58 LUXURY TRAVEL
VAKKARU MALDIVES:
A TIMELESS SANCTUARY IN THE UNESCO BIOSPHERE RESERVE OF BAA ATOLL
From overwater spa treatments to private dining and guided diving adventures, Vakkaru Maldives invites travellers to embrace the rhythm of island life.
Located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Vakkaru Maldives is a naturally formed island sanctuary where the rhythm of the Indian Ocean shapes every stay. Framed by a vibrant house reef and set amid one of the Maldives’ most ecologically diverse marine environments, the resort delivers an immersive expression of island luxury rooted in nature, craftsmanship, and conservation.
Although just a 30-minute seaplane journey from Malé, Vakkaru feels distinctly remote on arrival, with little visible development beyond the island, reinforcing a strong sense of seclusion. This isolation is central to guest experiences which unfold naturally between land, lagoon, and reef.
Spanning 111 beach and overwater villas and residences, each accommodation is positioned to maximise space, light, and connection to the ocean. Beach villas open directly onto powdersoft sand, while overwater villas extend across the lagoon with uninterrupted views. Residences range from one-bedroom retreats to expansive multi-bedroom settings designed for families and groups, with the Vakkaru Overwater Residence providing one of the most private and spacious stays in the Maldives.
Vakkaru’ s surrounding waters lie at the heart of the guest experience. Seasonal manta ray gatherings at Hanifaru Bay sit alongside vibrant coral reefs, turtles, and reef sharks, while the resort’ s house reef offers exceptional year-round snorkelling and diving directly from the island. A key highlight is the Blue Holes, one of Vakkaru’ s unique natural features which adds a distinctive element to the marine experience. Guests can engage with the ecosystem through guided excursions, supported by ongoing conservation initiatives including coral restoration, reef protection, and marine education programmes.
THE ART OF LUXURY ISSUE 76 2026