based on 7 nights
* Pricing is a guideline only and excludes special offers. Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
Accommodation
Seaplane transfers
Daily Breakfast
per person for 7 nights, based on 2 people sharing a beach studio on a Bed & Breakfast basis including seaplane transfers.
Best price guaranteed As one of our key partner hotels and home to one of our Explorers kids clubs, we can ensure our guests get the best possible rate for this hotel.
As one of our key partner hotels and home to one of our Explorers kids clubs, we can ensure our guests get the best possible rate for this hotel.
Two pristine islands perfect for families and couples
Explorers kids club for children from 12 months to 12 years
Exceptional range of watersports from kitesurfing and kayaking to diving and fishing
Spacious one bedroom beach suites ideal for families
Treetop, offshore or underwater dining options
Explore the reefs with a marine biologist
The Maldives has a tropical climate distinguished by two seasons, or monsoons: the dry northeast monsoon which runs from December to March, and the wet southwestern monsoon from May to November, with more strong winds and rain. April is a transitional period noted for clear water and heat. The temperature remains remarkably consistent at around 30°C.
February to April is the hottest period and resorts are almost all operating at capacity during this period. Mid-December to early January comes at even more of a premium due to Christmas and New Year and prices are even higher. Easter and the Italian vacation week in August also attract peak prices at most resorts.
Storms are more likely from May to November, though it’s still warm, skies can be cloudy and the humidity is higher. This is the low season, with fewer people and lower prices, with the exception of August.
Diving is good year-round, although a basic rule is that life on the reef is more varied and visibility better on the western side of any atoll from May to November and from the eastern side of any atoll December to April.
The surfing season runs from March to October, which is also when resorts tend to be at their cheapest.
The Deli on the island is a great place for a light snack, inexpensive panini or wrap, ideal when you're overindulging on four course meals in the evenings!
Complimentary bikes are provided to get around the resort, great fun and a great way to get around
Take out one of the private Dhoni boats overnight and anchor next to your own private island. Sail at sunset with the dolphins for company and sip champagne on the huge oversized on-deck bean bags - utter heaven and ideal for a romantic treat!
The overwhelming scent as you walk into the spa is incredible! Enjoy a day relaxing in the outside pools, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, all set in the middle of the jungle - you will feel totally removed from everything!
I love the popcorn maker and the complimentary tubs of ice cream in the rooms - nice little touches that the kids will love!
Make sure you take a boat over to their fine dining restaurant Edge to see the most fantastic display of colors splashed across the sky at sunset
Book in for a massage in one of their over water treatment rooms with a view of the lagoon, it's so relaxing
Go on a morning big game fishing trip, where what you catch can be cooked and served to you for dinner!
Head to the Surf Shack for a sundowner and enjoy the chilled out vibes while watching the surfers as the sun goes down
Although the house reef is only accessible by boat, the local marine biologists have placed some coral frames in the lagoon creating a perfect nursery for coral and juvenile reef fish. You can see this by snorkeling off the beach from Villa 134!
If it happens to be a rainy day, head to ACTIVE where you can watch a film in the cinema or play on one of the simulator games
The Maldives consists of approximately 1,190 coral islands grouped in a double chain of 27 atolls spread over roughly 90,000 sqkm
Try the ‘Jungle Daiquiri’ at Tribal restaurant, or one of the refreshing Mocktails like the ‘Beachwater Highball’
At any one time of the year, the coral reefs of Maldives are inhabited by 10-12 species of dolphins and whales
Niyama Private Islands is a luxury 5* Indian Ocean resort set on two pristine islands on the Dhaalu Atoll in the Maldives. With exceptional watersports, an Explorers kids club and a sense of privacy, Niyama is perfect for both couples and families alike.
