[2025 Machchafushi Hotels] Travel guide for Centara Collection Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives (updated Dec)

#maldiveshotel 🌴 Maldives Double Eleven Deals – Paradise Awaits! 💙✨ Get ready for Double 11 — the perfect time to turn your dream of a Maldivian getaway into reality! 🌊💫 Imagine waking up in an overwater villa, diving into crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, and watching sunsets that paint the sky golden. 🌅🌴 🏖️ What to Expect This 11.11: 💰 Massive discounts on luxury resorts like W Maldives, Sun Siyam, and Centara Grand! 🌺 Free perks – spa credits, romantic dinners, and water activities! 🚤 Complimentary transfers from Male to your island resort. 🕶️ Limited-time flash sales – perfect for honeymooners and family travelers alike! Make this Double Eleven your chance to escape to the Maldives’ heavenly islands — where every wave whispers luxury and every sunset feels like magic. 💫 #maldives #1111deals #maldivesislands #luxurytravel #thingstodo #familytravel #couplestrip #staycation #travel

Maldives Travel Guide (Including Prices & Practical Info) 1. Must-Visit Attractions & Unique Experiences Malé Island Highlights: The capital of Maldives, rich in culture and history. Must-visit spots include Sultan Park, Friday Mosque, and Independence Square. Price: Free entry, recommended to allocate half a day for exploration. Centara Grand Island Highlights: The benchmark for all-inclusive services, perfect for families or laid-back travelers. Features a fully transparent glass chapel, private pools, and wedding services. Price: ¥15,000-20,000 per person (5-day/4-night package including round-trip speedboat transfers, accommodation, meals, and water activities). Hideaway Beach Resort Highlights: A 6-star luxury island with excellent snorkeling conditions. Frequently spot turtles and dolphins near the shore, and enjoy a 750 sqm infinity pool. Price: ¥25,000-35,000 per person (5-day/4-night package including seaplane transfers, overwater villa accommodation, full board, and complimentary spa experience). Kuramathi Island Highlights: Home to the longest sandbank in the Maldives, offering great value for honeymooners and families. Price: ¥10,000-15,000 per person (5-day/4-night package including domestic flight transfers, beach villa accommodation, breakfast & dinner, and snorkeling gear rental). Ayada Maldives Highlights: Crystal-clear turquoise waters and a relaxed resort vibe. Dive Kingdom offers professional diving courses. Price: ¥20,000-30,000 per person (5-day/4-night package including seaplane transfers, overwater villa accommodation, full board, and complimentary sunset cruise). 2. Transportation Costs International Flights: Direct/connecting flights from China to Malé, round-trip economy class fares range from ¥3,000-10,000 (as low as ¥3,000 in low season, up to ¥10,000+ during peak seasons/holidays). Transfer Options: Speedboat: For nearby islands, approx. ¥1,000-2,000 per person (one-way). Seaplane: For distant islands, approx. ¥3,000-5,000 per person (one-way). Domestic Flight + Speedboat: Mid-range island combo, approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per person. On-Island Transport: Free bicycles or buggies (provided by some resorts), or explore on foot. 3. Dining Costs Resort Meal Plans: BB (Bed & Breakfast): Budget-friendly, approx. ¥500-800 per meal per person. HB (Half Board): Includes breakfast & dinner, approx. ¥800-1,200 per meal per person. FB (Full Board): Includes all meals, approx. ¥1,200-1,800 per meal per person. AI (All-Inclusive): Includes all meals, drinks, and some activities, approx. ¥2,000-3,000 per day per person. Specialty Dining: Underwater Restaurants (e.g., Ithaa Undersea Restaurant): ¥3,000-5,000 per person (advance booking required). Beach BBQ: ¥800-1,500 per person (includes seafood platters, grilled meats, and drinks). 4. Accommodation Costs 4-Star Islands: ¥6,000-12,000 per night per person (includes breakfast & dinner + basic activities). 5-Star Islands: ¥10,000-16,000 per night per person (includes full board, drinks & complimentary spa). 6-Star+ Islands: ¥15,000-30,000 per night per person (includes private pools, butler service & customized experiences). 5. Recommended Itinerary (6 Days/5 Nights) Day 1: Arrive in Malé, check into resort Morning: Arrive at Malé International Airport, transfer to resort via speedboat/seaplane. Afternoon: Check-in and enjoy resort facilities (e.g., pool, beach). Evening: Resort dinner, experience Maldivian nightscapes. Day 2: Snorkeling & Sunset Cruise Morning: Snorkeling lesson & coral reef exploration. Afternoon: Free time (e.g., spa, beach volleyball). Evening: Sunset cruise with dolphin watching. Day 3: Island Hopping & Cultural Experience Full Day: Visit nearby islands (e.g., Maafushi) to experience local fishing village life. Evening: Seafood BBQ at the resort. Day 4: Water Sports & Private Time Morning: Kayaking, windsurfing, etc. Afternoon: Private beach picnic or pool relaxation. Evening: Dinner at an underwater restaurant (if available). Day 5: Malé City Tour Morning: Check out and explore Malé (Sultan Park, National Museum). Afternoon: Souvenir shopping (e.g., handwoven crafts, coconut oil). Evening: Return to resort or stay overnight in Malé. Day 6: Departure Morning: Transfer to airport based on flight schedule. 6. Money-Saving Tips Travel Off-Peak: May-Oct (rainy season) offers lower prices for flights & hotels. Book Early: Reserve 3-6 months in advance for early-bird discounts (e.g., stay 4 nights, pay for 3 or free room upgrades). Choose All-Inclusive: AI packages minimize extra dining/activity costs, ideal for families or relaxed travelers. Group Transfers: Share speedboat/seaplane costs with friends or family. 7. Important Notes Visa & Entry: Free visa-on-arrival; passport and return ticket required. Up to 200 cigarettes allowed. Currency & Payments: USD widely accepted. Small tips in cash; credit cards accepted at resorts. Cultural Etiquette: Respect Islamic customs—no alcohol in public or revealing clothing. Eco & Safety: No unauthorized fishing/coral collection (fines up to $5,000). Swim only in designated areas. Conclusion The Maldives is famous for its "one-island-one-resort" privacy. Whether for honeymoons, family trips, or diving enthusiasts, there's an ideal island for everyone. Plan your budget wisely, book early, and respect local customs for a perfect tropical getaway!

