Makunudu Island
A small island, 36 bungalows, and a house reef worth diving for
An island resort on Makunudu Island
Makunudu Island is a 36-bungalow resort in North Malé Atoll, reached in roughly 45 minutes by speedboat from the airport. The island is small and deliberately low-key, with a style that leans rustic — bare timber, local materials, beaches on most sides. The Ara Iru Restaurant handles all-inclusive dining with international buffets and a weekly Maldivian buffet dinner. The Sand Bar sits at the water's edge. Aavun Spa draws on Maldivian, Asian, and Ayurvedic techniques. Water sports, snorkelling, and diving are available on the island.
Who this stay suits
A compact, unhurried beachfront resort with rustic character, all-inclusive dining, and direct access to water sports — without the scale or anonymity of a larger property.
Best for
- Couples after a low-key beach stay
- Divers and snorkellers
- Honeymooners wanting candlelit beach dinners
- Travellers who prefer a smaller, less built-up island
Less suited to
- Those wanting overwater villa accommodation
- Travellers who prefer a large, activity-dense resort
- Groups needing multiple interconnecting rooms
The island and its setting
Makunudu Island sits in North Malé Atoll, fringed by beaches and a turquoise lagoon. With only 36 bungalows across the whole island, the footprint stays small. Sea views are a given from both room categories.
Ara Iru Restaurant
The main restaurant — Ara Iru means 'Rising Sun' — runs international buffets with meats, fish, and tropical fruits alongside set menus. Once a week it switches to a Maldivian buffet dinner and a beach barbecue. Private candlelit dinners on the beach can be arranged.
Sand Bar at the water's edge
The Sand Bar is open through the day and into the evening. It handles sunset cocktails and a happy hour, and the oceanside position means you are watching the light change over open water rather than a pool deck.
Aavun Spa treatments
Aavun Spa combines Maldivian, Asian, and European techniques in a single menu. Signature treatments include a Maldivian seashell and coconut-oil massage, Ayurvedic Indian head massage, custom facials, and reflexology.
Yoga and the Malafaiy Tree House
The yoga programme runs on the beach or at the Malafaiy Tree House — an on-island structure that doubles as an alternative setting for sessions away from the main beach areas.
Water sports and diving on site
The resort has water sport facilities, snorkelling, diving, and canoeing available on the island. Fishing excursions are also on offer, along with cultural tours and themed dinner nights.
Rooms & suites
Beach Bungalow
40 m² · sleeps 2 · 1 king bed
- Sea view
- Air conditioning
- Attached bathroom
- Minibar
- Free Wifi
Deluxe Beach Bungalow
50 m² · sleeps 2 · 1 queen bed
- Sea view
- Air conditioning
- Patio
- Attached bathroom
- Coffee machine
Experiences on & off the island
Inside Makunudu Island
Amenities at Makunudu Island
Most popular facilities
- Airport shuttle
- Free Wifi
- Beachfront
- Room service
- Restaurant
- Spa and wellness center
- Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms
- Bar
Great for your stay
- Restaurant
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- Spa and wellness center
- View
- Free Wifi
- BBQ facilities
- Non-smoking rooms
Bathroom
- Toilet paper
- Towels
- Towels/Sheets (extra fee)
- Private bathroom
- Toilet
- Hairdryer
Bedroom
- Linens
- Wardrobe or closet
View
- Sea view
- View
Outdoors
- Outdoor fireplace
- Picnic area
- Outdoor furniture
- Beachfront
- Sun deck
- Private beach area
- BBQ facilities Additional charge
- Garden
Getting there
Makunudu Island is approximately 41 km from Velana International Airport in Malé. Access is by seaplane transfer, with the official website also referencing a roughly 45-minute speedboat journey. Seaplane departures are daylight-dependent, so late-arriving flights may require an overnight stay in Malé before heading out. An airport shuttle service is available at extra charge.
