NOVA Maldives

Overview

Accommodation

Our Opinion

NOVA Maldives opened in June 2022 on the site of the former Vakarufalhi, fully refurbished and rebranded with a fresh, contemporary club-style energy. The island is a pretty one, ringed by lovely beaches, and the transformation is undeniable.

The South Ari Atoll setting is a strong one for marine life. The house reef has historically been good for snorkelling, though on our visit we found the coral coverage and fish life a little sparse. That said, the atoll itself remains one of the best places in the Maldives for whale shark and manta ray encounters.

The villas are the standout feature here. They are generously sized and feel more luxurious than the price point might suggest, with king-sized beds, rainfall showers and carefully considered interiors. The range of categories across beach and overwater settings gives real choice.

Facilities are impressive for a resort of this size: a well-equipped gym, a PADI dive centre, a full water sports operation, the Eskape spa, and a large main pool with a swim-up bar.

Where NOVA still has work to do is in dining and service. The main restaurant has a functional, canteen-like atmosphere that lacks the warmth of more traditional Maldivian dining. Guests who remember the old Vakarufalhi may miss its quieter character. But for those after an energetic, entertainment-led holiday with plenty to do, NOVA delivers exactly that.

Summary

NOVA Maldives is located in the South Ari Atoll, one of the Maldives' best regions for marine life, with regular whale shark and manta ray sightings in the surrounding waters.

The resort is reached by a 25-minute seaplane flight operated by Manta Air, with scheduled departures that give guests reliable transfer timings.

There are 76 villas in 10 categories, spread across the beachfront and overwater. The range includes interconnecting Family Beach Villas and a 2-Bedroom Beach Residence with private pool. Each villa is fitted with a king-sized bed, rainfall shower, Apple TV, high-speed internet and refillable organic bath amenities.

The house reef is easily accessible from the beach, offering good snorkelling right from the shore. Water sports both motorised and non-motorised are available, along with a multi-purpose court, the Eskape spa and a modern fitness centre.

Dining takes place across three venues: Soul Kitchen (the main restaurant), Flames (a specialty grill) and MIZU, an overwater Teppanyaki restaurant. Two bars serve drinks: WINK near the main area and SOLIS by the pool. The standard board basis is Full Board Plus, with a premium All Inclusive upgrade available for stays of four nights or more.