Pros

  • Located on a gorgeous island, just a short and breezy 25-minute speedboat ride from Male
  • Clean, contemporary, and chic rooms come with an assortment of L' Occitane products
  • A large and wide stretch of powder soft beach and a house reef that's popular with local fish
  • Beautiful and impressively flawless infinity pool overlooks the ocean
  • Poolside sun lounger section has a designated smoking area (con for some)
  • Expansive and tasty main buffet restaurant, and four specialty a la cartes, provide variety
  • Chic and casual cocktail lounge, plus a large deck bar with great sunset views
  • Large, contemporary gym features Life Fitness machines, additional exercise equipment, and chilled towels
  • Water sports, snorkeling, PADI-certified dive center, and tennis courts on-site
  • Large library includes multilingual books and magazines; plus there's a business center
  • Free generous breakfast and free Wi-Fi
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Cons

  • Numerous types of meal plans can be confusing to both staff and guests
  • Can sometimes be difficult to find peaceful public space
  • Some Water Villas face "trash island" in the distance
See More Cons

Bottom Line

With thoughtful and clean design elements, chic and modern decor, luxe amenities like L' Occitane bath products, and guests ranging from families to honeymooners, Velassaru Maldives is a luxury property with a lively, casual vibe. It's also got one of the most impressive infinity pools we've seen. The 129 rooms come with thoughtful features like polished coconut shell decor accents, personal wine fridges, plunge pools, outdoor showers, and private beach areas. There's also a large public beach with a teeming house reef, overwater spa, dive center, watersports center, and five restaurants and two bars -- and it's only 25 minutes via speedboat from Male. 

See More Bottom Line

Oyster Hotel Review

Velassaru Maldives

Scene

With a vibe that's more bustling than romantic, this resort is still well-suited for couples, as well as groups.

Although its billed and presented as a luxury resort (and it certainly is luxe), Velassaru Maldives has a real all-inclusive resort vibe pulsing through the property. It gets particularly bustling during meals times -- particularly breakfast -- at Vela, when all the guests congregate at the buffet. While it may not be the top Maldives option for a romantic getaway, if you're the social type or want a little more buzz than just lying around the beach and quality food, service, and design, then Velassaru could be an ideal pick. 

The island itself is small enough to walk around in about 20 minutes, and while you'll be able to find your way thanks to many signs and the myriad stamped "Velassaru" marks in the sand, you're likely to find most people facedown in the water peering at fish through their masks, lounging by the pool, or sipping cocktails on the wooden deck at Chill Bar. Even the staff is lively and adds to the vibrant vibe of the resort. However, this isn't to say it's a party hotel, there are still a few places to find solace, quiet, and privacy, especially in the evenings over an a la carte dinner or private beach dining -- but during the day, be prepared to share space and sound with your fellow good-spirited guests, many with kids in tow. 

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Location

On an idyllic island in the South Male Atoll, close to Male airport

Velassaru Maldives is located in the South Male Atoll on Velassaru Island. Unlike at most islands, there's no seaplane arrival or departure option for this resort -- because it's so close. From Male airport, guests jump on a quick 25-minute speedboat to reach the resort. While the proximity and short travel time is ideal, you'll be missing out on the aerial views afforded to those flying high in seaplanes. 

See More Location

Rooms

A wide range of rooms for a wide range of budgets and tastes

All of Velassaru's 129 rooms have a modern and clean design that has roots in local architecture, minibars, rainfall showers, luxe L' Occitane bath products, raincoats, fluffy bathrobes, branded flip flops that leave a Velassaru stamp in the sand with every step, tea and coffee facilities, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. 

Garden Villas start off as the standard category and have sunken sitting rooms, hardwood and tiled floors, polished coconut shell decor, modern wicker furniture, and both indoor and outdoor showers. Upgrading to the Beach Villa gets you a chic room in earth tones with stone tile floors, a bathtub, ironing facilities, a dual vanity, a personal wine chiller, a Nespresso machine, and your own private beach area and fully outdoor bathroom -- though you'll lose the sunken sitting area found in each Garden Room. Stepping up another notch to the Water Bungalow with Pool, you'll find the bathroom inside, a home theater system, and folding glass doors that open all the way up to panoramic views of the ocean. Built in 2013, the Water Bungalows have a slightly more modern look and are just a tad more snug than the Water Villas, but they're still comfortable and conveniently located near the Chill Bar. Water Villas are overwater and have additional features such as snorkeling gear, large standalone tubs, pillow menus, and top-notch linens. 

