LUX South Ari Atoll Review

Maldives has always been one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Being newly weds, we are also one of the millions who went to Maldives for honeymoon after the solemnization of our wedding. After a lot of research, we settled down for LUX* South Ari Atoll, Maldives for our honeymoon vacation. We also decide to book our trip through Booking.com. This is because normally, travel agent would provide a much better price than if you were to book directly from the resort itself. For instance, for a 5D4N package, 2 beach pavilion and 2 water villa with AI (light all-inclusive meal plan), the total cost is around 2K USD per person, which is very reasonable.

In this post, we would like to give an honest review of LUX South Ari Atoll, from our personal experience.

Seaplane Transfer

Seaplane is one of the major transport used in the Maldives, apart from speedboat. It is used to transport tourists/visitors from the Male international airport to the respective hotel/island. Compared to domestic flight, the seaplane is a lot smaller and they can only sit a maximum of 15 people. The cabin is not even air-conditioned and you can feel it getting really hot and noisy at some point. Nevertheless, it is still worth to experience taking seaplane as it is the best means of bird view on atolls, islands, reef and lagoons. For us, we took Trans Maldivian Airways, which is a private seaplane company and they have the largest fleet of seaplanes in Maldives.

The seaplane cost is between US$250 and US$450 (return), depending on how far your island is and the kind of deal the resorts have. For us, it is included in our package price. We are also entitled to LUX* VIP lounge with free drinks and foods while we are waiting for boarding.

Warm Welcome in LUX* South Ari Atoll

Before our seaplane reach the LUX*, we can see a lineup of hotel staff (including the manager) on the dock, waving and greeting us as we approach to the island. The welcoming is as warm as the wind (it is quite windy there). As usual, we are served with welcome drinks as the staff helps us with our villa check in.

Exploring LUX* Island

As soon as we finish check in, we just can’t wait but to have a sightseeing around the island right away. LUX* is one of the biggest islands in Maldives. It takes about 30mins walking from west to east end of the island. The good thing is we can always wait for the buggy to come for rides. The frequency is quite good as they have one coming every 15mins at any point in the island. But we choose to walk around to explore the island.

Surprisingly, there are several phone booths set up all around the island. It’s not a play setup but you can actually use it to make international calls for free. I guess that is some sort of VOIP phone set up.

The views are amazing – With blue skies, the waters are so transparently turquoise. If you like to have fun with this hammock, make sure you get up early before the tide comes up. The water could be as deep as 1.5M when the high tide comes.

The good thing about the resort is that when we are exploring the island and are tired, we can always find a spot to chill out and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sea.

And also one of my most favourite spot to bask in the sea breeze is dangling myself in a wavering coconut tree.

Due to the windy season, the waves and currents are also really strong.

There are always a lot of surprises when you explore the island. For example, this white window set up near the shore.

Truth be told, the sands in the Maldives is not as fine as I read in other blogs as there are lots of dead corals. But one thing for sure, there are loads of hermit crab (looks like a transparent spider to me) walking about on the sands. More importantly, with this beautiful weather, I feel so blessed to be with my family and love.

What to do In LUX* ?

Snorkeling

Seeing all those species in the ocean is one of the things that tourists look forward to when they are in the Maldives. Yes, the Maldives is definitely one of the best places to snorkel. But do not expect Lux* to be one of the best snorkelling site. But you can still see some fishes swimming around the shores.

Or if you manage to pass the snorkeling test to prove that you are a confident swimmer and not afraid of open waters, you can go to one of the house reefs nearby for snorkeling and you will see more fishes.

But we are no good at swimming and decided to play only near the shores. We are glad that we have put our unicorn float to good use.

Swimming In The Pool

Compared to swimming in the ocean, swimming in the pool might not sound that exciting. But it is good enough for us.

Sunset Cruise

Sunset cruise is inclusive in our package and it will normally cost 35 usd++. There is a chance that you might see dolphins. But we were unlucky. The sea is more furious when it gets deep. The boat was rocking all the way to the edge and even my parents dare not go to the upper deck. Nevertheless, the sunset is still amazing. Under a cloudy sky, you can still see those magic gold sunrays casted unto the seemingly endless sea and sky.

Sunset Fishing

My mum favourite part of the trip was the sunset fishing. My mum and dad are the two fishing fanatics who usually have the river/pond fishing over the weekends. This sea fishing is definitely a different experience where we even do not need to use the traditional fishing pole but just using the fishing string will do. What matters is really the ‘feel’ – literally … feel the fish with your fingers. We used tuna fish as the bait to attract other fishes – I know this sounds cruel. Sea fishing is really hard until dad successfully got one fish (although a very small one). It really lighted up the morale a lot and after that, Nicole also got herself small fish!

During our sunset fishing trip, we did attract a big shark estimated 2 meters long. The staff spends 20 mins to make it closer to the surface. Without a doubt, we could not really pull it out of the water for a closer look.

