The Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is one of the newer luxury resorts in the Maldives and represents Hyatt’s entry into the ultra-premium Maldives market through its Alila brand. This stunning property opened its doors in mid-2022 and has quickly established itself as one of the most compelling options for those seeking a blend of contemporary design, natural beauty, and world-class service. I stayed at this beautiful resort for a few nights and this is my comprehensive review.
This review will cover everything you need to know about the Alila Kothaifaru including villa selection strategies, the stunning house reef, dining options, and how to book using Hyatt points. If you’re considering this resort, this guide will tell you everything you need to make the right decision!
Overview of the Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
The Alila Kothaifaru is Hyatt’s Category 7 property in the Maldives, joining the Park Hyatt Hadahaa as one of the brand’s most prestigious offerings in the archipelago. What sets the Alila apart is its commitment to understated luxury. This isn’t about flashy opulence, but rather refined elegance that lets the natural beauty of the Maldives take center stage.
The resort features 80 all-pool villas spread across a pristine private island in the Raa Atoll. The design philosophy follows Alila’s signature aesthetic: clean lines, natural materials, and a neutral color palette that creates a sense of tranquility. The property was designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing guest experience, a balance that’s harder to achieve than it sounds.
Where is the Alila Kothaifaru Maldives?
The Alila Kothaifaru is located in the Raa Atoll in the northern Maldives, approximately 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport in Malé. This location puts you in one of the less-developed atolls, which means pristine reefs, fewer crowds, and a more authentic Maldivian experience.
While it doesn’t look far from Male on a map given the Maldives overall size, it is one of further resorts from the main international airport.
The Raa Atoll is known for exceptional diving and snorkeling, and the Alila sits on what many consider one of the best house reefs in the Maldives. This was actually a major factor in my decision to stay here. I wanted easy access to incredible underwater experiences without having to take expensive excursions every day.
One of the things that impressed me most about the location is how the resort has preserved the natural vegetation of the island. Unlike some properties that feel completely manufactured, the Alila maintains dense tropical foliage that provides natural shade and creates genuine privacy between villas. You’re never far from other guests, but the landscaping makes it feel like you have your own private corner of paradise.
Getting to the Alila Kothaifaru Maldives From Malé International Airport
From Malé Airport, there is one primary transfer option to reach the resort:
- Seaplane transfer: $650 per person roundtrip (approximately 45 minutes flight time)
If this is your first time in the Maldives, $650 for a round trip seaplane transfer might sound steep but these prices are quite reasonable compared to some of the other resorts. As an example, the Ritz Carlton and Waldorf Astoria both charge well north of $1,000.
The seaplane is operated by Trans Maldivian Airways, the largest seaplane operator in the Maldives and one of the largest in the world.
Seaplanes only operate during daylight hours, with the last departure typically around 3:30 PM. If you arrive after this cutoff, you’ll need to overnight in Malé and catch the first seaplane the next morning. The resort can assist with airport hotel arrangements if needed.
How the seaplane transfer actually works: Depending on Trans Maldivian’s flight schedule and passenger routing that day, your seaplane may make stops at other resorts along the way. In some cases, the seaplane lands at a nearby resort and the Alila speedboat picks you up for the final 5-10 minute leg to the property. This is completely normal and part of how they optimize seaplane routes. Don’t be concerned if this happens.
For comparison, when I visited the Park Hyatt Hadahaa, the transfer was $520 roundtrip and involved both a domestic flight and speedboat. The Alila’s pricing is slightly higher but still reasonable given the resort’s positioning.
Arriving at Malé Airport
The arrival experience at Alila is smooth and well-organized. After clearing customs at Malé, you’ll be met by Alila representatives holding signs with the resort logo. They’ll collect your luggage, escort you to the seaplane terminal, and handle all the logistics.
The seaplane lounge is comfortable with air conditioning, bathrooms, and complimentary refreshments. We arrived on a morning flight and were on a seaplane within 90 minutes. They batch guests together to maximize efficiency, so you might wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on when other guests arrive.
The seaplane journey to Alila Kothaifaru
The seaplane transfer with Trans Maldivian Airways is an experience in itself. The views of the atolls from above are absolutely spectacular. You’ll see the incredible colors of the Maldivian waters, tiny islands dotting the ocean, and circular reefs creating natural lagoons.
The flight is about 45 minutes direct, though it can be longer if the seaplane makes stops at other resorts along the way (this happens occasionally with shared transfers). As mentioned, sometimes you’ll land at a nearby resort and transfer to the Alila speedboat for the final short leg. This is all coordinated seamlessly by the team.
