza

Amilla Maldives also has something in store for pizza lovers – Joe’s Pizza. Each creation at Joe’s Pizza is meticulously crafted to order, using the freshest herbs and premium ingredients, resulting in a truly exceptional culinary experience. You must definitely try the Joe’s Signature Truffle Pizza – it truly does not disappoint!  You can really see how they put dedication to quality and taste in every slice.

Chill’d Cafe

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at Chill’d Cafe, located in Amilla Maldives. This vibrant cafe is the perfect destination for those seeking mouthwatering ethical burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more. With an emphasis on freshness and quality, each dish is crafted to satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. We especially recommend their Seafood Platter! 

Pair your meal with a refreshing selection of juices, wellness smoothies, and probiotic sodas, ensuring a refreshing and healthy dining experience. And here’s a sweet surprise – complimentary homemade ice cream and sorbets are available all day, offering a delightful treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.

8. Retreat to pure bliss at Javvu Spa 

Embark on a blissful journey of relaxation and rejuvenation at Javvu Spa, a sanctuary of tranquillity nestled within the stunning Amilla Maldives. Here, you can get luxurious massages and other spa treatments while being serenaded by the sounds of gentle waves and the caress of cool ocean breezes.

The spa’s integrated techniques beautifully combine Eastern and Western therapies, providing a harmonious blend of rejuvenation. Additionally, Javvu Spa offers a taste of Dhivehi Beys, authentic Maldivian herbal treatments sourced from the resort’s own island gardens and lush jungle surroundings. So whether you are seeking a rejuvenating escape, a romantic couples’ retreat, or simply a moment of self-care, Javvu Spa offers an unparalleled spa experience in the Maldives. 

9. Never get bored with the array of fun-filled daily activities available

Even if you are not into water activities, Amilla Maldives provides plenty of experiences for guests of all ages. For sports enthusiasts, the resort features spacious courts and pitches perfect for engaging in tennis, pickleball, and football. With the presence of professional coaches, you have the opportunity to receive expert training and elevate your skills to new heights.

One activity that truly stands out for us is beach cruising. Take advantage of the resort’s complimentary beach cruiser bicycles and embark on an island exploration like no other. Amilla Maldives is one of the few resorts in the Maldives that offers a 3-kilometre loop around the island, providing an idyllic path for running, walking, and cycling, all under the serene shade of the jungle canopy. It probably takes only 15 minutes to cycle through the entire island, and it is worth every second. Every corner is breathtakingly picturesque. There is even a huge chicken farm right at the back of the island!

Explore the entire island with your own beach cruiser bicycle

Those travelling with kids can also enjoy the resort’s Kids Club. Designed to foster creativity and a love for nature, the club provides experiential activities that ignite the imaginations of budding creators, environmentalists, marine biologists, and athletes. With engaging programs, children can indulge in enriching experiences and form connections with the natural world. There were also tons of toys to go around, and our little ones especially loved frolicking around the club’s huge ball pit. 

One of the best Kids’ Clubs in the Maldives

Our stay at Amilla Maldives was nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you are travelling with your family or enjoying a romantic getaway, there were endless activities to keep everyone entertained. From snorkelling in the vibrant coral reefs to indulging in exquisite dining experiences, every moment was filled with joy and relaxation. The attentive service from the staff, particularly from Indran, the director of rooms, who went above and beyond to ensure our comfort, made us feel truly at home. Our time at this exceptional resort will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we highly recommend this resort to anyone seeking a truly remarkable and unforgettable vacation in the Maldives.