LUX* South Ari Atoll

Maldives, Indian Ocean

Star rating

The hotel

This is island living at its most magical. At LUX* South Ari Atoll, every day brings a new surprise, from cinema screenings under the stars to pop-up music performances and handcrafted ice cream by the beach. The vibe is effortlessly relaxed, with just the right touch of playful luxury. Whether you're snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, diving with whale sharks, or simply soaking up the sun by one of the two pools with cocktail in hand, you'll feel completely at ease.

For wellness lovers, the Forbes-awarded LUX* Me Spa offers ocean-view yoga, overwater treatment villas and deeply restorative rituals.

Families are warmly welcomed too, with a creative kids’ club offering everything from cake decorating to gardening. And when it comes to dining, you’re spoilt for choice, with 8 restaurants and 5 bars serving everything from Asian street food and Italian classics to fresh, plant-based dishes with a tropical twist. Sustainability is woven into every detail, from solar energy to a plastic-free approach.

Amenities

  • Bicycle Rental
  • Kayaking
  • Scuba Diving
  • Snorkelling
  • Tennis
  • Windsurfing
  • Babysitting service
  • Kids Club
  • Families
  • Bar
  • Fitness Centre/Gym
  • Internet Access

Where is it

On the island of Dhidhoofinolhu in the South Ari Atoll. Transfer time from Malé International Airport: 25 minutes by seaplane (remember to pack light for the seaplane transfer as luggage allowance is 20kg plus 5kg hand luggage, per person).

Hotel information

Choose between charming thatched-roof Beach Villas and Pavilions or elegant Overwater Villas, including 62 villas with a private pool. All accommodations are equipped with air-conditioning, a private terrace or balcony, satellite TV, telephone, complimentary WiFi, mini-bar*, tea/coffee-making facilities, safe, hairdryer, and iron and ironing board (on request).Beach Pavilions are interconnecting units located directly on the beach, each with a private outdoor terrace. Bedding configuration: 1 king-size bed plus rollaway bed, sleeping a maximum of 2 adults and 1 infant (in cot), 1 child, or 1 teen. Board basis options 

The current season until 31 January '26 

Bed & Breakfast: includes breakfast in MIXE and East Market. 

Half Board (Dinner) option: includes breakfast in MIXE and East Market. Dinner in MIXE, East Market, Beach Rouge or Senses. You are entitled for a 40% discount on the food charges at Umami or Allegria. Beverages will be charged upon consumption. 

Full Board (lunch and dinner) option: includes breakfast in East Market or MIXE. Lunch in Lagoon Bar, Veli Bar, Beach Rouge and Senses. Dinner in MIXE, East Market, Beach Rouge and Senses. You are entitled for a 40% discount on the food charges at Umami or Allegria. Beverage will be charged upon consumption. Still water, sparkling water, soft drinks, and Café LUX* coffee are included during your meal only. All other beverages will be charged upon consumption. 

All-Inclusive option: includes breakfast in East Market or MIXE. Lunch in Lagoon Bar, Veli Bar, Beach Rouge and Senses. Dinner in MIXE, East Market, Beach Rouge and Senses. Pastries at Café LUX* and ice cream at ICI parlour are included in your meal plan. You are entitled for a 40% discount on the food charges at Umami or Allegria.Beverages: in all restaurants and bars, a wide selection of beverages - soft drinks, tea, coffee, beers, wines, sparkling wine, fresh seasonal or canned juices, water, cocktails, liquors and Taittinger champagne by glass- Wine library featuring 90 labels of wine bottles included in AIP. • Tea and coffee facilities in the villas and coffee at Café LUX* are included in your meal plan- Mini-bar: water, juice, soft drinks, wines, vodka, gin, beers, sweet and savoury bites are included and replenished once a day.


Valid from 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2027

Bed & Breakfast : Includes buffet breakfast at MIXE and East Market restaurants.

Half board (dinner) option Includes:Breakfast at MIXE and East Market.

