Kuramathi Maldives Review 2026 | Prices from $600

Imagine a Maldivian escape that feels both intimately luxurious and endlessly expansive. That's the magic of Kuramathi, an island gem that truly stands out from the crowd. Unlike some smaller, isolated resorts, Kuramathi offers a vibrant, dynamic experience perfect for honeymooners seeking romance, families craving adventure, and luxury travellers demanding choice. Its legendary sandbank stretches into the horizon, inviting barefoot strolls that feel like stepping into a postcard. Check Prices→

Overview

Kuramathi isn't just another dot in the Indian Ocean; it's a world unto itself. Spanning an impressive 1.8km, it’s one of the largest resort islands in the Maldives, offering an expansive playground that truly sets it apart. While some prefer the intimacy of tiny islands, Kuramathi leverages its scale to deliver an astonishing breadth of experiences without ever feeling crowded. This isn't a resort where you'll exhaust the dining options or activities in a few days; it's a destination designed for genuine exploration and discovery. For international travellers, accessibility is key, and Kuramathi nails it. You have the choice of a scenic 20-minute seaplane journey, offering breathtaking aerial views of the atolls, or a comfortable 90-minute speedboat ride. This flexibility means you can tailor your arrival to your schedule and budget, avoiding the "seaplane lottery" delays common with more remote islands if you opt for the speedboat. The atmosphere here is less about hushed exclusivity and more about vibrant, sophisticated barefoot luxury. Lush tropical vegetation, home to a magnificent 300-year-old banyan tree, invites leisurely nature walks, while the extensive natural sandbank at its tip offers postcard-perfect moments, particularly at sunset. The resort strikes a remarkable balance, providing serene escapes alongside lively hubs, ensuring every guest finds their rhythm. See what 4,567+ guests say★

Accommodation

With 350 villas spread across its vast expanse, Kuramathi offers a remarkable range of accommodation, from charming beachside havens to breathtaking overwater retreats. Each category caters to different preferences and budgets, but all share a commitment to comfort and Maldivian elegance. Let's talk specifics: Beach Villas: Starting from $600 in low season and $1000 in high season, these are your quintessential Maldivian escape. Nestled amidst the lush foliage, just steps from the powdery sands, they offer privacy and direct beach access. Many feature outdoor Jacuzzis, perfect for stargazing after a day in the sun. Check Availability→ Water Villas: For those dreaming of waking directly above the turquoise lagoon, Kuramathi's Water Villas deliver. Expect prices from $900 in low season and $1500 in high season. These iconic villas, often with private decks and direct ocean access, embody the ultimate Maldivian fantasy. Check Availability→ Deluxe Water Villas & Water Villas with Pool: These upgraded overwater options, introduced during the resort's 2016 enhancements, offer more contemporary designs and often additional amenities like private plunge pools. They are situated in various parts of the lagoon, with some offering views of the house reef. Check Availability→ Sunset Pool Villas & Sunset Water Villas with Pool: Positioned on the coveted west side of the island, these villas are specifically designed to capture the breathtaking Maldivian sunsets, often just a few steps from the famous sandbank. Check Availability→ Two-Bedroom Beach Houses: A fantastic option for families or groups, these spacious, modern villas accommodate up to six guests across two floors, complete with direct beach access and outdoor showers. Check Availability→ Our pick? For honeymooners, the Sunset Water Villas with Pool are an absolute splurge worth every penny. Imagine sipping champagne in your private infinity pool, watching the sun dip below the horizon in a fiery spectacle – it's pure magic. For families, the Two-Bedroom Beach Houses offer unbeatable space and convenience, keeping everyone happy. Insider Tip for best villa selection: Kuramathi is a long island, and the location of your villa can significantly impact your experience. If you prioritize proximity to the main reception, pools, and some of the à la carte restaurants, consider villas closer to the center. If you crave ultimate tranquility and easy access to the iconic sandbank, aim for villas towards the "Thundi" (western) end of the island. Don't hesitate to contact the resort directly or your travel agent with specific requests; they can often guide you to the perfect spot.

