Review: Soneva Fushi Maldives – Luxury Travel Expert

October 22, 2025

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Last April, I enjoyed a phenomenal holiday in the Maldives, where I stayed at some of the archipelago’s most luxurious resorts. You can read my reviews here:

Today: Review of Soneva Fushi Maldives

Soneva Fushi, the Maldives’ original “Robinson Crusoe” style resort, is situated on Kunfunadhoo Island in the UNESCO Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve. This eco-friendly, ultra-luxury retreat features large, multi-bedroom villas designed to blend seamlessly into the tropical jungle, many built like elevated treehouses with private pools and direct beach access. In 2020, the resort unveiled its new overwater villas, the largest in the Maldives, offering unparalleled luxury. Soneva Fushi emphasizes sustainability, including solar power and waste reduction. Activities include snorkeling, diving, stargazing, and cinema under the stars. The resort’s exceptional dining experiences focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients served in diverse culinary styles. Soneva Fushi is my favorite luxury resort in the Maldives (and the one I keep going back to).

Soneva Fushi features in my top 10 lists of the best luxury resorts in the Maldives, the most astonishing beach retreats in Asia, the best family hotels in the world, the world’s most insanely beautiful hotel beaches, and the best resorts in the Maldives for snorkeling.

Have you ever stayed at Soneva Fushi? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment.

PROS & THINGS I LIKE

Upon arrival at Malé International Airport and after clearing immigration, guests are warmly greeted by Soneva’s dedicated airport hosts. These professional representatives handle every detail with efficiency, taking care of luggage and assisting with the check-in process at the Manta Air counters to secure seaplane boarding passes. Once check-in for the seaplane transfer is complete, guests are transported to the seaplane terminal, located just a five-minute drive from the main airport. There, they are welcomed into the serene Soneva Lounge, a tranquil retreat where guests can relax with refreshing drinks and light snacks while a Soneva host manages all remaining formalities. The experience immediately reflects the brand’s commitment to effortless travel and impeccable service—hallmarks of every Soneva Fushi stay.

The seaplane transfer arrangements are impressively seamless. Soneva operates its own exclusive fleet of custom-designed seaplanes, giving the resort flexibility with scheduling and generous luggage allowances—a significant advantage compared to shared transfers. Waiting times are minimal, and guests can enjoy a comfortable, private journey to the island. The DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft are painted in Soneva’s elegant grey and purple livery, reflecting the brand’s understated luxury aesthetic. Inside, the cabins are reimagined for comfort, featuring only eight spacious VIP seats instead of the standard 15, with interiors designed in Soneva’s signature eco-chic style. The attention to detail sets the tone for the adventure ahead, and the Soneva seaplane journey itself feels like the first taste of the barefoot luxury that awaits at Soneva Fushi. You can read my review of the Soneva seaplane here.

The 30-minute seaplane transfer from Malé to Soneva Fushi is nothing short of spectacular, and one of the most beautiful flights in the world. The plane glides low over the shimmering Indian Ocean, revealing a mesmerizing tapestry of tiny emerald islands ringed by brilliant white sand and encircled by aquamarine lagoons. From above, the Maldives’ natural beauty feels almost otherworldly. The seaplane lands gracefully at what is affectionately known as “Soneva Fushi International Airport”—a charming wooden dock floating just off the island’s shores. From there, guests take a brief five-minute speedboat ride to the resort’s arrival jetty, offering a first glimpse of Soneva Fushi’s tropical magnificence. The seaplanes land at a respectful distance to preserve the peace and tranquility of the island—an early sign of Soneva’s commitment to creating a sanctuary of pure serenity.

Soneva Fushi is a tropical paradise unlike any other in the Maldives. The island is cloaked in lush jungle, its dense canopy giving way to pristine, palm-fringed beaches that encircle crystal-clear turquoise waters. Every corner of the island feels untouched and natural, creating an atmosphere of true seclusion and tranquility. From a scenic standpoint, Soneva Fushi stands as one of the most idyllic destinations in the Indian Ocean, offering some of the finest soft-sand beaches in the world. The contrast of deep green forest and dazzling white sand against the shimmering lagoon is breathtaking—a true embodiment of the Maldives’ dreamlike beauty. IMHO, Soneva Fushi’s fabulous, soft-sand beaches easily rank amongst the best in the world.