Proclaiming itself "Nature's playground", Niyama Private Islands Maldives takes barefoot luxury to an exotic new level. Its two islands Chill and Play, one with a family focus and the other dedicated to couples are a tropical paradise with lush vegetation, ivory white beaches, crystal clear waters and endless views out over the Indian Ocean. The resort is a mix of modern and traditional Maldivian design and facilities, with a distinctive edgy feel, where guests are wonderfully looked after, choosing between total privacy and an extraordinary range of activities.
Niyama has an exotic mix of spacious beach front villas and “over water” pavilions, each with uninterrupted views of the ocean. Choose between a Beach Villa with a fabulous outdoor rain shower and a Deluxe Water Pool Villa with its own fibre optic lit pool, or a Water Pavilion with private infinity pool and a One Bedroom Beach Pool Pavilion, perfect for families. Take off your shoes, take a dip, and enjoy the services of your personal butler, and in-room deli.
Unique to resorts in the Maldives, the Explorers kids club caters for children from as young as 12 months and up to 12 years (other resorts take children from the age of 4). Open all year round, seven days a week from 10am to 6pm, and a choice of morning, afternoon and all day sessions with age related activities and facilities, Niyama is the ideal family destination. So, whilst our younger guests enjoy the circus themed play area and creative daily activity program, parents can take some well-deserved time off and enjoy everything that both islands offer.
Unlike many Maldivian resorts, Niyama has an impressive choice of restaurants. From all day dining at Blu around the family pool, to traditional African fare in a campsite setting at Tribal, from beach side lunches at Dune to a sunset dinner on a private jetty at Edge, and from dining six meters up in the tree canopy to cocktails with live music at Farenheit, Niyama promises a range of international cuisine for every palate. Guests can also choose private dining as well as take advantage of the in-room deli – your own fridge stocked with cold meats, cheeses and wine, meaning you don’t need to leave the privacy of your own suite.
Active guests will love the range of watersports available at Niyama and could quite possibly do something different every day. From boat trips to snorkel sites, catamaran sailing and wakeboarding, to game fishing, kitesurfing and seabobbing, the ocean is there to be enjoyed. Finish off the day with a sunset Dhoni sail – a traditional Maldivian boat that can take you for a private cruise. For a more relaxed stay, the Drift Spa with its ocean views is the perfect place for some indulgent treatments. Or try one of the Tai Chi classes at Pump, the resort’s state of the art gym.
Whether you choose between beach or "over-water" living, the accommodation at Niyama is the epitome of luxurious lagoon living. Surrounded by crystal clear water, pristine beach or lush vegetation, all the studios, suites and pavilions (excluding some of the beach studios) have their own private pool, are exceptionally spacious and come with fabulous amenities and a private butler. With features including outdoor rain showers, in-room delis and complimentary ice cream, it's hard to leave your suite.
Beach Villas with a modern twist. Views of the crystal-clear lagoon from the wooden terrace. Open-air bathrooms leading to the water garden. The elevated couch swinging in the ocean breeze. A deep tub to steep in. Deli-In snacks for the taking. A trail of stepping stones to a personal waterfall. Plush beds next to sun-soaked decks. Splashes and spirals of crimson against white. Indulgent rain showers. A 40-inch plasma TV and BOSE™ surround sound system – modernity with Maldivian flair. The comforts of luxury, the freedom of nature. Family-friendly studios overlooking a secluded beach. 135 sqm
Beachside days. Natural vegetation to enjoy or space to sun worship on expansive decks. An oversized tub and private outdoor bathroom. His and hers sinks. Smooth stones across the water. Deli-In to indulge. Towels on the pool loungers. Swaying curtains or open doors to daylight. Privacy meets the open sea. Outdoor deep seating for reading or dining. Shady palms. Hanging lights. Secret nooks. An ocean for the taking. Pool-side terrace days. Modern luxe au naturel. 190 sqm
These spacious (255 sqm) villas are perfect for couples and families. Offering total privacy and direct access to the beach, as well as views of the sea from the bed, they promise indoor and outdoor living at its best. They feature a master bedroom with king size bed, living room with a comfortable sofa bed ideal for two young family members, guest washroom, open air bathroom with choice of indoor and outdoor showers, private sun deck with daybed, traditional Maldivian swing, sun loungers and dining table, private ‘family sized’ plunge pool, Deli-In brimming with gourmet drinks and treats including complimentary popcorn and ice cream, in-room entertainment system with LED TV, Bose 5.1 Surround System and wide range of international and foreign language movies and a personal Thakuru offering butler service Maldivian-style.