The aircraft is well-maintained with comfortable seating, though it can be quite loud. Bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to noise.
Pro tip: Try to sit on the right side of the seaplane for the best views on the way to the resort.
Arrival and Check-In
Landing at Alila Kothaifaru is one of those moments that takes your breath away. As the seaplane descends (or as you approach by speedboat if transferring from a nearby resort), you get a stunning view of the entire island, the ring of overwater villas, and the incredible house reef surrounding the property. The water colors are mesmerizing. Deep blues transition to turquoise and light greens near the shore.
We were greeted at the jetty by a team of staff members who welcomed us with genuine warmth. There’s something about Maldivian hospitality that feels incredibly authentic. These aren’t forced smiles, but real joy at welcoming guests to their island.
Meeting our Personal Butler
Like many high-end Maldives resorts, Alila assigns each guest a personal butler who serves as your dedicated concierge throughout your stay. Our butler introduced himself immediately and explained he’d be our point of contact for everything: restaurant reservations, excursions, in-villa dining, buggy transportation, and any special requests.
We set up a WhatsApp group (seriously, if you’re traveling internationally and still only using SMS, you’re making life harder than it needs to be) where we could message him anytime. He was incredibly responsive and proactive. Every morning, he would ask about our night and what we needed for the day.
I lost my charging cable for my camera and as it was a difficult to find micro-usb cable, he searched far and wide for the cable. In the end, he couldn’t find one on the island. I thought that was it, no more professional photos. To my surprise, he showed up at our lunch with a cable he found from his personal supplies!
The check-in process
One aspect I really appreciated about Alila is their seamless check-in process. Instead of sitting at a reception desk filling out forms, we were immediately taken on a golf cart tour of the island to get oriented. Our butler pointed out all the restaurants, the dive center, the spa, the beach areas, and the main pool.
The actual check-in paperwork was handled in our villa with welcome drinks and cold towels. This is infinitely better than the traditional hotel check-in where you’re standing at a desk exhausted from travel. We arrived around 11 AM and our villa was ready, but even if it hadn’t been, we would have had access to all resort facilities while waiting.
In our villa, we were welcomed with fresh coconut water, traditional Maldivian sweet snacks, a handwritten welcome note, and a small gift. These personal touches make a difference. It’s clear that effort and thought went into making guests feel special from the moment of arrival.
Overview of the Alila Kothaifaru Villas
Let me cut to the chase: the villas at Alila Kothaifaru are exceptional. They embody Alila’s design philosophy perfectly. Contemporary, minimalist, but incredibly comfortable and functional. Every detail has been considered, from the placement of power outlets to the quality of the linens.
All 80 villas at Alila feature private infinity pools, which is a major selling point. Unlike some resorts where only certain categories include pools, here every single villa has one.
I also loved the overwater jetty. From the air, the windmill looking layout of the Alila’s overwater villas are striking and stunning.
We stayed at a beach villa and unfortunately, every one of the overwater villas were booked when we came so I was not able to even see one to compare. However, I will say that the beach villas at the Alila were strongly reminiscent of the beach villas at the Park Hyatt Hadahaa. I suspect
The villas are spacious. The base category Beach Pool Villas and Overwater Pool Villas are both approximately 2,100 square feet (195 square meters), which is genuinely large. You never feel cramped or like you’re stumbling over furniture. There’s a separate bedroom area, a large bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, a living space, and then the massive outdoor deck with pool.
Villa breakdown at Alila Kothaifaru
The resort’s 80 villas are configured as follows:
- Beach Pool Villas: 41 villas tucked into the lush foliage along the beach
- Overwater Pool Villas: 36 villas on stilts over the lagoon (split between Lagoon, Ocean, and Sunset views)
- 2-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas: 3 villas perfect for families or two couples
- The Boduge Residence: 1 exclusive multi-bedroom residence for ultimate privacy
Inside the villas: No detail overlooked
The Alila’s rooms are beautiful. At the price point that they charge, they are definitely among the more beautiful villas in the Maldives. Walking into our villa for the first time, I was immediately struck by how thoughtfully everything was designed. The interiors feature natural wood, stone, and textiles in neutral tones. It’s incredibly calming and lets the views outside become the focal point.
The bedroom area features a king-size bed with premium linens that were genuinely comfortable (hotel beds are a gamble, but Alila nailed it). Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors blur the boundary between inside and outside, meaning you wake up to views of either lush jungle and beach or the azure lagoon depending on your villa type.
The minibar is well-stocked with complimentary water, soft drinks, juices, and snacks. Alcohol is available for purchase, but the non-alcoholic offerings are free and replenished daily. There’s also a Nespresso machine with multiple capsule varieties, a tea selection, and a proper coffee setup for anyone who takes their morning brew seriously.