Beyond its stunning scenery, Soneva Fushi is also one of the largest private island resorts in the Maldives. Measuring nearly 1.5 kilometers (about 0.9 miles) long and 0.5 kilometers (around 0.3 miles) wide, the island offers exceptional space and privacy—rare luxuries in the Maldives. Upon arrival, every guest receives a bicycle to explore the winding sandy paths that meander through the jungle. Cycling barefoot beneath the lush canopy is an experience of pure joy, as guests encounter colorful tropical birds, elegant fruit bats gliding through the trees, and even the occasional rabbit hopping playfully across the forest floor. It’s a serene reminder that at Soneva Fushi, luxury and nature exist in perfect, effortless harmony.

Soneva Fushi’s famous “no news, no shoes” philosophy encapsulates its relaxed spirit. Shoes are removed on the short speedboat ride from the seaplane dock, collected by the Soneva team, and stored until departure. From that moment, guests are encouraged to embrace the island’s barefoot lifestyle. There is no dress code—an inviting contrast to other luxury resorts in the Maldives that often enforce formal attire in their restaurants. Here, the emphasis is on freedom, authenticity, and comfort. It’s a refreshing approach that instantly sets guests at ease and invites them to reconnect with nature and themselves.

Upon arrival on the island, every guest is paired with a personal “Barefoot Guardian”—Soneva’s signature take on the private butler experience. These expert hosts are discreet, intuitive, and exceptionally kind, ensuring that every aspect of a guest’s stay is effortless. Whether arranging personalized excursions, setting up a private beach dinner, or ensuring your villa feels like home, the service is consistently flawless. Soneva’s butlers embody the brand’s belief that true luxury lies not in formality but in intuitive care and human connection. Many guests describe the service at Soneva Fushi as the finest they have experienced anywhere in the world.

Soneva Fushi’s eco-chic design blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Every structure, from the guest villas to the communal spaces, is crafted using sustainable materials—local wood, stone, and palm leaves—combined to create a rustic yet refined aesthetic. The architecture celebrates simplicity and craftsmanship, with thatched roofs, open-air spaces, and natural textures that invite light and breeze. Bright cushions and elegant furniture add subtle sophistication without disturbing the island’s organic character. It’s a masterclass in understated luxury—luxurious without excess, stylish without pretense, and deeply respectful of its environment.

The resort’s 64 thatched-roof villas are scattered along the beach, each secluded among dense vegetation and offering direct views of the Indian Ocean. These villas range from intimate one-bedroom Crusoe villas to the grand nine-bedroom Private Reserve, one of the largest private accommodations in the world. Each villa is designed to provide a sense of Robinson Crusoe adventure—completely private, surrounded by tropical greenery, and featuring a personal stretch of white-sand beach. Despite their rustic charm, the interiors are sophisticated and equipped with every imaginable comfort. Many villas are designed like luxurious treehouses, elevating the experience of barefoot living to a new level of elegance.

During my stay, I was upgraded to a magnificent four bedroom Residence (villa 18), located on the sunrise side of the island. This two-story villa was set amidst lush gardens with swaying palms and mangroves, just steps from a sandy beach and turquoise waters. It featured an expansive terrace with a large freeform pool and a children’s splash pool. The ground floor offered a bright living area with a kitchen, daybeds, entertainment room, and a master suite with a private dressing room and secluded open-air bathroom with a water feature and hammock. At the rear, two spacious children’s rooms provided ample space for families. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms opened onto a generous upper deck with daybeds and a circular seating area, offering spectacular ocean and garden views. You can watch a full tour of this villa in my YouTube video linked at the top of this article. I have also previously published videos of other villa types, which you can watch below:

Reached via a gracefully curving jetty near Dolphin Beach on the island’s southern tip, eight overwater villas—known as “Water Retreats”—add another layer of magic to Soneva Fushi’s accommodations. These one- and two-bedroom retreats are the largest overwater villas in the world and are carefully positioned for privacy and panoramic ocean views. Each features a private pool, water slide, and direct lagoon access. Catamaran nets above the waves create perfect lounging spots, while curved steps descend into the sea. Inside, soothing tones of blue, green, and sand echo the surrounding lagoon and forest. Perhaps the most enchanting touch is the retractable roof above the master bed, which slides open at the push of a button, allowing guests to stargaze from their pillows—a quintessential Soneva moment.

