Villa Park Sun Island

Maldives, Indian Ocean

Virgin rating

The hotel

One of the largest resorts in the Maldives and Green Key certified, Villa Park Sun Island, really does have something for everyone. If your ultimate dream is to experience the stunning surroundings and get close to the colours of the natural world beneath the ocean, you can scuba dive, snorkel, or sail a catamaran in the pure blue water. Or if you prefer to catch up on some of that much needed rest and recuperation, perhaps some gentle fishing could be for you. On the other hand, if you feel your days are better spent horizontally you can take advantage of an aromatherapy treatment and massage, or simply sunbathe in a secluded cove with absolutely no sign of anyone, anywhere. This is just some of the advantages of this picturesque island in South Ari Atoll. For the evenings, the wealth of restaurants boast an excellent choice of cuisine from around the world, including Al Pontile (the overwater Italian restaurant) and treetop dining experience ZERO.

Amenities

  • Sailing
  • Snorkelling
  • Tennis
  • Windsurfing
  • Bar
  • Evening Entertainment
  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Restaurant
  • Safety Deposit Box
  • Spa
  • Swimming Pool
  • Beachfront location

Where is it

On the island of Nalaguraidhoo in South Ari atoll. Transfer time from Malé International Airport: 17 minutes by direct domestic wheeled aircraft, followed by a short speedboat transfer.

Hotel information

462 beautifully furnished rooms - all of which offer modern amenities, elegant design details and are located either a short walk from the sandy white shore or surrounded by the stunning turquoise hues of the Indian Ocean. All rooms feature air conditioning, mini-bar, hairdryer, tea/coffee-facilities, terrace, TV, phone and WiFi.

Sun Villas are located in the heart of the island, surrounded by coconut palms and abundant green foliage. With 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults, or 2 adults and 1 child.

All-Inclusive option: includes buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main restaurant, and afternoon tea with sandwiches and cakes in the coffee shop - Beer, soft drinks and canned fruit juices served at all outlets (except coffee shop) - House wine served at the pool bar, main bar and main restaurant - Spirits (gin, vodka, rum and whisky) served at the pool bar and main bar - Selected cocktails also available at the main bar - Bottled water served in all outlets - Tea/coffee from the main restaurant and bar - Mini-bar with two cokes, two sprites and two sodas (replenished once per day) - Sports and entertainment including windsurfing (one hour per day), canoeing (one hour per day), tennis (floodlighting at an additional charge), badminton, squash, basketball, beach volleyball, table tennis, billiards, plus use of sauna, steam bath and jacuzzi - Snorkeling gear (complimentary for use throughout your stay) - One night-fishing excursion per stay, for guests staying a minimum of 6 nights - Dine Around: One a la carte meal per person per stay, for minimum 5 nights’ stays. Prior reservations required for dine-around. Special events at a la carte restaurants are not included. All drinks are served by the glass.

Please note: meals in the hotel's à la carte restaurants will incur additional charges. Champagnes, sparkling wines, premium wines from the wine list, premium brand spirits and liqueurs, blended drinks or cocktails, espresso, cappuccino and speciality coffees, fresh fruit juices, and any drinks consumed after 1:00am or before 10:00am will also be charged locally.

Full Board includes: all meals from the main restaurant (breakfast, lunch and dinner). Water, coffee/tea is available - all other drinks are chargeable. Complimentary of use of land sport facilities. Floodlit tennis will be chargeable.

Room upgrades

Beach Villas are a few steps from the pristine white beach, with 1 king-size bed and sleeping maximum 3 adults, or 2 adults and 1 child.

Deluxe Beach Villas are generously sized and steps from the beach. 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

Sunset Beach Villas are also located on the beach, and are perfect for admiring magical Maldivian sunsets. 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

Lagoon Beach Villas are nestled between the lush vegetation and lead out to the lagoon, with vibrant interiors that blend with the tropical surroundings. 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

Beach Villas with Whirlpool have ample space leading out to an expansive veranda, complete with private whirlpool. With 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

Water Villas provide direct access to the lagoon from your private sundeck via your private staircase, perfect for discovering the beauty of the water and nearby colourful reefs. With 1 king size bed sleeping maximum 3 adults.

Sunset Water Villas offer stunning sunset views from your private sundeck, with a staircase providing direct lagoon access. With 1 king-size bed sleeping maximum 3 adults.

Beach Pool Villas have the pristine white beach at their doorstep, as well as generous space and a private pool and veranda. With 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

Deluxe Beach Pool Villas are larger, with the beach at their doorstep. With a private pool, veranda and whirlpool. With 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 1 child.

Two Bedroom Family Beach Villas are interconnecting deluxe beach villas and are just steps away from the lagoon. With 2 king-size beds and two extra beds, sleeping maximum 6 adults or 4 adults and 2 children.