One bedroom pavilions amid lush, hushed surrounds. Day-bed cocoon lounges. Infinity pool and Jacuzzi dips. A personal Thakuru for every need. Garden breeze in an open-air bathroom. Deep bowl sinks for cleansing. Rain-shower bliss. Azure and green mosaics. Secluded beach access, exclusive dining areas and living spaces to entertain. Candlelight through the royal palm leaves. Deli-In or dine out. Champagne flutes on the deck. A lounging bed by the sea. High-tech living, low-maintenance days. 400-515 sqm
Two bedroom pavilions amid lush, hushed surrounds. Day-bed cocoon lounges. Infinity pool and Jacuzzi dips. A personal Thakuru for every need. Garden breeze in an open-air bathroom. Deep bowl sinks for cleansing. Rain-shower bliss. Azure and green mosaics. Secluded beach access, exclusive dining areas and living spaces to entertain. Candlelight through the royal palm leaves. Deli-In or dine out. Champagne flutes on the deck. A lounging bed by the sea. High-tech living, low-maintenance days. 400-515 sqm
The epitome of luxury, the Three Bedroom Beach Pool Pavilion is exceptionally spacious at 770sqm and has direct beach access. It is the height of privacy with a personal Spa and two private pools and a Jacuzzi. The Pavilion features two king bedrooms and a separate twin room, sunken living area, dining area with cocktail bar, closed bathroom with choice of indoor and outdoor showers, private sun deck with daybed, cocoon loungers and dining area, Deli-In brimming with gourmet drinks and treats including complimentary popcorn and ice cream, in-room entertainment system with LED TV, Bose 5.1 Surround System and wide range of international and foreign language movies. Guests in the Pavilion have their own personal Thakuru available 24 hours a day – butler service Maldivian-style.
Ocean views stretch to the horizon. Lazy days spent on the sundeck or in the sea. Raw beauty meets spacious overwater living. Umbrella loungers for seaside naps. Awake to the orange sunrise. Cooling shade under majestic palms. A jetty bridge into the great expanse. A private pool for a late-night dip. A timber screen for privacy. Arched teak ceilings. Open spaces. An indoor, outdoor fusion. Accents of vermilion, a palette of nature. Modern pleasures, Maldivian elegance. Personal havens, all-day luxury. 175 sqm
Luxury. Comfort. Freedom. Overwater exclusivity above the ocean’s expanse. Spacious iconic living amid a palette of blues. A seamless blend of beach and pool. Day-bed relaxation, dreams of luxury. Jacuzzi nights facing the sea. Coral beauty under the sun deck. Elegant teak interiors with Maldivian flourishes. Bedside lamps in a yellow hue. Soothing rain showers. An oversized soaking tub. Flat screen and surround sound indulgence. An ode to modern luxury. Deli-In delicacies. Spaces to unwind both indoors and out. 190 sqm
One-bedroom luxury with expansive living and dining area. A grand foyer to explore. Your on-call personal Thakuru. Large outdoor deck with private infinity pool and a Jacuzzi to soak in. Day-bed nest on the water. Azure blues inside and out. Expansive living room and home entertainment. Modern edges, natural touches. Private Teppanyaki Grill. Deli-In journeys. Sun deck days. Chaise longue nights. Ultimate modernity. Ultimate pampering. The good life, Maldivian style. 340 sqm
Two-bedroom waterfront bliss. Seaside porch leads to a sunken living room. A pantry and powder room on either side. State-of-the-art gadgets and iconic design. LCD TV with unparalleled entertainment. Flora and fauna thrive in the surrounds. Personal everything – dining, cocktail bar, wine collection. Endless space to lounge in the sun. A bathroom sanctuary fused with nature. A myriad of pillows for restful days. Lines of crimson and strokes of white. An infinity pool and Jacuzzi on the edge of the ocean. Wooden stairs leading into the water. Evenings under a star-scattered sky. Luxury at your finger tips. A modern paradise. 515 sqm
Children's playgrounds don't get more heavenly than this. The Explorers kids club at Niyama is dedicated to children from 12 months to 12 years, making it currently the only resort in the Maldives to fully cater for younger guests. With groups split into four age groups with individually tailored activity programs, it's run by fully qualified childcare professionals and supported by local team members, with an exceptionally high ratio of carers to children. The club is open seven days a week, from 9am to 6pm, and children can take part in morning, afternoon or full day sessions. There is a charge for children aged between 12 months and two years, whilst those from three to 12, are free of charge.