The top two categories, Pool Villa and Water Suite, include massive private plunge pools, butler service, private bars, large verandahs and poolside gazebos, and big bathrooms (with both and indoor and outdoor showers in the Pool Villas), infinity pools, 24-hour butler service, and gazebo dining areas (in the Water Suites). 

Note that some Water Villas face a manmade "trash island" in the distance. 

See More Rooms

Beach

Large and expansive sandy beach with frequent wildlife sightings

One of Velassaru's best features is its big, beautiful beach. Where many islands have to worry about sand erosion leaving little beach, Velassaru's shores are, for the most part, covered in soft white sand that stretches wide out to a picturesque blue and turquoise lagoon. At the top of the beach, just beyond the bright green bushes of sea cabbage, you'll find double-lounger setups with umbrellas. Spacing here is key, as the beach doesn't seem over-crowded. It's not uncommon to see blue herons walking along the sand or a crab scuttling across the shoreline, or tons of fish swimming around in shallow waters or around the Water Villas. 

See More Beach

All-Inclusive / Food

Several spots to grab a bite so you'll never go hungry

Unlike most resorts, none of Velassaru's restaurants are open for all three meals. Instead, the main buffet restaurant Vela is open for a free, well-stocked breakfast buffet and dinners with international and local dishes. Breakfast here is generous, with all the fixings, from toast and made-to-order omelets to miso soup and dripping honeycombs. (On the rare occasion Vela is open for lunch, it serves the same menu as Turquoise.)

Lunch can be found poolside at the Infinity pizzeria and pool bar, and at Turquoise, a beachfront spot with indoor and outdoor dining, serving a la carte international and Asian-influenced menu items. The rest of the restaurants at Velassaru are dinner-only a la carte spots. Etesian focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and has a richly decorated dining room with deep burgundy cushioned chairs, hardwood floors, dim lighting, and glass globe decor on one side, and slick polished tile floors, contemporary gray fabric chairs and white table cloths, and a large glassed-in, chilled wine cabinet on the other. Outdoor seating in the sand, lit by tiki lights, is also available. Seafood is the main option over at Sand, a fully outdoor restaurant with an open kitchen, while out on a hut over the water is Teppenyaki, a small spot for hibachi-style Japanese food. 

The resort can also set up romantic, private dinner on the sand.

See More All-Inclusive / Food

Drinks

Two main bars on opposite ends of the island

The beach-facing Fen Bar has a sleek but casual lounge vibe with a hint of eastern-world decor. This spot is open all day and has chic couches with white and burgundy cushions, bright red modern bar stools, a nice-sized bar with a top-brand whiskey selection on display, and a chilled-out vibe with beanbag setups directly on the sand. There are even a couple of cabanas and hammocks to post up in, with a drink in hand. On the opposite side of the island, over by the overwater villas, the Chill Bar is a relaxing and uber-casual spot overlooking the ocean where guests can plop down on cabana chairs scattered across the large wooden deck (though there are a few bar stools, too). This spot is popular in the evenings when guests gather with cocktails and wine to watch the sunset. Chill Bar also serves a small bite tapas menu and homemade sangria. 

Wine lovers should be sure to check out the huge walk-in wine cooler at Eteisan restaurant.

See More Drinks

Features

A wide range of activities both on land and in the water

One of Velassaru's standout features is its stunning infinity pool. Perfectly designed to create an impressive illusion of disappearing into the sea, it's one of the (if not the) most seamless you're likely to see -- it’s even got a sparkling sand-like, walk-in entry. While the pool is surrounded by a small deck, only a small section has sun loungers, the main spot to catch some rays is off to the side of the pool, in the sand, where several comfy loungers are set up in rows under the palms. There's even a dedicated smoking section. 

For those looking to get into the crystal clear waters, there's a third-party dive shop on the island that not only offers dive trips, but also certification and refresher courses; or you can head over to Glide Watersports and hop on a jet ski, standup paddle board, or catamaran, or try your hand at kitesurfing and parasailing. Scheduled excursions and water activities range from the usual snorkeling trips, to night fishing and dolphin discovery trips. Private boat rental is also available. Other features for active or fitness-focused guests include outdoor tennis courts and the large gym. The gym is outfitted with traction floors, mirrored walls, tons of Life Fitness machines, and a refrigerator filled with chilled towels and bottled water. 

