With 1,190 coral islands spread across 100,000 square kilometres (38,610 square miles), the Maldives is a sprawling archipelago of pristine beauty. Ringed by clear blue lagoons, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is a true island paradise, from its hibiscus- and frangipani-dotted gardens to the nearby coral reefs, home to thousands of colourful species like parrotfish, angelfish and endangered green sea turtles. Relax with a starlit spa treatment on the private beach, board a seaplane for a “surfari” of the biggest swells at secret spots around the outer atolls, island-hop to the area’s best sandbanks and swimming spots. The adventures – and photo opportunities – are endless. Here, Four Seasons guests share their dream day, complete with insider tips from Four Seasons experts.
MORNING
Greet the Day
The best way to start your day in the Maldives is with a tropical breakfast. At
Café Huraa, an open-sided Maldivian-style thatched-roof pavilion offers a buffet with something for everyone with stunning views of the free-form swimming pool and sparkling lagoon. Enjoy fresh fruits and homemade breads, place your order for custom omelet at the buffet, or create your own juice blend from a variety of fresh ingredients and watch the first golden rays of the sun kiss the blue waters surrounding you.
If you’d rather sleep in, head to the Reef Club, where you can opt to sit al fresco with an iced latte or relax under the open-air pavilions. The restaurant also is the perfect spot for a sundowner at the end of the day: “Beach days are even sunnier at our all-adult Serenity Pool, especially with a Smoked Margarita in hand,” says Rajesh Thankappan, Reef Club Restaurant Manager.
Dive In
When you’re ready to take to the water, try one of the Resort’s windsurfers, kayaks or standup paddle boards, ideal for cruising around the calm lagoons. Paddle boarding is easier than it looks but still provides a great workout that can help improve balance and core strength. “You can also join us on our daily dawn kayaking to watch the sun rise to begin a beautiful day in paradise,” says Ibrahim Nazeer, the Resort’s Dive and Recreation Manager.
Savour the Scene
After a morning paddling around the Resort, recharge in your villa with a meal delivered by In-Bungalow Dining, available 24 hours a day. With a menu of Western, Indian, Italian and Asian classics, you can enjoy everything from a simple salad to spicy slow-cooked lamb, Korean grilled pork ribs or pizza topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. “With the backdrop of turquoise water and gentle ocean breezes, it’s memories like this that make your vacation truly unforgettable,” says Aditya Ramani, Director of Food and Beverage.
AFTERNOON
Soak It Up
During low tide, the lagoon’s white sandbank emerges, ready for exploration. After a walk in the sand, watch the tide roll back in from your private infinity pool. “It’s such a great way to refresh yourself, just metres from your bed,” says Tobias Emmer, Director of Rooms. “Jump in and enjoy the breathtaking blues of the sea and the sky.”
Joy Rider
“Join us for an adrenaline-pumping adventure on an
X-Jetblade as you fly above crystal waters,” says Abdulia Razak, Water Sports Guide. And yes, he does mean “fly”: the underfoot jetboards lift users up to 15 metres in the air. A guide will teach you airborne acrobatics like 360-degrees spins as you soar through the air, powered by the water below. Other options include waterskiing, kneeboarding, wakeboarding and banana rides.
EVENING
Unwind Over Water
“Our new Water Villas have amazing decks for you to enjoy – they’re great for morning yoga, relaxing lunches in the shade, and your perfect private sundowner spot,” says Emmer. “It’s so romantic, stargazing and fish watching on your comfortable hammock.” Each Water Villa includes a private infinity pool and an in-deck hammock, a prime perch for watching reef fish, baby reef sharks, stingrays and turtles frolic in the turquoise waters below.
A Stunning Sundowner
Twilight is especially breathtaking in the Maldives thanks to unbroken expanses of sea and sky. Watch the daylight fade poolside at the Serenity Pool, where you can eye the changing pinks and blues from the whirlpool in a thatched gazebo. “It’s the perfect moment – enjoying the sunset with a glass of champagne along the beach while baby reef sharks swim by for feeding time,” says Thankappan.
Dinner Delights
Cap your day with a visit to Kandu Grill for an intimate meal at a table that from a distance appears to float on the water. “It’s one of the most scenic spots on the island to celebrate romance,” says Evadne Ang, Sales and Marketing Manager. “The infinity table offers couples a secluded dining experience under a blanket of stars – an unforgettable evening in paradise.” On the menu: a Maldivian fisherman’s catch of the day baked en papillote, and local tuna tartar with Maldivian spices, curry leaf, and watermelon air.