The bathroom: Indoor-outdoor perfection
The bathroom at Alila deserves its own section because it’s genuinely spectacular. It features double vanities with ample counter space, a deep soaking tub, and an outdoor shower surrounded by the natural vegetation.
Some guests might be turned off by showering outside in surrounded by the elements but I quite loved the green backdrop of coconut trees staring me down as I sat in their rain shower.
As the Alila is a natural island, there are mosquitoes that you cannot escape. The hotel regularly fogs the island for mosquitoes but this does not prevent everything. I found that mosquitoes were particularly problematic in the mornings when I was getting ready. The hotel has since already started to enclose some of the outdoor bathrooms on many of the beach villas.
The bath products are Alila’s own brand, which are simple, elegant, and smell incredible without being overpowering. There are also plenty of fluffy towels, bathrobes, and slippers provided.
This is the section you’ve been waiting for if you’re actually planning to book. Villa choice can make or break your Maldives experience, and I spent countless hours researching this before my trip. Let me share everything I learned so you don’t have to.
Beach Villa or Overwater Villa?
This is the first major decision you’ll need to make. Both villa categories are the same size and have identical layouts and amenities. The only difference is the setting.
Beach villas are nestled in the island’s lush tropical vegetation with direct beach access. Each villa has a path through the foliage leading to a stretch of white sand beach. The vegetation provides incredible privacy. You genuinely feel secluded even though there are other villas nearby.
Overwater villas are built on stilts extending over the lagoon. You have unobstructed water views 180 degrees around your villa, and you can access the lagoon directly from your deck for snorkeling.
Personally, I would always opt for an overwater villa just because it is more quintessential Maldives. In a place like the Alila, I would even more opt for an overwater villa simply because the beach villa is not a place you want to spend the day in.
Unlike the beach villas at other resorts in the Maldives, you have no view from your villa and certainly no view from the pool. The pool is too small for you to really lounge the day away in and the prospect of mosquitoes makes lounging outside not appealing. We didn’t have a desire to spend much of any time in our beach villa as we preferred to have a view of the ocean.
With an overwater villa, you won’t have this issue. Even though the villa is smaller, the view from your pool will be breathtaking.
Choosing your overwater villa: Orientation matters
If you opt for an overwater villa, the next decision is orientation. Alila’s overwater villas are categorized into three types:
As discussed before, the Alila overwater villas are split into three categories:
- Lagoon Overwater Pool Villa
- Ocean Overwater Pool Villa
- Sunset Overwater Pool Villa
The rooms are all exactly the same. The only difference is the orientation. The cheapest categories are the lagoon overwater villas which face north. These villas get plenty of sun throughout the day.
The ocean overwater villas are great for those that like sunrise and the “open ocean” feel. Given that the Alila is in the Raa atoll, there is not much boat traffic anywhere near the island so things will feel private in all the villas. Unlike the lagoon and sunset overwater villas, you won’t see anything but open ocean in these villas (which I like).
The sunset overwater villas are the most expensive category and you will have a sunset directly in front of the villa which can be viewed from the comfort of your infinity pool. An amazing perk.
Specific villa numbers and positioning
Unlike my Ritz Carlton Maldives review where I could provide specific villa number recommendations, I found it harder to get detailed positioning information for Alila before arrival. The resort is smaller and the layout more straightforward, which means there are fewer “bad” villas to avoid.
General guidance:
- Overwater villas closer to the island have marginally quicker access to restaurants and facilities (1-2 minutes shorter walk/buggy ride)
- End-of-pier villas feel more isolated and private
- Beach villas at either end of the resort are furthest from restaurants but most private
- Beach villas near the dive center have more foot traffic passing by
Honestly, I wouldn’t stress too much about specific villa numbers at Alila. The resort is small enough that no villa is inconveniently located, and the quality is consistent across categories.
Pro tip: Ask for what you want
When booking, include a note about your preferences. Want maximum privacy? Mention it. Prefer being closer to restaurants? Say so. Want the best snorkeling access? Make it known. The resort will do their best to accommodate requests, especially if you book well in advance.
Resort Overview: Facilities and Amenities
The Alila Kothaifaru strikes a perfect balance between offering enough facilities to keep you entertained without feeling like a massive resort. Everything is thoughtfully placed and impeccably maintained.
Getting around the island: Compact and Walkable
One thing I loved about Alila is the intimate size of the island. From one end of the resort to the other is just over 1km. That’s an easy 10-15 minute walk. Unlike larger resorts like the Ritz Carlton or Waldorf Maldives where bicycles are essential, Alila’s compact footprint means you can comfortably walk everywhere.