The overwater spa features hydrotherapy treatments, pevonia and OPI products, an ocean-facing outdoor hot tub, steam room, sauna, and relaxation rooms where guests can lie back with a cup of hot tea. Massages and other treatments are given in private treatment bungalows with bright ocean views and strong aromatherapy smells. 

Other on-site features include shops selling things like spa products and jewelry, a large library with international titles and magazines, and a set-up of computers in the back corner.

Freebies at Velassaru include a 30-minute photoshoot (inclusive of one print), welcome drink upon arrival, generous breakfast buffet with international dishes, and Wi-Fi throughout the property. 

See More Features

Oyster Hotel Review

Velassaru Maldives

Scene

With a vibe that's more bustling than romantic, this resort is still well-suited for couples, as well as groups.

Although its billed and presented as a luxury resort (and it certainly is luxe), Velassaru Maldives has a real all-inclusive resort vibe pulsing through the property. It gets particularly bustling during meals times -- particularly breakfast -- at Vela, when all the guests congregate at the buffet. While it may not be the top Maldives option for a romantic getaway, if you're the social type or want a little more buzz than just lying around the beach and quality food, service, and design, then Velassaru could be an ideal pick. 

The island itself is small enough to walk around in about 20 minutes, and while you'll be able to find your way thanks to many signs and the myriad stamped "Velassaru" marks in the sand, you're likely to find most people facedown in the water peering at fish through their masks, lounging by the pool, or sipping cocktails on the wooden deck at Chill Bar. Even the staff is lively and adds to the vibrant vibe of the resort. However, this isn't to say it's a party hotel, there are still a few places to find solace, quiet, and privacy, especially in the evenings over an a la carte dinner or private beach dining -- but during the day, be prepared to share space and sound with your fellow good-spirited guests, many with kids in tow. 

See More Scene

Location

On an idyllic island in the South Male Atoll, close to Male airport

Velassaru Maldives is located in the South Male Atoll on Velassaru Island. Unlike at most islands, there's no seaplane arrival or departure option for this resort -- because it's so close. From Male airport, guests jump on a quick 25-minute speedboat to reach the resort. While the proximity and short travel time is ideal, you'll be missing out on the aerial views afforded to those flying high in seaplanes. 

See More Location

Rooms

A wide range of rooms for a wide range of budgets and tastes

All of Velassaru's 129 rooms have a modern and clean design that has roots in local architecture, minibars, rainfall showers, luxe L' Occitane bath products, raincoats, fluffy bathrobes, branded flip flops that leave a Velassaru stamp in the sand with every step, tea and coffee facilities, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. 

Garden Villas start off as the standard category and have sunken sitting rooms, hardwood and tiled floors, polished coconut shell decor, modern wicker furniture, and both indoor and outdoor showers. Upgrading to the Beach Villa gets you a chic room in earth tones with stone tile floors, a bathtub, ironing facilities, a dual vanity, a personal wine chiller, a Nespresso machine, and your own private beach area and fully outdoor bathroom -- though you'll lose the sunken sitting area found in each Garden Room. Stepping up another notch to the Water Bungalow with Pool, you'll find the bathroom inside, a home theater system, and folding glass doors that open all the way up to panoramic views of the ocean. Built in 2013, the Water Bungalows have a slightly more modern look and are just a tad more snug than the Water Villas, but they're still comfortable and conveniently located near the Chill Bar. Water Villas are overwater and have additional features such as snorkeling gear, large standalone tubs, pillow menus, and top-notch linens. 

The top two categories, Pool Villa and Water Suite, include massive private plunge pools, butler service, private bars, large verandahs and poolside gazebos, and big bathrooms (with both and indoor and outdoor showers in the Pool Villas), infinity pools, 24-hour butler service, and gazebo dining areas (in the Water Suites). 

Note that some Water Villas face a manmade "trash island" in the distance. 

See More Rooms

Beach

Large and expansive sandy beach with frequent wildlife sightings

One of Velassaru's best features is its big, beautiful beach. Where many islands have to worry about sand erosion leaving little beach, Velassaru's shores are, for the most part, covered in soft white sand that stretches wide out to a picturesque blue and turquoise lagoon. At the top of the beach, just beyond the bright green bushes of sea cabbage, you'll find double-lounger setups with umbrellas. Spacing here is key, as the beach doesn't seem over-crowded. It's not uncommon to see blue herons walking along the sand or a crab scuttling across the shoreline, or tons of fish swimming around in shallow waters or around the Water Villas. 

