26 natural atolls 1,192 coral islands, about 200 inhabited Visa on arrival Free 30 days, all nationalities Green tax $12/night resorts · $6/night small guesthouses Best diving visibility Dry season, roughly Dec–Apr One island, one resort The concept that shaped Maldives tourism Guesthouses on local islands Legal since 2009 — a genuine budget route 26 natural atolls 1,192 coral islands, about 200 inhabited Visa on arrival Free 30 days, all nationalities Green tax $12/night resorts · $6/night small guesthouses Best diving visibility Dry season, roughly Dec–Apr One island, one resort The concept that shaped Maldives tourism Guesthouses on local islands Legal since 2009 — a genuine budget route
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Resort profile · Kaafu Atoll

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi sits in South Malé Atoll (see our Kaafu Atoll guide) and is built across multiple connected islands rather than a single one — guests typically move between zones (villas, dining, spa) via internal boat shuttle rather than walking the whole resort.

What it's known for

A large-scale, high-end take on the multi-island resort format, positioned toward guests who want extensive dining and activity variety — see our boutique vs. large resorts guide for how this end of the spectrum generally compares to a smaller, single-island property.

This is a factual overview, not a booking recommendation — confirm current villa categories, inclusions and rates directly with the resort or a travel agent.