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Hotel Review: JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa, Shaviyani Atoll, The Maldives

LLM’s Maldives expert Lisa Curtiss experiences a memorable getaway at this stunning resort.

By Lisa Curtiss   |  

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JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
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Nestled within the crystalline waters of Shaviyani Atoll, the JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa offers a secluded haven where luxury meets tranquillity. This exquisite resort, a standout among the Maldives’ many offerings, provides an unparalleled experience that caters to every type of traveller.

Whether you’re a honeymooner, a family seeking a memorable getaway, or a solo traveller in search of peace and rejuvenation, the JW Marriott Maldives is a perfect choice. The resort seamlessly blends the natural beauty of the Maldives with modern luxury, offering world-class amenities, gourmet dining, and exceptional service, all set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean’s azure waters.

Hotel

jwm malidves seaplane
A 55-minute seaplane flight transports guests to this serene island resort

The journey to the JW Marriott Maldives is as enchanting as the destination itself. Upon landing at Velana International Airport in Malé, guests are greeted by the resort’s dedicated Welcome Ambassador, who ensures a smooth transition from the hustle and bustle of travel to the serenity of the island. The adventure continues with a 55-minute seaplane flight over the breath-taking archipelago, where the sight of emerald atolls dotting the turquoise sea provides a taste of the paradise that awaits.

Villas

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Overwater villas are a masterpiece of design, with outdoor decks that offer interrupted ocean views

The JW Marriott Maldives offers 60 luxurious villas, designed to cater to every whim and desire. Each villa, whether nestled on the beach or perched above the water, is a private sanctuary offering an exquisite blend of comfort, style, and Maldivian charm.

The overwater villas are a masterpiece of design, featuring spacious interiors that flow seamlessly into outdoor decks, where large private pools offer uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. These villas provide the perfect setting for honeymooners or couples seeking an intimate escape, with the serene sound of waves and the endless horizon creating an ambience of romance and relaxation.

For those who prefer to stay on land, the beach villas are equally impressive. Set amidst lush tropical gardens, these villas offer direct access to the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The thatched roofs and natural materials used in the design are inspired by traditional Maldivian architecture, creating a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment.

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Duplex beach villas are ideal for families or groups

The resort’s duplex villas, available in both beach and overwater configurations, are ideal for families or groups. These expansive two-storey accommodations provide ample space for everyone, with separate living and sleeping areas, private pools, and outdoor showers. The duplex villas are designed with both privacy and togetherness in mind, ensuring that each guest has their own space to unwind, while also offering communal areas for shared moments.

Solo travellers will find the JW Marriott Maldives an idyllic retreat for rest and rejuvenation. The tranquil setting, combined with luxurious amenities and personalised service, makes it easy to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with oneself. Whether lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or simply enjoying the stunning views from the privacy of their villa, solo travellers are sure to find the peace and solitude they crave.

Food and drink

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Aailaa, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, is a vibrant space offering a diverse range of dishes

The culinary offerings at the JW Marriott Maldives are nothing short of spectacular. The resort boasts five distinct restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience that showcases the best of local and international cuisine.

Aailaa, the resort’s all-day dining restaurant, is a vibrant space where guests can enjoy an extensive buffet breakfast or choose from an à la carte menu for lunch and dinner. The restaurant’s open kitchen and live cooking stations add an element of theatre to the dining experience, while the menu features a diverse range of dishes to suit every palate.

For lovers of Italian cuisine, Fiamma offers a taste of Italy in the heart of the Maldives. This al fresco restaurant, located next to the pool, serves up a selection of classic Italian dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, risottos, and freshly made pasta. The casual setting, combined with the delicious food, makes Fiamma the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

Hashi, the resort’s Japanese restaurant, is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic teppanyaki experience. Here, skilled chefs prepare fresh sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese specialities right before your eyes, using the finest ingredients sourced both locally and internationally. The restaurant’s overwater location adds to the allure, with stunning views of the ocean enhancing the dining experience.

