Loama

Loama is set in Raa Atoll, reached via 50-minute seaplane from Malé. On the marine side, the house reef is accessible from the beach — alive in patches.

Strong fit for families, relaxed stays.

Why people come here

Loama sits on a small natural island in Raa Atoll, one of the Maldives’ most hotel-rich regions. The lagoon is calm, the sand is white, and the house reef starts right at the shoreline—no boat required. Because the resort is compact, kids can run between the pool and the beach without needing a chaperone. The all-inclusive plan covers every meal, from buffet breakfasts at Tazaa to Italian dinners at Acquapazza, plus coffee, wine by the glass, and even a sunset treehouse dinner if you book ahead. The freedom-coach model means there’s always someone on WhatsApp to arrange a last-minute snorkel set or a pizza-making demo for the children. For families who want a hassle-free holiday without sacrificing good food or easy reef access, Loama delivers.

Villas—space for families and couples alike

The resort offers three main villa types. Beach Pool Suites are the largest at 1600 square feet, split between a living-room bungalow and a bedroom bungalow connected by a walkway. The outdoor bathroom has a tub, shower, and waterfall shower, though no fan, so it can get warm. The private infinity pool and direct beach access make it well-suited to families. Overwater Duplex Lagoon Pool Villas sit at the end of the jetty—only two exist—with a lower-level living room and pool, and an upper-level bedroom. These are quieter, mosquito-free, and have sunset views, but they’re the farthest point from the restaurants. Beach Pool Villas are smaller at 830 square feet but feel more refreshed, with indoor vanities and a logical layout. All villas come with the same minibar—small bottles of wine, beer, and snacksand Cora Cora-branded toiletries. If you’re travelling with kids, I’d lean toward the Beach Pool Suite or Villa; couples might prefer the overwater duplex for privacy.

Dining—all-inclusive done right

Every meal is included, and the restaurants cover a range of cuisines. Tazaa is the all-day buffet spot, serving breakfast with a made-to-order egg station and lunch with club sandwiches, curries, and salads. Acquapazza is the standout—Italian dishes like prosciutto with cantaloupe, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh pastas. It books up quickly, so reserve through the app as soon as you arrive. Ginger Moon offers Southeast Asian dishes like Nasi Goreng in a sunset-facing setting, though it’s only open for dinner. Teien is the sushi restaurant inside the buffet area, serving light, straightforward rolls. My Coffee roasts its own beans in Malé and serves gelato, pastries, and immunity-boosting juice shots. The wine list is extensive, and cocktails are simple but well-made. For a special night, the treehouse dinner is a romantic option with sunset views.

House reef—snorkelling straight from the beach

The house reef is accessible directly from the beach, particularly near the overwater villas and the arrival jetty. The water is clear and warm, making it easy for kids to snorkel without a boat trip. While the reef isn’t the most vibrant in the Maldives, it’s convenient and calm, well suited to families who want to dip in and out throughout the day. The resort provides complimentary snorkel sets, so you can grab a mask and fins and head straight into the lagoon. For more adventurous snorkelling, the watersports centre offers paid excursions to nearby reefs.

Signature experiences—culture and relaxation

Loama’s Dutch Onion Museum is a unique draw. It houses artifacts found on the island and across the Maldives, from ancient trader relics to everyday items used by locals centuries ago. Daily tours are available—just ask at the front desk. The MOKSHA Spa offers overwater massage rooms, including a couples suite with a glass floor for underwater views. Guests staying four nights or more get a complimentary 45-minute massage, though Fede recommends upgrading to 60 minutes for a full experience. Sunset yoga classes on the jetty are a peaceful way to end the day, and the sound meditation sessions are a hit with couples looking to unwind. For families, the pizza-making and sushi-making demos are short, fun activities that kids enjoy.

Transfer—scenic seaplane ride

Loama is a 50-minute seaplane flight from Malé. The journey is scenic, flying over Raa and Baa Atolls, where you’ll spot other resorts dotting the turquoise waters. The resort doesn’t offer a private lounge at the seaplane terminal, but there’s a shared lounge with air conditioning, water, and snacks. Once you land, staff greet you at the dock with music, floral necklaces, and cold towels. A short buggy ride takes you to the lobby for check-in. If you’re connecting from another resort, the process is seamless—just let your current hotel know, and they’ll coordinate with Loama’s team.

Who it suits

Families with young kids top the list. The compact island means no long walks, the all-inclusive plan simplifies budgeting, and the house reef is safe for little snorkelers. Couples who want a relaxed, no-fuss stay will also enjoy Loama, especially if they book an overwater villa for privacy. The resort’s quiet vibe makes it a good fit for travellers who prefer fewer crowds, even during peak seasons. If you’re celebrating a milestone—an anniversary, a birthday—the treehouse dinner is a memorable touch. For divers, Raa Atoll’s dive sites are a short boat ride away, though the resort itself focuses more on snorkelling and water sports.

The honest bit

Loama isn’t perfect. The freedom-coach model can feel disjointed—staff are friendly but not always attentive, and housekeeping sometimes leaves sand on the floors. The minibar is small, with just a few snacks and drinks, and you’ll pay to restock it. The pool area gets busy with families, so if you’re looking for quiet, book a villa with its own pool. The sunset cruise is underwhelming—it’s more of a stationary boat trip than a scenic sail. And while the house reef is convenient, it’s not the most vibrant in the Maldives. These are small trade-offs for a resort that delivers on ease, good food, and a family-friendly atmosphere. If you’re okay with a few rough edges in exchange for a relaxed, all-inclusive stay, Loama is a solid pick.