Nova - Maldives

Package price from, per person sharing

South Ari Atoll is particularly rewarding for travellers who want marine life to shape more than just one excursion during their Maldives trip. Whale sharks can be encountered in the region throughout the year, alongside manta sites, reefs and established dive locations. This Maldives holiday package combines return flights from South Africa, transfers, accommodation and selected meals, creating an easy base for both ocean adventures and slower island days.

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Property Overview

Nova Maldives is a 76-villa resort on a natural island in South Ari Atoll, with accommodation spread between beachfront and overwater settings. Its concept is deliberately social and relaxed, built around communal spaces, contemporary design and an all-inclusive approach rather than formal resort living. A house reef, swimming pool, dive and water-sports centre, spa and five dining outlets provide the main facilities. Couples, friends, solo travellers and families are all welcomed, giving the island a broad and inclusive guest mix.

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How far is the nearest beach?

The resort sits directly on a natural white-sand island, so the beach is immediately accessible throughout the stay. Beach Villas are only steps from the shoreline and have direct access to the lagoon, while Water Villas extend above the ocean with private stairs leading into the sea. A house reef surrounds the island and gives snorkellers easy access to marine life close to shore. The outdoor swimming pool provides an additional option away from the lagoon.

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Distance from Airport

Nova Maldives is reached from Velana International Airport by a scenic seaplane journey of approximately 25 minutes. Seaplanes operate during daylight hours, with the resort advising international arrivals to reach Malé before the afternoon transfer cut-off. MLE is therefore the international arrival airport for travellers coming from South Africa before continuing to South Ari Atoll. The short flight also provides aerial views of the reefs and lagoons on the way to the island.

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Rooms

The resort has 76 villas, ranging from 80-square-metre Beach Villas to larger beachfront and overwater options with jacuzzis or private pools. Water Villas provide 125 sqm of space with direct lagoon access, while pool categories reach 160 sqm and family accommodation includes connecting beach villas. Interiors use light colours, natural materials and contemporary furnishings rather than ornate design. The range offers generous space throughout, although private pools are concentrated in selected higher categories rather than across the full inventory.

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Food & Drink

Nova's five dining outlets combine casual all-day dining with speciality restaurants and social bar settings. Soul Kitchen handles the main international offering, Flames focuses on grilled fish, seafood and meat, and Mizu adds Japanese dining, while Wink and Solis provide drinks and relaxed communal spaces. Private beach dinners, in-villa dining and floating breakfasts broaden the experience beyond the main venues. Full Board Plus and Premium All Inclusive meal plans are available.

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Experiences & Activities

South Ari Atoll is the major draw for active travellers, with more than 30 manta, whale shark, wreck and dive locations within roughly 40 minutes of the island. Aquaholics supports diving, snorkelling and water sports, while kayaking and paddleboarding provide gentler ways to explore the lagoon. Cultural experiences connect guests with nearby Dhangethi and local Maldivian traditions, and live entertainment adds a more social element after dark. Fitness activities and beach games broaden the programme further.

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SPA & Wellness

Eskape Spa is an overwater wellness facility with three treatment rooms, a relaxation area and a yoga pavilion. Treatments focus on holistic rituals and organic products, with Dhivehi Beys introducing a traditional Maldivian healing practice using local ingredients and techniques. Wellness extends into sunrise yoga, group fitness and a 24-hour gym for guests who prefer a more active routine. The programme is thoughtfully developed, although the spa itself remains relatively intimate in scale.