Dinner at MIXE, East Market, Beach Rouge, or Senses

Umami and Allegria: USD 30 credit per adult, per dinner (food only)

Full Board (Lunch & Dinner) option

Includes:Breakfast at MIXE or East Market

Lunch à la carte at Lagoon Bar, Veli Bar, Beach Rouge, and Senses

Dinner at MIXE, East Market, Beach Rouge, and Senses

Umami and Allegria: USD 30 credit per person, per meal (food only)

Beverages not included, except still/sparkling water, soft drinks, and Café LUX* coffee during meals

All-Inclusive option:

Enjoy a flexible dine-around concept and broad beverage selection:

Breakfast at MIXE and East Market

Lunch à la carte at Lagoon Bar, Veli Bar, Beach Rouge, and Senses

Dinner at MIXE, East Market, Beach Rouge, and Senses

Umami and Allegria are excluded, but you receive a USD 30 credit per adult, per mea;. Beverages: a wide selection of soft drinks, coffee, tea, wines, beers, sparkling wine, canned juices, water, cocktails, and liquors served in all bars and restaurantS. Café LUX* coffee & pastries and ICI ice cream included. Mini-bar included (replenished daily): water, juices, green tea, soft drinks, wines, vodka, gin, beers, sweet and savoury snacks. Complimentary non-motorised water sports: snorkeling, kayaking, pedal boats, stand-up paddle. USD 30 daily spa credit per adult (selected treatments only)

Premium All-Inclusive option:

All the benefits of the All-Inclusive plan, plus:One complimentary dinner at Umami and Allegria per stay.Additional dinners at Umami and Allegria: USD 30 per adult credit per meal.Beverage selection includes champagne by the glass. Daily access to wellness facilities: sauna, steam room, plunge pool, relaxation area.Café LUX* coffee & pastries and ICI ice cream included. Same dine-around lunch and dinner options. Daily minibar refilled (same items as above)Water sports, snorkeling, and spa credit also included



Room upgrades

Beach Villas enjoy magnificent sea views and direct access to the beach and lagoon, with 1 king-size bed, a sofa bed and single rollaway bed, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 teen.

Beach Pool Villas are on the sunset side of the island, and have a private plunge pool, garden and a direct access to the beach, with 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 teen or 1 child or 1 infant.

Family Lagoon Pavilions are a two-bedroom pavilion located on the beach with a common entrance and separate terrace, sleeping maximum 4 adults and 2 children/teens/infants or 2 adults and 4 teens/children/infants.

Family Beach Pavilions are located on the beach with two entrances and separate terrace, sleeping maxium 4 adults and 2 infants or 2 children or 2 teens , or 2 adults + 2 infants or 4 children or 4 teens.

Water Villas are located directly over the lagoon on the far sunset side of the island and offer optimal privacy and seclusion, with 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 teens.

Overwater Infinity Pool Villas are luxurious over-water villas with a private pool offering sunrise views and a direct lagoon access, with 1 king-size bed, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

Temptation Pool Water Villas are ideal for couples, with a dedicated living space, spacious wooden deck with dining area and cabana, a 14-metre infinity pool, a glass Jacuzzi room and a circular king-size bed, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 teen.

LUX* Villas feature panoramic sunset views at the jetty's end. Glass floored living and dining room, extensive outdoor terrace and lounge area with infinity pool, sleeping maximum 2 adults and 1 teen.

8 restaurants; MIXE (feet-in-the-sand international buffet, open for breakfast and dinner), Allegria Restaurant (Mediterranean cuisine, open for dinner), Senses Restaurant (Middle Eastern and Indian ocean cuisine, open for lunch and dinner), East Market (over-the-water Asian market-inspired restaurant, open for European breakfasts and authentic Asian dinners), Umami (Japanese fusion, open for dinner), Beach Rouge (beach club and restaurant, open for all day dining), Cafe LUX* (freshly ground coffee served all day), Veli Pool Bar (all-day poolside drinks, open for lunch), Lagoon Bar (sociable beach bar, open for lunch), Senses Bar and Lounge (cocktails, drinks, teas, light lunches and evening snacks), East Bar (hip over-the-water hangout, open in the evenings). Ice cream once a day from the ICI tricycle.

Daily programme for adults and children including performances by local artists and themed evenings. Cinema Paradiso - open air movies on the beach.

