Book with us
Up to 10% cheaper
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From571US$ /night
Check-in
16Mar2026Select date
Check-out
17Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Resort

Dhidhoofinolhu, Dhidhoofinolhu, Maldives
-
On a sandy beach
Perfect
9.5
9.5
/10
4.9
4.7
/5

Rooms

LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas offers 193 elegantly appointed villas and pavilions situated along two miles of powder-fine beaches or perched above the crystal-clear lagoon. Guests can choose from ten accommodation categories, including newly refurbished Water Villas with stunning panoramic views and direct lagoon access, enhancing the guest experience. Each villa comes equipped with modern comforts such as private pools, individual outdoor decks, and glass floor windows for a unique undersea glimpse.

Sustainable Luxury

LUX* South Ari Atoll places a strong emphasis on sustainable luxury, actively engaging in marine conservation and providing guests with the opportunity to contribute to local ecology efforts. The hotel is located in the world's only year-round whale shark aggregation site, allowing for memorable underwater encounters with these gentle giants. The resort's approach ensures that luxury travel can coexist harmoniously with the environment.

Dining

Dine at eight restaurants and five bars that transport guests across various culinary landscapes, including Italian, Japanese, and Mediterranean cuisines. The main restaurant, MIXE, offers a buffet-style dining experience directly on a sandy beach, while specialties can be found at restaurants like Allegria and East Market. The award-winning all-inclusive package enhances dining options, including access to multiple restaurants and diverse cuisines.

Wellness

The LUX* Me Spa at the resort stands as one of only three Forbes Four-Star Spas in the Maldives, offering a comprehensive wellness experience. Guests can enjoy a range of treatments that feature ancient customs combined with modern wellness practices. The spa facilities include yoga classes, fitness consultations, and specially designed treatments for children.

Family Activities

Recognized as one of the Best Maldives Resorts for Families, LUX* South Ari Atoll provides a wealth of kid-friendly activities and amenities. The PLAY club offers programs for young guests aged 3 to 11, focusing on fun and educational experiences such as coral planting and game nights. In addition, the resort hosts family movie nights on the beach, fostering quality bonding time.

Highlights

Location: Located in the world's only year-round whale shark aggregation site.

Rooms: Offers 193 elegantly appointed villas and pavilions.

Dining: Eight restaurants and five bars featuring global cuisines.

Wellness: LUX* Me Spa, one of only three Forbes Four-Star Spas in the Maldives.

Family Activities: PLAY club for kids aged 3 to 11 with diverse activities.

“This property emphasizes guest well-being alongside its beachfront setting and access to the South Ari Atoll Marine Park. With diverse dining options, wellness programs, and proximity to whale shark aggregation sites, it stands out for its focus on experiences. In my opinion, this resort delivers a balanced offering of relaxation, activities, and environmental awareness.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Toresort
View all

Select your room type

Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Beachfront Infinity Pool Villa
2 persons
1465 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Water Villa
2 persons
1055 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Beach Villa
4 persons
1025 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Temptation Pool Water Villa
2 persons
2370 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.7/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • 24-hour security
  • Locker room
  • Private beach
  • Hairdresser
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Wind surfing
  • Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Canoeing
  • Cycling
  • Tennis court
  • Badminton
  • Billiard tables
  • Darts
  • Table tennis
  • Yoga class
  • Fishing

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Laundry
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Business centre
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Babysitting/Child services
  • Children's buffet
  • Board games
  • Children's play area
  • Kids club
  • Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Garden area
  • BBQ facilities
  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Steam room
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Massage
  • Pool with view
  • Shallow end
  • Make up services

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Mini-bar
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities
Show more

Dining Onsite

At Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, the dining scene invites guests to explore an array of culinary delights across multiple restaurants and bars. Each venue offers a chance to indulge in different cuisines, from Asian to Mediterranean, all framed by the serene beauty of the Maldivian landscape.
Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas Dhidhoofinolhu Restaurant photo The photo shows a spacious, open-air restaurant with a high, intricately designed white wooden roof. The roof structure features a grid of beams and rafters, creating a visually interesting pattern and allowing for plenty of light. 

The restaurant i
Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas Dhidhoofinolhu Restaurant photo The photo shows a beautifully set table for a romantic dinner on a sandy beach. The table is draped with a crisp white tablecloth and features several place settings with plates, glasses, and silverware. 

A vibrant centerpiece of pink and red flower
Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas Dhidhoofinolhu Restaurant photo The photo shows the interior of a bright and airy cafe named "Cafe Lux". The cafe has a high, vaulted ceiling with white wooden beams and white paneling. The walls are also white, creating a clean and spacious feel. 

