Our Stay at Ayada Maldives
When we booked our stay at Ayada Maldives, we knew we wanted something that felt remote yet luxurious, private but full of options, and it delivered in a big way. We stayed in one of their Overwater Sunset Villas and chose the Diamond Package, which included two spa treatments, four excursions (two for each of us), and unlimited food and drinks. Here’s my honest breakdown of the experience.
🏝️ First Impressions + The Villa
The moment we arrived, it felt like we had stepped into a dream. The overwater villa was stunning — it didn’t feel like we were in a generic modern hotel plopped into the Maldives (which can happen). Instead, it felt like we were really on an island. Everything from the natural wood finishes to the private pool and sunset views gave us that perfect mix of rustic luxury.
Despite the resort being fairly full, it still felt incredibly private and intimate. Biking around the island (which is completely motor-vehicle free) was one of our favorite parts — just us, the sound of the ocean, rustling palm trees, and birdsong. It’s those small moments that made the experience feel truly special.
🍣 The Food — A Major Win
If you’re debating between resorts, let me just say this: Ayada’s food options were a huge deciding factor for us — and we were so glad we prioritized this. When you’re staying on a remote island, there’s no hopping over to a café if the resort food is mediocre. Luckily, Ayada delivered with tons of variety and quality. From sushi to Indian curries to beachside grilled seafood — we never got bored. Every restaurant had its own vibe, and the unlimited dining with the Diamond Package made it even sweeter.
One thing to note though (more on this later): room service isn’t included in the “unlimited” part.
🌊 Activities + Excursions
There’s honestly a lot to do — more than we expected! There was a daily activities calendar and everything from sunrise yoga to evening cultural shows. We saw dolphins, sea turtles, reef sharks, and more fish than I could name when we went on our snorkeling excursion. On our sunset cruise we also got to see some pretty big nurse sharks too! It’s impossible NOT to see wildlife when in the Maldives.
My husband went surfing and said it was one of the best surf experiences of his life — the waves were amazing. However, he did mention a lack of surfboard rental options, so if you’re particular about your board, bring your own if possible.
We also got daily housekeeping + laundry service as part of the Diamond Package, which was a luxury I didn’t know I needed. Nothing like fresh clothes after a long day in the ocean.
And every evening, we’d come back to a little treat delivered to our villa. Small touch — but something we looked forward to every day.
💆 Spa & Special Dinners
Our Diamond Package included two 60-minute spa treatments, however most treatments on the menu are 90+ minutes. I opted to pay the difference for a longer treatment to splurge a little on myself. Still, the spa itself is beautiful and totally worth visiting.
We also splurged on a private beach BBQ dinner, and I cannot recommend this enough. There was even a fire show, and and the variety of food options was amazing and the quality? Top tier.
But the true highlight? The private three-course dinner at sunset. Our server and chef were both incredible, and the sunset was absolutely popping off. It was romantic, indulgent, and worth every penny. If you’re celebrating something special — or even if you’re not — do it.
⚠️ The (Minor) Cons
To be honest, there aren’t many. But in the spirit of transparency:
- Room service isn’t included in the Diamond “unlimited food and drinks” package, which felt a little off. We wanted to enjoy drinks by our private pool, but had to pay extra for anything delivered to the villa.
- The included excursions and spa treatments are very basic, and if you want to upgrade (which you will), you’ll pay the difference. The upcharges add up fast, so just be aware.
- As mentioned, surfboard rental options were limited, so keep that in mind if surfing is a priority.
🌅 Final Thoughts
All in all, Ayada Maldives was magical. Between the amazing food, stunning villa, kind and helpful staff, and the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, we left feeling totally recharged (and a little sun-kissed). If you’re looking for an island experience that actually feels like the Maldives — not just a luxury hotel in paradise — this is the place.
Would we go back? In a heartbeat. Would we recommend the Diamond Package? Yes — but go in knowing you’ll probably want to splurge beyond it. And if you’re on the fence about the private dinner or beach BBQ? Just book it. You won’t regret it.
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