Penguin Approved: LUX* South Ari Atoll
When we say Penguin Approved, we mean it with this month’s pick. LUX* South Ari Atoll in the Maldives ticks every single box. Imagine pedalling your bicycle along a wooden jetty over turquoise waters, swimming side-by-side with gentle whale sharks, or winding down in your private bungalow on stilts as the sun slips beneath the horizon. This place has it all: adventure, relaxation, and a touch of barefoot luxury.
Perched on the postcard-perfect island of Dhidhoofinolhu, just a 30-minute seaplane hop from Malé, LUX* South Ari Atoll feels like a world of its own. Two miles of pristine white-sand beaches frame the island, while villas stretch across the lagoon on stilts, giving you that classic Maldivian escape. Whether you choose a beachfront retreat or a newly refurbished Water Villa with panoramic views, you’ll find soft hues, natural textures, and an undeniable sense of calm woven into every detail.
What makes LUX* South Ari Atoll truly unforgettable is the sheer variety of experiences on offer. It’s the only place in the world where you can swim with whale sharks all year round, whether you’re snorkelling or diving alongside these gentle giants. Back on the island, life unfolds at a relaxed pace with kayaking, catamaran trips, two sparkling pools, and a Forbes Four-Star spa to enjoy, while little ones can make the most of the buzzing kids’ club, complimentary for children over three. When it’s time to unwind, the villas are as stylish as they are serene, with glass floors revealing the lagoon below, thatched roofs, open-air bathrooms, and private pools that perfectly blend Maldivian charm with modern comfort.
With eight restaurants and five bars, dining at LUX* is like taking a global tasting tour without leaving the island. Highlights for us included:
- Mixe – Buffet dining with a twist, where chefs whip up dishes at live cooking stations on the beach.
- Senses – Semi-open-air and open for lunch and dinner, Senses is a poolside restaurant serving salads, grills, and local seafood. It’s also a bar and lounge, so you can pop by for a drink even if you’re not dining.
- Allegria – Romantic Italian dinners on the beach. Open nightly for dinner.
- East Market – A flavour-packed Southeast Asian experience in a market-style setting and open for breakfast and dinner.
- Lagoon Bar – A classic beach bar made modern, right on the sand, serving lunch and drinks to reggae beats.
- Café LUX* – Where coffee is an art form (don’t miss the nitro cold brew).
- Veli Pool Bar – A relaxing pool bar where you can grab a bite for lunch.
- Beach Rouge – Fresh Mediterranean dishes with beach club vibes and a sunset DJ set every night.
- Umami – Serving modern Japanese cuisine for dinner.
- ICI – The ever-popular ice cream parlour.
- East Bar – Serving evening drinks over the water.
When upgrading to all-inclusive, you can effortlessly rotate between restaurants, sip cocktails at the bar, grab a picnic basket for a day trip, and still find room for artisanal ice cream.
From morning swims in crystal-clear waters to late-night dancing under the stars, LUX* South Ari Atoll captures everything we look for in a Penguin Approved stay. It’s family-friendly yet romantic, adventurous yet relaxing, and most importantly, unforgettable.
So, if you’re dreaming of that once-in-a-lifetime island escape, contact the team today, and we can find you the best rates and ensure you get the best stay.