Small Time Island, Big Time Player

Disguised by it’s low-key luxury, smaller size and relative newness to the field (or more appropriately ocean! ) is Fushifaru. Sitting in the Lhaviyani Atoll, a swift 40 minute seaplane journey north of Malé, lies a comparatively new island to grace the Maldivian peninsula. It’s laid back nature and healthy marine-life location is sure to set it apart and spark interest amongst the vacationing elite.

If you’re after a slice of heaven, a sensational beach and that direct escape to everything Instagrammable! then Fushifaru is everything you are looking for. This pocket-sized paradise may come much smaller than most Maldivian resorts, however with it’s white washed oceanfront, deep azure waters and abundant marine life, it’s easy to see why this modest atoll is quickly becoming a divers dream.

The island is made up of 49 unique villas. Each peak-roofed wooden chalet draws inspiration from their location on the island, whether facing the open ocean, the lagoon or the channel. There are 3 different villas to choose from, beach, pool beach or water villa, each with the option of sunrise of sunset. With simply furnished interiors, extremely comfortable beds and an outdoor bathroom of dreams our beach villa was subtly sublime.

The island comes complete with a water sports and diving centre. The friendly and knowledgeable crew are more than happy to guide you around the rich coral reefs or assist you with kayaks, jet ski’s or windsurf rentals. Confetti-coloured fish, friendly reef sharks and occasional rays and turtles inhabit close to the island, so grab your free snorkel and get swimming!

A short boat ride from the island lies heaven part 2 – The Sandbank. A pristine slither of sand adjacent to the island is ready and waiting for you to explore. Book a private escape to wind away the hours or head over for a spot of lunch with a restaurant prepared sandbank picnic.

Fushifaru houses 2 main restaurants, a buffet style at Korakali and an A la Carte menu at Raakani Grill. The menus changed daily giving you chance to try an ample array of local fish and Maldivian dishes on offer. In-villa dining is also available as is dining almost anywhere you choose; romantic candlelit dinners, beach picnics, end of pier table for two; the island is your oyster!

If all the water sports and adventures on offer tire you out, rejuvenate at the Heylhi Spa. 5 rooms cater to both couples and individual treatments, all complete with outdoor bathrooms if you wish you indulge in afterwards. Alternatively opt for a dip in the plunge pool before a snooze on the cabana-style loungers submerged in the spas’ fragrant foliage. Island hammocks, palm-tree swings and in-pool loungers are all perfectly positioned around the island for you to fully unwind.

You may be able to circle the entire island in around 15 minutes flat, however what it lacks in size it makes up for in breathtaking shores, a diving centre and neighbouring sand bank for further anonymity. Take a trip to Fushifaru and fully feel like you, again.