Lily Beach vs LUX* South Ari Atoll: All-Inclusive Showdown

Choosing between two exceptional all-inclusive resorts in the Maldives' South Ari Atoll can be a delightful dilemma for discerning travelers. Lily Beach Resort & Spa and LUX South Ari Atoll both promise idyllic escapes with pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and luxurious amenities. The key decision factor often boils down to the nuances of their all-inclusive offerings, the specific atmosphere they cultivate, and the unique experiences each resort highlights. This detailed comparison aims to dissect every aspect, from accommodation to activities, to help you determine which island paradise best aligns with your dream Maldivian getaway.

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Overview Comparison

Feature	Lily Beach Resort & Spa	LUX South Ari Atoll
Location	South Ari Atoll	South Ari Atoll
Star Rating	5	5
Price Range	Luxury ($1000/night)	Luxury ($700/night)
Transfer	Seaplane/Domestic Flight (25-30 min)	Seaplane (25-30 min)
Total Villas	125	193
Overwater	Yes	Yes
Best For	Award-winning Premium All-Inclusive 'Platinum Plan', Located in South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), known for year-round whale shark and manta ray sightings, New Seaplane Lounge and Luxury Vehicle at Male Airport (as of 2023).	One of the world's largest floating solar systems, providing over 30% of the island's energy, Year-round whale shark encounters in the surrounding marine protected area, Cinema Paradiso (outdoor cinema experience under the stars).

Location & Getting There

Both Lily Beach Resort & Spa and LUX South Ari Atoll are nestled in the picturesque South Ari Atoll, a region renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, particularly its year-round whale shark and manta ray sightings. This shared location means guests at either resort have prime access to some of the Maldives' most sought-after underwater encounters.

The journey to both resorts from Velana International Airport (Malé) is predominantly via seaplane, offering breathtaking aerial views of the scattered atolls. Lily Beach states a transfer time of 25-30 minutes by seaplane or a domestic flight option, also around 25-30 minutes. As of 2023, Lily Beach enhances the arrival experience with a new Seaplane Lounge and Luxury Vehicle at Male Airport. LUX South Ari Atoll also offers a seaplane transfer of approximately 25-30 minutes.

Given their identical location and similar seaplane transfer times, the convenience of reaching either resort is largely comparable. However, Lily Beach's recent addition of a dedicated seaplane lounge and luxury vehicle service at Male Airport could offer a slightly more seamless and exclusive start to the holiday for those who appreciate enhanced airport services.

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Accommodation

The choice of accommodation significantly impacts the overall resort experience, and both Lily Beach and LUX South Ari Atoll offer a range of luxurious villas designed to immerse guests in the Maldivian dream. While both feature overwater options, their specific villa categories and unique touches vary.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Villas

Lily Beach Resort & Spa offers 125 villas, providing a diverse selection for couples, families, and those seeking ultimate privacy. The resort's villas are designed with a blend of natural wood and stone flooring, vibrant color schemes, and modern amenities. Options range from beachfront havens to stunning overwater retreats.

• Beach Villas: These 46 units, each 68m², are nestled amidst lush vegetation, just steps from the Indian Ocean. They feature natural wood flooring in the bedroom and stone flooring in the spacious open-air bathroom, along with a queen-sized bed and a day bed.
• Beach Suites: Spanning 76m², these 2 villas offer a private outdoor space and contemporary interiors, suitable for both families and couples.
• Beach Suites with Jacuzzi: With 4 units at 76m², these suites provide a romantic escape with the added luxury of a jacuzzi.
• Beach Suites with Pool: Six 76m² villas offer a private pool, ideal for those who desire a personal plunge pool directly on the beach.
• Beach Family Villas: Designed for quality family time, these 5 villas are more spacious at 136m², offering ample room for families.
• Beach Residence with Pool: The single, secluded 225m² Beach Residence provides contemporary interiors, a spacious bedroom and living room, and a large private pool.
• Lagoon Villas: Sixteen 90m² villas offer private terraces with direct access to the lagoon. It's noted these are partially overwater but not true water villas.
• Deluxe Water Villas: These 36 villas, each 126m², are true overwater accommodations, offering intimate privacy and direct access to the ocean. Some come with infinity pools, massage tubs, and glass floors.
• Sunset Water Suites: The pinnacle of luxury at Lily Beach, these 4 suites, at 182m², offer expansive spaces and breathtaking views, often including private pools and enhanced amenities.