Seaplane transfers typically run $250–600 per person round trip, booked through the property. A few islands in this band are also served by a domestic flight to a nearby regional airport plus a short boat — ask the property which routing is faster for your dates.
Across 270 Google reviews, the property scores 4.6/5. Atmosphere is the strongest theme — all 10 mentions were positive. Dining (23 of 28), the property itself (24 of 27), and nature (22 of 29) are consistently well-rated. Service draws the most comments at 36 positive out of 47. The bar also earns strong approval at 7 of 10.
- Things to do3.2
- Restaurants1.6
- Airport access1.6
Share of positive mentions per theme, from Google reviews.
- Speedboat transfers are very expensive and waiting times at Malé airport can exceed 3 hours
- WiFi connectivity is poor across the resort
- Limited dinner menu options on à la carte nights; dinner served late at 7:30 PM
- Some bungalows suffer from generator noise or poor direct beach/sea access
- Daily mosquito fumigation smoke considered intrusive and environmentally inappropriate
“The staff discreetly attentive, the reef is amazing and the accommodation is traditional Maldivian. It had all we needed and was perfect for a week of blissful relaxation.”
“If you value being close to nature and a personal touch - you could not find a better place to be.”
“The most amazing is the team. They go the extra mile to make sure you feel comfortable.”
“Food below expectations: only 2 times per week buffet and 5 times dinner a la carte with limited options. Very poor internet connection, even next to wi-fi routers.”
“Checkout 6 am for a flight 6 hours later because another couple was leaving earlier - and boat trip very expensive. Not cool.”
Guest reviews summarised from Booking.com.
Good to know
Frequently asked
How do I get to Makunudu Island from the airport?
The resort is reached by seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport. The island sits about 41 km from the airport. The official website also notes a roughly 45-minute speedboat option — confirm which applies when you book.
Is there an airport shuttle and what does it cost?
An airport shuttle is available at an extra charge. Contact the resort directly to confirm current transfer pricing and scheduling, as seaplane departures are typically daylight-dependent.
What room types are available?
There are two beachfront bungalow categories: the 40 m² Beach Bungalow with an extra-large double bed, and the 50 m² Deluxe Beach Bungalow with a patio and coffee machine. Both sleep two.
What dining options are on the island?
The Ara Iru Restaurant serves international buffets, set menus, a weekly Maldivian buffet dinner, and a beach barbecue. Private candlelit beach dinners can be arranged. The Sand Bar is open through the day and evening for drinks and cocktails.
Is all-inclusive available?
Yes. An all-inclusive plan is available. Free breakfast is also included in certain rates. Check current package inclusions at the time of booking, as pricing starts from around $181 per night.
Is there snorkelling and diving on the island?
Snorkelling, diving, and canoeing facilities are on site. Fishing trips are also available. These are island-based activities — verify with the resort whether any require booking through an operator or are self-guided.
What does the spa offer?
Aavun Spa draws on Maldivian, Asian, and European techniques. The menu includes a Maldivian seashell and coconut-oil massage, Ayurvedic Indian head massage, custom facials, and reflexology.
Is yoga available?
Yes. A yoga programme runs on the beach or at the Malafaiy Tree House on the island.
Is Makunudu Island suitable for families?
Both bungalow types sleep two adults only. The island has a range of activities including badminton, movie nights, and water sports, but families needing extra beds or connecting rooms should check directly with the resort before booking.
What is the best time of year to visit?
North Malé Atoll generally sees drier, calmer conditions from November through April. The wet season runs from May to October with higher humidity and some rainfall. Diving conditions vary by season — the resort can advise on specific marine life timing.
Can the resort host weddings or honeymoons?
Yes. The resort offers wedding and honeymoon packages. Candlelit private beach dinners can also be arranged as part of a romantic stay. Contact the resort directly to discuss what is included.
How do I book, and what is the price range?
Beach Bungalows start from around $181 per night and Deluxe Beach Bungalows from around $203. Rates vary by season and meal plan. Bookings can be made through the resort directly or via third-party booking platforms.