Quick Overview
Nestled in the pristine North Malé Atoll, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives stands out as a vibrant 4-star resort offering a unique blend of thrilling adventure and serene relaxation. Opened in 2010, this enchanting island retreat is particularly renowned for its exclusive access to the world-famous Pasta Point surf break, making it a mecca for surfers globally. Beyond the waves, Cinnamon Dhonveli caters to families, couples, and island adventurers with its diverse accommodation options, extensive dining experiences, and a wide array of activities designed to create unforgettable memories.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives |
| Atoll | North Malé Atoll (Kaafu Atoll) |
| Island | Dhonveli / Kanu Huraa |
| Star Rating | 4-star |
| Opened Year | 2010 |
| Total Villas | 148-152 |
| Transfer Type | Speedboat |
| Transfer Time | 20-30 minutes from Malé International Airport |
| Price Range (per night, approx.) | Beach Villas: $500 - $750; Overwater Villas: $800 - $1100 |
Location & Getting There
The resort is idyllically situated on Dhonveli island within the North Malé Atoll, also known as Kaafu Atoll. This region of the Maldives is celebrated for its stunning turquoise lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and accessibility, making it a popular choice for international travelers. The proximity to the capital, Malé, and the international airport means less travel time and more vacation time.
Reaching Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is a breeze, with a scenic speedboat transfer taking approximately 20 to 30 minutes from Velana International Airport (Malé). This quick and efficient transfer allows guests to immerse themselves in the Maldivian paradise almost immediately upon arrival, avoiding longer domestic flights or seaplane journeys often required for more remote atolls. Many stays include speedboat transfers, with some offers providing free or discounted transfers for longer stays. Flights from major hubs like Dubai, Singapore, and Colombo connect directly to Malé, making the journey to this tropical haven seamless.
Accommodation
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a total of 148 to 152 well-appointed villas and suites, providing a range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets. Guests can choose from charming Beach Villas, nestled amidst lush tropical greenery, or the iconic Overwater Villas, which offer direct access to the mesmerizing lagoon.
- Beach Bungalows/Villas: These accommodations offer a cozy and comfortable stay with easy access to the sandy shores. They are ideal for those who love the feeling of sand between their toes just steps from their door. Some rooms, however, have been noted in reviews for showing signs of wear and tear, and occasionally dim lighting. Prices for Beach Villas typically range from $500 to $750 per night, depending on the season.
- Overwater Suites/Villas: For the quintessential Maldivian experience, the Overwater Suites provide breathtaking ocean views and direct lagoon access. They are often described as lovely and offer a sense of privacy. However, guests have mentioned that the overwater villas can be noisy at night due to ocean waves. Expect to pay between $800 and $1100 per night for an Overwater Villa in low and high seasons, respectively.
- Beach Suites with Private Pools: A standout feature, these exclusive two-story suites offer a luxurious restorative experience with their own private pools and spacious terraces, providing an elevated sense of privacy and indulgence.
- Duplex Garden Bungalows: These two-story bungalows are nestled in a tropical coconut grove, offering a different kind of island charm.
Rooms are generally spacious and feature contemporary decor, though some may exhibit signs of age. All villas are equipped with high-end amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Dining
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives boasts an impressive array of dining options with five international restaurants and multiple bars, catering to a variety of palates. Guests frequently praise the diverse and tasty food, especially the Indian and Maldivian dishes, and the excellent service.
- Koimala: Offers an international buffet with a wide selection of dishes.
- Maakana: Another international buffet restaurant, featuring live cooking stations for a dynamic dining experience.
- Rehendhi: An exclusive buffet restaurant dedicated to guests staying in Overwater Suites and Beach Suites with Pool, offering a more private dining experience.
- Dalchini: A specialty restaurant serving exquisite Indian and Asian cuisine, highly recommended by guests.
- Tex Mex: As the name suggests, this specialty restaurant offers delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, providing a unique flavor profile in the Maldives.
- Raalhu Bar: Known as the Surf Bar, it provides a relaxed atmosphere with an à la carte menu, perfect for post-surf refueling.
- Raiyvilla Bar: The Sunset Bar, offering an à la carte menu and stunning views as the sun dips below the horizon.
- Beach Bar: A casual spot for refreshing drinks right on the sand.
The resort offers various meal plans, including an attractive all-inclusive package, which can be a great value for those looking for a hassle-free vacation. The all-inclusive option, priced around $1500, typically covers all meals and a selection of drinks.
Activities & Experiences
Adventure and relaxation converge at Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, offering an extensive list of activities both on and off the island.
House Reef and Diving/Snorkeling
The resort boasts a circular house reef with rich marine life, making it a good spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. PADI courses are available for those looking to get certified or enhance their diving skills. While many guests enjoy the underwater exploration, some have noted that parts of the reef are less vibrant. Nevertheless, the calm inner lagoon is ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.
Spa and Wellness
Indulge in ultimate relaxation at the Chavana Spa, a Balinese-themed retreat offering a range of treatments for couples and aromatherapy sessions. The spa provides a tranquil sanctuary to rejuvenate the body and mind.
Water Sports and Excursions
Beyond the reef, a plethora of water sports awaits. Guests can enjoy windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those seeking more thrill, options like Big Game Fishing and Sunset Fishing are available. Excursions such as Dolphin Watching, Turtle Snorkeling, and visits to local islands like Huraa offer insights into Maldivian culture and marine life. A Malé Excursion is also available for those interested in exploring the capital city. It's worth noting that some excursions may be subject to minimum participant requirements and can occasionally be cancelled.
