Choosing the Island: Nature and Accessibility First
When choosing where to go, we focused on two key aspects: natural islands (not man-made), and direct access to the house reef for snorkeling. Both Amilla and Vakkaru ticked those boxes beautifully. These islands are a bit older and more established, which we actually prefer. They host their own little forests, rich in biodiversity, with coconut palms, banyan trees, and unique island ecosystems that give you more than just sea and sand—they offer life.
Amilla Resort stands out for its strong focus on eco-sustainability and accessibility. From energy-efficient architecture to reef conservation programs and inclusive experiences for guests with special needs, Amilla’s ethos deeply resonated with us. It was important for us to support a resort that not only offers beauty, but also cares for its environment and community.
Living Over the Water
We tried both beach villas and water villas, and while each has its charm, our clear favorite is the water villa. Here’s why:
Less sand in the bed – as beautiful as beach life is, it's a relief to not be shaking sand out of everything by day’s end.
Less humidity – the overwater breeze keeps things cooler and drier, especially helpful with kids.
Fewer mosquitos – though Vakkaru did have regular spraying to manage them, we weren’t entirely comfortable being near the smoke. It’s unclear what chemicals are used, and that uncertainty made us cautious.
Waking up in a water villa, with the ocean beneath your feet and the reef at your doorstep, is something truly special. The sea becomes part of your daily rhythm—snorkeling before breakfast, watching rays and reef sharks glide past in the afternoon, and falling asleep to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Snorkeling & Ocean Days
Snorkeling in both Amilla and Vakkaru was fantastic. The house reefs are healthy, colorful, and teeming with life—from parrotfish to turtles and blacktip reef sharks. No boat ride needed, just a few fin kicks from your deck and you’re in an underwater world.
The kids especially loved spotting fish through their masks, and every session became a small adventure, discovering coral gardens and shimmering schools of fish.
What's Next? A Dream of Turquoise
While we loved both islands for their natural feel and reef access, I’m still dreaming of a Maldives experience with even more turquoise—those impossibly bright lagoons you see in drone photos. Maybe a future trip will take us to an island with that shallow, powder-blue water, ideal for kayaking and toddler paddles.
For now, the memory of forested islands, overwater mornings, and underwater magic stays with us. The Maldives is a place we return to in our minds again and again—and we know we’ll return in reality, too.