Kandooma Maldives Review 2026 | Prices from $350

Stepping onto the shores of Kandooma Maldives, you immediately feel the vibrant energy that sets this South Male Atoll gem apart. This isn't just another pretty face in the archipelago; it's a dynamic hub for adventurers and families alike, boasting direct access to some of the Indian Ocean's most coveted surf breaks and dive sites. If your ideal Maldivian escape involves more than just sunbathing – think world-class waves before breakfast or exploring technicolor reefs – then the Kandooma Maldives is perfectly poised to deliver. Check Prices→

Overview of Kandooma Maldives

What truly distinguishes Kandooma Maldives from its peers isn't just its stunning turquoise surroundings – it's the resort's unwavering commitment to making the most of its incredible natural playground. Situated in the South Male Atoll, Kandooma offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and serene relaxation, all within a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere. Unlike many resorts requiring a costly and time-consuming seaplane transfer, Kandooma is a mere 40-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. This accessibility is a game-changer for international travellers arriving from hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or Colombo, meaning you can be sipping a fresh coconut on the beach before jet lag truly sets in. The atmosphere here is vibrant and friendly, a far cry from some of the more hushed, ultra-exclusive properties. While luxury is certainly present, it’s a comfortable, approachable kind of luxury that encourages guests to kick off their shoes and truly immerse themselves in island life. You'll find a lively mix of keen surfers and divers eager to share their day's exploits, alongside families enjoying the dedicated kids' facilities, and couples simply soaking up the sun. The resort effortlessly blends these different energies, creating a dynamic yet peaceful environment. It’s an island where you can find your own rhythm, whether that’s chasing waves at dawn or unwinding with a sunset yoga session. The entire island feels designed for engagement, from its open-air dining to its welcoming communal spaces. Read guest reviews★

Accommodation at Kandooma Maldives

Kandooma Maldives offers a collection of 154 thoughtfully designed villas, each providing a comfortable and stylish base for your island adventures. The resort manages to balance modern comforts with a distinct Maldivian aesthetic, ensuring a sense of place. Whether you prefer the soft sands just steps from your door or the gentle lull of the ocean beneath your feet, there's a villa type to suit.

Beach View Villas

These charming villas are nestled amongst the lush tropical foliage, offering easy access to the pristine white sands and shimmering lagoon. They are perfect for those who love the feeling of sand between their toes the moment they step out. Each villa is designed with a contemporary flair, featuring comfortable king-sized beds, spacious bathrooms, and private outdoor seating areas. They are a fantastic entry point to the Kandooma experience. Low Season Price: From $350 per night High Season Price: From $600 per night Check Availability→

Beach Houses

For a bit more space and an elevated view, the Beach Houses are a superb choice. These two-story villas offer a unique perspective, with the living area downstairs and the bedroom upstairs, often providing glimpses of the ocean through the swaying palms. They’re ideal for small families or couples seeking a bit more privacy and a distinct architectural style. Low Season Price: From $450 per night High Season Price: From $750 per night Check Availability→

Garden Villas

Tucked away in the heart of the island's verdant gardens, the Garden Villas offer a tranquil escape. While they don't boast direct beach access, they provide a peaceful sanctuary surrounded by nature. These are often a more budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort or the resort's excellent facilities. Low Season Price: From $300 per night High Season Price: From $500 per night Check Availability→

Overwater Villas

Ah, the quintessential Maldives experience! Kandooma Maldives' Overwater Villas are perched directly above the crystal-clear lagoon, offering uninterrupted ocean views and the soothing sound of the waves. Each villa features direct access to the water from a private deck, perfect for a refreshing dip or a spot of snorkeling. These are undeniably the most sought-after accommodations for a reason, providing that iconic Maldivian postcard moment. Low Season Price: From $550 per night High Season Price: From $900 per night Check Availability→

Our Pick: The Overwater Villa

While all the villas at Kandooma are excellent, our pick for the ultimate Kandooma Maldives experience has to be the Overwater Villa. The sheer magic of waking up to the ocean literally at your doorstep, with vibrant fish swimming beneath your glass floor panel (in some units), is simply unbeatable. It’s the dream Maldivian escape personified.

Insider Tip for Best Villa Selection

If you’re looking for the best value without compromising on the overwater experience, consider booking an Overwater Villa during the low season (May to October). While there's a higher chance of rain, you'll often get incredible deals, and showers in the Maldives are typically short, leaving plenty of sunshine. For beach lovers, aim for a Beach View Villa closer to the main facilities if convenience is a priority, or further away for more seclusion.