All villas are equipped with essential comforts, ensuring a relaxing stay.

LUX South Ari Atoll Villas

LUX South Ari Atoll boasts a larger inventory of 193 villas, including 62 with private pools, spread along two miles of powder-fine beaches and perched over a crystal lagoon. The resort's accommodation reflects a chic, laid-back style with thatched roofs, whitewashed walls, and light, airy spaces.

• Beach Pavilions: Interconnecting thatched-roof units directly on the beach with private outdoor terraces, suitable for families.
• Beach Villas: Secluded in lush gardens with direct beach access and sunbeds, featuring tropical indoor-outdoor bathrooms with stand-alone tubs.
• Romantic Beach Pool Villas: Upscale design with a tropical indoor-outdoor bathroom, infinity plunge pool, and direct access to a secluded beach.
• Beach Pool Villas: Beachfront villas with a private pool and outdoor shower, located on the sunset side of the island.
• Water Villas: Perched on stilts over the Indian Ocean, these offer direct sea access from private sun terraces with catamaran nets. Available on both sunrise and sunset sides.
• Romantic Pool Water Villas: Spanning 110m², these villas popular with couples feature a King-size bed, infinity plunge pool, jacuzzi, and direct lagoon access from the outdoor deck. Some include a drop-down projector above the bed.
• Temptation Pool Water Villas: A couple's paradise with a 14-meter private infinity pool, jacuzzi, and direct lagoon access. Features a round bed and a separate living room area.
• LUX Villa: The most exclusive, located at the jetty's tip with unobstructed sea views, a private infinity pool, dedicated butler service, a private buggy, and glass floor in the living room.
• Two-Bedroom Family Beach Pavilions: Two interconnected thatched-roof beach bungalows with separate entrances and private terraces, ideal for families.

All accommodations come with air-conditioning, private terrace or balcony, satellite TV, complimentary WiFi, mini-bar, and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Winner: Both resorts offer luxurious and well-appointed villas. LUX South Ari Atoll wins for accommodation due to its larger total number of villas (193 vs 125) and a greater proportion of villas with private pools (62 villas), offering more options for those seeking private aquatic retreats. The unique offerings like the LUX Villa with butler service and glass floors, and the Temptation Pool Water Villas with a 14-meter pool, provide a slight edge in variety and exclusivity for specific preferences.

Dining & Cuisine

Dining is a cornerstone of any all-inclusive experience, and both Lily Beach and LUX South Ari Atoll aim to tantalize taste buds with diverse culinary journeys. However, their approaches to all-inclusive dining vary.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Dining

Lily Beach is celebrated for its award-winning 'Platinum Plan' which offers an incredibly comprehensive culinary journey with premium inclusions.

• Lily Maa: The main buffet-style restaurant, renowned for its lavish spreads and themed dinners that transport guests to different parts of the world each day. It features live cooking stations, grills, BBQs, sushi stations, and an impressive selection of over 20 types of imported European cheeses.
• Tamarind: An à la carte restaurant offering rich flavors of Indian and Oriental cuisine. Guests on the Platinum Plan receive one complimentary à la carte dinner per week here.
• Les Turquoise D'Aqua: A romantic, peaceful seaside setting for a five-course degustation menu featuring contemporary Western cuisine.
• Teppanyaki: An immersive and fun Japanese dining experience where chefs cook delicious food on an iron griddle with flair.

For drinks, the resort boasts four bustling bars: Vibes Bar, AQVA Bar, BeachBar, and Spirit Bar. The Platinum Plan includes an unlimited selection of signature drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, fresh juices, soft drinks, teas, and coffees. It also features a selection of 80 premium wines from around the world and Taittinger Champagne served by the glass at all restaurants and bars. A premium mini-bar, refilled daily with beer, wine, soft drinks, water, and snacks, is also included.

