Nova Maldives: Paradise Reimagined in South Ari Atoll

Nestled in the pristine waters of South Ari Atoll, Nova Maldives emerges as a beacon of contemporary luxury with an authentic Maldivian soul. Formerly known as Vakarufalhi Island Resort & Spa, this idyllic sanctuary underwent a transformative rebirth in December 2021.

When Pulse Hotels took the helm, they infused new life into an already spectacular location. This comprehensive exploration delves into every facet of Nova Maldives, from its stunning accommodations and culinary excellence to its unique positioning in the competitive landscape of South Ari Atoll luxury resorts.

" The rebranding to Nova—meaning "new" in Latin—perfectly encapsulates the resort's philosophy: honoring Maldivian traditions while embracing modern luxury sensibilities. "

Prime Location In South Ari Atoll

Nova Maldives occupies a privileged position approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Malé International Airport in the South Ari Atoll, one of the Maldives' most coveted marine environments.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Splendor

This location places guests in the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned worldwide for its extraordinary biodiversity and particularly for being a hotspot for whale sharks and manta rays.

The island itself is a picture-perfect embodiment of Maldivian beauty—a lush tropical haven surrounded by powder-white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The house reef, accessible directly from the shore, teems with vibrant marine life, offering an underwater spectacle that rivals the best snorkeling sites in the archipelago.

Scenic Seaplane Accessibility

Despite its secluded setting, Nova Maldives remains conveniently accessible via a 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport. This scenic flight provides guests with a breathtaking aerial introduction to the Maldives' scattered pearl-like islands and the mesmerizing blues of the Indian Ocean.

" This location places guests in the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned worldwide for its extraordinary biodiversity and particularly for being a hotspot for whale sharks and manta rays. "

Luxury Villas For Every Preference

Nova Maldives features 76 thoughtfully designed villas spread across the island and over water, each embodying the resort's commitment to sophisticated comfort with Maldivian influences. The architectural approach harmoniously blends contemporary design elements with traditional Maldivian aesthetics, creating spaces that feel both luxurious and authentically connected to their surroundings.

Spacious Beach Villas

The entry point into Nova's luxury experience, Beach Villas offer direct access to powdery white sands and are nestled amid lush tropical vegetation. These spacious sanctuaries feature:

• King-sized beds with premium linens
• Open-air bathrooms with rainfall showers
• Private verandas with comfortable lounging areas
• Contemporary interiors with natural wood elements
• Starting from $450-750 per night depending on season

Villas With Stunning Sunset Views

Strategically positioned to capture the Maldives' legendary sunsets, these villas offer all the amenities of the Beach Villa with the added luxury of breathtaking evening vistas. The warm golden light flooding these accommodations during sunset hours creates an atmosphere of unparalleled romance and tranquility.

• Enhanced privacy from strategic positioning
• Sunset-facing veranda with lounging furniture
• Starting from $500-850 per night

Sunset Villas With Private Pools

For guests seeking private aquatic indulgence, these villas add a personal plunge pool (8 sqm) to the Sunset Beach Villa experience. The expanded deck area creates a perfect private outdoor living space for sunbathing, dining, or simply relaxing to the sounds of gentle waves.

• Private plunge pool (8 sqm)
• Expanded deck with sun loungers
• Enhanced indoor-outdoor living experience
• Starting from $650-1,100 per night

Two-Bedroom Family Residences

Ideal for families or friends traveling together, these expansive residences offer the ultimate in space and privacy. With two separate bedrooms, a large living area, and a generous private pool (20 sqm), these accommodations provide a luxurious home away from home.

• Two separate bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms
• Spacious living and dining areas
• Large private pool (20 sqm)
• Extended outdoor deck with multiple lounging areas
• Starting from $1,200-2,000 per night

Overwater Villas With Jacuzzis

The quintessential Maldivian experience, these overwater havens stand on stilts above the lagoon, offering uninterrupted ocean views and direct access to the waters below. The addition of a private jacuzzi elevates the luxury quotient, providing a perfect spot for relaxation while gazing at the horizon.

• Built on stilts over the lagoon
• Private jacuzzi on the deck
• Direct ocean access via steps
• Glass floor sections for marine viewing
• Panoramic ocean views
• Starting from $700-1,200 per night

All villas at Nova Maldives come equipped with modern amenities including air conditioning, minibars, coffee/tea making facilities, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and luxury bathroom amenities. The thoughtful design throughout emphasizes natural light, ocean breezes, and seamless indoor-outdoor living—hallmarks of exceptional tropical architecture.

A Culinary Journey For The Senses

Nova Maldives elevates the all-inclusive concept through its diverse dining venues, each offering distinct culinary experiences that showcase both international excellence and Maldivian flavors.

Soul Kitchen's Global Cuisine

As the resort's main restaurant, Soul Kitchen lives up to its name by serving cuisine that nourishes both body and spirit. This open-air venue with beach and ocean views offers:

• Extensive international buffets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Live cooking stations where chefs prepare dishes to order
• Themed dinner nights celebrating cuisines from around the world
• Special focus on fresh seafood and tropical ingredients
• Included in all-inclusive packages

Flames Beachfront Grill Experience

This beachfront grill restaurant specializes in seafood and meat cooked over open flames, creating dishes with distinctive smoky flavors and perfect char. The casual beachside setting with sand floors enhances the relaxed dining experience.

• Signature dishes include Maldivian lobster, locally caught reef fish, and premium imported steaks
• Sunset dining with toes in the sand
• Romantic atmosphere with torches and subtle lighting
• Some premium items may carry supplementary charges even on all-inclusive plans

Mizu's Overwater Japanese Dining

Perched over the water, Mizu offers an authentic Japanese dining experience with contemporary touches. The elegant overwater pavilion provides a sophisticated setting for enjoying:

• Expertly prepared sushi and sashimi using the freshest seafood
• Teppanyaki grill experiences with theatrical chef presentations
• Omakase tasting menus for the ultimate Japanese culinary journey
• Sake and Japanese-inspired cocktails
• À la carte pricing with some items included in all-inclusive packages

Wink Bar: The Social Hub

More than just a bar, Wink serves as the social heart of Nova Maldives. This poolside venue with ocean views offers:

• Creative cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists
• Extensive wine and spirits selection
• Light snacks and tapas-style offerings
• Regular entertainment including live music and DJ sessions
• Cocktail masterclasses and tasting events
• Most beverages included in all-inclusive packages

The All-Inclusive Soul Experience

Nova Maldives operates primarily as an all-inclusive resort, with their signature "Soul Inclusive" package designed to provide a hassle-free luxury experience. This comprehensive offering includes:

1. restaurant_menu
   Meals at Soul Kitchen: All meals at the main dining venue are covered, offering a wide variety of international cuisines.
2. tapas
   Specialty Dining: Selected meals at the specialty restaurants, Flames and Mizu, are also included, though reservations are required.