A breathtaking overwater structure on the island’s sunset side – called Out of the Blue – stands as one of Soneva Fushi’s most iconic landmarks. This sprawling complex epitomizes the overwater lifestyle of the Maldives, featuring multiple fine-dining venues, intimate lounges, and expansive sun decks all suspended above the sparkling turquoise lagoon. Guests can sip expertly crafted cocktails while lounging on overwater nets, feel the gentle sea breeze on their skin, or take a thrilling plunge down the exhilarating water slide straight into the lagoon below. The complex also offers private dining areas for romantic dinners, sunset aperitifs, and special celebrations.

Soneva Fushi has also earned a reputation as one of the best resorts in the Maldives for families with children. The children’s club, aptly named The Den, is nothing short of extraordinary. This jungle-inspired playground is a miniature wonderland complete with two pools, a pirate ship, a Lego room, music studio, library, and even a mocktail bar. Secret tunnels and bridges lead to hidden play areas and garden nooks, sparking imagination at every turn. Parents can relax knowing their children are not only entertained but also engaged in creative, educational, and nature-based activities. It’s no surprise that many families return year after year—Soneva Fushi sets the gold standard for family-friendly luxury.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Soneva Fushi are extraordinary culinary experiences that rival the finest dining anywhere in the world. The resort’s restaurants combine world-class gastronomy with imaginative settings, offering impeccable service and menus that showcase both local flavors and international cuisine.
- Among the standout venues is Flying Sauces, where guests embark on a 200-meter (656 ft) zipline to reach an elevated dining platform for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. This venue often hosts exclusive residencies by Michelin-starred chefs, blending adventure and fine dining in a unique way.
- My personal favorite, Fresh in the Garden, is perched above the resort’s herb and vegetable gardens, offering panoramic views over the jungle canopy. The restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes crafted from produce grown on-site, providing both a farm-to-table experience and a visual feast.
- Out of the Blue, the iconic overwater complex, houses five additional fine dining outlets, ranging from sushi and Teppanyaki to Robata grills and pizza stations. Here, guests can choose from menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs or enjoy secret culinary experiences designed to surprise and delight.
- Shades of Green is the Maldives’ first fully vegan restaurant, led by Chef Carsten Kyster. Guests begin with a guided tour of the resort’s gardens, where they taste, smell, and select fresh ingredients that are later transformed into innovative, multi-course meals.
- For those seeking international flavors, Down to Earth on the beachfront offers a menu that highlights freshly grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables prepared over a 750°C charcoal grill created by renowned Sri Lankan chef Dharshan.
- Out of the Sea, a rustic overwater shack, focuses on sustainable seafood and Mediterranean-inspired light bites, ideal for casual daytime dining.

Soneva Fushi offers by far the most lavish breakfast buffet that I’ve ever seen in any hotel in the world. It features a dedicated ham and cheese room, with sumptuous homemade cheeses, charcuterie and own-smoked salmon, in addition to an extensive menu with delicious Western and Asian dishes. You can also take your pick of more luscious delicacies straight from the wood-fired rock oven, hot and cold smoke oven and the earthen tandoor. There’s also another cold room offering an incredible variety of salads and vegetables, next to an indoor fruit counter which offers the most amazing range of fresh fruits you’ll ever see at a hotel. And after breakfast, you can always retreat to the chocolate room, where the cocoa goodness is presented in blends of up to 95%, be it in the form of mousses, cookies, drinks, bon-bons or truffles.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate Soneva Fushi’s subterranean wine cellar, home to over 7,000 bottles including rare champagnes, vintage cognacs, and biodynamic wines. This exceptional collection rivals that of any luxury hotel worldwide and complements the resort’s sophisticated dining offerings.