Your personal butler is always available via WhatsApp if you’d like a golf cart pickup. We used the buggy service occasionally for dinner when we were dressed up and didn’t want to walk, or when carrying snorkeling gear to a specific beach entry point. But most of the time, we simply walked. It gave us a chance to appreciate the island’s beauty and made the stay feel more relaxed and village-like.
The pathways are well-lit at night, clearly marked, and beautifully landscaped. It’s genuinely pleasant to stroll around the island at sunset or after dinner under the stars.
Snorkeling at the Alila House Reef
The house reef at the Alila Kothaifaru is one of the better house reefs you’ll find at the Maldives. As I am an avid diver and I’ve dived numerous times on liveaboards in the Maldives, snorkeling is probably the lowest of my priorities when spending the big bucks at a luxury resort. Simply, no snorkeling anywhere in the Maldives will match the underwater life you’ll see diving.
Nevertheless, I love going into the water and I made sure to snorkel at the Alila to do my research. The best snorkeling on the island can be found from the Yakitori bar to the welcome jetty. There are clearly marked buoys about 50 meters into the ocean that mark where the reef slopes down into the abyss.
It’s here where you will find absolutely beautiful reef life teeming with colorful corals, and multiple species of reef fish. Turtles, eagle rays, and octopus are also regularly seen in this area.
The Main Pool and Beach
The resort’s infinity pool is located near the main restaurant and bar. It’s a good size, large enough to swim laps, and surrounded by comfortable loungers. The pool overlooks the ocean and has that seamless infinity edge that makes for great photos.
To be completely honest, we barely used the main pool because our villa pool was so perfect. But it’s a nice option if you want to socialize with other guests or have a change of scenery.
The main beach is located on the sunset side of the island and is absolutely pristine. Powder-soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and beach cabanas scattered along the shore. It’s never crowded. Even during peak occupancy, you’ll easily find a quiet stretch of beach.
Beach amenities include:
- Plenty of loungers and daybeds
- Beach cabanas (first-come, first-served)
- Kayaks and paddleboards (complimentary)
- Beach volleyball court
- Complimentary water station
The Dive Center and Water Sports
Euro-Divers operates the dive and water sports center at Alila. They’re professional, well-equipped, and offer everything from beginner diving courses to advanced technical diving.
Activities available:
- Scuba diving (house reef, local sites, full-day excursions)
- PADI certification courses
- Snorkeling excursions
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
- Sunset cruises
- Dolphin watching
- Fishing trips
- Visits to local islands
The Raa Atoll has some phenomenal dive sites within 20-30 minutes by boat. While we didn’t have time to go on the Manta excursions, it sounded like an amazing perk to have mantas this close to home. As someone that’s dived extensively around the world, I never get tired of seeing these beautiful creatures!
Pricing is typical for Maldives resorts (read: expensive). A two-tank dive excursion runs around $180-220. Snorkeling trips are $80-120 depending on the distance. But given the quality of experiences and the professionalism of the team, it’s worth it if diving/snorkeling is a priority.
Fitness Center
The gym is small but well-equipped with Technogym cardio equipment and free weights. It’s located near the spa with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the jungle.
I used it a couple times for morning workouts. It’s compact but has everything you need: treadmills, bikes, elliptical, free weights, cable machine, yoga mats, and exercise balls. The space is air-conditioned, clean, and rarely crowded (most people are too busy relaxing to work out on vacation).
It’s nothing special and certainly cannot compare to a gym like in the Waldorf Astoria Itaafushi but you’re not here to workout anyhow.
Spa Alila
The spa is set in the treetops with treatment rooms positioned among the jungle canopy. It’s an absolutely stunning setting. You hear birds, feel the breeze, and are surrounded by lush vegetation.
Spa treatments lean toward traditional Asian therapies with influences from Thailand, Bali, and India. The signature Alila massages are excellent. I had a 90-minute traditional Maldivian massage that was one of the best I’ve had at any resort.
Prices are in line with luxury Maldives standards. A 60-minute massage starts around $180. But the setting, quality of therapists, and the overall experience justify the cost if you want to splurge.
The spa also offers daily complimentary yoga and meditation sessions on the beach at sunrise and sunset. These are excellent for connecting with the natural environment and other guests.
Restaurants and Dining at Alila Kothaifaru
Food is often hit-or-miss at remote island resorts, but Alila Kothaifaru exceeds expectations. The culinary team is skilled, ingredients are impressively fresh (much flown in daily from Malé and Sri Lanka), and there’s genuine diversity in the dining options.
