Lily Beach Resort & Spa

Quick Overview

Lily Beach Resort & Spa, officially known as Lily Beach Resort & Spa, is more than just a destination; it's an experience meticulously crafted for discerning travelers. Since its opening in 2009, this resort has consistently delivered on its promise of luxury, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Its unique selling proposition lies in its comprehensive Platinum Plan, a premium all-inclusive offering that eliminates the need for budgeting during your stay, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Maldivian dream.

From the moment you arrive, the commitment to excellence is palpable. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a fun-filled family vacation, or an adventurous diving expedition, Lily Beach caters to every desire with elegance and efficiency.

Key Fact	Detail
Official Name	Lily Beach Resort & Spa
Location	Huvahendhoo, South Ari Atoll
Star Rating	5-star
Transfer Type	Seaplane or Domestic Flight + Speedboat
Price Range (per night)	From $1000 (low season beach villa) to $1800 (high season overwater villa)

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Location & Getting There

Lily Beach Resort & Spa is exquisitely situated on the island of Huvahendhoo in the South Ari Atoll, one of the Maldives' most celebrated natural wonders. This atoll is particularly special as it is part of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), a globally recognized hotspot for marine biodiversity. What truly sets this location apart is its reputation for year-round sightings of majestic whale sharks and graceful manta rays, making it a diver's and snorkeler's paradise. Unlike some other Maldives luxury resorts, the unparalleled access to these gentle giants is a significant draw, offering truly once-in-a-lifetime encounters.

Reaching this idyllic retreat is an adventure in itself, offering two primary transfer options from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, where international flights from hubs like Dubai, Singapore, and Colombo connect.

• Seaplane Transfer: The most iconic Maldivian transfer experience, a scenic 25-minute seaplane journey, transports you directly to the resort's floating platform. This offers breathtaking aerial views of the scattered atolls and vibrant reefs below, setting the tone for your luxurious escape. In a testament to its commitment to guest comfort, Lily Beach introduced a new Seaplane Lounge and a luxury vehicle at Male Airport in 2023, ensuring a seamless and opulent start to your holiday.
• Domestic Flight + Speedboat Transfer: Alternatively, guests can opt for a 20-minute domestic flight to a nearby island, followed by a 35-minute speedboat ride to Huvahendhoo. While slightly longer, this option can sometimes be more flexible with timings, especially for late arrivals or early departures.

Both transfer methods offer their own charm, with the seaplane being highly recommended for its unique perspective and directness. The cost of transfers is typically included in the overall package when booking the Platinum Plan, ensuring a hassle-free journey to your island paradise.

Accommodation

At Lily Beach Resort & Spa, luxury and comfort are paramount, with 125 meticulously designed villas that blend traditional Maldivian aesthetics with contemporary elegance. Whether you dream of waking up to the gentle lapping of waves beneath your private deck or stepping directly onto soft, white sand, Lily Beach offers an exquisite array of choices. Recent updates in 2022-2023 have ensured that the interiors are refreshed and modern, addressing any previous concerns and enhancing the guest experience significantly.

Villa Types & What to Expect:

• Beach Villas: Perfect for those who love direct beach access, these spacious villas are nestled amidst lush tropical foliage, just steps from the ocean. They offer a private patio, open-air bathroom, and a serene ambiance.
• Lagoon Villas: Partially overwater, these villas offer a unique blend of beach and overwater living, with direct access to the lagoon.
• Deluxe Water Villas: Perched directly over the turquoise lagoon, these iconic Maldivian accommodations feature expansive decks, private jacuzzis, and direct access to the ocean for snorkeling. These are highly sought after for their romantic appeal and stunning views.
• Sunset Water Suites: For the ultimate indulgence, the Sunset Water Suites offer unparalleled luxury, space, and privacy. These magnificent overwater retreats boast a larger private deck, an expansive plunge pool, and breathtaking sunset vistas. They are ideal for honeymooners or anyone seeking an extraordinary experience.

Pricing: The pricing at Lily Beach Resort & Spa reflects its 5-star status and the comprehensive nature of its Platinum Plan. During the low season, a beach villa starts at approximately $1000 per night, while an overwater villa can be around $1400 per night. In the high season, these rates adjust to roughly $1300 for a beach villa and $1800 for an overwater villa. The all-inclusive Platinum Plan, which is the resort's signature offering, typically averages around $1500 per night, providing exceptional value considering the breadth of inclusions.

Each villa category is designed with comfort in mind, featuring luxurious amenities, comfortable king-sized beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and well-appointed bathrooms. The attention to detail in the refreshed interiors ensures a sophisticated and relaxing environment for all guests. The choice between a beach villa and an overwater villa often comes down to personal preference, but both promise an unforgettable stay at this magnificent Maldives luxury resort.