Dining & Restaurants

Prepare for a culinary journey at Kuramathi, which boasts an impressive array of 12 restaurants and 7 bars, truly setting it apart from many smaller Maldivian resorts. This extensive selection ensures that even on a longer stay, you'll find new flavours to savour. The resort operates a tiered dining system. Guests on the Basic All-Inclusive or Full Board meal plans are allocated to one of three main buffet restaurants: Haruge, Malaafaiy, or Farivalhu, based on their villa location. These offer diverse international themed buffets for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with themes rotating daily. However, the real gastronomic adventure begins with the Select All-Inclusive package. This elevates your experience, granting you access to nine à la carte restaurants (reservations often required). Here's a taste of what awaits: The Reef: Kuramathi's signature seafood restaurant, ideally located near the sandbank, offers fresh catches expertly prepared. Kobe: An overwater teppanyaki experience where skilled chefs put on a culinary show right before your eyes. Siam Garden: Authentic Thai cuisine featuring distinct dishes from Thailand's four regions, served in a lush garden setting. Tandoor Mahal: Experience traditional Indian tandoor cuisine, with a weekly "Discover Indian Food" buffet. Palm: A Mediterranean-style eatery serving fresh salads, antipasti, pasta, and delicious homemade Italian pizzas and ice cream. Inguru: Offers light Asian Fusion cuisine with stunning ocean views, especially romantic for dinner. Island Barbecue: Enjoy high-quality meats grilled to perfection on the beach, complemented by organic island-grown produce and fine wines. Duniye: A sophisticated restaurant offering international fare paired with an impressive wine collection. La Belle Vie: A newer addition, offering classic French dining. Meal Plan Recommendation: While the Basic All-Inclusive is comprehensive, we strongly recommend upgrading to the Select All-Inclusive package. The ability to dine at the nine à la carte restaurants truly transforms your stay, offering an unparalleled variety and quality that justifies the extra cost. It prevents any "buffet fatigue" and allows you to indulge in diverse culinary experiences every night. Hidden gem or must-try dish: Don't miss a sunset dinner at The Reef for its incredible seafood and unparalleled views. For a casual yet satisfying lunch, the Island Coffee Shop offers an extensive menu perfect for midday breaks. Book All-Inclusive Package→

Activities & Facilities

Kuramathi is not a resort where you'll ever be bored. Its size and diverse offerings mean there's something for everyone, from adrenaline junkies to those seeking ultimate relaxation. The house reef at Kuramathi is genuinely excellent. With easy access from many parts of the island, you can snorkel directly from the beach and be greeted by a vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful fish, reef sharks, and turtles. The Eco Centre, with its resident Marine Biologist, offers guided snorkel safaris (approx. $48 USD per person) and educational insights into the rich marine ecosystem. They even have a Sperm Whale Museum, a unique attraction that highlights their commitment to marine conservation. For those who want to dive deeper, the resort boasts two separate diving centres. Costs for diving excursions vary but expect around $70-$100 USD per dive, plus equipment rental. diving in the Maldives Water Sports: The water sports center offers a wide range of activities. Non-motorised options like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding are often complimentary or minimally charged. Motorised options like jet-skiing are available for an extra thrill. Catamaran rentals are available, with a 1-hour rental costing around $79 USD for one person or $120 USD for two, including a check with an instructor. Lessons are also available. Fishing excursions are popular, with group prices around $129 USD per person for a morning or afternoon session. If you prefer land-based activities, Kuramathi has three outdoor pools, including a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The large fitness center, though without views, is well-equipped. You'll also find badminton and tennis courts. The Kuramathi Spa is a tranquil oasis. While specific signature treatment names can change, expect a range of traditional Maldivian treatments using natural essential oils, alongside international therapies. Complimentary yoga classes are offered Monday to Saturday on a breathtaking yoga platform, a fantastic way to start or end your day. For families, the Bageecha Kids Club is a massive draw, praised by guests for its amazing staff and varied programs. It ensures younger guests are entertained with a range of activities, allowing parents some well-deserved relaxation. The resort also offers a buggy service, making it easy to traverse the island's length, especially for families or those staying further from central facilities. best family resorts in the Maldives Book Diving Excursion→