Hey friends 👋 Do you dream of traveling abroad but feel intimidated by complicated visa procedures? Don't worry! Today, I'm recommending four super-friendly visa-free countries 🎉. They're incredibly safe and perfect for first-time international travelers. Without further ado, let's dive into the guide 👇 Thailand 🇹🇭 Travel Route: Bangkok - Chiang Mai - Phuket Visa Policy: Chinese citizens with ordinary passports valid for at least six months can apply for a visa on arrival for up to 15 days at any international airport in Thailand. Currently, Thailand has a temporary visa-free policy for Chinese tourists, making it super affordable 👏 Featured Attractions: Grand Palace in Bangkok: One of Thailand's many palaces, it is the best-preserved, largest, and most ethnically characteristic. The architectural complex is exquisitely carved and painted, luxurious to the extreme, with every detail showcasing the charm of traditional Thai architecture. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is particularly noteworthy, where the Emerald Buddha is enshrined. Every year, the King personally changes the Buddha's gold robe in a solemn and grand ceremony. Here, you'll feel like you've traveled back to Thailand's glorious past 📿 Nimmanhaemin Road in Chiang Mai: A paradise for art lovers. The street is lined with unique cafes, creative shops, and art galleries. Each shop is uniquely designed with different styles, whether minimalist, retro, or fresh, you're sure to find one you love. Order a cup of aromatic coffee, stroll down the street, and experience the slow pace of life in Chiang Mai. It's incredibly relaxing ☕ Karon Beach in Phuket: One of Phuket's three main beaches, the sand here is fine and soft, and the water is crystal clear, sparkling under the sunlight. There are also many water activities available, such as surfing and diving, allowing you to fully enjoy the fun of the sea. When you're tired, lie on a beach chair, feel the sea breeze, and admire the stunning sunset over the sea. It's breathtakingly beautiful 🌅 Serbia 🇷🇸 Travel Route: Belgrade - Novi Sad - Subotica Visa Policy: Chinese citizens with ordinary passports valid for at least six months can enter Serbia visa-free and stay for up to 30 days. This is the first European country to offer visa-free access to China. For those who want to experience European exoticism but are worried about visa hassles, Serbia is an excellent choice 👍 Featured Attractions: Belgrade Fortress: It stands as a historical monument, witnessing the city's rise and fall. Built on a highland at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, the fortress offers panoramic views of the two rivers. Inside, there are many ancient cannons and architectural ruins, as if narrating the past battles. Every evening, it becomes a popular spot for locals to stroll and relax, creating a fantastic atmosphere 🏰 Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad: Known as the "Gibraltar on the Danube," the fortress boasts a blend of architectural styles and a magnificent presence. Particularly noteworthy is the large clock on the fortress, whose hour hand is longer than its minute hand, a unique design rarely seen in the world. At night, the fortress is illuminated, reflecting beautifully on the Danube, resembling a fairy-tale world ✨ City Hall in Subotica: The City Hall's Art Nouveau architecture is colorful and eye-catching, with exquisite reliefs and decorations. Inside, the ornate chandeliers and exquisite murals are equally impressive. It's like an art palace, where every photo is a masterpiece 📸 Maldives 🇲🇻 Travel Route: Choose your favorite resort island and enjoy the sun and beaches Visa Policy: Chinese citizens with ordinary passports valid for at least six months can apply for a free visa on arrival for up to 30 days at Malé International Airport. The Maldives is a dream vacation destination for many, and the visa-free policy makes spontaneous trips a breeze 🌈 Featured Attractions: Hurawalhi Island Resort: Known for its romance, the island boasts the longest trailing beach in the Maldives, which looks like a white ribbon floating on the sea from above. Stroll along the trailing beach, with clear blue water on one side and fine white sand on the other, and every photo is picture-perfect. The overwater bungalows are also unique, built directly on the sea, allowing you to step right into the ocean from your doorstep. It's an incredible feeling 🏝 Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives: This is an excellent choice for family trips, with abundant children's activities and professional kids' club staff. The snorkeling environment is also superb, with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Put on your snorkeling gear and enter a magical underwater world 🐠 Mauritius 🇲🇺 Travel Route: Port Louis - Île aux Cerfs - Red Roof Chapel Visa Policy: Chinese citizens with ordinary passports valid for at least six months can enjoy visa-free entry and stay for up to 60 days. Mauritius, this beautiful African island nation, shines like a bright pearl, exuding captivating charm. The visa-free policy makes it easier for us to uncover its mysteries 🌟 Featured Attractions: Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis: The most bustling area in Port Louis, the waterfront is home to various shops, restaurants, and cafes. The architecture is full of colonial charm. When you're tired of shopping, sit in a street-side cafe, order a cup of local black tea, watch the passersby, and experience the city's unique atmosphere. There are also many local markets around the square where you can find unique souvenirs 🛍 Île aux Cerfs: The seawater around Île aux Cerfs displays distinct layers of color, from light blue to deep blue, captivatingly beautiful. The island's beaches are snow-white and fine. There are also plenty of water activities, such as parasailing and sea fishing. When you're tired, try the local seafood barbecue, with fresh seafood sizzling on the charcoal fire, the aroma is irresistible, and the taste is unforgettable 🦀 Red Roof Chapel: This chapel became famous because of Jordan Chan and Cherrie Ying's wedding. The chapel's red roof and white walls stand out against the blue sky and sea, creating a romantic scene. The surrounding scenery is also beautiful, with vast grasslands and the distant sea forming a stunning picture. Many couples choose to take their wedding photos here 👰 These four visa-free countries are amazing, right? They're perfect for your first trip abroad, eliminating visa worries and offering unique experiences in different countries. Whether you want to experience the enthusiasm of Southeast Asia, the historical charm of Europe, or the romantic leisure of islands, there's something for you. Don't hesitate any longer, pack your bags, and embark on your first international journey. You're sure to create wonderful memories 🥰