Built in a fantastic space on one of the islands, close to some of the resort's most family friendly accommodation, the club is designed with adventurous spirits in mind. A colorful circus theme runs throughout, and facilities cater for each age range, including a dedicated sleep room for daytime siestas. Our younger guests build sandcastles, paint coconuts, make salt dough and have fun with bubbles, whilst our older ones become master chefs, visit local islands, enjoy watersports and play volley ball matches. The club has its very own climbing wall, a trampoline pit and even a stage for those who like to perform, ensuring there's something for every child who takes part.
Niyama now offers a beverage package that represents fantastic value and eliminates the stress of wondering what you room bill we be at the end of your stay.
Upgrade to the 'Rise' Beverage Package at Niyama and receive the following from 1100-2300 daily.
WATERBon Aqua, San PellegrinoSOFT DRINKSCoca Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Fanta, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Tonic Water, Bitter LemonFRESH JUICESApple, Mango, Orange, PineappleMOCKTAILSWhitesand, Virgin Mary, Pom Pepper Bramble, Lemon Breeze, Island SurferCOCKTAILSMargarita, Mai Thai, Caipirnha, Mojito, MartiniBEERSSan Miguel, Tiger, BudweiserSPIRITSVodka Absolute Blue, Tequila Jose Cuervo Silver Especial, Rum Bacardi Light, Whisky Johnie Walker Red Label, Gordon's Gin DrySPARKLING WINEProsecco Brut Cantine Saccetto Veneto, ItalyWHITE WINESauvignon Blanc Novas Emilliana, Casablanca Valley 2017Chardonnay Unoaked The First Lady Warwick, Stellenbosch 2017RED WINECôtes du Rhône Coeur de Terroir Francois Arnaud, Côtes du Rhône 2016 *OrganicPinot Noir Wishbone, Marlborough 2017
Upgrade to the 'Shine' Beverage Package at Niyama and receive the following from 1100-2300 daily.
WATERBon Aqua, San PellegrinoSOFT DRINKSCoca Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Fanta, Ginger Ale, Soda Water, Tonic Water, Bitter LemonFRESH JUICESApple, Mango, Orange, PineappleMOCKTAILSBlood Orange Mimosa, Painless Colada, Pom Pepper Bramble, Beachwater Rocks, Niyama Mint HighballCOCKTAILSWhite Sand Sangria, Pineapple & Thyme, Niyama Negroni, Mojito, Aperol SpritzBEERSCorona, San Miguel, Heineken, BudweiserSPIRITSGin Tanqueray Ten, Rum Havana Club 3yrs, Vodka Grey Goose, Whisky Laphroaig 10yrs, Whisky Johnnie Walker Black Label,Remmy Martin, Champagne, CognacSPARKLING WINEParés Baltà Brut Cava Penedès, Spain *OrganicROSÉ WINEClarendelle Inspired by Haut Brion, Bordeaux 2017WHITE WINEChablis Domaine Saint Claire Jean-Marc Brocard, France 2017Sauvignon Blanc Life From Stone Springfield Estate, Robertson 2017RED WINEBourgogne Rouge Vincent Girardin, Burgundy 2015Cabernet Sauvignon Marques de Casa Concha Concha y Toro, Maipo Valley 2016
Living up to its tagline of 'Nature's Playground', Niyama has a myriad of fun and innovative dining experiences. Whether you'd like Afro Latin grilled food in a campsite atmosphere, or a more refined menu on a floating restaurant reached only by boat, every night can see you trying something new. The informal Deli is a great way of getting a really good value sandwich on the go. Not to be missed is Subsix, the underwater bar and music lounge.