LUX South Ari Atoll Dining

LUX South Ari Atoll offers an impressive array of 8 restaurants and 5 bars, providing extensive dining choices.

• MIXE: The main restaurant, featuring international buffet spreads with a feet-in-the-sand experience.
• East Market: An over-the-water Asian market-inspired restaurant, serving European breakfasts and authentic Asian dinners.
• Senses Restaurant: Offers Middle Eastern and Indian Ocean cuisine, available for lunch and dinner by the infinity pool.
• Allegria Restaurant: Italian cuisine, open for dinner, with an open kitchen.
• Umami: A Japanese fusion restaurant, arguably one of the best in the region. Guests on the standard all-inclusive package receive a credit towards dining here, as it's typically excluded from the full all-inclusive plan.
• Beach Rouge: A stylish beach club and restaurant offering Mediterranean flavors for all-day dining.
• Café LUX: Serves freshly ground coffee roasted in-house.
• ICI: An ice cream parlor offering a variety of delicious flavors.

The five bars include Veli Bar (poolside drinks), Lagoon Bar (sociable beach bar), Senses Bar and Lounge (cocktails, teas, light lunches), and East Bar (hip over-the-water hangout). The LUX All-Inclusive package covers buffet breakfast at MIXE and East Market, à la carte lunch at Senses, Veli Bar, Lagoon Bar, and Beach Rouge, and dinner at Senses, Beach Rouge, MIXE, and East Market. A wide selection of beverages, including soft drinks, teas, coffees, beers, wines, sparkling wine, juices, water, cocktails, and liquors, are included.

Winner: This is a close call. Lily Beach's 'Platinum Plan' is renowned for its genuinely all-encompassing nature, including premium champagne, an extensive wine list, and complimentary specialty dining without additional credits. However, LUX South Ari Atoll offers a greater number of distinct dining venues (8 restaurants and 5 bars vs. 4 restaurants and 4 bars at Lily Beach), providing more variety for longer stays. While some specialty restaurants at LUX might require a credit, the sheer breadth of options is impressive. For a truly hassle-free, everything-included experience, Lily Beach's Platinum Plan is hard to beat. But for sheer variety and gastronomic exploration, LUX South Ari Atoll slightly edges it out. Therefore, it depends on preference: for absolute premium all-inclusive value with no hidden costs, Lily Beach. For more diverse restaurant choices and a lively dining scene, LUX South Ari Atoll. We'll call this a tie, with a slight lean towards Lily Beach Resort & Spa for its genuinely premium, no-surprises all-inclusive dining model.

Activities & Experiences

Both resorts leverage their prime South Ari Atoll location to offer an abundance of activities, particularly those centered around the incredible marine environment. However, each has its unique flair.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Activities

Lily Beach, situated within the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), is ideally positioned for year-round whale shark and manta ray sightings. The Platinum Plan ensures a wide range of complimentary activities.

• Marine Activities: Exceptional snorkeling on the house reef (complimentary equipment provided), diving with Prodivers dive center to explore some of the world's most astonishing dive spots, and coral garden snorkeling excursions.
• Water Sports: Complimentary non-motorized water sports (e.g., stand-up paddleboarding, transparent kayak canoeing). Motorized options like water skiing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, fun ride tube, and catamaran sailing are also available.
• Excursions: The Platinum Plan includes three complimentary excursions per person per stay, chosen from options such as sunset cruises, fishing trips, or visits to a local island.
• Wellness & Spa: The over-water Tamara Spa by Mandara offers holistic therapies and Ayurveda treatments. Complimentary group sunrise yoga sessions are offered six days a week.
• Land Sports & Recreation: A state-of-the-art gym, tennis court, table tennis, billiards, beach volleyball court, and football pitch are available.
• Family Fun: The Turtle Kids' Club keeps younger guests entertained with various activities.
• Entertainment: Weekly live band and DJ entertainment add to the vibrant evening atmosphere.