Dining

Dining at Lily Beach Resort & Spa is an exquisite journey for the palate, a cornerstone of its award-winning Premium All-Inclusive 'Platinum Plan'. Guests consistently rave about the delicious and varied food offerings, highlighting it as a significant factor in their exceptional experience. The resort boasts a selection of outstanding restaurants and bars, each offering a unique ambiance and culinary delights.

Restaurant Overview & Cuisine Highlights:

• Lily Maa (Main Buffet Restaurant): The heart of the resort's dining experience, Lily Maa offers a vibrant and extensive international buffet. Featuring live cooking stations, guests can savor a diverse array of global cuisines, from fresh seafood and grilled meats to Asian specialties and delectable desserts. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here in a lively, open-air setting. The variety ensures that even the most discerning diners will find something to tantalize their taste buds throughout their stay.
• Tamarind (Asian à la carte Restaurant): For an intimate and sophisticated dining experience, Tamarind specializes in exquisite Asian, Thai, and Indian fusion cuisine. This à la carte restaurant offers a refined menu, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The intricate flavors and elegant presentation make it a must-try for lovers of Asian gastronomy. Reservations are highly recommended.
• Les Turquoise D'Aqva (Fine Dining): Elevating the culinary journey, Les Turquoise D'Aqva is Lily Beach's premier fine dining venue. Here, guests can indulge in a meticulously crafted five-course degustation menu, showcasing gourmet dishes prepared with the finest ingredients. This restaurant promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure in an elegant setting, ideal for celebrating milestones or simply enjoying a truly luxurious meal.
• AQVA Bar (Pool Bar): Situated by the infinity pool, AQVA Bar is the perfect spot for refreshing cocktails, light snacks, and casual meals throughout the day. With stunning ocean views, it’s an ideal place to unwind, enjoy the Maldivian sunshine, and savor expertly mixed drinks.

Meal Plans Available:

The standout feature of Lily Beach's dining is its renowned Premium All-Inclusive 'Platinum Plan'. This comprehensive plan covers almost everything you could desire, ensuring a truly worry-free holiday. It includes:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Lily Maa.
• One à la carte dinner per stay at Tamarind (for stays of a certain duration).
• Premium branded spirits, wines, beers, and cocktails at all bars and restaurants.
• Mini-bar replenished daily with soft drinks, water, and selected alcoholic beverages.
• Snacks and treats throughout the day at various outlets.
• A selection of non-motorized water sports.
• Three complimentary excursions per stay.

This extensive inclusion list makes Lily Beach an exceptional value proposition among Maldives luxury resorts, allowing guests to indulge freely without the constant concern of additional costs. Many guests specifically praise the exceptional value of the Platinum Plan in their reviews.

Activities & Experiences

The vibrant marine ecosystem and the pristine natural beauty surrounding Lily Beach Resort & Spa provide an endless playground for adventure and relaxation. The resort offers a diverse range of activities and experiences, catering to every interest and energy level, ensuring that every moment of your stay is filled with joy and discovery.

House Reef and Diving/Snorkeling:

One of Lily Beach's most significant differentiators is its absolutely magnificent, lively, and easily accessible house reef. This underwater wonderland is a kaleidoscope of color and life, teeming with abundant marine life including various species of fish, reef sharks, graceful rays, curious turtles, and impressive massive table corals. For both snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, the house reef offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Maldives' famous underwater world just steps from your villa.

• Snorkeling: Grab your mask and fins, and within minutes, you can be swimming alongside vibrant reef fish. The accessibility and richness of the house reef make it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
• Diving (Prodivers Dive Center): For certified divers, the Prodivers dive center at Lily Beach offers a gateway to some of the best dive sites in the South Ari Atoll. From beginner courses to advanced dives, their experienced team can guide you through thrilling encounters with whale sharks, manta rays (especially within the SAMPA area), and a diverse array of marine creatures. This is a key attraction for serious divers, drawing comparisons to the rich marine life found near other prime diving locations.

Spa and Wellness:

Perched serenely above the shimmering turquoise lagoon, the Tamara Spa at Lily Beach is an oasis of tranquility and rejuvenation.

• Over-water Tamara Spa Pavilions: The spa features exquisite over-water pavilions, offering breathtaking ocean views as you indulge in holistic therapies. The soothing sound of the waves beneath enhances the serene atmosphere.
• Holistic Therapies and BABOR Products: The Tamara Spa offers a comprehensive menu of treatments, from traditional massages and body wraps to rejuvenating facials, all designed to restore balance and well-being. They exclusively use premium BABOR products, known for their high-quality ingredients and effective results, ensuring a truly luxurious spa experience.