Unique Experiences Specific to This Resort
What truly sets Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives apart is its exclusive access to Pasta Point surf break, a world-famous left-hander surf spot. The resort offers a specialized surf program designed by Atoll Adventures, ensuring a premium experience for wave riders. This private surf break allows a maximum of 30 surfers on the island at any one time, preventing overcrowding. Even if Pasta Point is busy, the Atoll Travel team runs boats to other nearby spots like Sultans and Jailbreaks, and even further afield to Cokes and Chickens. For a romantic touch, "Dine Under the Stars" offers a memorable culinary experience in a magical setting.
Who Is This Resort Best For?
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives caters to a broad audience, making it a versatile choice for a Maldivian getaway:
- Surfers: With exclusive access to Pasta Point, this resort is unparalleled for surf enthusiasts, offering a world-class experience.
- Families: The resort is a "kids-safe heaven" with a dedicated Kids Club, children's pool, and a range of activities suitable for younger guests, alongside interconnecting rooms.
- Couples & Honeymooners: While family-friendly, the resort also offers romantic elements like Overwater Suites, private dining, and a tranquil spa, making it appealing for couples seeking a peaceful retreat or a memorable honeymoon.
- Divers & Snorkelers: The house reef and available PADI courses, along with various snorkeling excursions, appeal to those eager to explore the underwater world.
- Value Seekers: Many reviews highlight the resort's good value for money, offering a wide range of facilities and dining options at competitive price points compared to other Maldivian resorts.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- World-Class Surfing: Exclusive access to Pasta Point is a major draw for surfers.
- Family-Friendly: Features a Kids Club, children's pool, and activities, making it a "kids-safe heaven."
- Diverse Dining: A wide selection of restaurants and cuisines, with Indian and Maldivian dishes highly praised.
- Friendly & Helpful Staff: Consistently highlighted in reviews for excellent service and attentiveness.
- Good Value for Money: Offers a comprehensive experience with numerous included facilities at a competitive price point for the Maldives.
- Beautiful Beaches & Calm Lagoon: Guests appreciate the protected, stunning beaches and the calm inner lagoon for swimming.
- Range of Activities: Plenty of water sports, excursions, and land-based activities like tennis and a fitness center.
- Lovely Overwater Suites: Offer a luxurious and private experience with stunning views.
Cons:
- Rooms Showing Wear & Tear: Some rooms, particularly the older ones, may appear dated or show signs of wear.
- Occasional Dim Lighting: Certain rooms and areas might have less-than-optimal lighting.
- Dated Gym Equipment: The fitness center equipment may not always be up-to-date.
- Excursion Cancellations: Some excursions might be cancelled if minimum participant numbers are not met.
- Inconsistent Staff Friendliness: While generally praised, a few guests have reported instances of less friendly staff.
- Cleanliness Issues (Minor): Isolated mentions of cleanliness concerns in shared bathroom and outdoor dining areas.
- "Very Dead Reef" in Some Areas: While the house reef offers marine life, some guests have noted less vibrant sections.
- Noisy Overwater Villas: Ocean waves can cause noise in overwater accommodations at night.
Pricing & Value
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is positioned as a resort that offers excellent value within the Maldivian luxury segment.
Price Ranges (per night, approximate):
- Low Season (e.g., May to September):
- Beach Villas: Around $500
- Overwater Villas: Around $800
- High Season (e.g., December to April):
- Beach Villas: Around $750
- Overwater Villas: Around $1100
- All-Inclusive Package: An all-inclusive stay can be approximately $1500 per night, offering comprehensive coverage for meals and drinks.
Compared to the average hotel room price in the Maldives, which is around $348, Cinnamon Dhonveli offers a luxurious experience at a competitive average room price of $573, highlighting its strong value proposition. The resort's value is often cited in reviews, especially given the wide array of included facilities like the gym, tennis courts, and pools. While excursions and spa treatments can be expensive, the overall package, particularly the all-inclusive option, is considered fair.
The best time to book for potential savings would typically be during the low season. Additionally, booking directly with Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts can unlock exclusive offers, such as discounts and free speedboat transfers for longer stays.
Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives: A Closer Look at the Cinnamon Collection
As part of the esteemed Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts portfolio, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is one of several remarkable properties in the Maldives, each offering a distinct experience. Understanding its place within the collection can help travelers choose the ideal Maldivian escape.
- Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon: Often recognized for having one of the Maldives' best house reefs, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. It's generally considered more luxurious and honeymoon-like, with a strong focus on marine life.
- Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives: This resort is known for its newer facilities and excellent house reef, often commanding a higher price point due to its premium experience. It also offers unique experiences like swimming with nurse sharks.
- Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives: Positioned as an adults-only resort with an emphasis on total seclusion and quiet, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives offers complimentary daily snorkeling trips to better reefs, as its lagoon is shallow. It is also noted for its high-success-rate dolphin and shark safaris.
While Ellaidhoo and Dhonveli are often seen as offering great value, Velifushi and Hakuraa Huraa provide a more premium, often adults-only, experience. Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives clearly stands out as the top choice for families and surfers due to its dedicated facilities and world-famous surf break.
Final Verdict
For travelers seeking a dynamic Maldivian escape that perfectly balances thrilling adventure with laid-back luxury, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives presents an incredibly compelling option. Its unique offering of world-class surfing at Pasta Point, coupled with a wide array of family-friendly amenities and diverse dining, ensures a memorable stay for all types of guests. While some minor issues regarding room wear and tear or occasional excursion cancellations have been noted, the overwhelmingly positive feedback on staff, food, and overall value solidifies its reputation as a fantastic 4-star resort. Whether you're chasing the perfect wave, building sandcastles with your kids, or simply unwinding by the turquoise lagoon, Cinnamon Dhonveli promises an authentic and enriching Maldivian experience.
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