Two Bedroom Overwater Suites are the ultimate home away from home, perched over crystal clear waters. Located at the end of the jetty with spectacular panoramic views, and a private Jacuzzi. With 1 king-size bed and twin beds, sleeping maximum 6 adults.

Please note: children are classed as under 12 years old.

  • Booking Bonus: Book by 14 Jan '25 to receive up to 10% off the accommodation cost between 25 Dec '24–13 Oct '26.  

    Terms and conditions apply. Any applicable offers have been calculated into the prices shown. Offers may not be combinable. Blackout dates apply. 

5 restaurants; Maaniyaa Restaurant (main restaurant offering buffet-style breakfast, lunch and dinner), Al Pontile* (Italian restaurant, open for lunch and dinner), Southern Star Restaurant* (buffet-style, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner for overwater rooms), Sun Star Thai Restaurant* (over-water dining, lunch and dinner), Teppanyaki Restaurant*. Zero private dining experience*. Vaani Coffee Shop and Bar (open 24-hours). 4 additional bars, including Beach Bar and Pool Bar.

Swimming pool and kids' pool. Spa*. Gym. Water sports, including snorkelling*, PADI diving school*, canoeing, windsurfing*, catamaran sailing*, boating*, power sailing*, wakeboarding*, water-skiing* and more. Floodlit tennis court*, indoor badminton*, basketball*, squash*. Football*. Beach volleyball*. Snooker*. Yoga*. Excursions*. Weekly entertainment programme with live band, disco, karaoke, competitions and poolside shows. Children's games room. Range of shops.

* Denotes local charge.

Please note: to ensure our customer's safety, we are unable to offer over water accommodation to children under the age of 12.

Rating summary

  • Location Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Sleep Quality Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Rooms Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Service Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Value Image of the Tripadvisor rating
  • Cleanliness Image of the Tripadvisor rating

Traveller rating

  • Excellent (7568)
  • Very good (1638)
  • Average (451)
  • Poor (174)
  • Terrible (157)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Paradise

Dec 27, 2024 83KatD London, United Kingdom

Lovely hotel, with very friendly staff, excellent food and beautiful beaches. All staff very kind and friendly, particularly Shamim at the pool was always ready with a smile to help! The hotel is overall in good condition but could use some modernising in some areas! But this does not matter one bit when you are in paradise!
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Not so good

Dec 26, 2024 Homa A

We stayed there for a week and enjoyed the most beautiful views and weather and food. The rooms were constantly cleaned and mini bar refilled every day. The staff in main buffet were very friendly and would not hesitate to do anything to help. The problem was when booking the hotel, I personally emailed them and asked about the difference… Read more
We stayed there for a week and enjoyed the most beautiful views and weather and food. The rooms were constantly cleaned and mini bar refilled every day. The staff in main buffet were very friendly and would not hesitate to do anything to help. The problem was when booking the hotel, I personally emailed them and asked about the difference between all inclusive and full board and was told as an all inclusive guest we could use the restaurants in the resort. In reality you are only allowed to use either Italian OR Thai restaurant ONCE during your stay. Even that is only from their very basic set menu ,not the a la carte menu. The same problem in the cafe, what ever we chose was chargeable! only some very basic uneatable choices were available. Same in the bar, even a coconut was chargeable!!!. Basically they sell you a promise and do not deliver at all. We notified them we don’t drink any alcohol and asked what was our best choice of boarding basis. We were advised all inclusive, which in reality meant we paid for one dinner in Italian restaurant with a very basic menu to choose from, more than a thousand pounds! Also in one occasion, we sat in the bar next to a couple that apparently were on half board basis and when we asked for two mocktails, very abruptly were told we couldn’t have them as people sharing the table with us were not all inclusive guests. The tables were full due to fire show being on and we had no option to sit somewhere else and it was very awkward. We didn’t let the food and drink constant problems ruin our holiday but we will not recommend the hotel to anyone ever. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating The perfect place to relax and enjoy.

Dec 26, 2024 Marinela P

Everything was great, staff was very kind, room was clean, food was delicious. Roomboy Moosa was very kind, he did a great job in cleaning room. Waiters were also kind, serving nicely, watching if your plate is ready to be picked up. Ella was great, answered all of our questions, talked to us kindly. Everyone was smiling, kind and nice. One waiter… Read more
Everything was great, staff was very kind, room was clean, food was delicious. Roomboy Moosa was very kind, he did a great job in cleaning room. Waiters were also kind, serving nicely, watching if your plate is ready to be picked up. Ella was great, answered all of our questions, talked to us kindly. Everyone was smiling, kind and nice. One waiter we would like to praise the most is Navaneeth. He was so kind, so nice he made our stay even greater. He made sure on breakfast, lunch and dinner we have enough drinks, clean table and was sincerely lovely. Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Romantic holiday in PARADISE 🏝️♥️