LUX South Ari Atoll Activities

LUX South Ari Atoll is also famous for its year-round whale shark encounters in the surrounding marine protected area and offers a diverse array of activities with a focus on unique experiences and sustainability.

• Marine Activities: Unforgettable whale shark safaris and access to the house reef for snorkeling (complimentary equipment, scheduled trips). A five-star PADI dive center provides full training and certification for all levels.
• Water Sports: Complimentary non-motorized water sports like canoes, pedal boats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboarding. A wide range of thrilling motorized water sports is available, including jet skis, kite surfing, parasailing, flyboarding, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and tube rides.
• Unique Experiences: Cinema Paradiso, an outdoor cinema experience under the stars, is a signature offering. The resort also features one of the world's largest floating solar systems, providing over 30% of its energy, appealing to eco-conscious travelers.
• Wellness & Spa: LUX Me Spa offers various treatments, and complimentary yoga and stretching classes are available, along with access to a sauna, steam room, and plunge pool.
• Land Sports & Recreation: Guests can enjoy floodlit tennis courts (rackets provided), table tennis, bocce balls, beach volleyball, football, and cycling along the jetty.
• Family Fun: PLAY kids club (for ages 3-11) offers age-appropriate activities like gardening, cooking, swimming, and storytelling. A Teens programme is also available.
• Entertainment: Daily programs for adults and children, including performances by local artists and themed evenings.

Winner: This category is a strong point for both resorts. Lily Beach excels with its guaranteed three complimentary excursions within its Platinum Plan, which adds significant value and convenience for exploring the Maldives. Its location within SAMPA is a huge draw for marine life enthusiasts. LUX South Ari Atoll, however, brings unique experiences like Cinema Paradiso and its impressive commitment to sustainability with the floating solar system. For the sheer value of included excursions and a slightly more focused marine experience due to its renown for whale sharks and manta rays, Lily Beach Resort & Spa takes a narrow win, particularly for those who want to explore beyond the resort without extra costs.

Value for Money

When comparing all-inclusive resorts, value for money is paramount, as the perceived luxury and inclusions can significantly impact the overall cost of a vacation. Both Lily Beach and LUX South Ari Atoll operate in the luxury segment, but their pricing and what's covered differ.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa: The Platinum Plan Advantage

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is positioned at a luxury price range of approximately $1000/night. Its defining feature is the 'Platinum Plan,' an award-winning, comprehensive all-inclusive package that aims to be truly "no-surprises." This plan is lauded for its extensive inclusions:

• Premium Beverages: Unlimited premium drinks, including an impressive selection of 80 wines from around the world and Taittinger Champagne by the glass, served at all restaurants and bars.
• Gourmet Dining: Access to all restaurants, including the main buffet Lily Maa, à la carte lunches at AQVA and Vibes, and one complimentary à la carte dinner per week at Tamarind, with no additional charges or credits required for these.
• Excursions: A significant value-add is the inclusion of three complimentary excursions per person per stay, chosen from options like sunset cruise, fishing trip, or coral garden snorkeling.
• Amenities & Services: Complimentary snorkeling equipment, non-motorized water sports, daily replenished premium mini-bar, VIP lounge access at the seaplane terminal, and access to the Turtle Kids' Club and sports facilities are all part of the package.

The 'Platinum Plan' at Lily Beach is designed to cover almost every aspect of a luxury Maldivian holiday, minimizing incidental expenses and allowing guests to truly relax without worrying about the bill.

LUX South Ari Atoll: Diverse Offerings with Options

LUX South Ari Atoll generally comes in at a slightly lower luxury price point, around $700/night. While it offers an all-inclusive package, it functions a bit differently.

• Dining Flexibility: The all-inclusive plan covers buffet breakfast, à la carte lunches at several venues, and dinner at MIXE, East Market, Senses, and Beach Rouge. However, for specialty restaurants like Umami and Allegria, a credit of USD 30 per person per meal is applied, meaning guests may incur additional costs for dining at these premium venues.
• Beverages: A wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is included, as per designated all-inclusive menus.
• Activities: Complimentary snorkeling equipment, kayaks, pedal boats, stand-up paddleboarding, and scheduled house reef snorkeling trips are included. Land sports like tennis and gym access are also covered. However, many excursions and motorized water sports are typically chargeable.
• Mini-Bar: The mini-bar is included and replenished daily with water, juices, soft drinks, wines, and some spirits.

