Surrounded by white sand and incandescently blue waters, the elegant Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is just 30 minutes by yacht transfer from Malé International Airport.  With exemplary Waldorf Astoria service, personalised to your every desire, you’ll find yourself seamlessly immersed into the beauty of this ultra-luxe resort and its natural surrounds from the moment you arrive.

The 122 all-pool Beach, Reef and Overwater villas span three private islands. Guests can choose from one, two or three-bedroom villas, each decked out with a private pool, daybeds, dining gazebos and in-water lounges – all overlooking the Indian Ocean. We love the 536-sqaure-metre Stella Maris Ocean Villa with pool. Accessible only by boat and inspired by the velvety Maldivian night sky, the spacious duplex offers space to relax with a large bedroom and sitting area, generous indoor living and dining and a stunning bathroom, all with floor-to-ceiling windows. Upstairs is a chef’s service and BBQ station while a downstairs deck area boasts an infinity pool, Jacuzzi and direct access to the beautiful blue of the ocean.

If you’re after absolute seclusion, escape to your own exclusive private island paradise on the 32,000-square metre white-sand paradise of Ithaafushi Private Island with its own yacht mooring. You’ll find nine-bedrooms five swimming pools, an entertainment club house, spa, gym, water sports and kids club, plus dedicated chefs and a personal concierge.

From outdoor dining overlooking the beach and ocean to more formal venues boasting breathtaking views, guests will choose from 11 celebrated dining experiences as they embark on an indulgent culinary adventure around the globe.

An endless list of activities ensures there’s always something, or nothing, if you prefer, to do.  Dive into the underwater paradise, enjoy water sports or explore the island’s dazzling white sand beaches by bicycle. And if you’re not already relaxed enough, the resort’s spa sanctuary is an oasis of serenity and blissful indulgence where luxurious holistic treatments with a bespoke approach await.