This all-day restaurant is perfect for families. Right next to the family pool, you won't have to go far if someone gets a little hungry. Especially popular is the poolside ice cream parlour packed with homemade treats from smoothies to sherbert to crepes. Sit back whilst your children splash and you're looked after by a ‘Sunshine Thakuru’.
An exciting dining concept - a restaurant 6 meters up in the tree canopy. A one of a kind gourmet experience of Thai to Teppanyaki in a breathtaking banyan treetop setting.
Dune is Niyama's stylish poolside bar, serving cocktails and mocktails, informal food including gourmet burgers, pizzas and sandwiches, and even has shisha on offer. A great place to relax and gaze out over the sea.
All-day dining is available at Epicure, NIYAMA's main restaurant serving international cuisine. Embark on a gastronomic adventure, and you can even visit the glass wine cellar with private tastings.
The Deli is a fantastically simple concept, yet hugely innovative for the Maldives. Offering sandwiches, ice cream, antipasti, smoothies and milkshakes, it means that you can grab something on the go - more time for lying on your sunlounger, indulging in a massage, or keeping active with a yoga session.
Accessible only by boat, Edge is an exclusive over water restaurant and Lounge. Enjoy the daily catch paired with fine wines in a sophisticated al fresco atmosphere. Panoramic views and tastes to savour, single this concept out as a unique experience.
Fahrenheit is Niyama's sunset rooftop bar, the mood changing with the day's light. Speciality cocktails, DJ beats and live music, combined with indescribable views and sunsets like never before, make the bar a must-visit on the island.
Offering modern Afro Latin grilled food with a stylish and modern campsite atmosphere, Tribal is one of Niyama's most innovative outlets. With sand floors and tiki torches, the inspiration is very much a blend of Maldivian combined with a more global feel. Tastes from South America to Africa to Asia cooked in the outdoor kitchen, entrees seared over open flames, tribal gatherings — this very much offers a dash of adventure and a pinch of fun.
You don't have to limit yourselves to one of the dining outlets. Enjoy a gourmet picnic on a private island, a sailing menu, or champagne at sunset wherever you wish. Dining experiences made-to-order.
500 meters off shore and 6 meters below the surface, Subsix is only reachable by boat. Watch the fish as you enjoy some private dining, a movie or a special kid's treat.
A 24 hour fitness hub with cutting-edge Precor equipment. Follow your own routine or create a new one with a personal trainer on call to offer fitness inspiration. The studio is an exciting space for Zumba, sports, yoga, Tai Chi and dance classes.
Water lovers will love it here. The expertly run FLOAT watersports center can arrange PADI dives (including customized courses for juniors), deep-sea fishing and a whole variety of sports in and on the water, including surfing, parasailing, waterskiing, jet skiing, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing and the fabulously named seabobbing. We particularly like the kayaking with the see-through bottoms! Catamaran sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing lessons are available, if you want to improve on your skills or would like to try something new. Non-motorized sports are all complimentary.
Snorkelling on the nearby reef is possible but accessible only by boat for a charge.
