JW Marriott Expands in the Maldives with the Opening of Kaafu Atoll Island Resort

JW Marriott has announced the opening of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, its second resort in the Maldives. Located in the largest lagoon of Kaafu Atoll, just 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, this luxurious retreat offers a peaceful escape where guests can relax and recharge in a stunning tropical setting.

The resort features 80 private pool villas, including 47 overwater villas, designed to combine traditional Maldivian style with modern luxury. Each villa has a spacious terrace, private pool, and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. For families and groups, the Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence offers an exclusive experience, with plenty of space and uninterrupted ocean views, creating the perfect setting for special moments.

Designed by Cuneyt Bukulmez from Atolye4N, a renowned architecture firm in Turkey, the resort reflects both local Maldivian culture and contemporary elegance. The arrival jetty is inspired by the Maakana heron, a bird known for its graceful flight. The villas feature elements of traditional Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts, including kajan roofs (palm-thatched roofs) and turquoise doors, combined with a soothing color palette and natural materials like wood and stone. Large glass doors provide uninterrupted ocean views, while open-air showers and private pools create a deep connection with nature.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, the resort has partnered with INVENA and the Self-Assembly Lab at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) to address coastal erosion caused by rising sea levels. A 30-meter-long underwater structure has been installed to help reduce wave impact and protect the island’s beaches. Over time, this structure will also support marine life, creating a habitat for fish and corals. Guests will have the unique opportunity to learn about this project and its impact on the environment.

The resort features seven unique dining venues and bars, offering a wide range of flavors from around the world.

• Veyo serves an international menu, using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, offers a relaxed setting for refreshing drinks and light meals.
• Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, is designed with a dramatic curved roof inspired by ocean waves and serves premium cuts of meat with panoramic sea views.Nikkei brings together flavors from Peru, Japan, and Europe, offering creative cocktails and small plates.
• Riva reinterprets the flavors of the Indian Ocean region, blending Indian, Sri Lankan, and Maldivian cuisine in an elegant setting.
• Pure highlights locally sourced ingredients, including fresh herbs from the JW Garden, offering a true farm-to-table experience.
• Tito’s, a stylish deli and patisserie, serves handmade chocolates, macarons, truffles, cakes, and pastries.

For a more intimate dining experience, guests can arrange private dining in exclusive locations throughout the resort, creating unforgettable culinary moments.

The resort’s overwater Spa by JW offers relaxing treatments featuring BABOR skincare products, making it the first spa in the Maldives to offer BABOR’s high-end anti-aging SeaCreation line. Guests can also enjoy sunrise yoga sessions, a modern fitness center with ocean views, and a lap pool.

For those seeking adventure, the resort offers a variety of water activities, including:

• Snorkeling and diving to explore vibrant coral reefs.
• Dolphin safaris and parasailing for thrill-seekers.
• Sunset cruises for those looking for a more peaceful experience.