Water Sports and Excursions:

The Platinum Plan at Lily Beach includes a fantastic array of non-motorized water sports, allowing guests to explore the lagoon at their leisure.

• Non-motorized Water Sports: Enjoy complimentary use of canoes, windsurfing equipment, catamaran sailing, and paddleboards. These activities are perfect for exploring the calm waters around the island.
• Motorized Water Sports: For those seeking more adrenaline, motorized water sports such as jet skiing, fun-tube riding, and banana boat rides are available for a charge. Lessons are also available for beginners.
• Included Excursions: A highlight of the Platinum Plan is the inclusion of three excursions per stay. These can include:
  • Island Hopping: Discover local culture and neighboring islands.
  • Sunrise Fishing / Big Game Fishing: Experience the thrill of Maldivian fishing traditions.
  • Sunset Cruises / Dolphin Cruises: Witness spectacular sunsets and playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

Unique Experiences Specific to this Resort:

• Whale Shark and Manta Ray Sightings: Being located in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) means almost guaranteed year-round sightings of these magnificent creatures, a truly unparalleled experience.
• Semi-submarine Boat 'Penguin': For those who prefer to stay dry while exploring the underwater world, the resort's semi-submarine boat, 'Penguin,' offers a unique perspective on marine life observation.
• Fitness & Recreation: A 24-hour fitness center, tennis court, table tennis, billiards, foosball, air hockey, darts, beach volleyball, and football are all available. The resort also offers yoga, aqua aerobics, and Zumba classes to keep guests active and energized.

From thrilling underwater adventures to serene spa treatments, Lily Beach Resort & Spa ensures that every guest finds their perfect way to experience the magic of the Maldives.

Who Is This Resort Best For?

Lily Beach Resort & Spa, with its comprehensive offerings and luxurious ambiance, caters to a diverse range of travelers, making it a versatile choice among Maldives luxury resorts.

• Honeymooners & Couples: The romantic overwater villas, private dining experiences at Tamarind and Les Turquoise D'Aqva, and the serene Tamara Spa create an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic escape or a memorable honeymoon. The breathtaking sunsets and intimate atmosphere are perfect for celebrating love.
• Families: With its dedicated kids' club, family-friendly pool with an adjacent children's pool, and a wide array of activities suitable for all ages, Lily Beach is an excellent choice for families. The all-inclusive Platinum Plan also simplifies budgeting for families, allowing them to enjoy every aspect of the resort without worry.
• Divers & Snorkelers: The resort's location in the South Ari Marine Protected Area and its magnificent, easily accessible house reef make it a dream destination for underwater enthusiasts. Year-round whale shark and manta ray sightings, coupled with the professional Prodivers dive center, ensure world-class diving and snorkeling experiences.
• Luxury Seekers: Those who appreciate five-star service, gourmet dining, and lavish accommodations will find Lily Beach to exceed their expectations. The refreshed interiors and premium amenities cater to a high standard of luxury.
• Value-Conscious Luxury Travelers: While certainly a luxury resort, the Platinum Plan offers exceptional value. For travelers who desire a high-end experience without the constant concern of hidden costs, the comprehensive all-inclusive package at Lily Beach is a significant draw, often providing better overall value than à la carte options at comparable resorts, perhaps even more comprehensive than some packages at Reethi Beach Resort.

In essence, if you're looking for a hassle-free, luxurious, and activity-rich Maldivian holiday where almost everything is taken care of, Lily Beach Resort & Spa is an outstanding choice.

Pros & Cons

Based on recent reviews and the extensive features of Lily Beach Resort & Spa, here's an honest assessment of its strengths and potential considerations:

Pros:

• Exceptional All-Inclusive Platinum Plan: Consistently praised by guests, the Platinum Plan offers incredible value, covering premium drinks, gourmet dining, excursions, and non-motorized water sports, ensuring a truly worry-free holiday.
• Magnificent House Reef: The easily accessible and vibrant house reef is a major highlight, teeming with diverse marine life, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
• Outstanding Staff & Service: Recent reviews frequently commend the resort's staff for their friendliness, attentiveness, and exceptional service, contributing significantly to a memorable guest experience.
• Delicious & Varied Food: The dining options, particularly Lily Maa and Tamarind, receive high praise for their quality, variety, and taste.
• Prime Location for Marine Life: Situated in the South Ari Marine Protected Area, the resort offers year-round opportunities for whale shark and manta ray sightings, a unique draw for many.
• Refreshed Accommodations: Recent updates in 2022-2023 have ensured that the villas are modern, well-maintained, and comfortable, addressing previous renovation feedback.
• Diverse Activities & Facilities: From a well-equipped fitness center and various sports to a luxurious over-water spa and multiple excursions, there's something for everyone.

