Hurawalhi Island Resort

Descending a spiral staircase beneath the clear waters of the Lhaviyani Atoll, guests at Hurawalhi Island Resort find themselves surrounded by the quiet spectacle of marine life while dining in a one-of-a-kind underwater restaurant. This moment captures the understated luxury and thoughtful design that defines the resort’s approach to hospitality.

Hurawalhi Island Resort has received a 2025 Global Recognition Award, a distinction that highlights its consistent delivery of high-quality guest experiences in a competitive international market. This recognition places Hurawalhi among the world’s leading hotels, supported by a 4.9 out of 5 guest rating and recent honors from Forbes Travel Guide and TripAdvisor. In an industry where attention to detail and guest satisfaction are paramount, Hurawalhi stands out for its reliable service and innovative offerings.

Signature Experiences and Distinctive Excellence

At the center of Hurawalhi’s appeal is the 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, the largest all-glass underwater dining venue globally. This unique setting allows diners to observe marine life in its natural habitat while enjoying carefully prepared tasting menus. The restaurant’s design and location offer an experience not easily replicated elsewhere, and many guests describe it as the highlight of their stay.

Staff at Hurawalhi are trained to anticipate guest needs, often arranging personalized services such as seamless transfers and tailored dining experiences before requests are made. Executive Chef Harshal Kumar brings a background of international culinary experience, ensuring that each dining venue maintains high standards and reflects both global and local influences.

Private experiences, such as exclusive dinners on Dream Island, provide guests with opportunities for quiet relaxation and privacy. These offerings and attentive service contribute to the resort’s reputation for creating memorable stays without unnecessary extravagance.

Accommodation Excellence and Design Philosophy

The resort features 90 villas, divided between overwater and beachfront options. Ocean Pool Villas, at 130 square meters, include private pools, direct lagoon access, and unobstructed ocean views. Beach Pool Villas, slightly larger, offer immediate access to white sand beaches and private outdoor spaces. Both categories are designed with natural materials and neutral tones to complement the surrounding environment.

Interior design at Hurawalhi balances contemporary comfort with local character. Features such as open-air bathrooms, sustainable amenities, and smart room controls are standard. The resort’s approach to design is rooted in simplicity and a connection to nature, avoiding unnecessary ornamentation.

Guest feedback often mentions the sense of privacy and tranquility in the villas. As one guest shared:

“Our overwater villa provided direct access to the reef and a peaceful space to unwind—the open-air shower was a thoughtful touch.”

Culinary Journey and Gastronomic Innovation

Dining at Hurawalhi spans four restaurants and three bars, each with a distinct focus. Canneli Restaurant offers international and Asian dishes with themed nights and live cooking stations, while Kashibo Restaurant and Bar specializes in Asian street food and creative cocktails using local ingredients. The resort also features JFK (Junk Food Kitchen), which serves plant-based versions of comfort foods in a casual poolside setting.

Chef Harshal Kumar’s leadership ensures a consistent culinary standard across all venues. The resort’s wine cellar features a broad selection, and menus regularly incorporate locally sourced produce to support the community and highlight regional flavors.

Unique dining experiences, such as private meals on Dream Island or wine-pairing dinners, are available for guests seeking something more personalized. While not overly elaborate, these options reflect the resort’s commitment to quality and thoughtful service.

Wellness, Recreation, and Environmental Stewardship

The Sulha Spa offers a range of treatments that combine traditional and modern techniques, using organic products and local ingredients. Treatment rooms provide views of the lagoon, and wellness programs include yoga, meditation, and sound healing sessions. The spa’s approach is focused on relaxation and well-being rather than opulence.

Recreational opportunities at Hurawalhi include complimentary water sports, access to some of the atoll’s best dive sites, and a house reef known for its marine diversity. Facilities are modern and well-maintained, supporting both active pursuits and quiet leisure.

Environmental initiatives are integrated into daily operations, with solar panels, water bottling systems, and energy-efficient technologies reducing the resort’s ecological impact. These measures reflect a commitment to sustainability that aligns with guest expectations and industry standards.

Hurawalhi Island Resort’s 2025 Global Recognition Award reflects its ongoing dedication to delivering reliable, high-quality hospitality without unnecessary embellishment. For travelers seeking a balance of comfort, thoughtful service, and unique experiences in the Maldives, Hurawalhi offers a setting where the essentials of a memorable stay are quietly and consistently delivered. Looking ahead, the resort’s focus on guest satisfaction and sustainable practices suggests it will continue to set a standard for responsible luxury in the region.