The most direct impression of Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives is the overwhelming blue! Everywhere you look, it's blue! This time, the first stop in the Maldives was to arrive at Male airport at night, so we chose to go to the nearby Centara Ras Fushi Island by yacht. After two days of rest, we took a speedboat back to Male airport and then took a seaplane to the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives in the south, part of the same hotel group, passing countless beautiful islands along the way. Both hotels belong to Thailand's Centara Group. The previous Centara Ras Fushi Island is only for adults, while Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives is perfect for family trips! The stunning sunset ocean pool water house - step down to the coral reef! Other hotels need to take a boat out to sea to reach the coral area - the water house of Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives is a large area of coral, lots of fish, and you can see turtles, sharks and rays. In the morning at breakfast time, the sun shines in - exceptionally bright! It's so happy to have breakfast facing the sunrise - there are many crabs crawling on the beach and the dam, so cute! At noon, go to the Italian restaurant on the sea to enjoy the food, then change into snorkeling gear and go down to the sea to play! Every day on Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives is a perfect vacation time accompanied by beautiful scenery and food! Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives - it's really a highly cost-effective island perfect for family trips, and there is a submarine suitable for the elderly and children on the island - even if you can't swim and dive, you can see the beautiful and magical underwater world!

The Maldives has been on my wishing list, the place I want to go to at least once in my life. Thank you husband every time like my magic lamp, once again fulfilled my wish 🥹💝 do information gathering to know each Maldives resort hotel is each is an island 🏝️ I found a Centara Grand Island Resort & SPA Maldives that I liked the room design and had more complete facilities on the island. I really like the suite, every morning I see the sea at first sight☺️ The sun shines through the window screen✨, blowing the sea breeze🌬️, really far away from the city, you can enjoy a very pure and relaxing holiday🏖️ The bathroom location can directly see the sea. Knowing we were on our honeymoon, the resort prepared room decorations for us, as well as champagne and desserts 🥂 Amazing 🥹 There are room cleanings and supplies twice a day, each time we return to the room after eating a meal, and it seems brand new to become very neat 💕 We chose the package that includes three meals, then share more with you 😊 ————————————————————————————— #maldives #honeymoon #honeymoondestination #maldives #honeymoontrip #sunshine and beach #vacation #travel #travel #overseas #travel #share #centaragrand #centaragrandmaldives #vacationmode #vacation #honeymoontravel #maldivesland #maldivestrip #maldivesresorts #maldivesresorts #maldivesresorts #hktraveller #travelphotography #hkblogger #hklifestyleblogger #lifestyleblogger #hkgirl #ootd

🌌 Bringing you the starry sky of the Maldives, it's so spectacular! ⭐️ Live to see the whole sky has dense stars, I saw so many stars for the first time, it was really unforgettable! 🏝Sunrise at Centara Grand Island Resort in the Maldives, sunset and night each have a different beauty, each has its own characteristics, very worth to appreciate, be sure to get up early to wait for the sunrise, watch the sun slowly rise in the horizontal line, definitely worth your sleep early 😆😆 🌈 This honeymoon holiday is really happy, every day is very comfortable and comfortable, the Maldives changes every moment every second, the color of the sea water will also change color at different times, really great, my honeymoon holiday officially ended in three thousand shutter sound📸, perfect! @Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives #Specialty Accommodation #Overseas Tour #Seeing the night view here is super beautiful #hotelcation #Parent-Child Good Places #Parents and Children Good Places Guide #Parents Good Places #Maldives #Human Wonderland #Water House #Detached Villa #I miss #ResidentWriter #AffordableHotels