Dining & Restaurants at Kandooma Maldives

The culinary journey at Kandooma Maldives is designed to satisfy every palate, from casual bites to refined dining experiences. The resort understands that good food is an integral part of a memorable vacation, and their offerings reflect a diverse range of international and local flavors.

Kandooma Cafe

The main restaurant, Kandooma Cafe, serves up extensive buffet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Here you'll find a delightful array of international dishes, live cooking stations, and fresh Maldivian specialties. It’s a lively spot, perfect for families and those who enjoy variety. The themed nights are a particular highlight, showcasing cuisines from around the globe.

The Deck

Perched over the water with breathtaking sunset views, The Deck is the resort's answer to sophisticated casual dining. Specializing in fresh seafood and grilled meats, it’s an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal. The ambiance is relaxed yet elegant, making it a favorite for many guests. Don't miss their catch of the day – it’s always impeccably prepared.

Bokkuraa Coffee Club

For lighter bites, sandwiches, pastries, and excellent coffee, the Bokkuraa Coffee Club is your go-to. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or simply a place to relax with a good book and a perfectly brewed latte.

Meal Plan Recommendation

Given the mid-range pricing of Kandooma Maldives and the variety of activities, we highly recommend opting for at least the Half Board (breakfast and dinner) or, even better, the Full Board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) package. While there are a la carte options, the convenience and value of pre-paid meals, especially at the Kandooma Cafe, often outweigh the cost of individual purchases. If you plan on enjoying alcoholic beverages regularly, then the All-Inclusive package is undoubtedly the most economical choice.

Hidden Gem / Must-Try Dish

Keep an eye out for the Maldivian Fish Curry at Kandooma Cafe. It’s often a staple on the buffet, rich with local spices and incredibly fresh fish – a true taste of the islands. For a special treat, the grilled lobster at The Deck is an indulgence worth every penny. Book All-Inclusive Package→

Activities & Facilities at Kandooma Maldives

Kandooma Maldives is not just about postcard-perfect scenery; it’s a playground for both the adventurous and those seeking relaxation. The resort's facilities and activities are designed to cater to a diverse range of interests, ensuring there's never a dull moment.

Diving & Snorkeling

This is where Kandooma truly shines. Home to a PADI certified 4-star Dive Centre, the resort offers direct access to world-class diving spots, including the famous Kandooma Thila (also known as Cocoa Thila), a marine protected area teeming with sharks, rays, and vibrant coral formations. Whether you're a seasoned diver or looking to get certified, the experienced team can guide you. Snorkeling is equally rewarding, with the house reef genuinely excellent and easily accessible from the beach and overwater villas. Expect to see reef sharks, turtles, and a kaleidoscope of fish right on your doorstep. Introductory Dive: Approx. $120 Certified Dive (single tank): Approx. $70-90 (excl. equipment rental) Snorkel Gear Rental: Free for All-Inclusive guests, otherwise approx. $10-15/day

Surfing

Kandooma Maldives is famous amongst the surfing community for "Kandooma Right," an exclusive, world-class break just offshore. The resort works with professional surf coaches, offering lessons for beginners and guiding experienced surfers to the best waves. Surf camps are also available for those looking to seriously improve their skills. This unique selling point makes Kandooma a top choice for surf enthusiasts.

Water Sports

Beyond diving and surfing, a range of exhilarating water sports awaits. Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding: Free for guests, a fantastic way to explore the lagoon. Windsurfing: Lessons and rental available, approx. $50/hour for lessons. Catamaran Sailing: With or without an instructor, approx. $70/hour. Jet Skiing: Approx. $80 for 20 minutes.

Kandoo Kids Club

Families will be delighted by the Kandoo Kids Club, a vibrant hub of activity for younger guests. It features an indoor fun zone, an outdoor splash pool, and a packed schedule of supervised games, crafts, and educational activities. The "Kids Stay & Eat Free" program (terms apply) is a huge bonus, making Kandooma Maldives incredibly family-friendly.

Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala

For ultimate relaxation, the Kandooma Spa offers a serene sanctuary. Inspired by COMO Shambhala, it focuses on holistic wellness. Their signature treatment, the "Maldivian Journey," combines traditional techniques with local ingredients for a truly rejuvenating experience. It’s the perfect antidote after a day of diving or surfing.

