Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives
Barefoot luxury meets untamed ocean magic at this five-star island retreat, nestled in the heart of the South Ari Atoll. Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives embraces crystal waters and flaunts incredible sunsets that paint the sky in impossible colours. Here, time slows to island rhythm while luxury touches wrap around you like a warm tropical breeze.
Dive into pure bliss at the twin infinity pools that melt seamlessly into endless horizons, then embark on a culinary odyssey that’ll make your soul sing, from exquisite fine dining at Aqua Restaurant to globe-trotting flavours at Sea Salt, where Middle Eastern spices dance with South American fire. Finally, drift to the enchanting Magical Pool Bar for sunrise snacks and sunset cocktails.
This paradise is surrounded by an underwater wonderland that hosts the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, including majestic whale sharks and graceful manta rays. Some of the world’s best snorkelling reveals coral gardens teeming with tropical fish and clear waters invite you to swim alongside nature’s most spectacular marine ballet.
Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives is set in the heart of the South Ari Atoll, where whale shark and manta ray sightings are almost guaranteed. Beyond the underwater wonderland, guests can try their hand at thrilling watersports, explore thriving coral reefs or sample bustling local markets for an authentic taste of Maldivian island life.
The hotel is located approximately a 30-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport (MLE). Roundtrip seaplane transfers (between 6am and 4pm only) from Velana International Airport for two guests are included in your package. Please contact the resort at least seven days before arrival with your flight details to arrange transfers.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
The Resort – Stylish island luxury on the edge of adventure
Located in the South Ari Atoll, an area renowned for its marine biodiversity and pristine natural beauty, Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives is a five-star sanctuary where luxury, sustainability and authentic experiences combine to deliver an escape like no other. With its own private beach, two incredible infinity pools and access to the nearby South Ari Marine Protected Area, it’s the perfect base for guests seeking relaxation and adventure in the Maldives.
Choose your slice of paradise from spacious water villas perched directly over turquoise lagoons or sunset suite villas with private pools that sparkle under endless skies. Each sanctuary offers generous space, breathtaking ocean views and that effortless Maldivian barefoot elegance. Wake to sunrises that paint the water gold, then drift into days where time moves to island rhythm on your own private beach.
Dining at the resort is an experience in itself, with a curated selection of restaurants and bars offering everything from refined Mediterranean fusion to themed buffets. Enjoy tapas-style seafood dishes at Aqua restaurant, tuck into fresh local flavours at the beachfront Sea Salt Restaurant, or sip handcrafted cocktails by the pool at Magical Pool Bar and Breeze. Whether you’re fancying a healthy snack, a romantic a la carte dinner or sunset drinks with ocean views, every venue will delight your palate.
Adventure seekers can dive into the nearby South Ari Marine Protected Area teeming with the planet’s most fascinating marine life, while those craving relaxation can float between two exceptional infinity pools - the magnificent 37-metre main pool framed by hammocks and Balinese beds, or the intimate Lagoon Pool offering panoramic vistas perfect for yoga flows. Rejuvenate at the Balinese-inspired Mandara Spa with six calming treatment rooms, complete with sauna and Turkish bath, or energise at the state-of-the-art gym featuring both indoor and outdoor workout spaces. As evening approaches, watch spectacular Maldivian sunsets transform the sky into a masterpiece of impossible colours.
Your Handpicked Inclusions – All-inclusive dining, free-flow drinks, roundtrip transfers and more
Your tropical voyage begins with roundtrip seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport, whisking you over dazzling turquoise waters to the marine wonderland of South Ari Atoll. Experience all-inclusive living at its finest with either the comprehensive All-Inclusive Plan or the elevated Premium All-Inclusive Plan, both designed to immerse you in effortless luxury from sunrise to sunset.
Savour daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at Sea Salt Restaurant, with the option for leisurely two-course lunch at Breeze or a two-course lunch of light snacks at Magical Pool Bar, and a one-time specialty meal at the resort’s fine-dining restaurant, Aqua. Guests on the Premium All-Inclusive upgrade can enjoy the flexibility of dinner at Sea Salt or Aqua, plus an unforgettable romantic beach dinner under a canopy of stars. All guests can enjoy daily morning and afternoon tea service that perfectly punctuates your island days, with tea and coffee on offer to wash down delicious cookies.
Sip unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from expertly crafted menus throughout the day, with your minibar thoughtfully restocked daily with drinks and select snacks. Guests can also enjoy additional discounts on food and beverages not included in the all-inclusive packages.
Your aquatic adventure peaks with a choice between two extraordinary experiences: swim alongside gentle whale sharks during their seasonal migration in one of the world’s premier whale shark sanctuaries, or drift into sunset magic aboard a traditional dhoni during an enchanting dolphin cruise. Active travellers can embrace complimentary non-motorised watersports including snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, perfect for exploring the coral gardens and marine life that make this protected area so spectacular.
- Sea Salt Restaurant
- Aqua Restaurant
- Magical Pool Bar
- Breeze Bar
- Mandara Spa
- Two infinity pools
- Fitness centre
- Yoga and Pilates
- PADI diving centre
- Non-motorised watersports
- Private beach
- Laundry service
- 24-hour reception
- Wi-Fi
- Check-in: 2pm / Checkout: 12pm
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Valid for travel until 30 September 2026 (bookings must be made before 31 July 2026).
