Velaa Private Island

Maldives, Maldives

About the hotel

Style
Resort
Rooms
45

"A paradise inspired by the sea turtles for which it’s named, the all-villa Velaa Private Island is equal parts whimsy and luxury with magnificent dining and a three-story wine cellar."

Seen from above, Velaa Private Island looks much like a sea turtle. The verdant, nearly-circular body of land resembles the creature’s shell, while a curving boardwalk might be its head. It’s no surprise, then, that the luxury resort named itself after the animal it so resembles – “velaa” means “sea turtle” in the local Dhivehi language. Many of the sea turtles call the Maldivian Noonu Atoll home, and Velaa Private Island draws inspiration from them to craft itself as an all-villa resort which is equal parts whimsy and luxury.

In the words of Petr Kolár (Velaa’s interior designer), the resort’s aesthetic is one of “polite luxury.” A step within the walls of one of its villas makes the sentiment immediately clear: the design is exquisitely done but is comfortable and elegant rather than flashy. Contemporary features – think rattan swinging chairs and framed digital prints – blend with vaulted ceilings and exposed rafters for a feel that is just the right balance of island tradition...   Show more
Seen from above, Velaa Private Island looks much like a sea turtle. The verdant, nearly-circular body of land resembles the creature’s shell, while a curving boardwalk might be its head. It’s no surprise, then, that the luxury resort named itself after the animal it so resembles – “velaa” means “sea turtle” in the local Dhivehi language. Many of the sea turtles call the Maldivian Noonu Atoll home, and Velaa Private Island draws inspiration from them to craft itself as an all-villa resort which is equal parts whimsy and luxury.

In the words of Petr Kolár (Velaa’s interior designer), the resort’s aesthetic is one of “polite luxury.” A step within the walls of one of its villas makes the sentiment immediately clear: the design is exquisitely done but is comfortable and elegant rather than flashy. Contemporary features – think rattan swinging chairs and framed digital prints – blend with vaulted ceilings and exposed rafters for a feel that is just the right balance of island tradition and modern chic. Natural materials are prevalent throughout, the most clever use being the heat-resistant Jordanian stones that keep the ground comfortably cool underfoot. Contrasting with the subdued indoor spaces, the outdoor areas are bright and lively; private pools, outdoor showers, and – in some villas – ample terraces and gardens encourage one to enjoy the great outdoors. Of the 43 private villas, eighteen are built over water, and just one – The Romantic Villa – is accessible only by boat. There are also two private residences for the most extravagant of stays.

Food is one of the things Velaa does best, made all the more impressive by the remoteness of its location. The magnificent overwater Aragu restaurant serves an ever-changing tasting menu of European delicacies with Asian-inspired flair. Tavaru, with its panoramic ocean vistas, is the resort’s inspired Teppanyaki grill, while the beachfront Athiri serves a buffet breakfast and familiar favourites like wood-fired pizza. Nearby, a dazzling three-story wine cellar houses one of the largest collections in the Maldives, including some truly special vintages.

The kids’ club with its water slides and playground, is a colourful wonderland that will keep children happily engaged while adults explore the resort’s offerings. And there are many; the resort’s own golf academy and a nine-hole course, tennis and squash courts, yoga classes and – of course – plenty of options for fun both above the waves and below. For quieter moments, a fabulous luxe boutique showcases designer clothes and jewellery, while a sweet little library offers a comfortable space to curl up with a cup of tea and one of the resort’s hundreds of curated books.

Hotel amenities

Air conditioning
Laundry/valet service
Restaurant
Room service
Lounges/bars
Children welcome
Fitness centre
Internet complimentary
Show less
Seen from above, Velaa Private Island looks much like a sea turtle. The verdant, nearly-circular body of land resembles the creature’s shell, while a curving boardwalk might be its head. It’s no surprise, then, that the luxury resort named itself after the animal it so resembles – “velaa” means “sea turtle” in the...   Show more
Seen from above, Velaa Private Island looks much like a sea turtle. The verdant, nearly-circular body of land resembles the creature’s shell, while a curving boardwalk might be its head. It’s no surprise, then, that the luxury resort named itself after the animal it so resembles – “velaa” means “sea turtle” in the local Dhivehi language. Many of the sea turtles call the Maldivian Noonu Atoll home, and Velaa Private Island draws inspiration from them to craft itself as an all-villa resort which is equal parts whimsy and luxury.

In the words of Petr Kolár (Velaa’s interior designer), the resort’s aesthetic is one of “polite luxury.” A step within the walls of one of its villas makes the sentiment immediately clear: the design is exquisitely done but is comfortable and elegant rather than flashy. Contemporary features – think rattan swinging chairs and framed digital prints – blend with vaulted ceilings and exposed rafters for a feel that is just the right balance of island tradition and modern chic. Natural materials are prevalent throughout, the most clever use being the heat-resistant Jordanian stones that keep the ground comfortably cool underfoot. Contrasting with the subdued indoor spaces, the outdoor areas are bright and lively; private pools, outdoor showers, and – in some villas – ample terraces and gardens encourage one to enjoy the great outdoors. Of the 43 private villas, eighteen are built over water, and just one – The Romantic Villa – is accessible only by boat. There are also two private residences for the most extravagant of stays.