LUX offers a fantastic experience, but its all-inclusive package, while extensive, might lead to more à la carte spending, especially if guests wish to dine frequently at their top-tier restaurants or partake in numerous excursions and motorized water sports.

Winner: For a truly comprehensive, worry-free luxury all-inclusive experience where almost everything is covered upfront, Lily Beach Resort & Spa offers superior value for money with its Platinum Plan. Despite its higher starting price, the extensive inclusions, particularly the premium beverages and complimentary excursions, mean fewer unexpected costs during your stay, making it an excellent proposition for those who want to indulge without constantly checking their wallet.

Who Should Choose Lily Beach Resort & Spa?

• The Discerning All-Inclusive Enthusiast: If your priority is a truly premium, 'no-surprises' all-inclusive experience with top-shelf drinks (including Taittinger Champagne and 80 wines) and complimentary à la carte dining and excursions, Lily Beach's Platinum Plan is unmatched.
• Marine Life Aficionados: Being located within the South Ari Marine Protected Area and renowned for consistent year-round whale shark and manta ray sightings makes it a top choice for snorkelers and divers.
• Couples and Families Seeking Seamless Luxury: The resort caters well to both, offering diverse villa types and amenities like the Turtle Kids' Club, all under a hassle-free plan.
• Travelers Valuing Enhanced Arrival Services: The new seaplane lounge and luxury vehicle at Male Airport (as of 2023) add a touch of exclusivity to the transfer experience.

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Who Should Choose LUX South Ari Atoll?

• The Eco-Conscious Traveler: With one of the world's largest floating solar systems, LUX appeals to guests who appreciate a resort's commitment to sustainability.
• Foodies Seeking Variety: While its all-inclusive has some limitations, LUX offers a wider array of distinct restaurants (8 vs 4) and bars (5 vs 4), providing more diverse dining options for longer stays.
• Those Who Enjoy Unique Experiences: The Cinema Paradiso outdoor movie nights and the option to explore the island by bicycle add a distinctive charm.
• Couples and Families Who Appreciate a Stylish, Vibrant Atmosphere: LUX is known for its chic design and lively ambiance, offering a balance of relaxation and engaging activities.
• Guests Who Prefer More Villa Options with Private Pools: With 62 villas featuring private pools, LUX offers more choices for those desiring this specific luxury.

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Final Verdict

Both Lily Beach Resort & Spa and LUX* South Ari Atoll offer quintessential luxury Maldivian experiences within the sought-after South Ari Atoll, each with its unique strengths. Your ultimate choice will depend on your specific priorities for an all-inclusive showdown.

For travelers who seek the pinnacle of an all-inclusive experience – one that truly eliminates the need to carry a wallet, with premium beverages like Taittinger Champagne included, a wide array of gourmet dining without extra charges, and a generous package of complimentary excursions – Lily Beach Resort & Spa stands out. Its award-winning Platinum Plan delivers exceptional value and a hassle-free, indulgent escape, particularly appealing to marine enthusiasts keen on whale shark and manta ray encounters with minimal planning.

Conversely, if you prioritize a wider diversity of dining venues, unique resort experiences such as open-air cinema, and a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, **LUX* South Ari Atoll** is an excellent choice. While its all-inclusive package might involve some optional additional costs for certain specialty restaurants or excursions, its stylish ambiance, larger selection of villas with private pools, and innovative offerings provide a dynamic and memorable holiday.

In essence, choose Lily Beach for an unparalleled, truly comprehensive all-inclusive luxury where every detail is taken care of. Opt for LUX South Ari Atoll if you're drawn to a more vibrant, diverse, and eco-conscious resort with a broader range of dining options and unique on-island activities.

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