There is an activity program for adults, including kickboxing, beach volleyball, sunset yoga, hair styling, a DJ workshop and a movie session - to name but a few! Cookery classes are also available with a focus on international cuisine; think African, South American and Japanese.
For rainy days, there is also an indoor activity center called ACTIVE. There are two simulator rooms with an array of games including golf, American football, basketball, shooting and ice hockey. The simulator screens also double up as cinemas. There is also a games room here with table football, table tennis, pool and darts.
Both beginners and experienced divers can enjoy the marine life around Niyama. There is a Discover Scuba Diving course, or options for those who are more advanced to go on and complete their licence. Scuba Diver and Open Water Diver certification courses are available that take just a couple of days, and even children as young as 8 can try out the 'Bubble Maker' program.
One feather in the cap of Niyama Private Islands is the surfing. Surfing in the Maldives is world class – warm turquoise waters lap up against paradise islands, with swells sent up from Southern Ocean storms, producing some of the most beautifully formed rides on the planet. This is a location on the bucket list of anyone who has paddled into a wave.The thorny issue in most resorts however is that while the waves are indeed the stuff of fantasy, they are typically breaking on a remote reef miles from the resort you are staying at, necessitating a boat trip, which is both slightly inflexible, and can be costly.Niyama, however, is one of the very few resorts where a pre-breakfast surf is very much on the menu – with a perfect left-hand point break peeling down the west side of the lower island, you can jump in from the beach amd enjoy a couple of waves at your leisure. Free and easy surfing – the way it should be! With a highly experienced surf school, and a selection of other breaks close by (accessible by boat), Niyama has to be at the top of list for waveriders, experts and beginners alike.
Whatever time of day it is, the team at FLOAT are always ready to take you out on the water for a bit of big game fishing. Catch your own supper, from a selection of barracuda, mahi mahi, tuna, wahoo and a whole ocean worth of other fish.
A range of motorized watersports is available, including Seabobbing, jetskiing, waterskiing, monoskiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding and fun tubes.
Catamaran, windsurfing and kitesurfing lessons are available, for beginners, refreshers courses, private sessions and advanced programs with international certifications. For those who can already windsurf, sail a catamaran or kitesurf, these activities are available free of charge if you don't require a member of staff to accompany you.
Niyama doesn't have a house reef close to the island, but there is one nearby, reachable by boat for a small charge.
Discover some of the gems of the Indian Ocean with Niyama's resident marine biologist and explore the diversity of the marine life and coral. Visit the marine lab and go on a night snorkel to see the coral come alive, extending their polyps to feed on the surrounding plankton. You can even plant your own coral.
Fabulous hotel! Staff were so lovely (particularly our butler Roxy) and the lovely girls in the kids club! Amazing food and gorgeous resort! Kids club was fantastic!! The ladies were so kind and caring! Kids loved the activities and made great friends thank you!
Childcare was exceptional. Alex and Hollie in the kids club were particularly good.
The kids club was the standout element for us. Service was exceptional, it was so well run, and Charlotte had the best time. Arriving on the seaplane to see Holly standing there with a pink balloon for Charlotte. Having drinks at the surf shack and watching the sunset. Teppanyaki dinner at Nest. The beautiful views cycling round the island.
After 2 international fights and a sea plane, I experienced a real wow moment arriving at Niyama. The sun was setting so the light was amazing; the sand was as white as could be and the ocean as turquoise as ever and everything seemed so calm and peaceful. The rooms are beautiful; I stayed in a Beach Villa with Pool and loved my outside bathroom! The beach is steps away and the water is shallow for a lot of the way out, so great for children to play in. Everyone gets a bike to get themselves around the island which is great and golf buggies are on call for when you want someone else to do the work! Its quite a large resort in comparison to some of the others on offer, however, the layout is fantastic with the two islands (Play and Chill) linked by a causeway. Play has the fantastic Explorers kids club hidden in the center of the island which I cant wait to introduce my children to when I go back on my family vacation! The choice of cuisine at Niyama is something else, from African at Tribal to Asian at Nest dining is such an experience.My husband cant wait to get there for the surf, its one of the few islands that has a surf point breaking directly onto the island. The waves are relatively mellow and playful but can be challenging at times, so suitable for intermediates and advanced with some spots suitable for beginner instruction.