Green Tax: Please note a US$12 green tax per person (2+), per night applies, payable directly to the resort.
Compulsory Christmas Eve Gala Dinner: For stays on 24 December, an additional surcharge of US$220 per adult (12+) and US$110 per child (2–11) applies for the compulsory Christmas Eve Gala dinner. Children under two years old are free of charge with a paying adult. Payable directly to the resort.
Compulsory New Year’s Gala Dinner: For stays on 31 December, an additional surcharge of US$320 per adult (12+) and US$160 per child (2–11) applies for the compulsory New Year’s Gala dinner. Children under two years old are free of charge with a paying adult. Payable directly to the resort.
Blackout Dates & Surcharges: A non-refundable surcharge per room, per night may apply, payable at the time of booking. Dates and prices are identified in the Booking Calendar. Blackout dates may apply.
7-Day Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee: Things don’t always work out. Our 7-day Change of Mind Guarantee is there to help. Bookings (except for cruise bookings, flights and deposit fee, if applicable, which are subject to the cancellation terms of the relevant supplier) may be cancelled with a full refund provided that cancellation occurs strictly within 7 days from the date of purchase and provided that the cancellation is made no less than 14 days prior to the check-in date. Excludes flight and service fee, if applicable.
- Cancellations outside of the 7-Day Change of Mind period will not be provided, except as required by Australian Consumer Law, your local law or as otherwise provided for in the Fine Print.
Flexible Cancellation: You can cancel your booking for credit up until 21 days prior to the original check-in date. This can be done via self-service in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Your credit will be valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation. Credits are not transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. Excludes service fee, if applicable.
Please note this does not apply to flights booked with us. Flight fulfilment is provided by the airline(s) selected at the time of finalising the booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s).
Date Changes: If you need to amend your booking, you can self-service unlimited date changes in your ‘My Escapes’ account up until 21 days before your original check-in date. If you can’t find a suitable date, or still need further assistance, please contact our 24/7 customer service team. Subject to availability and surcharges.
Please Note:
- Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
- Minibar includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and select snacks, refreshed once per day.
- Morning tea is served at Breeze Bar from 10:30am to 11:30am.
- Afternoon tea is served at Breeze Bar from 4pm to 4:30pm.
- Morning and afternoon tea includes tea, coffee and cookies.
- Advance reservation is essential for the whale shark or dolphin cruise excursion.
- Standard All-Inclusive Package
- Daily breakfast is served at Sea Salt Restaurant.
- Daily lunch is served at Sea Salt Restaurant. Two-course set menu lunch is available at Breeze, and a two-course lunch of light snacks is available at Magical Pool Bar.
- Nightly dinner is served at Sea Salt Restaurant.
- Guests can enjoy a specialty meal at Aqua Restaurant from a set menu. Advance reservation is required.
- Unlimited daily free-flow drinks are served by the glass at any restaurant or bar during opening hours from the All-Inclusive Menu, including (but not limited to) Jose Cuervo Silver and Gold, Bacardi White and Gold, Johnnie Walker Red, and a range of white, red and sparkling wines.
- 20% dining discount on items outside the All-Inclusive Package.
- The whale shark excursion is only permitted for children aged 16 years and above.
- Premium All-Inclusive Package
- Daily breakfast is served at Sea Salt Restaurant.
- Daily lunch is served at Sea Salt Restaurant. Two-course set menu lunch is available at Breeze, and a two-course lunch of light snacks is available at Magical Pool Bar.
- Nightly dinner is served at Sea Salt Restaurant or Aqua Restaurant.
- Guests can enjoy a romantic set-menu beach dinner. Advance reservation is required.
- Unlimited daily free-flow drinks are served by the glass at any restaurant or bar during opening hours. Guests can choose from the Premium All-Inclusive Beverage menu including (but not limited to) Ballantine’s Finest, Jack Daniels, Hennessey VSOP, Tanqueray 10 gin, Grappa prosecco and Sandeman Ruby.
- 30% dining discount on items outside the Premium All-Inclusive Package.
- Roundtrip seaplane transfers to and from Malé:
- The resort is located approximately a 30-minute seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport (MLE).
- Seaplanes are operated by a third-party company and are designed for water take-off and landing. Therefore, their flying times are restricted to daylight hours (between 6am and 4pm only) by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Please make appropriate arrangements for your travel and accommodation plans to avoid missing your flight.
- Please provide flight details at least seven days before arrival to ensure that transfers can be arranged.
- The luggage weight limit is 20kg for checked luggage and 5kg for hand luggage. Any luggage exceeding this may incur an additional fee at check-in.
- Seaplane operations are subject to weather conditions.
- Guests arriving or departing outside the 6am to 4pm window may need to book a hotel room adn arrange for their transfer to the resort the following day.
We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to the website’s terms and conditions.
Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.
Images are for illustrative purposes and may not be reflective of the package purchased. See individual offers and packages for details.