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Kaashi offers a unique dining experience in a treetop setting

For another refined dining experience, Shio is the resort’s signature grill restaurant. This elegant venue offers a menu featuring the finest meats and seafood, expertly prepared and served with a selection of fine wines from the restaurant’s extensive cellar. Shio’s sophisticated ambiance and impeccable service make it the perfect choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Kaashi, the resort’s Thai restaurant, offers a unique dining experience in a treetop setting. Guests can enjoy a selection of traditional Thai dishes, including spicy curries and fresh salads, while taking in panoramic views of the ocean. Adjacent to Kaashi is Rum Baan, a charming bar offering a selection of 98 signature rums from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap, Rum Baan is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the tropical surroundings.

For wine lovers, this excellent resort boasts a stunning wine room, where you can enjoy tastings of many fine vintages, and also incredible dining experiences where the master sommelier artfully pairs wonderful courses with exceptional wines, so you can appreciate them in their full glory.

Spa and wellness

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The Spa by JW is a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation

The Spa by JW is a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a range of treatments designed to soothe the body and mind. The spa features six couple’s treatment rooms and one deluxe treatment suite, providing an intimate setting for a variety of therapies.

The spa’s signature treatments include the Ultimate Aromatherapy Experience, which combines the healing power of essential oils with a soothing massage to promote deep relaxation. The Deep Cleanse Facial, another popular treatment, uses advanced techniques and products to purify the skin and restore its natural radiance.

For couples, the Inner Connection package offers a unique experience that begins with creating a personalised body scrub at the Scrub Blending Bar. This is followed by an exfoliating treatment and a relaxing massage, allowing couples to reconnect and unwind together.

The spa also offers a range of treatments designed to invigorate and energise, including the Hot Stone Massage, which uses warm stones to relieve muscle tension and promote circulation. For those looking to renew their body and mind, the spa’s Renew treatments, such as the Intense Muscle Release massage, are designed to restore balance and well-being.

In addition to its extensive menu of treatments, the Spa by JW also offers wellness activities, including yoga and meditation classes, that allow guests to enhance their physical and mental well-being during their stay.

To do

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The Maldives are home to a vibrant array of marine life, including manta rays. Image credit: Pixabay/Masako Uchida

At the JW Marriott Maldives, there is no shortage of activities to keep guests entertained. The resort’s water sports centre offers a variety of options for those looking to explore the underwater world, from snorkelling and scuba diving to jet-skiing and parasailing. The warm, clear waters of the Maldives are home to a vibrant array of marine life, including sea turtles, manta rays, and colourful coral reefs, making it a paradise for divers and snorkellers alike.

For families, the Little Griffins Kids’ Club is a highlight. This expansive club, inspired by a pirate’s shipwreck, is one of the largest in the Maldives and offers a range of activities designed to engage and entertain young guests. From sandcastle building competitions and kite flying to beach Olympics and arts and crafts, there is something for every child to enjoy.

Teenagers are not left out, with a dedicated lounge offering a range of activities, including PlayStation, table pool, foosball, and a plunge pool. The resort also offers a variety of sports facilities, including volleyball and soccer courts, where guests of all ages can enjoy a friendly game or a more competitive match.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the resort offers a range of leisure activities, including cooking classes, wine tastings, and sunset cruises. These experiences allow guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and cuisine, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the Maldives.

Conservation

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The reosrt’s conservation efforts help to preserve the delicate marine ecosystem

The JW Marriott Maldives is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. The resort has implemented a range of eco-friendly practices to reduce its environmental footprint, from using solar power to desalinate water, to participating in coral restoration projects.

The resort’s conservation efforts are not limited to its operations; guests are also encouraged to get involved. The resort offers educational programmes that highlight the importance of preserving the delicate marine ecosystem, and guests can participate in coral planting and other conservation activities during their stay.

By integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations, the JW Marriott Maldives not only provides a luxurious experience for its guests, but also helps to protect the natural beauty of the Maldives for future generations.

Factbox

Address: JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa, Vagaru Island, Shaviyani Atoll, Maldives, 40880
Phone: +960-654-6666
Email: jwmaldivesreservations@marriott.com
Website: marriott.com

Resort photography courtesy of JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa.

Check Availability

And Book Online

Hotel
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
LLM may receive some revenue if you click BOOK NOW & book a stay via Booking.com. See terms of use.

Powered by Booking.com