Dec 26, 2024 Petr V Prague, Czech Republic

Best resort on Maldives 🏝️ with outstanding services and pleasant staff 🤗 First of all I would mention SANA, she was the best. She helped us organize a romantic dinner on request and made all our wishes come true. Thank you SANA 🙏 It was an unforgettable experience for us and we will definitely come again 😍 Feeding the sharks and rays was… Read more
Best resort on Maldives 🏝️ with outstanding services and pleasant staff 🤗 First of all I would mention SANA, she was the best. She helped us organize a romantic dinner on request and made all our wishes come true. Thank you SANA 🙏 It was an unforgettable experience for us and we will definitely come again 😍 Feeding the sharks and rays was fascinating and fun. We were lucky enough to meet Also whale shark 🦈 You will never forget such an experience! ♥️ Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating My dream of visiting the Maldives came true

Dec 24, 2024 Gabbella28 Brasov, Brasov, Romania

Overall, I can say that we had a dream honeymoon; the island is stunning, and visiting the Maldives was my dream come true. I did extensive research on locations, and working in tourism, I know every location has its pros and cons. Cons of Villa Park (though there are fewer of these): Entertainment: The resort doesn’t excel in this area. There… Read more
Overall, I can say that we had a dream honeymoon; the island is stunning, and visiting the Maldives was my dream come true. I did extensive research on locations, and working in tourism, I know every location has its pros and cons. Cons of Villa Park (though there are fewer of these): Entertainment: The resort doesn’t excel in this area. There are few activities, with occasional evening events like live music or karaoke that end early. Daytime activities are mostly limited to things like yoga at the pool. Transfer from Malé Airport to the resort and back: Transfers are done via small planes (approx. 20 minutes flight), followed by a 5-minute speedboat ride. The issue is that there are only three flights a day, so you might have to wait a long time at the airport depending on your transfer schedule. For example, our return flight was at 11:00 PM, but we were picked up at 2:00 PM from the hotel. At the airport in Malé, a representative tried to scam us by directing us to a contact they had an arrangement with for tours in Malé. There was a lounge for those with long waiting times like us, but when we asked where we could leave our luggage, they sent us to a paid counter. Only after insisting did they mention the lounge. Room keycard issues: One day, our room keycard stopped working. We notified three different staff members but waited 40 minutes outside the room before someone came to help. Even then, the keycard only worked for a few hours before failing again. Housekeeping issues: On one occasion, housekeeping took one of our wet beach towels but didn’t replace it, leaving us with just one. In general, cleanliness wasn’t great. I had to request shower gel when it ran out, along with other missing essentials. Pros: Spacious island: The island is large enough that it never felt crowded, except in the restaurant. Food: The food was excellent and varied. I recommend booking at least full board. With full board, unlimited water is provided during meals and in your room (at least 1 liter per person/day). Drinks are relatively pricey: $6 for soft drinks, $8 for beer, $10–20 for cocktails, and $10 for milkshakes. We particularly enjoyed the service provided by Manik at the restaurant. Best accommodation location: I recommend staying on the southern side of the island (sunset side), where the water is calmer, with fewer waves and less wind compared to the northern side. Most rooms are renovated, with major changes made in 2022. Renovations are ongoing, but even the unrenovated rooms are in great condition. We stayed in Room 288 and were extremely satisfied. Snorkeling: This is a fantastic location for snorkeling, with many spots in both shallow and deep water. There is a specially designated area for this. Daily wildlife feeding: At 6:30 PM every day, you can participate in feeding the stingrays and sharks for free. Amenities and features: Mini zoo and botanical garden, where the staff eagerly explains the plants and flowers. Bicycle rentals for $7/day make it easier to get around. Free buggy rides are available to transport guests to their rooms or elsewhere on the island. You can request one from the reception or call from your room. If it rains, umbrellas are provided for free. Excellent internet connection throughout the island, including in the rooms and bars. Beach: Fine, soft sand with a gradual entrance into the water on the southern side. On the northern side, the water entry is steeper. You can sunbathe anywhere on the island. Sandbank: There is a picturesque sandbank, which is one of the resort’s highlights. Tides: While noticeable, the tides are not particularly disruptive. Water supply: Having unlimited water in the room was a huge plus. Minimal insects: Other than mosquitoes, flies, and dragonflies, we didn’t encounter other bugs. There are also free-roaming parrots and flying foxes (fruit bats), but they pose no danger. Children’s facilities: There’s a kids’ club with various activities. In conclusion, despite some minor inconveniences, our overall experience at Villa Park was fantastic, and it truly felt like a dream vacation. Read less