I miss the water houses in the Maldives because they are so beautiful and comfortable! 🐟The best thing to do every day on a small island in the Maldives is watching the endless sea, watching the color change of the sea, it is breathtaking! 🐠Centara Grand Island Resort's separate water house terrace has stairs to directly into the water, we go snorkeling every day 🤿, the sea changes really big, one second the wind is calm, the next 1 second can become very big waves, to be very safe. 🦈We saw countless fish and devil fish on this underwater journey and rubbed against sharks. 🐡 Now we present to you the wonderful world of underwater in the Maldives! @Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives #OverseasTravel #See the night view here is super beautiful #Parent-Child Good Places #Parent-Child Good Places Guide #Parent-Child Good Places #Maldives #Human Wonderland #Water House #Detached Villa #I miss #residentwriter #affordablehotels

I miss the Maldives because its detached water houses are what made me the most memorable residential experience. 🏝Resorts in the Maldives really have many choices, each with its own characteristics, the process of choosing needs to be according to your own preferences and needs. My husband and I’s locked goal for our honeymoon was to stay in an overwater house and have all-inclusive meals. Because meals in the Maldives are too expensive, each meal costs 1000 to 2000 on average, water and drinks are not included, if it is an all-inclusive meal will be much happier and more enjoyable! 🚁We chose Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, the service is excellent! Once you get off the plane, there is a dedicated person to pick you up, a dedicated car to the seaplane dock, the shuttle will see a dedicated butler who will serve us exclusively during our stay, really feel at home and enjoy. 🛁 Once you entered our luxury water house, I was so excited, how could it be so beautiful! The suite has an oversized double bed, an oversized bath, and a beautiful view from the terrace! You can tell by looking at the photos! 🐠The stairs on the terrace of our water house can go straight down to the sea, snorkeling is very convenient, every time you can see a different school of fish, very spectacular. 💕Hope to have the opportunity to visit this human wonderland again! It's so evocative! @Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives #Specialty Accommodation #OverseasTravel #Family Good Places #Family Good Places Guide #Maldives #HumanWonderland #WaterHouse #Detached Villa #ResidentWriter #AffordableHotels

‹ 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐞 › • Chinese Full Name: Maldives Centara Grand Resort • English Full Name: Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives • Original English Name: Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, renamed on January 15, 2025 • Opening Date: November 2009 • Location: South Ari Atoll • Distance from Airport: Approximately 25 minutes by seaplane from Malé International Airport ‹ 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 › • As a resort under Centara Hotels & Resorts Thailand, its decor style, service, and dining all exude Thai charm; • A long-standing all-inclusive resort in the Maldives, offering unlimited food and beverages, with packages also including numerous free activities; • The resort is located in South Ari Atoll, not far from Lily Beach Resort & Spa, creating excellent snorkeling conditions for both hotels, with year-round opportunities for whale shark excursions; • The resort has a total of 112 villas, and most room types were renovated between 2015 and 2016, so the facilities are very new; • 3 restaurants and 2 bars: Reef Restaurant specializes in local cuisine, Suan Bua Restaurant offers Thai dining, and Azzuri Mare Restaurant provides Italian-inspired dishes; • The kids' club combines indoor and outdoor facilities, offering a variety of rich and exciting activities for children, along with childcare services, allowing parents to enjoy their vacation time; • The spa center offers authentic Thai massages, combining traditional Thai elements with local Maldivian culture to make your trip more relaxing; ‹ 𝐓𝐢𝐩𝐬 › • The resort is built on a natural island with lush original vegetation. The surrounding beaches have fine white sand, and there are breakwaters in front of the sunrise beach villas; • The resort ranks among the top snorkeling islands in the Maldives; you can see a large number of live corals and fish schools just about 10 meters from the water villas; • There are shipwreck snorkeling spots and whale shark snorkeling activities arranged near the hotel. It is recommended to book activity times as soon as you arrive on the island; • The Thai restaurant is a highlight of the island, having won multiple Thai Select awards for its authentic Thai cuisine, definitely not to be missed; • Two snorkeling areas are recommended: 1) from the Family Water Villas to the Dive Center, and 2) from the Western Sunset Pool Water Villas to near the drop-off. It is recommended to snorkel with multiple people; never go alone; ‹ 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞 › 👍 Recommended for: Centara Grand, as a long-standing Thai brand and an established all-inclusive hotel in the Maldives, excels in its facilities, service, and snorkeling environment; Its prime location allows the snorkeling around the hotel to stand out in the Maldives, and the Thai cuisine, which appeals to Chinese tastes, also attracts many Chinese visitors; Recommended for honeymooners and families with children who have a reasonable budget, high expectations for snorkeling, and specific preferences for dining;

Absolutely fantastic resort. The room offers a stunning view of the water. The service has truly been unmatched. Special mention to Anil and Rishard for providing outstanding service. The food and beverages are top-notch... nothing has left us disappointed. 😎🥰

Fantastic island offering a variety of activities. Our housekeeper Shirfan delighted our daughter daily with origami crafted from palm leaves, which she adored. The water villa was impeccable, and the reef is teeming with life. Highly suggest trying the Italian restaurant, as it is truly authentic. The singer lady's performances are a showcase of genuine talent!

