This Luxury Maldives Resort Is A Paradise For Snorkeling And Diving

29.05.2024 - 13:17 / forbes.com

Located in one of the world's largest and deepest natural atolls, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa epitomizes barefoot luxury in The Maldives. With its vibrant marine life, untouched scenery and natural seclusion, this is one of the most memorable getaways in the popular island nation.

Just 55 km from the Equator, the Park Hyatt Maldives is an exclusive escape: one that requires an additional seaplane and speedboat to reach paradise. But the property’s far-flung location is also its greatest assets. Intrepid travelers will be rewarded by coming up-close-and-personal with some of the most colorful sea life in the Indian Ocean — and nothing but shimmering turquoise waters for miles along on the horizon. Whether you’re celebrating romance, bonding with your family or deep sea diving, the resort offers something for every type of traveler.

A veritable “living island”, Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa takes a sustainable approach to luxury in the glitzy island nation. While many islands in The Maldives are manmade, with reclaimed sandbanks and chalky beaches, Park Hyatt is unique for its naturally powdery white sand which shifts over time with the tides. This means the beach is in constant flux — sometimes wider, sometimes smaller. Certified by Green Globe, a global environmental certification programme, this oasis is as natural as you get in the Maldives. And efforts are constantly being made to protect and preserve its ecological footprint.

The property’s 14 overwater villas were carefully assembled with the help of divers to avoid disrupting the fragile coral on the seabed; rainwater is harvested; and ocean water is used to cool the air-conditioning units. In terms of its design, the property feels naturally beachy instead of overtly manicured.

Famed for its extensive house reef which stretches around the perimeter of the resort, the live coral and colorful fish are a major draw for guests who return year after year. From searching for sea turtles underwater, swimming with black tip reef sharks, and spotting spinner dolphins leaping in the waves, nature abounds just steps from the shore.

The Maldives counts over 1,000 species of fish — many of which you can spot snorkeling including parrotfish and clownfish — while larger species can be sighted a short boat ride away. Park Hyatt Maldives has 42 dive sites and is one of the few resorts that offers diving with Tiger sharks, an exhilarating experience for adventurous guests.

Unique activities include a dolphin cruise and turtle quest, guided nighttime snorkeling, equator excursion and stargazing cruises. For adventurous travelers, opt for a cast away "survival experience" where you'll be dropped off on a remote island with a picnic and dummy phone — the ultimate