SAii Lagoon, Hilton Curio Collection

Watersports: From Jet Skis to Dolphin Cruises

The watersports centre at SAii Lagoon is shared with the Crossroads Marina and offers a mix of complimentary and paid activities. Kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkelling gear are available for free, while motorised adventures—jet skis, scuba diving, and dolphin cruises—come with a fee. The lagoon itself is sandy and shallow, so most reef snorkelling trips depart by boat to nearby sites. I’ve guided clients on the dolphin cruise at sunset; the sight of spinner dolphins leaping alongside the boat is one of those Maldives moments that sticks with you.

For something more adrenaline-fuelled, the jet-ski excursions cover short distances but pack a punch. The watersports team also runs guided snorkelling trips to spots with better coral and fish life than the immediate lagoon. If you’re staying a few days, ask about the half-day excursions that combine snorkelling with a picnic on a sandbank.

Spa: Bespoke Treatments at Len Spa

Len Spa is located within the Crossroads Marina, a short buggy ride from SAii Lagoon. The spa menu leans toward customisable massages, with a 60-minute bespoke treatment starting at rates rarely seen in the Maldives. The setting is tranquil, though there’s no steam room or sauna—just a quiet space to unwind after a day on the water. The staff will arrange a buggy for you before and after your treatment, so you don’t have to walk back to the resort in the heat.

Fede guides couples here for the couples’ massage, which includes a private outdoor area for post-treatment relaxation. The spa also offers facials and body scrubs, but the real draw is the price point—unusually reasonable for the Maldives.

Pool Bar & Social Scene: Miss Olive Oyl

Miss Olive Oyl is the resort’s poolside bar and restaurant, and it quickly becomes the heart of SAii Lagoon. The bar serves cocktails all day, with an all-inclusive plan that covers everything from Aperol spritzes to fresh juices. The food menu is simple but well-executed: think tomato burrata salads, charcuterie platters, and seafood dishes that pair perfectly with a sunset view.

The pool area itself is lively, with music playing throughout the day and lounge sofas that invite you to linger. It’s a great spot for families, too—kids can splash in the shallow end while parents relax nearby. If you’re travelling with a group, this is where you’ll end up gathering for pre-dinner drinks.

Dining Beyond the Resort: The Crossroads Marina

One of the biggest advantages of staying at SAii Lagoon is access to the Crossroads Marina. The marina is a short walk across a bridge and feels like a small village, with restaurants, shops, and even a street market that occasionally features local vendors. The dining options here are a step up from the usual resort fare, with standout spots like Ministry of Crab (a Sri Lankan seafood restaurant) and Mr Tomyam, an Italian-Thai fusion spot with a romantic, tree-lined setting.

The all-inclusive plan at SAii Lagoon covers meals at most marina restaurants, though some upscale venues like Ministry of Crab offer a meal credit instead. If you’re not on all-inclusive, the marina is still worth visiting—just message Fede for recommendations on which spots are worth the splurge.

Activities for Families & Kids

SAii Lagoon is a solid pick for families, especially those with kids who might find the Hard Rock next door too loud. The resort doesn’t have a dedicated kids’ club, but the shallow lagoon, pool, and watersports activities keep children entertained. The Family Beach Rooms come with connecting doors, so parents can stay close without sharing a space.

The marina’s street market occasionally hosts kid-friendly events, like craft workshops or live music. For older kids, the jet-ski excursions and dolphin cruises are a hit. If you’re travelling with teens, the resort’s app lets them request buggy rides or room service without needing to track down a staff member.

Evening Entertainment & Unique Touches

Evenings at SAii Lagoon are low-key but fun. Miss Olive Oyl hosts live music, and the pool bar becomes the go-to spot for post-dinner drinks. The resort’s quirky design extends to its activities, too—like the scent-mixing station where you create your own bath products. It’s a small touch, but one that makes the resort feel personal.

The marina occasionally runs themed nights, like seafood festivals or cultural performances. If you’re staying for a week or more, ask the concierge about upcoming events—it’s a great way to break up the routine of resort life.