See More Beach

All-Inclusive / Food

Several spots to grab a bite so you'll never go hungry

Unlike most resorts, none of Velassaru's restaurants are open for all three meals. Instead, the main buffet restaurant Vela is open for a free, well-stocked breakfast buffet and dinners with international and local dishes. Breakfast here is generous, with all the fixings, from toast and made-to-order omelets to miso soup and dripping honeycombs. (On the rare occasion Vela is open for lunch, it serves the same menu as Turquoise.)

Lunch can be found poolside at the Infinity pizzeria and pool bar, and at Turquoise, a beachfront spot with indoor and outdoor dining, serving a la carte international and Asian-influenced menu items. The rest of the restaurants at Velassaru are dinner-only a la carte spots. Etesian focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and has a richly decorated dining room with deep burgundy cushioned chairs, hardwood floors, dim lighting, and glass globe decor on one side, and slick polished tile floors, contemporary gray fabric chairs and white table cloths, and a large glassed-in, chilled wine cabinet on the other. Outdoor seating in the sand, lit by tiki lights, is also available. Seafood is the main option over at Sand, a fully outdoor restaurant with an open kitchen, while out on a hut over the water is Teppenyaki, a small spot for hibachi-style Japanese food. 

The resort can also set up romantic, private dinner on the sand.

See More All-Inclusive / Food

Drinks

Two main bars on opposite ends of the island

The beach-facing Fen Bar has a sleek but casual lounge vibe with a hint of eastern-world decor. This spot is open all day and has chic couches with white and burgundy cushions, bright red modern bar stools, a nice-sized bar with a top-brand whiskey selection on display, and a chilled-out vibe with beanbag setups directly on the sand. There are even a couple of cabanas and hammocks to post up in, with a drink in hand. On the opposite side of the island, over by the overwater villas, the Chill Bar is a relaxing and uber-casual spot overlooking the ocean where guests can plop down on cabana chairs scattered across the large wooden deck (though there are a few bar stools, too). This spot is popular in the evenings when guests gather with cocktails and wine to watch the sunset. Chill Bar also serves a small bite tapas menu and homemade sangria. 

Wine lovers should be sure to check out the huge walk-in wine cooler at Eteisan restaurant.

See More Drinks

Features

A wide range of activities both on land and in the water

One of Velassaru's standout features is its stunning infinity pool. Perfectly designed to create an impressive illusion of disappearing into the sea, it's one of the (if not the) most seamless you're likely to see -- it’s even got a sparkling sand-like, walk-in entry. While the pool is surrounded by a small deck, only a small section has sun loungers, the main spot to catch some rays is off to the side of the pool, in the sand, where several comfy loungers are set up in rows under the palms. There's even a dedicated smoking section. 

For those looking to get into the crystal clear waters, there's a third-party dive shop on the island that not only offers dive trips, but also certification and refresher courses; or you can head over to Glide Watersports and hop on a jet ski, standup paddle board, or catamaran, or try your hand at kitesurfing and parasailing. Scheduled excursions and water activities range from the usual snorkeling trips, to night fishing and dolphin discovery trips. Private boat rental is also available. Other features for active or fitness-focused guests include outdoor tennis courts and the large gym. The gym is outfitted with traction floors, mirrored walls, tons of Life Fitness machines, and a refrigerator filled with chilled towels and bottled water. 

The overwater spa features hydrotherapy treatments, pevonia and OPI products, an ocean-facing outdoor hot tub, steam room, sauna, and relaxation rooms where guests can lie back with a cup of hot tea. Massages and other treatments are given in private treatment bungalows with bright ocean views and strong aromatherapy smells. 

Other on-site features include shops selling things like spa products and jewelry, a large library with international titles and magazines, and a set-up of computers in the back corner.

Freebies at Velassaru include a 30-minute photoshoot (inclusive of one print), welcome drink upon arrival, generous breakfast buffet with international dishes, and Wi-Fi throughout the property. 

See More Features

Best Rates

Amenities

  • Air Conditioner

  • Airport Transportation

  • Balcony / Terrace / Patio

  • Basic Television

  • Beach

  • Business Center

  • Cabanas

  • Cable

  • Cribs

  • Fitness Center

  • Internet

  • Kids Allowed

  • Pool

  • Poolside Drink Service

  • Rental Car Service Desk Onsite

  • Room Service

  • Separate Bedroom / Living Room Space

  • Spa

  • Swim-Up Bar

  • Tennis Court

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.