Ja Manafaru

Our fully equipped fitness center and stretching studio for enthusiasts to stay in shape. The overwater deck found at this venue is also home to our complimentary morning yoga (reservations required and subject to availability)

Challenge yourself with motorized and non-motorized water activities at the certified Water Sports Center, including wakeboarding, stand-up paddling, parasailing, sea bob, and fun tubes, or just pick up your snorkeling gear for complimentary use during your stay with us. Whatever your preference, be assured of a good time out on the ocean.

Guided by our PADI-certified team, explore marine life around the Haa Alifu atoll, one of the less explored & protected sites for diving in the world. Please reach out to us directly should you have any questions/queries about courses available or diving requirements.

Foster your little creator, environmentalist, marine biologist, or athlete. Experiential activities designed for one of the best kid's clubs in the Maldives. Our Worldwide Kids certified facility fuels the imagination of young adventurers, combining play and discovery into an educational learning experience whilst having fun.

For some energizing fun under the sun, book the tennis court for a friendly or competitive game or play a round of beach volleyball. Futsal pitch and badminton are also available.

A beautiful family pool is found in the tropical gardens of Andiamo Bistro. An Infinity Pool stretching out into the lagoon by Infinity Bar that is preferred for adult use and a dedicated children’s pool for the younger VIP’s at 'Kids Zone' family space.

Being the furthest north, Haa Alifu Atoll is blessed to be a waypoint for migrating Manta Rays, a unique location feature that only a few atolls in the Maldives can boast. These majestical gentle creatures stop by cleaning stations within 30-minutes of JA Manafaru for a scrub. These stations are active between November and April each year and a rare sighting not to be missed.

With an abundance of coral reefs teeming with life located just a short boat ride away, explore further and take an excursion trip out past the house reef. Let the dive center team lead you to the endless coral reefs lesser known and witness even more sea creatures, many of which you may not find on the house reef in our untouched atoll.

For novice divers who have a curiosity to get closer to the underwater world of the Maldives, learn to snorkel with the dive center team and discover the aquatic world around JA Manafaru. Then, once comfortable, pose your questions to our marine biologists and sign up for your first snorkel safari of a lifetime.

Whether you're seeking a special private moment or eager to explore the purest shores, our Castaway Island Experience on a nearby uninhabited island offers the perfect indulgence for relaxation and idyllic exploration. Enjoy a short boat cruise and unwind with a personalized Robinson Crusoe picnic or barbecue on an uninhabited island, where you can immerse yourself in nature's beauty and tranquility.

The Maldives has some of the most sustainable fishing practices in the world, and the traditional methods have been handed down from generation to generation. Discover these techniques and experience the thrill of a fishing trip. Sunrise and sunset are not only the best times to fish in the clear waters in the beautiful Haa Alifu Atoll but also the most scenic.

If racket sports are your thing, why not play a game of tennis surrounded by natural jungle, an experience unlike any tennis match you will ever partake in? Tennis aficionados and amateurs alike can meet on our tennis courts and take advantage of the complimentary quality equipment provided.

Our tree-lined paths are perfect for exploring the natural island by bike. With complimentary bicycles for all guests provided with your villa upon arrival, you can explore the 1.5 km island loop. If cycling in sand is not for you, why not keep fit with a morning jog or peaceful stroll at dusk and see the magic of the flying fox and fruit bats as they fly out for an evening of feasting.

Get even closer to marine life with the exhilarating experience of a jet ski safari. Visit remote islands of the Maldives, snorkel hidden reefs, and explore enchanting spots only accessible by our environmentally friendly craft with low emissions and noise levels. Get up close with the island’s natural beauty while preserving its quiet harmony as you glide across the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean as our experienced guides share their local knowledge.

Speed across the glassy waters surrounding the island by wakeboard, seabob, flyboard jetpack, wakeboard, waterski, or fun-tubing. Maldives water sports for everyone of all ages and at all levels of experience.

The Indian Ocean’s hidden secret is a subterranean chamber brimming with some of the world’s finest wines, deep under this remotest of private islands at the very northern tip of the Maldivian archipelago. Pass through an enchanting garden that will lead to this most exceptional of dining destinations. JA Manafaru's greatest surprise remains safely hidden behind heavy old oak wood doors.Upon this grand vault’s doors opening, descend the stone steps into an atmospheric chamber lined with Indonesian volcanic rock and into a world of fine wines and culinary wonders. For discerning food and wine enthusiasts seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience they never knew existed, The Cellar is a must-visit.

JA Manafaru is proud to be a key supportive member of the local community, and the local team has curated a significant collection of historical artifacts and royal antiquities from friends and family. These are displayed at the Utheemu gallery for guests to learn more about this mysterious island nation and the importance of this unique northernmost atoll.