Seasalt: The Main Restaurant
Seasalt is the all-day dining restaurant located beachfront with stunning ocean views. This is where breakfast is served daily, and it’s also open for lunch and dinner.
Breakfast at Seasalt is à la carte (no buffet), which I actually prefer. The menu rotates daily with both Maldivian specialties and international favorites. You’ll find everything from traditional mas huni (Maldivian tuna and coconut breakfast) to eggs benedict, smoothie bowls, pancakes, and fresh pastries.
The highlight for me was the fresh-baked bread. They have an incredible selection of breads and pastries made on-site. The tropical fruits were also exceptional (mango, papaya, dragonfruit, and local bananas).
Lunch and Dinner at Seasalt feature coastal Mediterranean cuisine with Middle Eastern influences. The menu emphasizes fresh seafood, unsurprising given the location. Local fishermen supply the resort daily, so the fish is as fresh as it gets.
During our stay, the Alila had a themed Maldivian night which featured a huge buffet spread of fresh caught tuna, lobster (for an additional charge), prawns, reef fish, and countless other dishes. Most of the resort turned up for this dinner which was nice. The food was incredible and I completely gorged myself on fresh sliced tuna.
Price-wise, expect to pay $25-35 for breakfast dishes, $30-50 for lunch, and $40-70 for dinner entrées (all subject to 10% service charge and 16% tax, so add roughly 26% to menu prices).
Umami: Japanese Dining
Umami is the Japanese restaurant featuring sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, and robatayaki (Japanese grilling). The setting is intimate with only a handful of tables and a small teppanyaki counter.
The quality here is impressive. The fish is fresh, the rice is properly prepared, and the presentations are beautiful. We had the omakase menu which included a progression of seasonal sashimi, nigiri, and cooked dishes. All excellent.
The teppanyaki experience is entertaining (as it should be) but not overly gimmicky. The chef is skilled and engaging without being over-the-top.
Umami is more expensive than Seasalt. Expect $60-90 per person for dinner without alcohol.
Yakitori Bar
The Yakitori bar is located next to Umami on a jetty towards the ocean. This all day restaurant was probably my favorite go to restaurant. They served a huge bowl of unagi-don that was perfectly grilled along with delicious skewers. The bar is located in an extremely photogenic part of the island right overlooking the beach and ocean.
Come here for lunch and you can get the perfect hues of Turquoise with your meal.
Mirus Bar
Mirus Bar, located next to the Seasalt restaurant, is Alila’s beachfront sunset bar. This bar faces west and is the best spot on the island of the sunset.
We came here on both nights to enjoy a glass of wine while on the beach overlooking the ocean and sunset. Shisha can also be had for about half of the price of other resorts like the Ritz Carlton Maldives and Waldorf Astoria Itaafushi.
Dining Plans and Costs
Alila offers various dining packages:
- Half Board (Dine Around): Breakfast + dinner daily at Seasalt, Pibati, Yakitori Bar, or Umami (excluding teppanyaki), plus $75 food credit
- Full Board: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at designated restaurants
- All-Inclusive: All meals, select beverages including alcohol, certain activities
We opted for the Half Board Dine Around package booked through Hyatt, which felt like good value. It gave us flexibility while reducing the sticker shock of Maldives dining costs.
If booking cash rates, I’d strongly recommend at least Half Board. Dining in the Maldives is expensive, and having meals included provides peace of mind. The a la carte costs add up shockingly fast otherwise.
The Shack: Alila’s Private Sandbank Paradise
I need to dedicate an entire section to The Shack because it’s genuinely one of the most stunning and unique places I’ve experienced in the Maldives. And I’ve been to quite a few resorts.
The Shack is Alila Kothaifaru’s private sandbank, and it’s unlike any other sandbank in the entire Maldives. While there are thousands of temporary sandbanks scattered across the archipelago, The Shack is the only sandbank in the entire country with permanent, fully-equipped facilities.
What makes The Shack so special
Most sandbanks in the Maldives are just that: temporary patches of sand that emerge at low tide. Resorts will take you there for a picnic, set up a temporary umbrella and blanket, and that’s it. The Shack is completely different.
This stunning sandbank features:
- A permanent structure with shade and seating
- Full dining facilities including kitchen equipment
- Bathroom facilities (yes, actual bathrooms on a sandbank!)
- Lounge areas and daybeds
- Event and celebration hosting capabilities
- Bar service
The ability to host proper meals, events, and celebrations on a sandbank with all the amenities and infrastructure is completely unique. No other resort in the Maldives has achieved this.
