Emerald Faarufushi

Emerald Faarufushi is one of the country's mid-tier resort options.

The villas—sleek and spacious

There are 80 villas in total, split between beach and overwater categories. Each one has a private pool, outdoor shower, and floor-to-ceiling windows that slide open to let the breeze through. The overwater villas sit on stilts above the lagoon, with glass floors so you can watch the fish swim beneath your bed. Beach villas are nestled into the vegetation, giving you shade and privacy without blocking the ocean view. A good rule: to book early—villas with sunset views sell out fastest.

Dining—all-inclusive done right

The all-inclusive plan at Emerald Faarufushi is what I call "deluxe dine-around." You’re not stuck with a single buffet; instead, you can eat at any of the seven restaurants and bars. Mediterraneo serves wood-fired pizzas and seafood pasta on the beach. Carnivourous is the spot for grilled meats and Maldivian curries. Le Asiatique offers teppanyaki tables where the chef cooks in front of you. And Eclipse Bar, the overwater sunset bar, mixes cocktails until late. The plan also includes premium spirits and wines, so you can order a glass of champagne with breakfast without worrying about the tab.

The house reef—easy access, lively marine life

A short jetty leads straight to the drop-off, where the house reef begins. You can snorkel right from the beach—no boat required. The reef is home to turtles, rays, and schools of tropical fish. The resort provides gear and a guide if you want one, but many guests just grab a mask and go. Because the reef is close, you can pop in for a quick swim before lunch or spend the whole afternoon exploring. It’s one of the reasons Worth recommending: Faarufushi to families; kids can snorkel safely in shallow areas while parents relax on the sand.

Signature experiences—sunset cocktails and spa above the trees

Eclipse Bar is the island’s sunset hotspot. The bar sits over the water, and the views stretch all the way to the horizon. Order a classic mojito or try the resort’s signature cocktail, the Faarufushi Sunset—rum, passionfruit, and lime. The Emerald Spa is another highlight. Treatment rooms are built on stilts above the ground, so you can hear the waves while you relax. The spa menu includes Maldivian-inspired therapies like coconut-oil massages and sea-salt scrubs. Both experiences are included in the all-inclusive plan, so you can book a massage in the morning and a cocktail hour in the evening without extra charges.

The Dolphin Kids Club—fun for families

The Dolphin Kids Club has indoor and outdoor spaces, so children can play safely whether it’s sunny or raining. Activities include treasure hunts, Maldivian craft sessions, and snorkeling lessons in the shallow lagoon. The club is supervised by trained staff, and parents can check in via a messaging app. It’s a great option for families who want a few hours to themselves—whether for a spa treatment or a quiet lunch at Mediterraneo.

Transfer—seaplane or domestic flight

Emerald Faarufushi is a 50-minute seaplane ride from Malé International Airport. The resort team meets you at the airport and escorts you to the seaplane lounge. If you prefer, you can take a domestic flight to a nearby island followed by a speedboat transfer. I usually recommend the seaplane for the views—you’ll see the atolls from above, which is a great way to start your trip. Transfers are booked separately, so let me know when you message, and I’ll arrange everything.

Who it suits

Fede guides couples who want a honeymoon without the crowds. The island is small, the service is personal, and the all-inclusive plan means you can focus on each other instead of logistics. Families with kids aged 4–12 will love the Dolphin Kids Club and the easy house reef access. And if you’re celebrating an anniversary or milestone, the resort can arrange private dinners on the beach or a sunset cruise—just ask when you book. For anyone who wants a boutique island with a real house reef and a no-fuss all-inclusive plan, Faarufushi is my pick in Raa atoll.

The honest bit

Note the sea walls around the entire island, if you're looking for pristine beaches there are better options.