Join our talented bartenders for a weekly masterclass where you can learn how to make a perfect cocktail or mocktail. One of the creative mixologist teams will guide you on flavors, styles, colors, and dressings to make your favorite classic, one of our signature blends, or your own personalized shaken and/or stirred concoction during this hands-on experience.

For the adventurous competitor, there is nothing more exhilarating than big game fishing, and the Maldives is the perfect setting to catch and release in the deep waters of outer Haa Alifu Atoll. Search for the legends of Travelly, Yellow Fin Tuna, Wahoo or the elusive yet majestic Sail Fish, with refreshments on board for a real ocean experience only the Indian Ocean can offer.

Adventure out into the sea in search of elusive turtles; although they are common in the Maldives, spotting one and even better snorkeling closely is another rare experience this paradise offers. Haa Alifu Atoll is well known to be home to Green, Olive Ridley, and Hawksbill species. This excursion guides you to reefs where you can witness turtles from a small distance in their natural habitat.

​Glide over the crystal-clear waters of the island lagoon, sailing aboard our island catamaran. Depending on your proficiency in sailing, either take the boat out on your own or enjoy an introduction class with the water sports team. Dawn through dusk, anytime is perfect for this wonderful water journey. Master sailing by wind power alone and embrace all the freedom the open waters bring.

The only grill where seafood takes top billing. ​Dine with your feet in the sand at Ocean Grill restaurant. Enjoy Indian Ocean lobster served on the beach, fresh from our ethical open-air tank under the canopy of stars.

For something fun, why not try a beach cinema experience? Lie back with your feet in the sand and enjoy a private screening of your favorite movie while you enjoy your perfect movie dinner.

The Maldivian heritage is deep and varied across its expanse, but one thing that shines is their welcoming and friendly nature. To experience this, we welcome all guests to join us for our complimentary weekly guest social event that highlights the traditions of the Maldives with bodu beru drummers, Maldivian crafts, and local short eats and treats.

As kitesurfing gains popularity, the Maldives swiftly emerges as the preferred luxury destination for aspiring enthusiasts seeking to enhance their skills in paradise. The best time to visit for a kitesurf holiday is between May and October, when the south-westerly winds arrive, averaging between 15 and 22 knots. Equipment is available for hire from our water sports team.

A very down-to-earth dining experience perfect for guests wishing to capture the uniqueness of their desert island experience. This is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy a meal on the beach, seated at a table and chairs crafted from the very sand that envelops you.

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of our host of complimentary non-motorized water sports. Skim the turquoise lagoon on a stand-up paddleboard, try your hand at windsurfing, or glide over the sparkling waters by kayak.

As the most remote northern resort in the Maldives, JA Manfaru prides itself on genuinely being part of the Haa Alifu Atoll community. Many of the staff you will meet grew up in this region, and their families continue to live here. The Real Maldives is our definition of a more authentic experience, as we bring you closer to the cultural heritage and historic significance of the atoll. Island excursions are available to step away from the comfort of JA Manafaru and into the traditional life of our atoll community, sampling authentic local cuisine. Did you know, in the late 1500's, from his home of Haa Alifu Atoll, Sultan Thakurufaanu launched his successful campaign to fight and defeat the Portuguese who ruled over the Maldives. To this day, his victory is commemorated annually as Maldives National Day.

View your paradise island from a different perspective, gliding above the water on a parasailing adventure. Watch the marine life below, spotting turtles and rays, while you drift weightlessly flying across the azure waters in the safety of our professional water sports team.

Our most popular excursion combines a traditional dhoni, sunset, dolphins, and the chef's selection of nibbles and tipples. Dolphins are incredibly beautiful, intelligent, and emotional mammals that have held fascination for centuries. They often make their way through Haa Alifu Atoll at sunrise and sunset, and on our sunset and dolphin cruise, you can witness these playful creatures in their natural habitat. As the sun sets below the horizon, sip a refreshment on the cruise home in the warmth of the dusk amber ambiance before heading to dinner, marveling in the bright canopy of stars—literally the perfect afternoon to evening Maldivian experience.

The untouched waters of Haa Alifu Atoll invite you to explore the Maldives, and we provide a snorkeling package for all levels of diving proficiency. With complimentary equipment provided, take a dip and see first-hand our house reef during the day or explore night snorkeling with a dive center guide. Whenever you choose to explore, snorkeling will take you closer to the treasures of the Indian Ocean to spot turtles, rays, and other wonderous creatures of the sea world.