The Soneva Stars program elevates the guest experience at Soneva Fushi further by inviting world-renowned chefs, astronomers, athletes, authors, and wellness experts to host unique, immersive experiences on the island. Guests can attend workshops, private dinners, lectures, and wellness sessions, making each stay at Soneva Fushi educational, inspiring, and unforgettable.  You can check the program & schedule of visiting experts & chefs on the Soneva Star website.

Soneva Fushi has two chocolate & ice cream parlors, one located near the arrival jetty and one at Out Of the Blue. Open from noon till late night , they both offer complimentary ice cream and chocolates to all guest. You can choose from over sixty constantly changing flavors of homemade ice creams and sorbets at the ice cream room. Inside the adjoining chocolate room, you can indulge in every child’s dream of never-ending chocolate, by sampling cardamom chocolate truffles, passionfruit pralines, and a continually changing profusion of confections.

Situated in the heart of the remote Baa Atoll, UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi offers unparalleled access to some of the Maldives’ most spectacular coral reefs. The resort’s PADI-certified dive center guides guests to more than 30 world-class sites, while snorkeling directly off the island provides encounters with turtles, reef sharks, and playful dolphins. From June to November, lucky guests can witness majestic manta rays and whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay, just 20 minutes by speedboat, offering some of the most memorable wildlife experiences in the Indian Ocean.

At Soneva Fushi, you can watch classic movies under the stars in a return to the old traditions of Hollywood enjoyment. The resort’s impressive Cinema Paradiso – located on the island’s northern tip – screens classic movies in an open-air theatre, a jungle-enshrouded auditorium with cushioned loungers. The waves lapping the shore, the gentle rustle of the trees and the glimmering night sky will only add to the experience. Popcorn and ice cream are served complimentary. An additional option of a barbecue dinner served during the movie is available at an extra charge.

Soneva Fushi’s recently upgraded and expanded wellness center, Soneva Soul, sets a new standard in holistic wellness. Nestled within the island’s lush jungle, this two-story complex draws inspiration from its tranquil surroundings, inviting guests to rejuvenate, restore, and relax. The treatment menu at Soneva Soul combines two seemingly contrasting approaches: traditional healing therapies and ancient rituals, including Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and herbalism; and innovative methodologies such as vitamin therapy and integrative medicine, including cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and ozone therapy. Each treatment, ritual, or therapy is tailored to individual needs, addressing everything from rest, recovery, and regeneration to detoxification, movement, and overall health optimization.
Soneva Fushi makes full use of its remote, unpolluted location to offer one of the most exceptional stargazing experiences in the Maldives. The resort features a state-of-the-art observatory near the Fresh in the Garden restaurant, equipped with high-powered telescopes that allow guests to explore planets, stars, and distant galaxies with remarkable clarity. Guided by knowledgeable astronomers, guests can learn about celestial phenomena, track constellations, and even witness rare astronomical events. The unobstructed, pitch-black skies of the Baa Atoll, free from light pollution, make this a truly immersive and unforgettable experience—one that few luxury resorts anywhere in the world can rival.
Environmental and social responsibility lies at the heart of Soneva Fushi’s philosophy. The resort operates one of the largest solar power plants in the Maldives, sources ingredients locally, recycles waste, and protects natural ecosystems, including two dedicated turtle nesting reserves. A standout initiative aligned with Soneva Fushi’s eco-friendly approach is the stunning Glass Studio, where waste glass from the Maldives is transformed into valuable works of art. Guests can watch world-renowned glass artists at work, participate in exhibitions, take part in glass-blowing workshops, or even design their own masterpiece to take home from the Maldives’ first glass studio.