2 swimming pools. Spa*. Fitness centre. Complimentary snorkelling equipment, canoe, pedal boats, kayaks, snorkelling trips to the house reef. Water sports* including diving, tube rides, waterskiing, kite surfing, fishing, flyboarding and windsurfing. Whale shark safaris*. Access to volleyball court and tennis courts with complimentary rackets and balls (upon availability). Bicycles*. Beach yoga. PLAY kids club (3–11 years), Teens programme. Weekly activities cater to different age groups and include fun themes like gardening, cooking, swimming, yoga, storytelling, and more.

 Babysitting* (on request). Laundry service*. 24-hour room service*. Complimentary WiFi in public areas.

4 nights from the 31st December.

* 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

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Traveller rating

  • Excellent (6783)
  • Very good (398)
  • Average (92)
  • Poor (36)
  • Terrible (19)
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Warm Hospitality and Great Food at LUX Resort – Special Thanks to Mira and Chef Kelum!

Aug 7, 2025 SUNGMIN H

럭스 리조트의 가장 큰 장점은 리조트 내에 다양한 식당이 있고, 음식이 모두 정말 맛있다는 점이에요. 직원분들도 모두 친절해서 기분 좋게 머무를 수 있었고, 시설도 깔끔하게 잘 관리되어 있어 정말 편안했어요. 무엇보다 좋았던 건 한국어가 가능한 인도네시아 직원 미라(Mira) 덕분에 소통이 아주 편리했다는 점이에요! 카카오톡으로 활동 일정이나 예약 관련 문의를 쉽게 할 수 있어 정말 도움이 많이 됐어요. 아쉬운 점을 꼽자면, 라군에 산호보다는 풀이 많아서 스노클링을 기대하셨던 분들에겐 조금 아쉬울 수도 있을 것 같아요. 그래도 저는 이곳에서 거대한 가오리, 상어, 다양한 물고기들을 다 볼 수 있었답니다! 셰프… Read more
럭스 리조트의 가장 큰 장점은 리조트 내에 다양한 식당이 있고, 음식이 모두 정말 맛있다는 점이에요. 직원분들도 모두 친절해서 기분 좋게 머무를 수 있었고, 시설도 깔끔하게 잘 관리되어 있어 정말 편안했어요. 무엇보다 좋았던 건 한국어가 가능한 인도네시아 직원 미라(Mira) 덕분에 소통이 아주 편리했다는 점이에요! 카카오톡으로 활동 일정이나 예약 관련 문의를 쉽게 할 수 있어 정말 도움이 많이 됐어요. 아쉬운 점을 꼽자면, 라군에 산호보다는 풀이 많아서 스노클링을 기대하셨던 분들에겐 조금 아쉬울 수도 있을 것 같아요. 그래도 저는 이곳에서 거대한 가오리, 상어, 다양한 물고기들을 다 볼 수 있었답니다! 셰프 Kelum과 Mira에게 특히 감사드립니다. 덕분에 더 특별한 시간을 보낼 수 있었어요! LUX Resort was amazing! Great variety of restaurants and all the food was delicious. Staff were super friendly and the facilities were clean and well maintained. A big plus was Mira, an Indonesian staff member who speaks Korean, she helped us with everything through KakaoTalk, which made things so easy. The lagoon had more seagrass than coral, so snorkeling wasn’t the best. But I still saw a manta ray, a shark, and lots of fish! Big thanks to Chef Kelum and Mira for their warm hospitality! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Paradise Perfected

Aug 7, 2025 lyndsey b Kings Hill, United Kingdom

The island itself is simply stunning. The sea one side and calm lagoon with crystal clear lagoon the other. We loved walking around the island and taking in its sheer beauty. The sandbank was amazing and we took an early morning walk along this every day. My husband isn’t a great swimmer but didn’t need to be as the waters just so clear and… Read more
The island itself is simply stunning. The sea one side and calm lagoon with crystal clear lagoon the other. We loved walking around the island and taking in its sheer beauty. The sandbank was amazing and we took an early morning walk along this every day. My husband isn’t a great swimmer but didn’t need to be as the waters just so clear and calm. Ideal for children and non swimmers. We loved seeing the baby black tip sharks so close to shore. The food was top quality. I enjoyed learning about the Asian dishes while they were being freshly cooked for me. Room was beautiful and always kept super clean. Massage was amazing. Lots on offer to do but this island will keep you entertained just with its sheer beauty. The staff were so friendly and helpful and were genuinely wanting to enhance your experience and they truly did. Thanks to all - a truely special place that is now forever in our hearts. ♥️ Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Return visit planned as I promised