In the center of the room hangs

Senses

Fine dining with a focus on seasonal flavors
Ambiance
Stylish design with an intimate atmosphere, perfect for romantic evenings
Key Offerings
An innovative menu embracing local ingredients, featuring artful presentations
Reservation
Recommended
Lunch and Dinner: 12:00 - 15:00 & 18:30 - 22:00 daily

MIXE

Global cuisines
Ambiance
Bright and airy with a lively atmosphere, ideal for families and casual dining
Key Offerings
A buffet that showcases a variety of international dishes, live cooking stations, and themed nights
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast and Dinner: 07:00 - 10:30 & 18:30 - 22:30 daily

Umami

Japanese
Ambiance
Contemporary setting with traditional Japanese elements
Key Offerings
A selection of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese classics, crafted with precision
Reservation
Recommended
Dinner: 18:00 - 22:00 daily

East Market

Asian
Ambiance
Relaxed dining with a focus on communal tables and an open kitchen
Key Offerings
Breakfast options and evening meals featuring a selection of Asian dishes from various regions
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast and Dinner: 07:00 - 10:00 & 18:30 - 22:30 daily

Lagoon Bar & Restaurant

Casual dining
Ambiance
Beachfront with stunning ocean views, perfect for relaxed lunches
Key Offerings
A variety of light bites and beverages, ideal for a midday retreat by the water
Reservation
Not needed
Lunch only

Alegria

International
Ambiance
Inviting atmosphere, perfect for casual gatherings
Key Offerings
Diverse menu featuring various international dishes catering to many preferences
Reservation
Recommended
Dinner: 18:30 - 22:00 daily

Beach Rouge

Mediterranean
Ambiance
Chic beachfront setting with a vibrant social atmosphere
Key Offerings
Fresh Mediterranean dishes with an emphasis on seafood and light, hearty options
Reservation
Recommended
Lunch and Dinner: 12:00 - 17:00 & 18:30 - 22:00 daily

Veli Bar

International
Ambiance
Family-friendly and modern, ideal for casual meals and snacks
Key Offerings
A menu that caters to diverse dietary needs including Halal, Kosher, Vegan, and Gluten-free options
Reservation
Not needed
Lunch only

Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas Location

Dhidhoofinolhu, Dhidhoofinolhu, Maldives
Map view
Dhidhoofinolhu, Dhidhoofinolhu, Maldives
Nearby
Dhiddhoofinolhu
800 ft
Explore Dhidhoofinolhu
Activities, Dining, and Entertainment Near Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Dhiddhoofinolhu
3 minutes' walk
A nearby local island known for its sandy beaches and vibrant local culture, ideal for a brief cultural immersion.
Didu
40 minutes' walk
An uninhabited island offering stunning views and natural beauty, perfect for nature lovers wishing to escape.
Snorkeling Excursions
10 minutes' drive
Guided snorkeling tours to vibrant coral reefs and marine life; equipment often provided, suitable for all skill levels.
Relaxing Spa Treatments
10 minutes' drive
Onsite spa offering rejuvenating treatments and yoga sessions, perfect for relaxation enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
Ithaa Undersea Restaurant
10 minutes' drive
Innovative seafood dishes served underwater, providing stunning views of marine life; reservations recommended.
The Lagoon
5 minutes' walk
Specializes in local Maldivian cuisine and international favorites in a laid-back ambiance with outdoor seating.
Dhihdhoo Bananarama
10 minutes' drive
Lively beach bar with special cocktails and occasional live music, offering a great vibe for social gatherings.
Family Movie Night
5 minutes' walk
Family-friendly movie nights under the stars, creating a cozy atmosphere for all ages at the resort.
Getting around
City Centre
Dhidhoofinolhu2 min  ·  400 ft
Airports
Villa International Maamigili (VAM)11 min  ·  4.5 mi
Looking for an Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Grab your exclusive rates today!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Korean, Hindi, Bahasa Indonesian
Number of rooms:
193
Former name
Diva Maldives

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas from previous guests about their experience
Review score
Based on 111 verified reviews
9.6/10
Perfect
98%
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Comfort
9.7/10
Facilities
9.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
9.8/10
Value for money
8.4/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Clean villas
Pristine beaches
Varied activities
Cons
Slippery stairs
Limited inclusions
Infrequent buses
Basic rooms
Guest reviews
based on 179 reviews
9.5/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas
Is transportation from the airport included in my booking?
12 November 2024
Airport transfers are not included. A return transfer can be arranged for 390.00 USD per person.
What does the all-inclusive package cover in terms of meals and activities?
24 January 2025
The all-inclusive plan includes a wide selection of drinks, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), various activities, as well as non-motorized watersports.
Are there any vegetarian dining options available at the resort?
6 March 2025
Vegetarian and vegan menu options are available in all restaurants throughout the resort.
Can I buy essential items like gifts and snacks on the property?
15 February 2025
Yes, there is a grocery shop called LUX* Boutique near the reception where various items, including gifts and personal necessities, can be purchased.
How do I arrange for my seaplane transfer from Male to the resort?
1 April 2025
Transfers are arranged via seaplane from Male International Airport. Please inform the reservation office of your international arrival flight number to organize your transfer.
Is room service included in the all-inclusive plan?
18 May 2025
In-villa dining is not included in the all-inclusive package.
What activities are available for children at the resort?
23 June 2024
The resort offers a kids' club for children aged 3 to 11, featuring numerous activities like coral planting, cinema nights, and crafts.
Can guests enjoy both private and shared dining experiences during their stay?
14 September 2024
Yes, there are options for both private dining experiences and shared meals at various restaurants across the resort.
What transportation options are available for arriving guests?
30 October 2024
Transportation to the resort is provided via seaplane only, ensuring a scenic arrival experience.
Do you have family-friendly programs for guests travelling with teenagers?
21 December 2024
Yes, teens can enjoy daily activities designed just for them, ensuring a memorable and engaging stay.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
16Mar2026Select date
Check-out
17Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room