Set on a mere 1km of sandy beach where lush greenery clings on despite the encroaching tides, Zitahli Kuda-Funafaru embodies all things Maldivian. The island is of course private, and offers unreal snorkeling and diving. Slip beneath the blue, and wave hello to octopus, turtles, and a myriad of fish.
50 rooms (30 on stilts over water, 20 on land) are dressed in muted tones, and feature modern island furnishings. Some with freestanding tubs, others with private infinity pools; all have a connection to water in some way, shape, or form.
The spa, with its plunge pools and fresh flower treatments, is pure organic bliss. Dining can be handled in any of five eateries: Mosiac for Mediterranean fare, 5 Degree North for libations, and poolside dining for those that just can’t bare to come out of the water.