The resort is managed by Soneva, one of my favorite hotel brands in the world, founded in 1995 by Sonu Shivdasani, an Indian-British hotelier, and his wife Eva Malmström, a Swedish fashion model, with a vision to create sustainable luxury experiences. The brand’s philosophy, encapsulated in the acronym SLOW LIFE (Sustainable, Local, Organic, Wellness, Learning, Inspiring, Fun Experiences), focuses on unforgettable, innovative, and mindful hospitality that treads lightly on the Earth. In May 2025, KSL Capital Partners, a U.S.-based investment firm, acquired a majority stake in Soneva Group, leading to the establishment of Soneva’s global headquarters in Dubai, aimed at expanding the brand’s presence and industry partnerships. Despite stepping back from day-to-day management, the Shivdasanis remain minority shareholders, continuing to influence Soneva’s ethos while launching their new luxury venture, Sosei, which embodies their ongoing commitment to sustainable and innovative hospitality.

The resort offers an abundance of activities that cater to all ages and even the most discerning of tastes. Guests can choose from a wide array of water sports, including catamaran sailing, sea kayaking, and windsurfing, as well as a variety of excursions such as visits to local villages, cooking classes, sunset cruises aboard a traditional dhoni, and private overnight experiences on a secluded sandbank. Additional options include tennis, mountain biking, and astronomy classes. My two favorite excursions at Soneva Fushi are the sunset dolphin cruise, which offers the magical opportunity to watch dozens of dolphins play in the golden light of dusk, and the castaway picnic, where guests are whisked away to an uninhabited island with a picnic basket and snorkel gear to enjoy a blissful day in total seclusion under the Maldivian sun.

The impeccable service at Soneva Fushi is truly an art form. For instance, room cleaning and turn-down service are always scheduled while guests are enjoying breakfast or dinner in the restaurants, ensuring complete discretion. The staff are among the happiest and kindest I have encountered in the Maldives, consistently making guests feel at home. Many team members have worked at Soneva Fushi since its opening more than 20 years ago—a testament both to how well they are treated and how they, in turn, treat guests as friends. It’s easy to see why Soneva Fushi has the highest number of repeat visitors of any resort in the Maldives.

In 2016, Soneva Fushi launched the first ‘floating villa’ in the Maldives, Soneva In Aqua. This pioneering concept combines all the comforts and amenities of the iconic resort with the freedom and exclusivity of a private boat charter. The two-cabin vessel features a spacious main cabin with a glass-bottom spa and shower facilities, while the second cabin offers a king-sized bed and en-suite bathroom. Additional features include an elevated sun and dining deck, a lower-level bar and dining area, daybeds, lounge seating, and a jacuzzi, providing the ultimate in luxury and relaxation on the water. You can read my review of Soneva In Aqua here.

Soneva Fushi is the sister resort of Soneva Jani, arguably the most visually spectacular resort in the Maldives. Soneva Jani’s stunning overwater villas are set in a 5.6 km (3.4 mi) lagoon of crystal-clear waters, offering uninterrupted 360° views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa features a private pool and direct access to its own stretch of lagoon, with some villas even including slides that descend from the top deck straight into the water below. The standout feature is the retractable roof in the master bedroom, which opens at the touch of a button, allowing guests to stargaze from the comfort of their bed. Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi are connected by a one-hour boat trip, making it easy to combine the best of both worlds in a single itinerary—beach villas at Soneva Fushi and overwater villas at Soneva Jani. You can read my review of Soneva Jani here.

A stay at Soneva Fushi can be combined with a visit to Soneva’s newest ultra-exclusive outpost in the Maldives, Soneva Secret. The first resort in the Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Soneva Secret is a 30-minute seaplane flight from Soneva Fushi and features 14 overwater and island villas, including the Maldives’ only floating villa. Designed to deliver the ultimate in Soneva hospitality and service, each villa is supported by a dedicated team of three—a Barefoot Guardian, a Barefoot Assistant, and a private chef—ensuring every stay is fully personalized. Thirty years in the making, the Soneva Secret concept builds on the brand’s decades of experience in exceptional hospitality, setting a new standard in intuitive service, exquisite private villas, and pristine, nature-surrounded settings. You can read my review of Soneva Secret here.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