Cons:

• Premium Price Point: While offering excellent value through its all-inclusive plan, the upfront cost of Lily Beach Resort & Spa can be a significant investment, potentially placing it out of reach for budget-conscious travelers. However, for a 5-star luxury experience in the Maldives, the value is undeniable.
• Transfer Time: While the seaplane transfer is scenic, the overall travel time (especially if opting for domestic flight + speedboat) might be a consideration for some, though the new seaplane lounge helps mitigate this.
• Popularity: Being a highly-rated and popular resort, it can sometimes feel busy, especially during peak season, although the island is designed to offer ample space and privacy.

Overall, the overwhelming sentiment from guests is one of immense satisfaction, with Lily Beach consistently achieving high ratings across major booking platforms.

Pricing & Value

Understanding the pricing structure and inherent value of Lily Beach Resort & Spa is crucial for planning your dream Maldivian escape. As a 5-star luxury resort, the investment reflects the unparalleled quality of service, amenities, and experiences on offer.

Price Ranges by Season:

The Maldives experiences two main seasons: a dry, high season and a wet, low season. Pricing at Lily Beach fluctuates accordingly:

• Low Season (May to November): During these months, which typically see more rainfall (though still plenty of sunshine), prices are more attractive. You can expect Beach Villas to start around $1000 per night, while Overwater Villas begin at approximately $1400 per night.
• High Season (December to April): This is the peak travel period, characterized by dry, sunny weather. Prices increase, with Beach Villas starting from $1300 per night and Overwater Villas from $1800 per night. Festive periods (Christmas, New Year) will see even higher rates.

The resort's signature Premium All-Inclusive 'Platinum Plan' typically averages around $1500 per night, providing an incredible array of inclusions that significantly enhance its value proposition.

Value Assessment:

The true value of Lily Beach Resort & Spa lies in its comprehensive Platinum Plan. Unlike many other Maldives luxury resorts where "all-inclusive" can still mean significant extra charges for premium drinks, certain dining experiences, or excursions, Lily Beach's plan is genuinely all-encompassing.

• Cost Savings: By including premium beverages, à la carte dining experiences, mini-bar replenishment, and three excursions per stay, the Platinum Plan eliminates the need to constantly factor in additional expenses. This means no surprise bills at checkout, allowing for a truly relaxed and indulgent holiday. Many guests highlight the exceptional value of this plan in their reviews, stating it's well worth the investment.
• Quality of Inclusions: The quality of food, drinks, and activities included in the Platinum Plan is consistently high. You're not sacrificing quality for inclusion; rather, you're getting top-tier experiences as standard.
• Hassle-Free Experience: The sheer convenience of having most aspects of your holiday covered upfront contributes immensely to the overall value. It allows you to focus on enjoying the beauty of the Maldives and the resort's offerings without financial worries. When comparing options, consider that while a resort like Reethi Beach Resort might have a lower base price, the add-ons could quickly accumulate, making Lily Beach's all-inclusive a more predictable and often more cost-effective luxury choice in the long run.

Best Time to Book:

To secure the best rates and availability, especially for popular villa categories like the Sunset Water Suites, it is advisable to book well in advance, ideally 6-12 months before your intended travel dates.

• For Best Weather: Book for the high season (December to April) if guaranteed sunshine and minimal rain are your top priorities.
• For Best Value: Consider the shoulder months of the low season (May, June, November) when the weather is still generally good but prices are lower.

While the initial price for Lily Beach Resort & Spa might seem substantial, the unparalleled all-inclusive Platinum Plan, coupled with its 5-star service and stunning location, positions it as an exceptional value proposition for a truly luxurious and worry-free Maldivian escape.

Lily Beach Resort & Spa truly embodies the essence of a dream Maldivian holiday. From its breathtaking location in the South Ari Atoll, teeming with marine life, to its award-winning Premium All-Inclusive Platinum Plan, every detail is meticulously crafted for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn by the allure of its magnificent house reef, the indulgence of its overwater Tamara Spa, or the gourmet delights across its diverse restaurants, Lily Beach promises a journey of luxury, relaxation, and adventure. It stands as a testament to what a world-class Maldives luxury resort should be, offering exceptional value and memories that will last a lifetime.

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