Aug 2, 2025 CJT02 Aughton, United Kingdom

So I visited here in January 2024 and I have just booked to return in January 2026. I had a fantastic time then and am really looking forward to meeting old friends Like John and outstanding Manager and rachelle who was a fantastic host . Looking forward to seeing you all soon . I return January 7th and cannot wait to. What a place ,f antastic… Read more
So I visited here in January 2024 and I have just booked to return in January 2026. I had a fantastic time then and am really looking forward to meeting old friends Like John and outstanding Manager and rachelle who was a fantastic host . Looking forward to seeing you all soon . I return January 7th and cannot wait to. What a place ,f antastic foor , staff make this an amazing holiday Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating unforgettable 6-day stay at LUX South Ari Atoll

Aug 2, 2025 Shamsa A

We stayed at LUX South Ari Atoll* for six unforgettable days — and it was truly amazing! From the amenities to the wide range of activities, everything was thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, relaxation, and fun. The restaurants and food were exceptional — every meal was a treat! A heartfelt thank you to all the wonderful staff who made our… Read more
We stayed at LUX South Ari Atoll* for six unforgettable days — and it was truly amazing! From the amenities to the wide range of activities, everything was thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, relaxation, and fun. The restaurants and food were exceptional — every meal was a treat! A heartfelt thank you to all the wonderful staff who made our stay so special. Everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming. Special thanks to Shawkat, the baggy rider, who memorized every guest at the resort — mashallah, such a kind soul! Deep appreciation to the clinic team, especially Dr. Ali, for their care and support. Also thank you to Ahmed from the Lagoon Bar for the great service. And a very special thank you to Dominic, who was with me on my first ocean dive — it was an unforgettable experience and I truly had an amazing time! Sorry if I missed mentioning more names — everyone we met was just incredible. Thank you all for making our trip so memorable. We hope to be back again! Read less
Image of the Tripadvisor rating Magical Maldives

Aug 1, 2025 Catherine K

Truly magic time with the family at Lux. From the moment we stepped off the sea plane we were welcomed and looked after by incredible staff at every corner of the resort. Layla greeted us off the plane and looked after our every wish with nothing being too much trouble- very easy to communicate via wassap. We tried to embrace everything… Read more
Truly magic time with the family at Lux. From the moment we stepped off the sea plane we were welcomed and looked after by incredible staff at every corner of the resort. Layla greeted us off the plane and looked after our every wish with nothing being too much trouble- very easy to communicate via wassap. We tried to embrace everything that the Island has to offer and can honestly say that the facilities, service and food were some of the best we have ever experienced. Lux offers multiple bars and dining experiences so you can never get bored. East market buffet is exceptional with a view of the lagoon that made dining a treat each time. East bar is relaxed but also with the ability to sit and enjoy the Indian Ocean whilst sipping a cocktail. Senses bar/pool area was very relaxed no matter what the weather - the staff had a job on their hands at times with the weather but made it look effortless and always smiling! The staff were amazing with the best cocktails. We loved beach rouge and chilling on the beach where we were looked after by Suresh beautifully. Don’t forget the ice cream whilst here- delicious. The resort has everything and more for you to be active or relaxed. As a family of four we went diving and were looked after by euro divers- sadly no whales sharks but a manta ray at the pier and whilst diving at sea on our last dive was very special. Dominique took us diving as a family and we would highly recommend trying diving whilst at Lux The resort is immaculate and rooms were kept beautifully clean during the stay. The two bedroom pavilion villas are perfect for a family of four with older children so everyone could have their own space The Shuttle bus service is great when not walking with I think the star of the Island - Shawkat who made us smile every time we got aboard. The gym and facilities are great with classes to choose as you wished- the library is idyllic! Overall as a family we felt the resort offered everything and more for us to enjoy time together on a small Island. Special thanks have to go to Ali who helped us ensure all of our luggage arrived safely with us in time to catch our flight. Moral of the story is don’t take more than one bag and hand luggage on a seaplane to the Maldives- we live and learn! So a very big thank you to the whole team. Shukuriyaa-ޝުކުރިޔާ Read less