Getting There

Getting to Kuramathi is part of the Maldivian adventure, offering two distinct transfer options from Malé International Airport (MLE). You can choose between a seaplane or a speedboat. The seaplane offers a spectacular 20-25 minute aerial journey, providing unparalleled views of the scattered atolls beneath. This is often the preferred choice for its scenic beauty and quicker travel time. Seaplane transfers typically operate during daylight hours (roughly 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM). The approximate cost for a round-trip seaplane transfer is $381 USD per adult (12 years and above) and $258 USD per child (2-11 years) as of mid-2026 to late 2026. Alternatively, a shared speedboat transfer takes approximately 90 minutes. While longer, it can be a more budget-friendly option and offers greater flexibility, with three scheduled transfers daily. The cost for a round-trip speedboat transfer is around $168 USD per adult and $84 USD per child. Tips for arrival timing: If your international flight arrives in Malé after 3:30 PM, you'll likely need to book an overnight stay in Malé before catching the first available seaplane transfer the next morning. If opting for the speedboat, you'll need to ensure your flight arrival aligns with their scheduled departures (e.g., flights arriving between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM for the 10:30 AM speedboat). Always share your flight details with the resort at least 3 days in advance to secure your transfer. Find Flights on Skyscanner✈ Get Travel Insurance→

Pros & Cons

Every paradise has its quirks, and Kuramathi is no different. Here’s our honest take:

✅ What We Love

The Legendary Sandbank: It's truly as magnificent as the photos suggest, perfect for romantic strolls and iconic photos. Unrivalled Dining Variety: With 12 restaurants, the Select All-Inclusive package means you'll never eat the same meal twice, offering a true culinary journey. Vibrant House Reef: Easily accessible and teeming with marine life, making snorkeling a daily delight. Extensive Facilities for All: From the Eco Centre and Marine Biologist to three pools, a well-equipped gym, and a fantastic Kids Club, there's something for every age and interest. Seamless Transfers: The option of a quick seaplane or a comfortable speedboat offers flexibility and ease of access compared to more remote atolls.

⚠️ Room for Improvement

Island Size vs. Intimacy: While a pro for many, those seeking a tiny, ultra-secluded Maldivian island might find Kuramathi's scale a little less "deserted island" and more "bustling paradise." Visibility of Local Island: From one small edge of the island, a nearby inhabited island is visible, which can slightly detract from the feeling of absolute isolation for some guests. Wi-Fi Reliability: Some guests have reported that Wi-Fi can be unreliable and may require frequent logins.

Who Should Book

PERFECT FOR: Honeymooners and Couples: The romantic setting, private dining options, and stunning sunset villas make Kuramathi an ideal choice for celebrating love. Luxury Travellers: Those who appreciate extensive choices in dining, activities, and accommodation will find Kuramathi delivers exceptional value and a premium experience. Families with Children: The excellent Kids Club, variety of pools, and spacious family villas ensure everyone, from toddlers to teens, has an incredible holiday. Nature and Marine Life Enthusiasts: With its strong Eco Centre, resident marine biologist, and vibrant house reef, Kuramathi is perfect for those who want to connect with the underwater world and lush tropical environment. NOT IDEAL FOR: Extreme Budget Travellers: While offering good value for its luxury segment, Kuramathi is still a 5-star Maldivian resort, so those on a very tight budget may find it challenging. Guests Seeking Absolute Seclusion: While large, the resort can feel lively, especially around the main facilities. If your dream is absolute, untouched isolation with no other guests in sight, a smaller, more boutique island might be a better fit.

Booking Tips

Timing your visit to Kuramathi can significantly impact both price and experience. Best months for deals: The low season, typically from May to September, offers the best value. You can find beach villas starting at $600/night and overwater villas at $900/night. While this is the "wet season," rainfall often comes in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of sunshine. Price difference low vs high season: Expect a substantial jump in prices during the high season (roughly December to April). Beach villas can reach $1000/night, and overwater villas can climb to $1500/night or more. This period offers drier, sunnier weather, but comes with a premium. Direct vs OTA booking advice: For a resort of this calibre, it's often wise to compare prices across major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Expedia or Booking.com, but also check the resort's official website directly. Sometimes, direct bookings offer exclusive packages, complimentary upgrades, or special honeymoon benefits not found elsewhere. Consider booking a package deal that bundles flights and accommodation for potential savings.

Quick Verdict

Category	Score /10
Location	9
Accommodation	9
Dining	10
Activities	9
Value	8
Overall Score	9.0

Bottom Line: Kuramathi delivers an exceptional, multi-faceted Maldivian experience that brilliantly combines luxury, activity, and natural beauty.