The JA Manafaru culinary team, led by possibly the most experienced Maldivian executive chef's around, Chef Moosa Nazeer, loves to share their knowledge of the local cuisine of the Maldives. Learn about Maldivian Short Eats (snacks) in a regular scheduled cooking session or delve deeper with a private masterclass.

The JA Manafaru boutique offers an array of local souvenirs as well as essentials like sunscreen. Forgotten your favorite beachwear or wish to pick up some little items on the Island, our small range of clothing and jewelry is available to complete your vacation in paradise.

Become a scuba diving pro with our water sports center partners, 'Best Dives', official PADI-certified diving instructors who will take you step-by-step on your way to qualification and a new life of diving in the blue planet. As JA Manafaru is in the northernmost atoll, Haa Alifu, you will have the opportunity to dive at 20 of the top Maldives sites nearby through a Dhoni boat ride. What makes JA Manafaru so special for diving is the absence of other divers. as the northmost dive resort, you never have to worry about dive spot congestion—a frustration so common with the busier atoll sites. Our expert dive center instructors are multilingual and will guide you to sites suitable for all levels of diving.

If you just can't get away from football even when in paradise, JA Manafaru is home to a futsal court for those with a golden boot. Keep up your skills practicing, or why not join a game against local islanders and make it an international cup like no other.

Embark on off-island excursions to explore local or deserted islands, Utheemu, the cultural capital of the Maldives, showcasing the home of the hero Boduthakurufaanu or sail into the sunset in search of dolphins or for traditional line or big game fishing.

A Maldives vacation is not complete without being barefoot on the beach and dining under the starlit sky. Our beachfront grill offers the freshest seafood caught by local fishermen, using traditional and sustainable fishing practices. Also on the menu are perfectly cooked cuts of our ethical meats as well as vegetarian delights. Ocean Grill also showcases our Zero Food Waste menus twice weekly, with creatively conceptualized dishes to delight and sustain.

A mirror of perfection, gaze out and see the pool align with the sea at Infinity Bar. Soak up the sun with a long drink in hand and watch the sun dip below the azure waters of Haa Alifu Atoll at our pool bar.

Kick off your day with a breakfast array to fuel your activities. Choose from the buffet offering fresh fruit, wellness bowls, homemade yogurts, and more, as well as an a la carte menu cooked to order. Kakuni’s lunch menu is perfect to keep energy levels up for the afternoon’s activities with a variety of international dishes. This restaurant is also home to our three weekly theme nights: the Maldivian Malaafaiy dinner with your meal delivered to your table royal style, wandering through stalls and sampling a wide variety of delicacies on Asian Street Night, and choosing the freshest seafood at our Sustainable Seafood BBQ.

Nestled inside our lush natural island is Andiamo Bistro. Home to delicious Italian specialties as well as the perfect pizza, all served next to the jungle pool. Andiamo is also home to refreshing ice cream, all day, every day, and homemade with love. Choose from your favorite creamy ice cream and sorbet flavors or try our Maldivian-influenced frozen treats. Wellness Your Way also features here with vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and low-carb scoops.

White Orchid offers a contemporary Japanese dining experience and a teppanyaki feast, all crafted with locally sourced, sustainable seafood and fresh, homegrown ingredients. Enjoy your meal on the overwater terrace, nestled above the gently lapping shoreline, and bask in romantic moments with panoramic views that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of the dishes.

Experience the magic of crafted cocktails during captivating sunsets, a pre-dinner glass of wine, or a post-dinner digestif. Perched over glimmering seas and under a carpet of stars, Veli Bar offers panoramic views over the peaceful Indian Ocean as well as the chance to be serenaded by live music or join in the fun of karaoke during enchanting island nights. Veli Bar entwines the traditions of fine wines and spirits with wellness forward tonics, tinctures, homemade kombucha, and more to create a space designed for social interactions and spirited fun. 

The Indian Ocean’s hidden secret is a subterranean chamber lined with volcanic rock, deep under this private island at the very northern tip of the Maldivian archipelago. The cellar is a must for discerning food and wine.

We strive to customize experiences to provide a genuine Indian Ocean castaway vacation, complete with the luxurious amenities that discerning travelers have come to anticipate. To assist in achieving this pure pleasure, ‘Wellness Your Way’ is JA Manafaru’s island initiative to compliment individual lifestyles from cuisine to wellbeing.Guests may wish to work out in the gym and eat salad one day, while the next evening enjoy a seven-course degustation in our subterranean wine cellar—choices to turn an island escape into an unforgettable dream.