Fantastic island offering plenty of activities. Our housekeeper Shirfan delighted our daughter daily with palm leaf origami, which she adored. The water villa was excellent, and the reef was vibrant with life. Highly suggest trying the Italian restaurant, as it provides genuine flavors. The evening performances by the singer lady showcase her remarkable talent!

#maldiveshotel 🏝️ Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives – Where Paradise Meets Perfection 🇲🇻 Discover your dream island escape at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa, a stunning all-inclusive retreat set in the breathtaking South Ari Atoll. With turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical gardens, this resort offers the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. 🌺 🌅 Luxury Stay: Choose from elegant beachfront villas or iconic overwater suites, each offering panoramic ocean views, private decks, and direct lagoon access. The resort’s warm, Maldivian-inspired design ensures comfort with a touch of paradise. 🍽️ Gourmet Dining: Savor global flavors at Reef Restaurant, authentic Italian cuisine at Azzuri Mare, and enjoy tropical cocktails at the lagoon bar as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. The all-inclusive plan includes fine dining, drinks, and exciting activities for all ages. 🤿 Unforgettable Experiences: Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, dive with manta rays, or unwind at the SPA Cenvaree. Adventure-seekers can enjoy jet skiing and sunset fishing, while couples can relish romantic dinners on the beach. 💫 Why Visit: Centara Grand Maldives is perfect for honeymoons, family vacations, or a serene getaway — offering barefoot luxury and warm hospitality that captures the true essence of island life. #CentaraGrandIslandMaldives #Maldives #LuxuryResort #IslandParadise #OverwaterVilla #MaldivesHoneymoon #FamilyTravel #CouplesTrip #Staycation #Travel

#maldiveshotel 🏝️ Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives – A Tropical Escape in the Indian Ocean 🇲🇻 Step into paradise at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives, nestled in the postcard‐perfect South Ari Atoll. This barefoot luxury retreat offers a sublime blend of serene beach charm and immersive ocean adventure. 🌊 🛏 The Villas: With 112 villas including overwater suites, each space is thoughtfully designed—complete with steps into the lagoon, rain showers, Jacuzzis, and generous living areas. Some accommodations cater to families, with bunk bed options and separate kids’ zones. 🍽 Dining & Experiences: Indulge in diverse dining across multiple venues—from beachfront buffets to overwater seafood at Azzuri Mare. Sunset drinks, themed nights, and fine wines make each evening special. 🤿 For the Explorers: Thrill‐seekers and nature lovers will delight in diving off the resort’s house reef, exploring a sunken wreck site, or simply snorkelling right from the deck. Water sports and family‐friendly activities abound. 💡 Why Go: Whether it’s a honeymoon escape, a family holiday, or a serene hideaway, this resort offers both vibrant adventure and tranquil luxury. Expect blue lagoons, golden sunsets, and a place where time slows down. #CentaraGrandIslandMaldives #MaldivesResort #IslandRetreat #LuxuryTravel #BeachVilla #OverwaterVilla #FamilyTravel #CouplesTrip #Staycation #Travel 🇲🇻

Our visit to the Reef buffet restaurant and The Club was fantastic. The selection of food was excellent, with all items well-prepared and attractively served. Staff members like Richard, Roshan, and Habib were very amiable and attentive, constantly ensuring we were completely satisfied. Our children were treated like royalty. Additionally, the ocean view added a unique touch to the experience. Highly recommended!!

My son and I took a day trip to the resort from Dhigurah Island, where we were staying. It was fantastic; we were warmly welcomed by wonderful staff and guided on a tour by a Filipino staff member, which was a nice connection for me as a Filipino. The pool was delightful, and we enjoyed lunch at their Thai restaurant, which was lush with lovely dishes. There is a sandy beach with stunning views perfect for taking photos. Exceptionally good experience overall. We met remarkable staff like Neeraj, Kal, and a Filipino member at the spa as well.

Everything was incredible—the meal was superb, and the service was outstanding! Our appreciation goes to Chery, the waiter, who was exceptionally kind and attentive to our needs. A heartfelt thanks to Habib, our room attendant; the room was consistently very clean and neat, and he crafted some lovely bed decorations for my birthday, making it very special. A huge thank you goes to the entire management team, especially the assistant Front Office Manager who helped us upgrade to our lovely room, and to the Food and Beverage Manager for ensuring my birthday dinner was memorable. Thanks to everyone! Looking forward to seeing you again. Federica & Mohamed

I'm on vacation here with my family and friends, and so far, the experience has been incredibly satisfying. Staying in Rooms 101 and 53, we've thoroughly relished the different restaurants, bars, the snug beach villas and water villas, along with the welcoming atmosphere at the club—all of which surpass our expectations. I've already shared this trip with other friends and intend to return this winter. Thank you for making our vacation so wonderful; I'm eagerly anticipating our next visit.