I absolutely loved my stay at Niyama and cannot wait to return with my family! The island has such a fun-loving and welcoming feel to it and is suitable for families, couples, honeymooners and those looking for a more active vacation than the typical Maldivian Resort offers. One of the big draws to this island is the surfing on offer - it is the only Maldivian island I know which has a surf break accessible directly from the island, without the need to take a boat. The rooms are beautifully designed with a relaxed and contemporary beach house feel and the addition of a popcorn maker and unlimited complimentary ice cream in each room is a lovely little extra. Niyama has one of the best kids clubs in the Maldives and we consistently receive incredible feedback from our families who have stayed here. The numerous food and beverage options is another big plus point with Niyama - there aren't many resorts in the Maldives which offer such an array of high-quality dining options.
Niyama is a resort for everyone. It has lots to offer both children and adults. Split into two islands, 'Chill' and 'Play', Niyama offers just that - a relaxing hideaway where you can take in the gorgeous white sand beaches that surround you and a fun, energetic place with an endless list of activities you and the whole family can enjoy. The rooms have a very neat, polished and contemporary finish to them and are extremely comfortable. I also thoroughly enjoyed the food they served throughout the islands, especially at Tribal their African themed restaurant. Niyama really is Nature's Playground.
All the fun is to be had at Niyama - it truly is Nature's playground. Spread over 2 islands 'Chill' and 'Play', it is perfect for both couples and families. The kids club is truly something else - the parents have a hard time pulling them away at the end of the week! It has a real jungle feel as you cycle around the island, and especially the amazing spa that is all hidden amongst the trees. Dinner in the treetops at Nest is a truly magical experience, and also Tribal for the best African style steak you will ever have!
I loved Niyama because it feels really fun and different to all the other Maldivian islands. The villas are really cool - personal preference for beach studios with pool! And there are lots of great touches like the popcorn machine in the rooms and the big fridge with deli food like cold meats and cheese. It's also quite a jungly island which is really nice. Don't miss Edge and Subsix! Subsix is completely bizarre and really fun.
Niyama is known as natures playground, and after visiting I can understand why. There are many activities on offer from water sports, fishing trips to sports simulators for the energetic types. Alternatively you can spend your time lying by the pool or outside your villa soaking up the rays. With themed evenings, you can try something new each night, I highly recommend the beach barbecue where you can sit and enjoy your dinner whilst feeling the sand between your toes. There are several perfect spots to enjoy a sundowner, but for exceptional views and a lively atmosphere try Fahrenheit which is on the first floor above Epicure. The beach studios offer you direct access to the beach, and the plunge pools are a great place to cool off. Although there is lots to do at Niyama the atmosphere is quiet and relaxing on this large lush island. Take a walk around the island and stop off at a hammock to relax and enjoy the views.
Niyama is a great island for everyone couples and families alike it has something for everyone, it offers activities for those that want to fill their days doing lots or you can choose to lay back and relax and do absolutely nothing!
With an amazing array of watersports on offer jet-skiing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, fun tubes, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and what I think looks really good fun is the seabobbing underwater scooters!! when it comes to water toys you name it they've got it!
The island is also great for surfing and kite boarding with June/July time being some of the best months, the new surf school is opening summer 2014 and offers full tuition.
Here I like studios that open out directly onto the beach the best, they have a beautiful open plan feel to them with large indoor/outdoor bathroom and a gorgeous plunge poll feet away from the sand!
What a wonderful time I had staying at Niyama. Service was faultless - everything done with a smile and nothing too much trouble. My favorite restaurant was Tribal - exceptional food and really good cocktails, definitely one to try! Whilst I was there, despite the hotel being nearly at maximum occupancy you would have never known. Still so quiet and relaxing and a perfect haven to unwind and 'switch off.'