The experience of visiting The Shack
Alila organizes visits to The Shack every Tuesday and Thursday. The resort transports guests by boat (about a 10-minute ride), and you spend several hours on this private paradise surrounded by nothing but turquoise water in every direction.
The 360-degree water views are breathtaking. You’re standing on pristine white sand with crystal-clear shallow water all around you, and the horizon stretches endlessly. It’s the kind of view that doesn’t look real. It looks like someone Photoshopped the saturation to impossible levels, except it’s actually that vivid in person.
The sandbank is large enough to walk around and explore without feeling cramped, yet intimate enough to maintain that exclusive, private island feeling. The structure provides welcome shade from the midday sun while still allowing you to soak in the incredible surroundings.
Why The Shack matters
In a destination full of luxury resorts all competing for your attention, true differentiation is rare. Most Maldives resorts offer beautiful beaches, overwater villas, and good service. The baseline is incredibly high.
The Shack represents genuine innovation and a truly unique offering. It’s not just a marketing gimmick. It’s a fully realized concept that delivers an experience you literally cannot get anywhere else in the Maldives. For me, The Shack visit was a highlight of the entire trip and a major reason I’d return to Alila Kothaifaru specifically over other resorts.
If you visit Alila, make sure your stay includes a Tuesday or Thursday so you can experience The Shack. Don’t skip this. It’s that special.
Booking the Alila Kothaifaru with Hyatt Points
Here’s the section many of you have been waiting for: how to book this luxury resort using points rather than paying the cash rates.
Hyatt Category and Points Requirements
Alila Kothaifaru is a Category 7 World of Hyatt property, the highest category in Hyatt’s award chart. The points required per night vary based on season:
- Off-Peak: 25,000 points per night
- Standard: 30,000 points per night
- Peak: 35,000 points per night
For a 5-night stay, we used 150,000 World of Hyatt points (30,000 per night during standard dates). Considering the cash price is somewhere between $800-$1200 a night, you’re getting something like 3-4 cents per Hyatt point which is insane value in today’s rewards landscape.
Important: Award Bookings Get Beach Villas
Here’s something crucial to understand: When you book with points, you receive a Beach Pool Villa as the standard award room. If you want to stay in an overwater villa (which, let’s be honest, is the quintessential Maldives experience), you’ll need to pay an upgrade fee on top of your points redemption.
The upgrade costs are as follows:
- Lagoon Overwater Villa: $150 per night
- Ocean Overwater Villa: $250 per night
- Sunset Overwater Villa: $350 per night
All of these rates come with an additional ~28% for tax and service so a 5 night upgrade for the lagoon overwater villa will be close to $1,000 after the tax and service are factored in.
Is the upgrade worth it?
In my opinion, absolutely yes Here’s my reasoning:
- You’re already getting incredible value on the base redemption. 30,000 points per night for an $800-1,200 villa is fantastic value
- The overwater experience is iconic. Staying overwater is a huge part of what makes the Maldives special
- Direct lagoon access for snorkeling. Being able to jump from your deck into the water whenever you want is priceless
- The upgrade cost is much less than booking overwater directly. Cash rates for overwater villas can be $300-500/night more than beach villas
- You’ve already paid for the expensive seaplane transfer. Might as well maximize the experience
When I stayed at the Park Hyatt Hadahaa, a similar upgrade from the beach villa to the standard overwater villa was something like $500 per night! This is a fraction of the price for the overwater experience.
How to Earn Hyatt Points
If you don’t have Hyatt points yet, here’s how to accumulate them:
- Credit card bonuses: The World of Hyatt Credit Card frequently offers 50,000-60,000 point sign-up bonuses
- Transfer partners: World of Hyatt is a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards (1:1 ratio)
- Stays at Hyatt properties: Earn 5 points per dollar spent on base room rate
- Shopping portals and promotions: Hyatt runs periodic promotions for bonus points
For two people to stay 5 nights at Alila Kothaifaru, you’d need 150,000 points plus $1,000 for the overwater upgrade (if you choose Ocean Overwater). This is achievable with:
- World of Hyatt credit card sign-up bonus: 60,000 points
- Transferring 90,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points (achievable through multiple Chase credit card bonuses)
- The $1,000 upgrade cost over 5 nights
When you factor in the $650/person seaplane transfers ($1,300 total), you’re paying approximately $2,300 in cash/points for a stay that would cost $8,000-10,000+ if booked entirely with cash. That’s exceptional value.
In addition to the Hyatt credit cards, all cards with Chase including the Sapphire and Ink suite of cards will earn Ultimate Reward points which can be transferred to Hyatt 1:1.
