Villa Park (Ex.Sun Island Resort & Spa)

#maldiveshotel After visiting over 15 resorts across the atolls, I can say this with certainty: Villa Park on South Ari Atoll** isn’t just another Maldivian escape. It’s one of the most *authentic*, *spacious*, and *soulful* islands I’ve ever called “home” for a week. Once known as *Sun Island*, this reimagined resort has kept its heart while quietly upgrading its soul. And honestly? It’s better than ever. ✅ **Why We Loved It:** 📍 **A 1.8-km private island** — one of the largest in the Maldives. You can walk for hours without seeing another guest. Want total solitude? Find your own stretch of powder-white sand. Need adventure? The house reef is alive with life. 🐠 **Snorkeling from the beach — no boat needed.** We saw: → Turtles gliding past like old friends, → Blacktip sharks patrolling gently at dusk, → Clownfish dancing in anemones, → Reef rays resting on the sand. This is one of the best **natural snorkeling spots** in South Ari — and it’s right outside your villa. 🏡 **Accommodation that works for everyone:** → **Beach Bungalows**: classic Maldivian charm — thatched roofs, wooden decks, steps from the water. Perfect for those who want simplicity with style. → **Ocean Villas**: modern overwater sanctuaries with glass floor panels, private terraces, sun loungers, and direct lagoon access. → **Family Suites**: spacious, airy, ideal for slow travel with kids (yes, it’s family-friendly!). 🍽️ **Food that surprised us:** The main restaurant, **Coral**, offers a generous buffet with: → Fresh lobster and grilled tuna, → Tropical fruit platters (pineapple, papaya, mango), → Indian curries, Maldivian tuna dishes, pasta, burgers. And yes — the desserts are average, but who needs cake when you have ocean views? 🍹 Sunset Bar** — toes in the sand, cocktails in hand, live acoustic music under the stars. This was our nightly ritual. 🧘♀️ **Wellness & Activities:** → Free yoga at sunrise, → PADI dive center (whale shark & manta excursions — must-do!), → Complimentary bikes to explore the island, → Spa treatments with coconut oil and herbal wraps. 📱 **Modern comfort meets island life:** Free Wi-Fi, AC, minibar, smart TV — all included. But here’s the magic: you’ll forget them. The real luxury is falling asleep to waves and waking up to dolphins playing offshore. ⚠️ Real Talk (No Filter): - Rooms are not brand-new, but well-maintained. Some wear shows, but it adds character — not discomfort. - Beach furniture is mostly plastic — not premium wicker, but functional. - It’s not ultra-luxury or boutique — but it’s not trying to be. - Crowds? Only near the pool and bar. Head to the northern tip — and you’ll find pure peace. 💡 Who Is Villa Park For?** ✔️ Families who want space, safety, and fun ✔️ Couples seeking beauty without pretense ✔️ Snorkelers & divers chasing marine magic ✔️ Travelers who value **connection over perfection** Will you come here?!