Soneva Fushi is hands down one of the best resorts in the Maldives and my absolute favorite one in this island nation—which says a lot, considering the Maldives is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels. There is very little to criticize about Soneva Fushi, as its stunning beauty, exceptional accommodations, world-class dining, impeccable service, and outstanding amenities are sure to sweep you off your feet. However, there are a few points worth noting to help ensure you have the perfect stay:

Sunsets at Soneva Fushi are truly spectacular, but about 650 meters (2,100 feet) off the sunset side of the island, the populated island of Eydhafushi, the capital of Baa Atoll, is visible on the horizon, with some concrete buildings and high antennas. This can slightly diminish the feeling of being a castaway on a private island. However, don’t let this put you off—the sunset side remains my favorite part of the island, offering wide beaches and excellent snorkeling. Of course, there are also numerous villas on the sunrise side, which enjoy uninterrupted views of the ocean.

Soneva Fushi is ultra-luxurious, but it’s not the place for those who seek glitz and glamour. The resort embodies understated barefoot luxury, offering a relaxed, nature-focused lifestyle. It’s a world of bamboo structures, bicycles, and slow living, where guests go shoeless 24 hours a day, fully immersing themselves in the island’s serene and unpretentious charm.

There’s no communal pool on Soneva Fushi, so booking a villa with a private pool is a popular choice—but honestly, who really needs a pool when the island is surrounded by one of the world’s most stunning lagoons? The turquoise waters invite you to swim, snorkel, or simply float while taking in the breathtaking scenery. That said, a private pool offers an extra touch of luxury and privacy, letting you enjoy a serene dip at any hour while soaking up uninterrupted views of the lagoon or the lush jungle surroundings.

There are two seaplane options available for transfers: the Soneva seaplane or the Manta Air seaplane. The Soneva seaplane is private and more comfortable, with seating for eight passengers in a VIP layout, while the Manta Air seaplane accommodates more passengers (15 in total) and may make stops at other destinations before arriving at Soneva Fushi. Unfortunately, it is not possible to know in advance whether you will be transferred on a Soneva seaplane or a Manta Air seaplane, as the schedule is determined by Manta Air, which also operates the Soneva fleet.

Be warned: all your other trips will pale in comparison to the memory of a Soneva Fushi vacation. From the moment you arrive on this private island paradise, with its lush jungle, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear lagoons, to the unparalleled service, world-class dining, and immersive experiences, every detail is designed to delight and astonish. It’s a place where luxury feels effortless, time slows down, and every moment—whether snorkeling with manta rays, enjoying a private dinner under the stars, or simply relaxing in your own villa—creates memories that will stay with you long after you leave.

MY VERDICT

Location: 10/10
Design: 10/10
Rooms: 10/10
Food: 10/10
Breakfast: 10/10
Spa: 10/10
Service: 10/10
Value for money: 10/10
Overall experience: exceptional 10/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

Save money: contact me to get complimentary VIP perks at Soneva Fushi Maldives. This includes a discounted rate, a resort credit, and two complimentary experiences.

Save money: get complimentary VIP perks when booking Soneva Fushi via Virtuoso (e.g. villa upgrade, breakfast, early check-in , late check-out, and $100 USD resort credit).

Save money: read my tips for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel like Soneva Fushi (and/or receive many free perks).

Room tip: all villas at Soneva Fushi are phenomenal. But if unobstructed ocean views are what you are looking for, be sure to book or request a villa on the sunrise side of the island.

Room tip: book a villa with a pool, since the resort has no communal pool (although the the island is surrounded by the world’s largest swimming pool).

Read my tips for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best weather in the Maldives is between January and April, which also means high season (and high hotel rates). The monsoon runs from May to October, peaking in June. It is worth paying higher prices and sticking to the dry season as there is nothing to do on a rainy day except drink, eat, work out or scuba dive. Especially November and December, which are often labelled as dry season months, have been very unsettled in recent years.

HOW TO GET THERE

Soneva Fushi can be reached by a 30-minute seaplane trip from Velana International Airport (MLE). Check the Wikipedia page of Velana International Airport for a continuously updated list of airlines that offer direct flights to the Maldives.