JW Marriott has officially launched its newest luxury retreat, the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, which is also its second property in the Maldives. Situated within the vast Kaafu Atoll lagoon, this new retreat is positioned just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport.
Boasting 80 private pool villas, including 47 overwater accommodations, the resort provides a serene escape with panoramic Indian Ocean views, expansive terraces, and direct access to pristine lagoons.
Designed by renowned architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Atolye4N, the resort seamlessly incorporates traditional Maldivian aesthetics with modern elements. Inspired by the Maakana heron, the arrival jetty sets the tone for the property’s distinct architectural language.
Villas feature kajan roofs, turquoise doors, and neutral interiors, echoing the essence of Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts while maintaining an airy, contemporary feel.
Committed to environmental stewardship, the resort incorporates natural materials like timber and stone. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors bring the outdoors in, while open-air showers and private pools enhance the sense of tranquility.
In collaboration with INVEA and the Self-Assembly Lab at MIT, the resort introduces a pioneering 30-meter underwater coastal structure. This innovative project mitigates wave action and beach erosion while fostering vibrant marine ecosystems. Guests can engage with this initiative firsthand, contributing to global climate resilience efforts.
“JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island embodies our dedication to blending unparalleled luxury with holistic well-being, offering guests a peaceful escape where every detail is designed to inspire balance and rejuvenation. With the Maldives’ natural beauty as a backdrop, we aim to provide an exceptional experience that deeply resonates with those seeking tranquility, mindfulness, and world-class service. We look forward to welcoming guests to this extraordinary destination, where they can truly disconnect and find harmony,” Bruce Rohr, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott, said.
With seven distinct dining venues and bars, the resort offers an extensive global culinary journey. Veyo is an international dining experience with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. An infinity pool bar, Wahoo offers refined beverages and aromatic dishes, while Athiri, a two-story steakhouse, features premium cuts and ocean-inspired architecture.
Apart from the lively bar offering Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine, Nikkei, Riva is a fine-dining experience that reinterprets Indian Ocean culinary traditions. For those who love the farm-to-table concept, there will be Pure featuring herbs harvested from the JW Garden. And at the end, there is Tito’s, a boutique patisserie and deli with handcrafted chocolates, truffles, and pastries.
The overwater Spa by JW introduces BABOR’s luxury skincare treatments to the Maldives for the first time. Guests can indulge in Ocean Bliss, a signature treatment featuring SeaCreation, BABOR’s anti-aging range enriched with deep-sea ingredients.
Complementing the spa, wellness offerings include sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness center with ocean views, and a lap pool. Designed for families, the resort introduces the Family by JW program, ensuring meaningful experiences for guests of all ages. The JW Kids’ Club and Teens’ Club provide interactive activities, while the JW Garden offers hands-on gardening and cooking classes. Highlights include snorkeling, diving, dolphin safaris, parasailing, and sunset cruises.