Grab a light lunch at the Deli where they offer freshly made sandwiches and wraps and enjoy it in the comfort of your own villa or by your pool. Afternoon munchies? Each villa has their own popcorn machine and home made ice cream! You will never want to leave... For those more active go to Pump for a quick work out before lying on your sun bed.
I had a very special stay at Niyama. The first resort to have a real angle toward the younger party loving crowd, I found a strong Ibiza feel to the island and while I was there in its quieter early days, I can see it becoming the prime destination for our guests looking for something fun and social as opposed to keeping themselves to themselves and retiring to bed at 9pm.
I stayed in a Beach Studio with Pool, a gloriously spacious villa with room with generous plunge pool to the front (some are more private and some are more open to the beach - it's worth asking us to request one or the other for you according to your preferences) and a lovely garden bathroom to the rear. I could have very easily spent my days swanning around my own residence as you can be superbly self contained, however, I preferred to take advantage of the service by pool from Dune, their lovely beach bar with a fabulous cocktail, mocktail and lite bites menu.
The over water accommodation was beautiful and for those looking for that ultimate Maldivian accommodation, these are hard to beat. If you are tasty to the local Maldivian Mosquito as well, you may prefer these, away from the lush greenery of the island.
The dining options were fabulous. Breakfast set out in a delicious buffet with everything you could possibly want or imagine. Lunch available at Epicure with a small buffet, a la carte menu, grill, or of the delicious menu at Dune (the pizza's were to die for!) or alternatively and cleverly i think, The Deli which like a shop sell delicious sandwiches, wraps and ice cream along with a whole host of other treats - a really good way to snack or lunch for a very reasonable price when you may be rather over indulging in the evening. Dinner is available in a nightly changing themed buffet presentation at Epicure, the most fabulous carnivorous fare at Tribal, delicious and well priced items from the in villa dining menu (if you don't want to go all out on a full four course meal). When Edge opens there will be the additional option of a more contemporary and sophisticated menu, fine dining at it's best, over the water.
The watersports center offered everything you can possible imagine and their dive center was very well set up complete with a briefing room. The house reef is not within swimming distance from the island so you need to take a boat out. At the time of writing they offer complimentary daily snorkeling at a set time each day to the house reef. I saw turtles and wonderful fish during my excursion but as seasons change all myriad of life can be found on the reef. The Dhaalu Atol is not as well renowned as Ari or Baa for it's diving BUT I was taken on a lovely dive to a super reef with an impressive channel where you can find lots of larger friends during the right season. For me, during my own dive I was most impressed with the beautiful wealth of shoals of the smaller species and some lovely corals.
Sadly Subsix and Edge were not open when I visited but I managed to go and see the site and it will be fabulous - I can't wait to return and see it in full flow. When it opens the resort will have not one, but two resident DJ's with both Fahrenheit (the contemporary bar overlooking the pool) and Subsix playing host to a lively nightlife on the island and under the sea, not to mention the guest DJs who will be invited and drawn to this unique venue.
I could wax lyrical four hours about how pro this resort I am, but I suggest you try for yourself, ring us and have a chat - if you are looking for a haven in the Indian Ocean coupled with an imaginative social and nightlife this is the place to go!
Subject to availability and terms and conditions. Please contact our specialists for more information.
Niyama offers world-class conditions for the intermediate and advanced riders who are looking for their own personal swells. Beginner lessons are available from the expertly run surf school.
Located in the South Western Atoll of Dhaalu, Niyama Private Islands is situated over two idyllic islands, Embudhufushi and Olhuveli.
Notting Hill Yummy Mummy, February 2016
Ultimate family friendly haven in the Maldives
Tuesdayschild, June 2015
Sassy Mama, November 2015
Harpers Bazaar Arabia, September 2015
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