Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded reef island within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll.

A stunning sanctuary that lies within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll and a 25-minute seaplane flight from Male International Airport, Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded reef island with endless ocean views, long stretches of white sand beaches, and clear reefs filled with unique marine biodiversity. The word vakkaru means “coconut timber,” as the island is home to more than 2,000 fully grown coconut trees.

The resort, which has been independently operated since 2017, prefers to keep the natural beauty of the island as unspoiled as possible. Accommodations include 113 beach and overwater villas and suites, all featuring design elements that are focused on Maldivian style fused with the finest natural elements to preserve the integrity of local architecture with a contemporary style. Amenities include a 24-hour fitness center; Coconut Club with games, activities and a library; water excursions, and bespoke guest experiences.

Merana Spa offers a holistic approach to treatments and is inspired by ancient rituals infused with quality ingredients from nature, along with modern skin and beauty services. The beautiful spa includes luxurious overwater treatment rooms, a spa boutique, hair and nail salon, and an outdoor wellness area that has a sauna and steam room, jacuzzi, cold plunge pool, and sundecks.

We spoke with Ms. Kanthima Thorahod, Spa Manager of Merana Spa at Vakkaru Maldives, who shared insider tips, luxurious and unique spa treatments, and more.

Why You’ll Love It:

The overwater treatment rooms with see-through glass floors and relaxation decks with ocean views.
A tranquil wellness area featuring a warm whirlpool, cold plunge pool, steam room and sauna, as well as an outdoor relaxation area.

Merana Spa features luxurious overwater treatment rooms and a wellness center.

Key Features:

12 treatment rooms: 4 couples rooms and 8 single rooms
Hair and nail salons
Wellness area featuring sauna, steam, cold plunge pool, and warm whirlpool
24-hour gym
Boutique
Sound therapy room

Merana Spa’s wellness area is complimentary for guests and has a cold plunge pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, as well as a sundeck overlooking the ocean.

Insider’s Tip: Some of our treatment use 100% organic and homemade products sourced from the Maldives and our own island—especially coconuts and herbs from our own organic farm.

The wellness area has comfortable day beds for lounging accompanied by ocean views.

Snacks Served: Healthy homemade cookies (low carb), fresh tropical fruits, freshly squeezed juices, herbal/ginger tea and rosella tea.

Bonus: A timeless sanctuary is our concept, where the guest’s experience is not limited by time. Merana Spa is happy to accommodate our guests who want to experience our spa at any time, both in the spa treatment room or in the privacy of their own villa.

The spa’s treatment rooms have private relaxation decks with ocean views.

Insider’s Favorite: Vakkaru Signature Journey (180 min/$370+) is the most favorite spa ritual. Inspired by the island’s history as a coconut plantation, our signature treatment is using the island’s coconuts as the main ingredients—from oils and scrubs to the coconut milk and shells.

It’s an immersive full-body journey inspired by the finest natural healing and moisturizing elements of the coconut. The treatment includes a 30-minute coconut haircare experience, followed by a 45-minute coconut and sugar body scrub, a 30-minute milk bath with coconut-based nourishments served during your bath, and finally, the unique ritual culminates with a 75-minute heated coconut shell massage to leave you feeling relaxed, balanced and rejuvenated.

Unique Treatment: Vakkaru Signature Journey, which was previously mentioned.

Merana Spa offers sound healing therapy to improve physical and emotional well-being.

Splurge Treatment: The Diamond Experience (180 min/$360+) is one of the luxurious treatments that we offer—it’s an ultimate face and body anti-aging treatment using Natura Bisse, one of the top skincare brands from Barcelona, Spain.

It includes a 60-minute Diamond Rose body polish, 30-minute sea salt bath (during which chocolates and champagne are served), followed by a 90-minute Diamond Experience Energy Facial.