Calm Spa Sanctuary is the island’s wellness retreat in the heart of a tropical forest.Nothing more than the sound of nature echoing can be heard in the secluded garden as energy flows from all around. With eight private rooms, guests can indulge in the most peaceful and therapeutic of treatments while listening to the wildlife of the tropical canopy.Taking influence from Eastern and Western therapies, the spa's certified practitioners also combine the local tradition of Dhivehi Beys, the ancient Maldivian art of blending the island's herbs and plants to create medicinal natural products for a signature treatment. With both men's and women’s steam rooms and saunas, as well as plunge pools in the changing rooms, Calm Spa Sanctuary really is a 'Heaven on Earth' experience.

The Calm Spa Sanctuary therapists are specialists in a variety of treatments from around the world. Choose from a wide selection of traditional massages ranging from Balinese to Thai, or let a therapist assess your needs and be guided with an intuitive massage. No matter what the objective for treatment, a spa experience is guaranteed to fully relax, rebalance energy, and reduce tension in body and mind.The perfect Maldives honeymoon spa escape awaits with couples’ treatments designed to connect lovers with nature and each other. Choose from either a special treatment room set up for two or an al fresco experience beachside.

Join workshops in the Calm Spa Sanctuary ‘Alchemy Bar’ to make organic scrubs, balm, soap, and more. Follow the principles of local traditional herbalism to create organic beauty products through plants picked from the spa gardens.Visit the Calm Spa Sanctuary to find out more on how the use of homegrown produce creates refreshing natural amenities for Maldivian-style spa treatments.

Drawing on inspiration from the rich traditions of the Maldives, Calm Spa Sanctuary offers a truly authentic well-being experience. One of the unique aspects of the treatments and workshops available is the inclusion of native island plants in beauty products, following the age-old tradition of Dhivehi Beys.This ancient approach to local well-being incorporates the healing properties of indigenous plants and herbs into therapeutic treatments. The natural remedies and knowledge passed down through generations are harnessed to provide a genuine and holistic Maldivian wellness experience

Calm Spa Sanctuary has partnered with Eminence, a leading provider of organic wellness produce, to bring treatments using organic ingredients grown in botanical gardens in Hungary. Containing potent healing ingredients, every product uses hand-picked herbals infused with natural hot spring water to bring the best of Mother Nature’s minerals to a treatment.From body wraps to facials, every treatment is carefully considered to ease the mind, invigorate, and leave skin glowing.

With guests' health in mind, the island team has introduced organic products in drinks menus, which now list sugar-free cocktails and wellness smoothies and boast one of the most extensive alcohol-free beverage lists in the Maldives.The new Homemade@JAManafaru program supports this with a wellness bar where guests can choose from a variety of probiotic sodas, including a range of Kombucha, natural tonic water, and even homemade bitters.

In 2024, a new wellness program will enhance any relaxation escape to JA Manafaru. This curated program caters for individual needs and preferences to ensure a truly unforgettable vacation.The new wellness program will encompass three core themes: detox, movement, and mindfulness. These themes are designed to promote holistic well-being and ensure that JA Manafaru is a rejuvenating and transformative experience.

To further elevate the guest well-being journey, JA Manafaru has established partnerships with a select group of eminent therapists who bring a wealth of expertise to the Calm Spa Sanctuary.With diversity of experience at the core of the visiting practitioner program, guests can choose from treatments delivered by leading acupuncturists, facialists, and energy healers—all unique and complimentary to an unforgettable stay at JA Manafaru.

With nature in abundance on this most secluded of tropical islands, JA Manafaru is the perfect escape for those who enjoy the benefits of yoga and stretching. Complimentary scheduled classes will enrich the mind, body, and soul.For a little more privacy, why not book a private session with the resident certified Yoga Master, and commune with the island energy through breathwork and meditation sessions.

Bring exercising into a new dimension at this most stunning of locations surrounded by nature and the Indian Ocean. For the health conscious, JA Manafaru’s fitness center is fully equipped to ensure every kind of daily routine is supported.No matter how intense the exercise, the island’s state-of-the-art gymnasium can support in every detail. From cardio workouts to yoga, providing for active lifestyles is an integral part of the guest experience at JA Manafaru.For more competitive guests, challenge your partner to a game of tennis, badminton, or go head-to-head with pickleball—just a few of the many sports available.

At JA Manafaru, understanding the personal needs of each guest doesn't just stop at the villa category chosen or the choice of pillow softness.When it comes to dining, offering a wide range of restaurants and outlets is one way this beautiful island enhances the guest experience with more choices. Outlets aside, also meeting the personal eating lifestyles of guests takes this principle of choice even further.JA Manafaru's 'Wellness Your Way' has been designed to broaden the island's menu choices, catering for more diverse tastes and diets. Every one of the themed restaurants offers dishes with wellbeing in mind. Guests can choose from full menus of specially prepared dishes for diets, including dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian, and low-carb.