Bandos Maldives
Ten minutes from Velana by speedboat, a dive school and separate living rooms
About this stay
Bandos Maldives offers a classic Maldivian private island experience, conveniently located just a short speedboat ride from Male International Airport. The resort provides a range of spacious rooms and villas, many featuring high thatched roofs or wooden décor, with balconies that offer views of either lush gardens or the pristine beach. Guests have access to multiple dining options, ensuring a variety of culinary experiences throughout their stay. For those seeking adventure, a dedicated water sports center and a dive school are on hand to explore the vibrant marine life of the atoll. The island's natural beauty surrounds the accommodations, creating a tranquil and immersive environment.
- Private island resort
- Speedboat access
- Dive school and water sports
- Multiple dining options
Our take
Bandos Maldives is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a traditional Maldivian island experience with easy access from the airport. Its private island setting, combined with extensive dining and activity options like diving and water sports, makes it suitable for both couples and families. The variety of room types, including those with outdoor hot tubs, adds to its appeal. Those looking for ultra-modern, minimalist design might prefer other resorts, as Bandos offers a more classic, nature-integrated aesthetic.
- ✓Take advantage of the dive school to explore the rich house reef and nearby dive sites.
- ✓Explore the different dining options to find your favorite culinary experience on the island.
- ✓Consider a villa with an outdoor hot tub for an added touch of relaxation and luxury.
Why we love it
- Private island location with natural beauty
- Convenient 10-minute speedboat transfer from airport
- Comprehensive dive school and water sports center
- Multiple dining options for diverse tastes
Why guests love itBandos Island is only ten minutes by speedboat from Velana, which meant our first swim happened before lunch on arrival day. Our older two signed up for the dive school here, a proper multi-day course rather than a single try-dive, and came back certified. Some of the villas have separate living rooms, which gave the adults somewhere to sit after the kids went to bed instead of everyone sharing one room. The resort feels a little more lived-in than the newer private islands, which some of us liked.
Guest reviews
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