I’ve recently returned from an idyllic escape to Finolhu in the Maldives.
This breathtaking island, its name meaning “sandbank” in local Maldivian language, lives up to its reputation with a two‑kilometre stretch of powder‑white sand and impossibly blue waters.
Opened in 2016, Finolhu is a dream for families and multi‑gen groups who may worry that the Maldives could feel too quiet. The island is full of energy, experiences, and activities to suit every age.
Finolhu’s Teens Club is, without doubt, the best I’ve ever come across. Had it featured a cocktail bar, I might have happily settled in myself for an evening’s entertainment!
Teens can enjoy a vibrant social lounge, a dedicated gaming zone, musical instruments including electric guitars and a full drum kit, plus a pool table and table tennis. The activities programme is just as impressive, with options such as teen fishing, football camp, kite flying, silent disco, a golf studio, and so much more.
Alongside its incredible house reef – here snorkelling is a joy thanks to the abundance of tropical fish and marine life – Finolhu also offers a fantastic daily‑open water sports centre. All non‑motorised activities are complimentary, including kayaking, stand‑up paddleboarding, windsurfing and catamaran sailing. For those seeking more adrenaline, guests can also enjoy jet skiing, x‑jet‑blade, wakeboarding, knee boarding, waterskiing and sea bobbing.
One of the highlights of our trip was a dolphin‑spotting excursion, and we couldn’t have been luckier. Close to a hundred dolphins came close to the boat, some playfully spinning alongside us as we glided across the water. Amazing!
We shared a Two‑Bedroom Water Villa on the sunset side, and it most definitely delivered the ‘wow factor’. The villa was exceptional – beautifully spacious with more than enough room for the four of us. Each generous bedroom featured its own dressing room and an expansive bathroom complete with both indoor and outdoor showers, plus a free-standing bath.
The outdoor deck was equally impressive, with a stunning pool and private steps leading straight into the sea. There were plenty of places to unwind too, from armchairs and sun loungers to a gorgeous swing seat.
Dining at Finolhu is a real treat, with four main restaurants to choose from. Your day begins at Beach Kitchen, where breakfast comes with an abundance of choice and something to tempt every palate.
Kanusan, the resort’s fine‑dining restaurant, is renowned for its classical and modern Japanese cuisine. I enjoyed the most delicious sushi I’ve ever tasted, made even more memorable by the beautiful setting – right at the water’s edge.
Our most memorable—and truly magical—evening was a Friday night on Finolhu, something I now recommend to all my clients. This is when the island hosts its iconic White Party at the Crab Shack, set along the breathtaking two‑kilometre sandbank. You can walk there, of course, but arriving by traditional Maldivian boat feels wonderfully atmospheric.
As you step ashore, performers on stilts and dancers welcome you, cocktails are waiting, and an unforgettable night unfolds: fire dancers, a DJ, music, dancing on the sand. All of it enjoyed while savouring the fresh seafood with your toes buried in the softest white sand and the sea gently lapping nearby. It was the perfect evening under the stars.
Service at Finolhu was exceptional, and the island feels both high‑end and expertly managed, with a layout that works beautifully. The food and drinks are consistently excellent, and guests can choose between Premium All‑Inclusive or half board. It’s a fantastic choice for couples and families wanting a peaceful escape, with plenty of activities available for those who want them. Evenings are relaxed, with gentle, low‑key entertainment.
I’d love to go back for a longer stay – and I’d definitely time it so I could experience White Night again.