Every staff member is exceptionally welcoming. The cleaning of the rooms and all areas is superb. The SPA provides wonderful relaxation and self-care. The Diving Center is excellent, with special thanks to Alex for guiding my son through Open Water Diving. All the restaurants are delightful, especially the Reef, offering a wide variety of options and exceptional staff. The reef corals in front of our villa were absolutely stunning. Overall, an amazing vacation experience.

Overall, the whole experience was wonderful from start to end. It was a strikingly beautiful and unforgettable trip, and I’d certainly return to this resort. In September, my wife and I visited, and the weather was pleasant. The food was fantastic — from the buffets to the Italian and Thai eateries. The staff were genuinely friendly, and their personal touches throughout our stay enhanced the experience. Mentioning it was our anniversary, they surprised us with a bed decorated with a bottle of wine and sweets in the room. Walking in that evening felt exceptionally special — an unforgettable moment indeed. This was my wife's first dive, and instructor Joe was excellent. His amicability and professionalism made her feel at ease and assured on her initial dive. They offer all the gear for rent: paddle boats, kayaks, and snorkeling gear is provided for free. Yoki really helped us with the equipment, and we had loads of fun by the ocean. The island is stunning, surrounded by coral reefs full of marine life. You can easily snorkel anywhere around the island and admire the lovely fish and other sea creatures all around. Chef Pradeep personally discussed our food preferences, which was lovely. He also packed us lunch/snacks to relish later during our flight transfer — another thoughtful gesture that made us feel at home. All these small touches came together to create a truly extraordinary and memorable vacation.

It is truly an incredible place. If you’re planning a Maldives adventure, Machchafushi Centara is a top-notch option. As one of the few remaining natural islands, unlike the many new resorts on reclaimed land, Machchafushi truly shines. It features a stunning house reef full of marine life, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and countless colorful species. The snorkeling experience is truly breathtaking. While resort food can often be mediocre, it stands out here. The executive chefs and resort management prioritize food quality and presentation. The three options, the Italian, Thai, and Reef (buffet) restaurants maintain very high standards. Centara evidently prides itself on providing a memorable dining experience, and you’ll likely be impressed by the food quality. The team at Machchafushi was exceptionally friendly and made our stay delightful, from check-in to goodbye. They even organized a special surprise for our wedding anniversary, which was greatly appreciated. Given the significant investment by the owners recently, I think this resort is set to become one of the hottest destinations in the Maldives. Go before the prices increase! A few remarks: - Whale shark and dolphin tours are fantastic but not guaranteed, as these creatures roam freely under Maldives conservation laws. - Reservations are necessary for the Italian and Thai restaurants, and spots fill up quickly during peak seasons. It’s best to book early via the app to avoid disappointment. Overall, a remarkable resort, we're eager to return or explore other Centara Group hotels. Thank you Nalin the resort manager and your excellent team! Best wishes, Isaac Foo & Wife

We've visited the Maldives a few times, but this was undoubtedly the most stunning vacation ever. The staff is amazing—they truly took great care of us. The house reef is remarkable, featuring numerous acroporas and other stony corals, alongside turtles, blacktip sharks, and countless fish species you'd typically see only in an aquarium. Fittey was fantastic, showing remarkable patience and guiding us to the top spots. Simply incredible!

Our stay at Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives was incredible. The resort is stunning, cozy, and well-kept — everything is spotlessly clean and well-organized. We greatly appreciate the staff's warm hospitality, with a special shoutout to Neeraj, the bartender at the main pool bar, for his friendliness and superb service. 🍹 The food was delightful with a wonderful variety each day, creating the perfect relaxing atmosphere. Exploring the gorgeous coral reef is a treat; you can snorkel right there and swim among vibrant fish. 🐠🐟 It truly feels like a slice of paradise on Earth. Highly recommend for those seeking unforgettable memories in the Maldives! 🌅