Food is one of the things Velaa does best, made all the more impressive by the remoteness of its location. The magnificent overwater Aragu restaurant serves an ever-changing tasting menu of European delicacies with Asian-inspired flair. Tavaru, with its panoramic ocean vistas, is the resort’s inspired Teppanyaki grill, while the beachfront Athiri serves a buffet breakfast and familiar favourites like wood-fired pizza. Nearby, a dazzling three-story wine cellar houses one of the largest collections in the Maldives, including some truly special vintages.

The kids’ club with its water slides and playground, is a colourful wonderland that will keep children happily engaged while adults explore the resort’s offerings. And there are many; the resort’s own golf academy and a nine-hole course, tennis and squash courts, yoga classes and – of course – plenty of options for fun both above the waves and below. For quieter moments, a fabulous luxe boutique showcases designer clothes and jewellery, while a sweet little library offers a comfortable space to curl up with a cup of tea and one of the resort’s hundreds of curated books.

Hotel amenities

Air conditioning
Laundry/valet service
Restaurant
Room service
Lounges/bars
Children welcome
Fitness centre
Internet complimentary
Show less

Room types

  • Sunrise Water Pool Villa

    • 223 m² / 2,400 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    With ocean views from every room, these over water villas have private pools and sun decks with steps extending into the sea. The comfortable living room is designed around a glass porthole in the floor which offers views of the vibrant marine life below. Overhanging thatch cools the interior and offers shade over the outdoor dining area. The bedroom and bathroom open onto the terrace, pool and sundeck.

    Highlights of the villa:

    Master bedroom with super king size bed opening onto the terrace.
    Large bathroom with rain shower, his and hers sinks and a circular bath tub featuring mood lighting and unlimited ocean views.
    Separate spacious living room with sofa that can be converted into a bed, ideal for small children or a single adult.
    Sundeck with canvas privacy sails, a large infinity pool, alfresco dining area and steps leading directly into the lagoon.

    Gazebo featuring a boundless reclining daybed with comfy scatter cushions.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    3,068
    Total 1 night Price per night € 3,068
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Room only basis (no meals)
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

  • Sunset Deluxe Water Pool Villa

    • 245 m² / 2,637 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    Perfectly positioned to capture the idyllic Maldivian sunsets, these one-bedroom over water villas offer an expansive sun deck and large relaxing daybed with plush scatter cushions. The sprawling living room is centered around a viewing porthole which gives front row views to the vibrant marine life below. It’s features include a bar area with amply stocked wine fridge. The spacious bedroom and voluminous bathroom are home to a circular bath and swinging chair, and open onto a terrace and pool deck with steps leading gently into the sea.

    Highlights of the villa:

    Master bedroom with super king size bed opening onto the terrace.
    Large bathroom with rain shower, his and hers sinks and a circular bath tub featuring mood lighting and unlimited ocean views.
    Separate spacious living room featuring its own bar area complete with a private wine fridge and sofa that can be converted into a bed.
    Sundeck with canvas privacy sails, a large infinity pool, alfresco dining area and steps leading directly into the lagoon.

    Gazebo featuring a boundless reclining daybed with comfy scatter cushions.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    3,780
    Total 1 night Price per night € 3,780
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Room only basis (no meals)
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

  • Beach Pool House

    • 582 m² / 6,265 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    Flanked by tropical foliage, with a sprawling terrace and double-sized private pool, these villas have two large bedrooms with both with indoor bathrooms and outdoor garden bathroom areas. An expansive living room offers a retreat during the day and a social hub in the evenings, complete with a bar and high stools. Rattan swinging chairs hang in the light filled bedrooms which open onto the terrace.

    Highlights of the house:
    Two master bedrooms with super king size beds offering unlimited views and direct beach access.
    Separate spacious living room with sofa that can be converted into a bed, ideal for small children or a single adult.

    Indoor kitchen area, versatile for catering and socialising over snacks or meals.
    Large private infinity pool with separate paddling pool set in a secluded garden with ocean views.
    Spacious gazebo housing an alfresco dining area, butler’s kitchen and reclining day beds with scatter cushions.
    Well-lit bathrooms with his and hers sinks and rain showers looking onto garden atrium features.
    Two private enclosed atrium gardens leading from each bathroom with pillared podiums featuring outdoor baths, waterfall showers and additional reclining daybeds.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    9,707
    Total 1 night Price per night € 9,707
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Room only basis (no meals)
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

  • Romantic Pool Residence

    • 599 m² / 6,448 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    Offering uninterrupted oceanic views and utmost privacy, this romantic retreat has its own personal gym, fully-equipped kitchen, personal butler and optional private chef. Meals are served over the water in a secluded dining gazebo, and sunsets are enjoyed from luxurious daybeds on a sprawling terrace. Other features include an outdoor jacuzzi, infinity pool, secluded sundeck and sunken bath.