Points Booking Tips
Book as early as possible: Award availability at Alila can be limited, especially during peak season. The calendar often shows “Standard Rooms” available, which means Beach Pool Villas. Book these immediately if you see availability on your dates, then arrange the overwater upgrade separately. I saw that most dates had availability but if I waited to book for let’s say Easter weekend, the availability ran out.
Be flexible with dates: If you have flexibility, look for off-peak dates (25,000 points/night) to stretch your points further. Then spend the points savings toward the overwater upgrade.
Globalist benefits apply: If you have World of Hyatt Globalist status, you’ll receive:
- Complimentary breakfast for two (valued at around $80/day)
- Confirmed suite upgrade upon booking (to 2-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa if available, subject to availability)
- 4 PM late checkout (subject to availability)
- Upgraded in-room amenities
These benefits add tremendous value. The breakfast alone saves $400+ over a 5-night stay. However, note that the complimentary suite upgrade typically applies to the Beach Pool Villa category. If you’re upgrading to overwater, you’ll pay the upgrade fee regardless of Globalist status.
Cash Rates for Comparison
For context, here are approximate cash rates at Alila Kothaifaru:
- Beach Pool Villa: $800-1,200/night
- Lagoon Overwater Pool Villa: $900-1,300/night
- Ocean Overwater Pool Villa: $850-1,200/night
- Sunset Overwater Pool Villa: $950-1,400/night
- 2-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa: $1,500-2,200/night
Add in seaplane transfers ($650/person roundtrip), meals (around $150-200/person/day without a package), and incidentals, and you’re easily looking at $2,000-3,000+ per night for two people.
Using 30,000 points per night plus $200/night for the Ocean Overwater upgrade, plus the seaplane transfer, you’re effectively getting $1,000-1,400 of value per night for points that cost approximately $0 to earn through credit card bonuses and a manageable cash outlay. This is one of the best point redemptions in the entire Hyatt portfolio.
Comparing Alila to Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
The other Hyatt option in the Maldives is the Park Hyatt Hadahaa, which I’ve reviewed here. How do they compare?
Alila wins on:
- More modern design and newer facilities
- Better house reef for snorkeling
- Larger villas
- More dining variety
- Easier accessibility (shorter seaplane journey)
Park Hyatt wins on:
- More pristine, natural island feel
- Better beach (subjective, but I found it more beautiful)
- Slightly more intimate/exclusive atmosphere
- Traditional luxury vs. contemporary luxury
Bottom line: Both are exceptional, but Alila feels more modern and polished, while Park Hyatt feels more like an unspoiled tropical hideaway. You can’t go wrong with either.
Activities, Excursions, and Experiences
While the main draw of the Maldives is relaxing in paradise, there are plenty of activities available if you want to do more than just lounge by your pool.
Excursions Available
While I didn’t personally do these excursions during my stay (I was perfectly content with house reef snorkeling and pool time), they’re all highly reviewed and popular with other guests:
Manta Ray Snorkeling Excursion
This is consistently rated as the highlight excursion. The boat takes you to nearby cleaning stations where manta rays come to be cleaned by smaller fish. Depending on season and conditions, you can see anywhere from a handful to dozens of mantas, some with wingspans of 10+ feet, gracefully gliding beneath you.
Cost: around $120 per person for a half-day trip. Best during manta season (generally May-November, with peak months June-August).
Sunset Dolphin Cruise
This is a more relaxed excursion where you cruise around nearby reefs and channels looking for pods of spinner dolphins. These acrobatic dolphins are known for leaping and spinning out of the water, putting on quite a show.
Cost: around $80 per person for 2-3 hours. Great for families or non-divers.
Local Island Visit
A cultural excursion to a nearby inhabited island to see how Maldivians live outside the resort bubble. You’ll walk through villages, visit a school, see local crafts, and learn about Maldivian culture beyond tourism. This is a nice break from pure resort life and adds perspective to your trip.
Cost: around $90 per person for a half-day visit.
Scuba Diving Expeditions
Full-day dive trips to famous Raa Atoll dive sites. The Raa Atoll is known for diverse marine life, healthy corals, and encounters with larger pelagic species. Two-tank dives typically run $180-220.
Private Sandbank Picnics
While different from The Shack, the resort can arrange private picnics on other uninhabited sandbanks for those wanting an ultra-exclusive experience.
Fishing Trips
Traditional line fishing or night fishing expeditions. You can catch your dinner and have it prepared by the resort’s chefs.
Submarine Excursion
For non-divers or those who want to explore deeper reefs, there are submarine excursions available that take you down to view deeper reef ecosystems.