Initially, we stayed in a Beach Villa, but we were lucky enough to upgrade to the Riti Muraka Overwater Villa (Deluxe Overwater Villa) for the remaining two nights at a great price, allowing us to experience both types of villas. 📱 Seizing the Opportunity! Successful Water Villa Upgrade via 'App Alert' While comfortably staying in the Beach Villa during our trip, we received an alert through the resort's app. It offered a very reasonable price for a villa upgrade for the remaining stay! Such opportunities are not to be missed during a trip to the Maldives. We immediately inquired at the front desk and successfully upgraded to the Riti Muraka Overwater Villa for the last two nights. 💡 Pro Tip: For Centara Collection guests, make sure to enable the alert function on the resort's app! Not only can you confirm your reservation, but you might also catch unexpected villa upgrade opportunities like I did. 🏡 Key Comparison: Beach Villa vs. Riti Muraka Overwater Villa 1. 🌴 Beach Villa Located right in front of the beach, it offers the best accessibility to the sandy shores. The biggest charm was being able to step onto the pristine white sand of the Maldives right after opening the door in the morning. It was perfect for enjoying a private beach holiday. 2. 🌊 Riti Muraka Overwater Villa - Fulfilling the Maldives Dream! The Riti Muraka Overwater Villa, which we upgraded to at a reasonable price, perfectly realized the dream of staying in a water villa in the Maldives. * Bathtub and View: Unlike the Beach Villa, it had a bathtub where we could soak in warm water while enjoying the endless ocean view. 🛀 * Private Deck & Hammock: The spacious overwater deck was equipped with comfortable sunbeds and a hammock that seemed to float above the water. Lying on the hammock and gazing at the sea was the best moment. * Ideal Snorkeling Environment: With stairs leading directly from the villa deck to the sea, we could enjoy snorkeling anytime. The area in front of the villa was like a house reef, making it convenient without needing to go to a diving center. 🤿 * Practical Shower Facilities: A separate shower facility was installed on the deck, making it very convenient to rinse off seawater quickly after coming out of the ocean. * Spacious Layout: The large deck was very practical for drying wet swimsuits or storing water activity equipment. 📌 Accommodation Information and Surroundings The villa upgrade experience at Centara Collection Machchafushi doubled our travel satisfaction. It is the best resort to enjoy the convenience of a Beach Villa and the uniqueness of a Water Villa. * Accommodation Name: Centara Collection Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives * Address: Machchafushi, South Ari Atoll, Maldives * Nearby Activities (from the villa): * Private snorkeling under the Riti Muraka Villa deck * Reading and relaxing on the overwater deck hammock * Ocean-view soaking in the bathtub One-Line Summary The best opportunity caught through the Centara Collection app alert! The Riti Muraka Overwater Villa was the perfect choice, combining the romance and practicality of a Maldives water villa!

🤩 Heavenly Beauty! A Perfect Harmony of Lagoon and Reef The lagoon here is a masterpiece with its emerald-clear waters and soft sands, making every photo a work of art. Just walking along the beach was healing in itself. However, the true charm of this resort lies in its underwater environment. The house reef surrounding the resort is incredibly well-preserved, allowing for an unforgettable snorkeling experience with vibrant schools of fish and even sharks. 🐠 Snorkeling Tips: Safe and Easy Access to the House Reef For snorkeling enthusiasts, here are some tips! Accessing the resort's pride, the house reef, is incredibly easy. • Water Villa Guests (excluding Family Water Villas): You can simply step down from your villa and follow the villa line to experience an amazing underwater world. It felt like having a private aquarium! • Beach Villa Guests: The safest and most convenient entry point is near the diving center. Go down the stairs behind the diving center and head to the right. ⚠️ Note: Do not go left, as it leads to a boat channel. Safety first! 🦜 Fun Encounters with Parrot Mascots (Caution Needed!) Around the resort's water sports center, five adorable parrots welcome guests. Their vibrant colors and playful nature make them a must for photos! However, one of them tends to climb onto people or act a bit feisty, so be cautious when getting too close. Even from a distance, they are cute and lovable! 🥰 🍽️ Culinary Delights: Delicious Italian & Thai Restaurants The dining experience at this resort can be hit or miss. To be honest, **the breakfast restaurant (REEF)** was a bit disappointing, and we only used it for one day. But! **The Italian restaurant (Mare Azzurro)** and **the Thai restaurant (Suan Bua)** were absolutely delightful. The food was excellent, and the ambiance was perfect, so we alternated between the two every day. Reservation Tip: Since the two restaurants have alternating off days, it's best to make reservations through the resort's app as soon as you arrive. Notifications and confirmations are sent via the app, so make sure to enable app alerts! 🧼 Room Cleaning and Maintenance: A Slight Letdown The staff were all incredibly friendly and kind, making our stay enjoyable. However, the one downside was the room cleaning. While it was done, it felt a bit lacking in thoroughness. If this aspect improves, the resort would be truly perfect. 📌 Accommodation Details and Nearby Highlights • Resort Name: Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives • Address: Machchafushi, South Ari Atoll, Maldives • Nearby Activities: • Fantastic house reef snorkeling and diving • Water sports center (meet the adorable parrots!) • Beach relaxation and water activities in the resort lagoon • Fine dining at Mare Azzurro (Italian) and Suan Bua (Thai) restaurants One-Line Summary With its house reef, lagoon, and friendly staff, this is the ultimate resort to enjoy the romance of the Maldives!

#maldiveshotel The Centara Collection, Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives 🏝️🏝️🏝️🏝️ Centara Grand Island, Maldives 🎉🎉🎉🎉 Beautiful beyond words, it captivates and lingers in the memory, especially the colorful fish in the coral reefs. The sea is crystal clear, making it easy to access, and you can quickly see various marine life. The water depth is also very suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The overall atmosphere of the hotel is sunny, picturesque, and relaxing. It is perfect for unwinding and healing the body and mind, allowing for the enjoyment of luxury. It is a truly perfect vacation destination. 👍👍👍👍👍👍

