Manafaru Island Hotels

As it strives to stay above water, the island country has duly become a paragon poster child for the global activist and scientific community. The most shallow nation-state on the planet, in a strict literal sense of course, may well disappear one island at a time if ocean levels rise over the next century at current clips.

The gloomy forecast of such has led to many avant-garde proposals, from land purchase plans in Australia, India and Sri Lanka to creative eco-crusades. Tourism is up too, as more and more international holiday-makers decide that now is the time to see firsthand what the incomparable paradise is all about. For the fortunate few who can afford it, Manafaru is the epitome of island resort idyll. The upscale realm of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts is a short seaplane ride from Male International Airport.

Manafaru Island History

• Matheerah Shrine – Maldivian royalty used to visit this famous sacred spot near Manafaru Island for blessings.
• Ihavandhoo Mosque – This mosque on neighbouring island Ihavandhoo was built in 1701 by Sultan Ibrahim Muhirudheen.
• Kuda Mosque – A number of notable historical figures are buried at this Hoarafushi Island mosque.
• Grand Friday Mosque – This golden-domed grand building in the capital city of Male is the Maldives’ largest mosque.
• Mulee Aage Palace – Built in the 1906 by Sultan Mohamed Shamsuddeen III and now used as the presidential office.

Manafaru Island Art & Culture

• Dhoni – Try fishing off Manafaru Island on a dhoni, a traditional fishing boat.
• Dhiddhoo Island – This neighbouring island is the capital of Haa Alif Atoll and offers a glimpse into local life.
• Fishing Village – There are a number of sleepy fishing villages nearby demonstrating traditional Maldivian hand-line fishing.
• National Day – This celebration commemorates the Maldivian national hero Mohamed Thakufaanu with parades and marches on many islands.
• Beach House Library – Enjoy books on local art and culture in this relaxing library.

Manafaru Island Shopping

• Maldivian Night – Every Friday, one of the resorts in the Haa Alif Atoll hosts an open-air market with scrumptious Maldivian snacks and dishes.
• Dive Centre – Sells and rents diving and photography equipment and offers tours and classes.
• Shui Boutique – Find lovely Asian spa and skin-care products here.
• Manafaru Island Boutiques – Buy beachwear, accessories, souvenirs and more in the island shops.
• Beach House Jewellery – Find a variety of gems from rubies to sapphires at this in-house jewellery shop.

Gay & Lesbian Manafaru Island

• Salt Water Bar – This bar is replete with hammocks and overlooks the water.
• Infiniti Bar – A poolside bar offering refreshing cocktails alongside a cooling dip.
• The Cellar – Wine lovers will be duly impressed by the selection at this underground wine cellar.
• Saffron Restaurant – This lovely restaurant dishes up Asian fusion cuisine with an unrivalled ocean view.
• Shui – This spa on Manafaru Island offers 10 luxurious treatment rooms with separate lounges for men and women.

When To Go

Manafaru has a typical tropical wet and dry climate for the Maldives. A long wet season runs from May to December and blankets the archipelago with the bulk of annual rainfall.

Temperatures in the Maldives waver from 73°F (23°C) to 88°F (31°C) for the year, with minimal fluctuation.

Getting Around

Male International Airport is adjacent to Maldives capital Male on Hulhule island. Guests of the Waldorf Astoria Maldives land at the hub and have access to the Hilton Worldwide Lounge at the Trans Maldivian Air Terminal. A stay in Male may be necessary for international flights after 3:00 p.m. Either way, a complimentary 75 minute seaplane ride provides access to Manafaru Island.