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Sunset Beach Villas at the new Nala, opening in December Nala Maldives by Jawakara Set within the diamond-clear waters of the Lhaviyani Atoll, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is a benchmark for luxury in the Maldives, redefining the all-inclusive experience at the top of the market with round-the-clock spa treatments; rare bottles and gourmet dining; and incredible experiences like scuba diving. Since opening, Kudadoo has consistently been ranked among the most luxurious — and most expensive — resorts in the Maldives by those in the know. Topping $3,000 a night, rates reflect a rarefied offering of true privacy, design excellence and highly personalized service. Designed by Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki, the property (still the only full solar-powered resort in the Maldives) comprises only 15 overwater residences, each with ocean views, private infinity pools and direct lagoon access. Every villa comes with its own private butler on call around the clock, ensuring that guests can live out the resort’s signature promise: “anything, anytime, anywhere.” Nothing is standard here, and it’s all included: dinner might be served on a private sandbank beneath the stars and spa treatments might unfold in the dedicated “spa room” of the private villas or in a high-design pavilion suspended above the sea. Guests also have access to the nearby Hurawalhi Island Resort (with its famed underwater restaurant), expanding the range while keeping Kudadoo’s own atmosphere serene and exclusive. Kudadoo’s commitment to sustainability also sets it apart. The entire island runs on solar power sourced via asleek, photovoltaic roof that doubles as an architectural feature. Also, the building materials were sourced responsibly, and the resort’s operations are designed to minimize waste and energy use. Recognition has followed accordingly: Kudadoo continues to appear on “best of” lists by luxe travel authorities, while its aesthetic — modern yet organic, private yet open to the elements — has made it a favorite among celebrities. The resort enjoyed a burst of mainstream fame when it appeared on Apple TV+’s The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy. Behind Kudadoo stands Crown & Champa Resorts, a Maldivian-owned hospitality group that operates a 10-resort-strong portfolio of island retreats ranging from family escapes to ultra-exclusive sanctuaries. While Kudadoo is the pinnacle of the collection, there’s a new arrival on the horizon. Nala Maldives by Jawakara Nala Maldives by Jawakara This December, Crown & Champa Resorts will unveil Nala Maldives by Jawakara, an adults-only escape set in the same Lhaviyani Atoll. While certainly not as luxurious as Kudadoo, this is one to watch for a more accessible version of luxury. Like most Maldives properties, Nala sits on an island fringed by white sand and crystalline waters, and there will be 80 villas across both beach and overwater categories. Wellness will be a pillar of Nala’s identity: The Sulha Spa will feature a Himalayan salt room, red-light therapy and cold-plunge treatments. Also on offer: yoga, meditation and sound-healing sessions. For those drawn to outdoor pursuits, Nala’s location within the Lhaviyani Atoll offers exceptional diving and snorkeling. The house reef teems with marine life like turtles, black-tip reef sharks and coral gardens; plus, there are more than 50 dive sites lie within reach. Certified instructors from ProDivers will lead excursions tailored to all skill levels, ensuring that even first-time divers can experience the magic of the location. Kayaking, windsurfing, jet-skiing and sailing will round out the resort’s extensive program of watersports. Though certainly peaceful, Nala is not isolated, and it forms part of a dual-island concept with neighboring Jawakara. This means guests can easily access additional dining venues and bars, but still return to Nala’s adults-only tranquility. Nala Maldives by Jawakara Nala Maldives by Jawakara Editorial StandardsReprints & Permissions