Library

In addition to the sea activities mentioned above, there are various activities where you can just slack around and spent your afternoon silently and elegantly. There is a very adorable small library called Wanderlust on the island. Built with glasses on the four rounds, Wanderlust library is a good hideout place to enjoy the serenity.

Spa Session

Our honeymoon gift includes a free spa session for 30mins. Convinced by the spa receptionist, we upgraded to a 60mins full body spa with 200 USD in total for 2 people. The price is acceptable particularly when it’s conducted in the water villas where you can see fishes swimming around while you enjoy the massage.

There are various activities every day such as water sports that you can name. Trust me, you will never find yourself bored on this island.

Restaurants, Bars & Cafes In LUX*

One of the reasons we picked LUX* as our honeymoon is because of its different variety of restaurants! LUX* has a total of 8 restaurants and bar, each of which serves a different kind of cuisines.

There is a super cute ice-cream shop (named ICI Shop) and a Cafe LUX* right in front of the reception too. Do check out more of the information on their website.

Ice-cream Shop

In LUX*, the thing that entices me the most is its ice-cream shop which is named ICI. It is situated right by the beach where coconut trees are gently swaying to the rhythm of the winds, the ice-cream shop, all bright in color, is like a magic castle from a fairy tale. They have a wide variety of ice-cream, gelato, ice popsicles, frozen yogurt for you to pick. And…it’s all free if you are AI (all inclusive). A smiley face with your ice-cream to quench your thirst is all you’ll need to battle with the scorching weather and in a cheerful mood.

Cafe LUX*

We have also heard good reviews of the famous Cafe LUX* prior to our visit and of course, it did not disappoint us after experiencing it. In this small cafe with white decor, you are free to order any latte or frappucino to keep up your caffeine intake. Moreover, they also have afternoon tea cakes that you can indulge in which are free too.

MIXE Restaurant

Our first dinner at MIXE was with a delicious BBQ and live Maldivian dancing show. MIXE is a restaurant for dinner and breakfast which serves an international buffet. It’s very Maldivian and not that unique compared to the other restaurants.

Allegria Restaurant

I realized from the bills that this was the most expensive restaurant at LUX*. Allegria is a restaurant which serves dedicated Italian cuisines and the atmosphere is really very romantic. Unluckily, the night we went was extremely windy and I didn’t get to take that many photos. For me, I don’t like Italian Cuisine that much except for the classic Italian dessert which is Tiramisu.

East Market Restaurant

The East bar and East Market restaurants are right next to each other. While the restaurant has the same breakfast buffet and buffet dinner as MIXE, this restaurant is a lot more attractive with its oriental cuisines and the over-water structure. So here, you can enjoy your food while fishes frolic around you.

A secret of this restaurant is its disco like toilet where you can also watch fishes on the floor through the window. Besides, there is also a photo booth which you can use for free. You just have to get an access code from the staff (East Bar).

Our favorite bar has to be the East Bar even though we did not dine there at all. We simply could not resist the urge of nets with catamarans hovering over the turquoise waters. Besides, there are also dangling double seats and even a Mahjong table for 4!

FAQ for visiting LUX South Ari Atoll

Where is LUX South Ari Atoll located?

LUX South Ari Atoll is located in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives. Picture a stunning island resort set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

How do I get to LUX South Ari Atoll?

Arrive in the Maldives by plane to the Malé International Airport, then transfer to the resort by domestic flight or seaplane. Our staff is ready to help you every step of the way.

What types of rooms can I book at LUX South Ari Atoll?

Luxury accommodations range from over water villas to beachfront rooms with panoramic views and plenty of amenities.

Are there any water sports available?

There is so much to explore underwater and on the surface! Guests can take part in water sports including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddle boarding and catamaran sailing.

What dining experiences can I expect?

Dining at LUX South Ari Atoll includes a variety of restaurants and bars to delight your senses with international and local cuisine. Enjoy each experience at a stunning location.

Can I relax at LUX South Ari Atoll?

Unwind at the LUX* Me Spa, a haven of wellness activities and spa treatments.

Is LUX South Ari Atoll family-friendly?

LUX South Ari Atoll welcomes families with children! Kids and teens will love exploring the Kids’ Club and Teen Club, which feature fun and activities and ensure they are well supervised while parents can relax.

When is the best time to visit LUX South Ari Atoll?

November through April is when you can experience the Maldives’ sunny weather at its best, but each season has its unique beauty.

Is the LUX South Ari Atoll eco-friendly?

Yes! The resort works hard to protect the surrounding area by engaging in coral restoration projects and other waste reduction programs.

Can I host a special event at LUX South Ari Atoll?

Of course! The LUX South Ari Atoll team is at your service for all your event planning needs. Choose the perfect LUX South Ari Atoll location to make your dream wedding or honeymoon a reality, or for a special occasion to celebrate with your loved ones.