LUX* South Ari
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Overview
- Discover an alternative take on the classic Maldivian luxury holiday
- Explore over three kilometers of powder-white beach and a crystalline lagoon
- Enjoy a different culinary experience every day from one of eight eateries
- Head out into the South Ari Marine Protected Area in search of whale sharks
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful hideaway or an active adventure, LUX* South Ari is the place to be. This sensational island paradise is surrounded by over three kilometers of powder-fine beaches and a crystal-clear lagoon - meaning your laid-back desert island paradise dream is about to come true. And, with a relaxed atmosphere, beautifully-designed facilities throughout, and absolutely spectacular diving on offer, LUX* South Ari brings an entirely original vibe of adventurous beach house-chic to the Maldives.
Rooms
Amenities
About
About LUX* South Ari
Located on the picture-perfect island of Dhidhoofinolhu, in the far south of South Ari Atoll, this modern, environmentally-conscious resort is a fantastic choice for guests of every persuasion. Located within the South Ari Marine Protected Area, LUX* South Ari offers easy access to the beautiful natural surroundings of the atoll. Head out on an epic excursion in search of whale sharks, or while away the hours in a secluded corner of this island paradise – the choice is yours. And, with a relaxed atmosphere and beautifully-designed facilities throughout, LUX* South Ari brings an entirely original vibe of coastal beach house-chic to the Maldives.
LUX* resorts and hotels aim to help guests celebrate life by consistently delivering on the promise of an alternative type of luxury. Their style of hospitality is light and bright with the same exceptionally high standards of service, removing thoughtless formulaic experiences in favour of simple, fresh alternatives. From locally roasted and ethically sourced coffee and retro-style ice cream parlours, to tailor-made health and spa sessions, a magical tree of wishes, junk art galleries and impromptu beach film screenings, each LUX* experience is designed to help turn the ordinary into extraordinary.
Explore the resort
Boasting eight first-class restaurants, LUX* South Ari allows guests to dine somewhere different every single day of the week. From fine dining and sushi, to delectable international palettes and sophisticated takes on bustling Asian night markets, LUX* will take you on a sublime culinary journey. The resort’s five bars are also equipped for almost any occasion, including fashionable beach club vibes and the Maldives’ largest selection of sakes and Japanese whiskeys. And, LUX* wouldn’t be LUX* without a few surprises, including island-roasted coffee, impromptu screenings at Cinema Paradiso and the chance to hang your hopes on our magical tree of wishes.
Aside from eating and drinking, LUX* South Ari offers a variety of exceptional facilities to pass the time, including two infinity pools, floodlit tennis courts, and a Technogym fitness centre. The resort’s in-house spa also provides a wellness concierge and a menu of indulgent and stimulating treatments such as massage, facials, and Zhengliao Chinese medicine. And, of course, a slew of watersports are on offer from jet skiing and kite surfing, to banana boating and sailing adventures. PLAY and Studio17 are inhouse clubs for children and teenagers, allowing them to explore the island, meet new friends, or simply ‘hang-out’.
Diving with LUX* North Male
LUX* South Ari’s PADI 5-Star dive centre is run by Euro-Divers who are dedicated to sharing the many wonders of this diving nirvana. Guests can explore over 45 dive sites, most of which lie between five to 60 minutes from the resort and are a quick dhoni ride away. Nitrox 32% is complimentary for certified guests, and for a truly incredible experience, have a go at fluoro night diving, where special lamps and masks are used to illuminate the kaleidoscopic colours of the reef.
Full equipment rental is available from the dive centre, including torches, and tanks with both DIN and Int connections can be arranged. PADI courses from Discover Scuba Diving to Rescue Diver can also be provided, as well as the Nitrox Speciality certification. An inhouse classroom caters for up to six students at a time and the dive crew can speak a variety of languages such as English, French, Japanese, Spanish, and Dhivehi.
Top tips
- Keep your camera handy during seaplane transfers - you'll be flying low over some of the region's most impressive scenery!
- Plan at least one dry day for indulging in this resort's sensational spa services.
- Watch out for impromptu screenings at Cinema Paradiso.
Diving
Diving in South Ari Atoll
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Whale sharkYear round
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WrecksYear round
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Healthy coralsYear round
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Plentiful reef lifeYear round
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Manta RaysYear round
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StingraysYear round
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TurtlesYear round
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Giant frogfishYear round
Resort checklist
Number of rooms
193
Official dive center rating
PADI 5-Star Resort
Courses offered
Bubble Maker, Discover Scuba Diving, Scuba Diver, Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water, Rescue, Nitrox Speciality