Other Facilities

The resort also boasts a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean, a well-equipped fitness center, and various excursions like sunset cruises, island hopping, and fishing trips. Book Diving Excursion→

Getting There: Your Journey to Kandooma Maldives

One of the significant advantages of choosing Kandooma Maldives is its convenient and straightforward transfer from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. Unlike many resorts that necessitate a seaplane journey, Kandooma is reached via a comfortable speedboat transfer. The speedboat transfer takes approximately 40 minutes, providing a scenic introduction to the Maldivian atolls as you zip across the turquoise waters. The cost for the round-trip speedboat transfer is typically around $220-$250 per adult, which is considerably less than seaplane transfers to more remote resorts. The resort coordinates these transfers, so you won't need to worry about booking them separately once your international flights are confirmed.

Tips for Arrival Timing

To ensure a smooth transfer, it's generally best to arrive at Malé International Airport during daylight hours. While Kandooma does operate evening transfers, arriving earlier allows you to enjoy the full scenic journey and settle into your villa before nightfall. Upon clearing customs, a Kandooma representative will meet you and guide you to your speedboat. Find Flights on Skyscanner✈ Get Travel Insurance→

Pros & Cons of Kandooma Maldives

Kandooma Maldives offers a fantastic experience, but like any resort, it has its unique strengths and areas where it might not suit every traveler.

✅ What We Love

1. World-Class Diving & Surfing: Direct access to Kandooma Thila and Kandooma Right is unparalleled. 2. Family-Friendly Programs: The "Kids Stay & Eat Free" and excellent Kids Club make it ideal for families. 3. Easy & Affordable Transfer: A quick 40-minute speedboat ride from Malé is a huge plus. 4. Vibrant, Active Atmosphere: It’s a lively resort with plenty to do, fostering a sense of community. 5. Excellent Value: For a 4-star Maldives resort with these facilities, the price point is very competitive.

⚠️ Room for Improvement

1. Can be Busy: Due to its popularity for surfing and families, it might not be the quietest option for pure solitude seekers. 2. Not Ultra-Luxury 4-star: While excellent, it doesn't aim for the hyper-exclusive, butler-service luxury of some higher-tier resorts. 3. Limited Private Plunge Pools: Most villas do not feature private pools, which some guests expect in the Maldives.

Who Should Book Kandooma Maldives

PERFECT FOR:

Surfers & Divers: Absolutely, this is your paradise. The proximity to world-class breaks and dive sites is unmatched. Families with Young Children: The Kids Stay & Eat Free program and the dedicated Kids Club are huge draws, offering excellent value and entertainment. Active Couples: If you enjoy water sports, exploring, and a resort with a lively buzz, Kandooma Maldives delivers. Mid-Range Budget Travelers: Seeking a fantastic Maldivian experience without the ultra-luxury price tag, you’ll find incredible value here.

NOT IDEAL FOR:

Couples Seeking Absolute Seclusion: While private, the resort has a more communal and active vibe, which might not suit those wanting complete isolation. Ultra-Luxury Seekers: If your priority is a 4-star plus, butler-service, private chef kind of experience, you might prefer a different resort. Those Prone to Motion Sickness: The 40-minute speedboat transfer, while quick, can be bumpy in rougher seas.

Booking Tips for Kandooma Maldives

Securing the best deal for your Kandooma Maldives getaway often comes down to timing and how you book.

Best Months for Deals

The low season, typically from May to October, offers the most significant price reductions. While there's a higher chance of rain, showers are often brief, and you'll find beach villas from $350 and overwater villas from $550. For the best weather and still reasonable prices, consider the shoulder months of April and November, just outside the peak season.

Price Difference Low vs. High Season

The difference is substantial. A Beach Villa can jump from $350 in low season to $600 in high season, while Overwater Villas can go from $550 to $900. Booking during the low season can save you hundreds of dollars per night.

Direct vs. OTA Booking Advice

Always compare prices. While booking directly with the resort can sometimes offer exclusive packages or perks, online travel agencies (OTAs) often have competitive rates, especially when bundled with flights. It’s wise to check both before making your decision. Look out for "Kids Stay & Eat Free" offers, which are frequently available.

Quick Verdict

Category	Score /10
Location	9/10 (Excellent access to surf/dive, close to MLE)
Accommodation	8/10 (Comfortable, stylish, good variety)
Dining	8/10 (Varied options, good quality)
Activities	10/10 (Unrivaled for surf/dive, great for families)
Value	9/10 (Excellent for a 4-star Maldives resort)
Overall Score	8.8/10
Bottom Line: Kandooma Maldives is a dynamic, high-value choice for active travelers and families, offering world-class surf, dive, and kid-friendly experiences without the seaplane fuss.