Where do I begin? Since 2013， I've been drawn back repeatedly to this stunning island - you might wonder why. Technically， it's like many other Maldives resorts: clear waters， white sands， coral reefs... yet what truly sets it apart is the staff. Nalin and Yuva in management have been unfailingly helpful and patient (I haven't met the new GM yet， but I’m sure he’ll fit right in). Chef Senthil amazes us with excellent food—though we do miss “the other Senthil，” who used to manage guest relations and the restaurants. Huthu makes every night unique， whether it's karaoke or a beach cinema under the stars. The Italian restaurant has markedly improved of late—was it Giuseppe? Great job! It's always a pleasure to see Irfan， the kind lady from the Thai restaurant， our yoga master， Pat at reception， and Richard in the Club. And， of course， Alex alongside the friendly Chinese dive instructor (I apologize for forgetting the name!)—always wonderful underwater adventures. Let's not forget the amazing SPA team—fantastic massages—and the genial crew at the Reef Bar and around the resort. Hopefully， I haven’t overlooked too many names—each one contributes to the island’s special charm. Being here is always delightful. And yes—the house reef is spectacular: we frequently spot turtles， eagle rays， even an octopus—and night dives to the wreck are simply unforgettable. Friends of ours， who often travel with us， have visited 12 times—that says it all， doesn’t it? We are already eager for our next stay—in 2026， we'll be a party of 6–10 people. Can't wait to return!

The Centara Collection Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa is a luxurious retreat in the Maldives. My stay in the overwater villa offered breathtaking ocean views and a private deck. The resort provides excellent water activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and diving excursions. I particularly enjoyed the sunset cruise arranged by the staff, which offered a perfect view of the horizon. Dining was exceptional with a mix of local and international dishes. This resort is ideal for families and couples looking for adventure and relaxation in one place. #maldiveshotel

📅 Itinerary Day1：The welcoming was lovely and the Ambiance was a great one Day2: Enjoyed the Thai food restaurant and reef restaurant, A lot of varieties at the reef restaurant can make you loose your eating manner Day3: Water sport was very lovely, went for snorkelling and scuba diving, I recommend Centara for a quality vacation experience. 🏨 Accommodation: All the apartment are actually nice, I enjoyed the floating breakfast at the sunset apartment and a quality time at the duplex apartment. 🍴 Food Recommendations: It depends on individuals choice of food but I enjoyed the sirilanka foods and the almighty Indian Masala soup. 📌 Tips #emunkunle #centara #travel #snorkeling #vacation #maldives

🏝 As someone who has visited the Maldives twice on free-and-easy trips, I’d like to share some practical tips for those planning their own Maldivian adventure👇🏻: 🖍1. The Maldives is unique—choosing a hotel means choosing an island, as each island has only one resort. The island’s star rating matches the hotel’s, which you can easily find on Trip.com. 🖍2. With so many islands, first-timers might feel overwhelmed. But if you clarify your priorities, the choice becomes easier. Consider: 1️⃣ Purpose of the trip—honeymoon, family vacation, or something else? 2️⃣ Your budget. 3️⃣ Preferred transfer method to the island? 🖍3. Trips to the Maldives are usually 5D4N or 8D7N, where the nights refer to time spent on the island, excluding any stay in Malé for transit. 🖍4. Direct flights from Shanghai to the Maldives are expensive (around ¥10,000) and long (~8H). For better value, consider connecting flights via Bangkok, Colombo, Singapore, or the UAE. I highly recommend Singapore—the airport is worth exploring! 🖍5. Most resorts offer both overwater villas and beach villas, though a few have only beach villas. Standard packages often include 2 nights in each, but you can opt for 4 nights in an overwater villa (at a higher cost). I chose overwater villas both times—nothing beats stepping off your terrace into snorkeling waters! 🏊🏻‍♀️ 🖍6. Transfers depend on the island’s distance from the airport: speedboat 🚤 or seaplane ✈️. My first trip was to the nearby Thulhagiri Island (speedboat), while the second was to Centara Grand (seaplane). Honest advice: Seaplanes offer stunning aerial views of the Indian Ocean’s sapphire-like islands, but photography is tricky, and the noise is intense. Try it once, but choose wisely. 🖍7. Meal plans vary: no meals, breakfast-only, half-board (breakfast + dinner), or all-inclusive. All-inclusive is best—some islands even throw in extras like sunset cruises. My second trip was all-inclusive, which was hassle-free, while the first was half-board (lunch and drinks were extra). 🖍8. Islands cater to different travelers: some are family-friendly (offering free stays for kids under 12 or 15), while others are adults-only. Check the resort’s policy carefully. 🖍9. Key question: Do you prioritize snorkeling or Instagram-worthy views? For vibrant coral reefs, pick a top-rated snorkeling spot (e.g., Thulhagiri, a 4-star island with amazing diving). For turquoise lagoons and long sandbanks, choose a lagoon island—or splurge for both! 🖍10. Tipping: On Thulhagiri, we tipped consistently, and the staff treated us wonderfully (free drinks, extra water, etc.). At Centara Grand (all-inclusive), tipping wasn’t expected, yet service remained excellent. On our last day, the manager even comped us a buffet lunch due to our late departure! 🖍11. Visa: Previously, it was visa-on-arrival; now, it’s visa-free. Just bring your passport! 🖍12. Weather: April–November is the rainy season (cheaper rates), but even then, rain is brief, and sunshine dominates. Don’t skimp on sunscreen!