Sun Island is one of the biggest and most varied resorts in the Maldives, which makes it a good fit for travellers who want choice, activity and a lively atmosphere rather than hushed seclusion. It sits on Nalaguraidhoo in the South Ari Atoll, on a private beach, with 426 rooms and a remarkable 17 room types, from Deluxe, Superior and Executive rooms and suites to beach, water and overwater villas, beach pool villas, villas with whirlpools and two-bedroom family villas. If you want a specific kind of room, there is a good chance this resort has it. The facilities match the scale. There are five restaurants and a cafe, swim-up, beach and poolside bars, a children's pool and an Ayurvedic and Thai spa called Araamu. Guests can use a gym and a tennis court, rent bikes and try sailing and windsurfing, and the beach has free cabanas and beachfront dining. All-inclusive rates are available, with some restrictions, and they suit families who prefer to know the cost in advance.
Location and getting there
South Ari Atoll is further from Malé than the nearer atolls, so the transfer matters. Resorts here are usually reached by domestic flight, seaplane or a long speedboat ride, and the airport shuttle is charged as an extra, so confirm the method, duration and cost of your transfer when you book. Seaplanes fly in daylight, so late arrivals may need a night near the airport.
The effort pays off in position, because South Ari is the part of the country where whale sharks are sighted with some regularity, with a peak from August to November, and mantas from roughly October to May. Several excursions to nearby islands and reefs are possible.
The rooms and the island
The sheer number of categories is useful, because you can match your budget and your trip. Beach villas suit families and those who want to step straight onto the sand, water villas and overwater villas suit couples who want the lagoon-view deck, and the larger suites and two-bedroom villas work for groups.
With over 400 rooms, the island is busier than a boutique resort, and the feel is social and active rather than secluded. Choose a villa away from the main restaurants and bars if you want quieter evenings, and ask for a room near the beach if mobility matters.
Who it suits and what to know: Sun Island is a good choice for families, groups of friends and travellers who like variety, since you can dine at a different venue each evening and fill your days with sailing, windsurfing, tennis, spa visits and snorkelling. It is less suited to travellers who prize silence above all.
Check which meal plan your rate includes and what the all-inclusive version covers, because restrictions apply. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest and your own snorkel gear if you prefer, and ask the resort about its house reef and any diving or whale shark excursions. Book early for December to April, when the seas are calmest.
Why stay here
- ✓426 rooms across 17 room types
- ✓Beach, water and overwater villas
- ✓Five restaurants and a cafe
- ✓Swim-up, beach and poolside bars
- ✓Araamu spa
- ✓Tennis court and gym
- ✓Windsurfing, sailing and bike rental
- ✓Children's pool and free beach cabanas
Good questions
How do I get to Sun Island?+
South Ari is reached by domestic flight, seaplane or a long speedboat journey. The transfer is charged separately, so confirm the method and cost when you book.
Is it all-inclusive?+
All-inclusive rates are available with some restrictions. Check exactly what your rate covers before you book.
Is it good for families?+
Yes, with a children's pool, free beach cabanas, two-bedroom family villas and a wide choice of dining and activities.
