Tripplo's verdict, based on guest reviews
By Axel Hernborg · Updated 5 September 2026 · How we review hotels
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi suits travellers who want extensive on-site variety, spread across three islands around a shared lagoon. Each villa comes with its own private infinity pool, and guests can choose from 11 distinct dining venues, from casual to formal settings. The horizontal villa design keeps every room close to the water, maximising views across the lagoon. Family rooms and a private beach area support longer family stays. The trade-off is location: reaching the resort requires a long transfer, and the extensive layout means longer walks between villas and facilities than at smaller properties.
Guests score it 9.6 out of 10 — the average across the 5 hotels we list in South Malé Atoll is 9.3.
What Guests Loved
- With 11 venues spanning Chinese, Middle Eastern, and a signature tree top restaurant, guests can vary their dining experience nightly without leaving the resort.
- Each villa's outdoor living area includes a private infinity pool, gazebo for alfresco dining, and swing day bed, offering a self-contained retreat facing the lagoon.
Things to Consider
- Reaching South Male Atoll typically involves a flight to Male followed by a speedboat or seaplane transfer, adding time before guests reach their villa.
- With three islands and a substantial footprint, moving between dining venues, the spa, and villas may involve longer walks or reliance on resort buggies.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi from the centre of South Malé Atoll?
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is 3.7 km from the centre of South Malé Atoll.
How do guests rate Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi?
On Booking.com it scores 9.6/10 from 40 guest reviews.
How many stars does Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi have?
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is a 5-star hotel.
What amenities does Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offer?
Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers 2 swimming pools, Free Wifi, Family rooms, Beachfront, Airport shuttle, Spa and wellness center.
Weather & sea temperature — South Malé Atoll
Right now: 29° air · 31° sea
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Ithaafushi Island, 20009 South Male Atoll, Maldives