JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, Inc., announced the opening of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa on Vagaru island, Shaviyani atoll in the Maldives.
The opening marks the debut of Marriott International’s iconic JW Marriott brand in this paradisiacal island destination, with the brand-new resort located just 55 minutes via seaplane from the capital of Male, Maldives.
The stunning new resort features 60 spacious villas, starting at approximately 2,520 sq. feet, which include private pools and wooden sunbathing decks. Duplex Overwater Pool Villas and single- story Overwater Pool Villas are set on stilts overlooking the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, with a choice of sunrise or sunset views. While Beach Pool Villas come with direct access to the pristine white sandy beaches of the private island, the unique, split-level Duplex Beach Pool Villa is designed to cater to multigenerational families, featuring separate lounges, bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate larger groups. Each room throughout the resort draws inspiration from the natural surroundings and local Maldivian culture, incorporating colors and materials that highlight the island destination. Thatched roofs on villas are reminiscent of inverted dhoni boats, the traditional Maldivian wooden fishing vessels, and slanted roof tips recall white herons dipping their heads into the water.
“We are thrilled to open our JW Marriott brand in this truly amazing destination,” said Mitzi Gaskins, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “With a focus on holistic well-being and enriching, thoughtfully-curated experiences, this private island resort will inspire our guests to be fully present and come together with loved ones to enjoy a getaway that nourishes not only the body, but also the mind and soul.”
Guests can escape into a world of complete well-being with an extensive array of dedicated fitness and spa amenities, along with a daily schedule of engaging and mindfulness-focused activities. The resort’s overwater gym, open-air pavilion, daily workout classes, yoga sessions and easy movement and breathing exercises will guests provide numerous opportunities to find mindful moments and reconnect with their surroundings. The signature Spa by JW will offer a sanctuary for indulging in head-to-toe pampering and luxurious treatments.
The JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa will be a gourmand’s paradise with five restaurants, featuring a remarkable array of fine-dining choices; from classic Maldivian seafood to exotic Thai cuisine on a treetop restaurant, wood-fired brick oven pizzas and Japanese teppanyaki, along with a chef’s garden to supply the resort with daily fresh produce. Three full-service bars will serve up old and new world wines with over 300 labels to choose from, fine Japanese sake and handcrafted cocktails with over 98 different types of rum available. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour in-villa dining services.
For families traveling with children, Little Griffins, a Family by JW kids club, features a 43 foot-long pirate ship, kids sleeping area, a servery, games and educational activities to provide the little ones hours of fun and entertainment. Guests over 18 will be able to enjoy an adults-only infinity pool area at the tip of Vagaru island, as well as a clubhouse complete with a cigar room, shisha room and billiards table.
The private island where the all-new JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa sits holds a stunning natural reef just meters from the shore teeming with sea life for guests to take in. An on-site marine biologist oversees the health of the reef along with organizing diving and snorkeling excursions and other water sports. Mesmerizing white sand beaches, stunning designs and authentic Maldivian cultural experiences come together at the luxurious property to ensure guests get the most out of their stay.