    Highlights of the residence:
    One spacious bedroom featuring a super king size bed, designed with natural materials and neutral colours and fitted with a walk in closet.

    Only accessible by boat, offering utmost privacy and romance.
    An outside dining gazebo on a floating jetty with a kitchen and potential private chef and butler.
    A personal gym and spa treatment room offering both active and relaxation private space.
    All rooms open onto the terrace where the jacuzzi, pool, sundeck, sunken outdoor bath and steps leading directly into the lagoon.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    10,189
    Total 1 night Price per night € 10,189
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Room only basis (no meals)
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

  • Beach Pool Villa

    • 287 m² / 3,089 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    Shaded by clusters of palms, these beach front villas are a private haven. The interior is light and spaciously designed with mahogany louvered panels, lofty ceilings and suspended bamboo lights. Wall to wall glass doors frame the terrace and ocean views. Expansive indoor and outdoor bathrooms are connected by a peaceful garden atrium. Days are spent relaxing in the private pool and strolling the island’s infinite beaches.

    Highlights of the villa:
    Spacious master bedroom and living area with super king size bed offering uninterrupted views and direct beach access.
    Large private infinity pool set in a secluded garden with ocean views and a spacious gazebo housing an alfresco dining area and reclining day beds.
    Private enclosed atrium garden with a pillared podium featuring outdoor bath, waterfall shower and an additional reclining daybed with scatter cushions.
    Indoor bathroom with his and hers sinks and rain shower looking onto a garden atrium feature.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    Room not available – minimum stay requirements may apply
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Breakfast included
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

  • Deluxe Beach Pool Villa

    • 313 m² / 3,369 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    Set in a garden designed with privacy in mind, these beach front pool villas have a private pool deck and alfresco dining gazebo providing endless areas for relaxation. Featuring a separate living room area, the natural materials and colours bring the outside in, and a suspended chair adds to the elegant interior decor. The indoor bathroom is connected by a garden atrium to a spacious Zen-like outdoor bathroom area with a large bath and reclining day bed.

    Highlights of the villa:
    Master bedroom with super king size bed offering unlimited views and direct beach access.
    Separate spacious living room with sofa that can be converted into a bed, ideal for small children or a single adult.
    Large private infinity pool set in a secluded garden with ocean views and a spacious gazebo housing an alfresco dining area and reclining day beds with scatter cushions.
    Private enclosed atrium garden with a pillared podium featuring outdoor bath, waterfall shower and an additional reclining daybed.
    Indoor bathroom with his and hers sinks and rain shower looking onto a garden atrium feature.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    Room not available – minimum stay requirements may apply
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Breakfast included
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

  • Velaa Private Residence

    • 1,349 m² / 14,521 ft²
    • King bed
    • Various views

    Perched on a private beach, this family-size residence offers elegant, contemporary design and 1,350 square meters of usable interior and exterior space—including two terraces, an infinity pool and a dramatic courtyard. Carefully curated interiors have been arranged with privacy in mind – each of the four bedrooms face the ocean. Two have generous balconies and two open onto the pool with indoor and outdoor bathrooms connected by a garden atrium. The large private beach is flanked by twin gazebos ideal for dining, relaxing and entertaining. Behind the living area, a gym and spa room offer a quiet space to retire.

    Highlights of Velaa Private Residence:
    Four large bedrooms open out onto balconies and the terrace with views of the private beach and ocean.
    Curated interiors deliver comfort, style and elegance, designed with subdued lighting, natural wood and stone.

    Private gym, spa room and outdoor relaxation area.

    Fully equipped kitchen area with separate butler’s entrance.

    Vaulted living area with dining table, large screen TV and sofas.

    Whole-house sound system and multimedia entertainment system.

    Four large bathrooms with rain showers, walk-in closets and his and hers sinks.
    Two bathrooms feature large circular bath tubs with mood lighting and unlimited ocean views.
    Two bathrooms open onto private enclosed atrium gardens with pillared podiums, outdoor baths, waterfall showers and additional reclining daybeds.

    Expansive 38 m2 terrace with a large pool, outdoor shower and separate jacuzzi.
    Large gazebo with a pool table, outdoor cinema screen, sofas, butler’s kitchen and wine bar, and alfresco dining table.

    Lowest rate

    Most affordable

    Room not available – minimum stay requirements may apply
    Benefits included:
    • Our lowest price
    • Breakfast included
    ASMALLWORLD VIP

    Exclusive VIP benefits

    Become a Premium Member to reveal our VIP rate
    Total 1 night
    • Exclusive VIP benefits such as room upgrades, hotel credit, early check-in, and more
    • Special discounted rates, not available to the public

    Our ASMALLWORLD VIP Rate gives you access to a world of extraordinary benefits at no extra cost.

    To book VIP rates, sign up for ASMALLWORLD Premium.

Location of the hotel