Complimentary Activities
Several activities are included in your stay:
- House reef snorkeling (equipment in every villa)
- Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
- Beach volleyball
- Sunrise/sunset yoga and meditation
- Daily poolside refreshments
- The Shack visits on Tuesdays and Thursdays
Kids and Families at Alila Kothaifaru
While we didn’t travel with children, it’s worth addressing whether Alila is suitable for families since I often get asked this question.
Kids’ Club
Alila has a small kids’ club called “Alila Junior” for children ages 4-12. It offers supervised activities including:
- Beach games and sports
- Arts and crafts using natural materials
- Coconut painting and weaving
- Marine biology lessons
- Snorkeling instruction
The kids’ club operates daily from 9 AM to 5 PM with various scheduled activities.
Family-Friendly Features
- 2-Bedroom Beach Pool Villas are spacious enough for families
- Kids’ menus at all restaurants
- In-room babysitting available (with advance notice)
- Shallow lagoon areas safe for young swimmers
- Kids’ spa treatments available
- Families can request connecting beach villas
Considerations for Families
Age restrictions: Children under 12 are not permitted in overwater villas for safety reasons. This is standard across most Maldives resorts.
Atmosphere: Alila Kothaifaru tends to attract couples and honeymooners more than families. While families are absolutely welcome, it’s not as kid-centric as some other Maldives resorts.
Activities: Older kids (8+) would love the snorkeling and water sports. Younger children might find fewer age-appropriate activities compared to resorts with larger kids’ clubs.
My take: Alila can work well for families with children 8+ who enjoy water activities. For families with very young children, there are more family-focused Maldives resorts that might be a better fit.
Service Quality and Attention to Detail
This is an area where Alila truly shines. The service throughout our stay was exceptional. Attentive without being intrusive, personalized without feeling scripted.
Our personal butler was outstanding. He remembered our preferences, anticipated needs before we articulated them, and genuinely cared about ensuring we had a perfect experience. When we mentioned we enjoy photography, he suggested specific times and locations for the best light. When we wanted to try a specific dish that wasn’t on the current menu, the kitchen prepared it anyway.
The restaurant staff were friendly and professional. They remembered our names, remembered which tables we preferred, and made genuinely good recommendations when asked.
Housekeeping was impeccable. Our villa was serviced twice daily (morning and evening turndown) and was always spotless. During turndown, they’d draw a bath, light candles, arrange flowers, and leave small treats. These touches make a difference.
One example that stood out: On our last night, the staff organized a surprise private dinner on the beach. They’d learned it was our anniversary (we’d mentioned it casually to our butler days earlier) and wanted to do something special. The dinner was beautifully set up under the stars with personalized menu cards, our favorite wine, and a custom dessert. We didn’t request this. They just did it. That’s next-level service.
What Could Be Better
No resort is perfect, so in the interest of providing a balanced review, here are a few areas where Alila could improve:
1. Limited dining variety for long stays
While the food quality is excellent, there are only 3-4 main restaurants. If you stay for a week or longer, you’ll start seeing menu repetition. This is less of an issue for shorter stays (5 nights or less).
2. WiFi connectivity
WiFi is complimentary throughout the resort but can be inconsistent, especially in overwater villas. Speeds were adequate for messaging and browsing but frustrating for video calls or uploading large photo files. If you need reliable internet for work, this might be an issue.
3. Limited shopping and retail
The resort boutique is quite small with limited selection. If you forget essentials or want resort-branded merchandise, the options are limited. This is a minor issue but worth noting.
4. Spa availability
The spa has limited treatment rooms, so availability can be constrained during peak season. Book spa appointments immediately upon arrival if this is a priority.
5. Transfer costs
This applies to all Maldives resorts, but the $650/person roundtrip seaplane transfer feels excessive. I understand the logistics of operating seaplanes, but it’s still a significant expense on top of an already expensive vacation.
Would I Return to Alila Kothaifaru?
I rarely revisit hotels. There are too many new places to explore. But Alila Kothaifaru is a resort I’d genuinely consider returning to. It offers that rare combination of stunning design, excellent service, incredible natural beauty, and (when booked with points) reasonable value.
The house reef alone is worth another visit. I’d also love to experience different seasons. We visited during the dry northeast monsoon season, but I’m curious about the shoulder seasons when there are fewer crowds.
For anyone considering the Maldives, especially those with Hyatt points to burn, Alila Kothaifaru should be at the top of your list. It delivers everything you’d want from a luxury Maldives resort: postcard-perfect vistas, world-class snorkeling, comfortable villas with private pools, great food, and service that genuinely makes you feel special.
Is it expensive? Yes, if paying cash. But that’s true of any Maldives resort at this level. Using points makes it one of the best value luxury experiences available.
