Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Hotel Checkout

Reservations:

+1 (888) 385-8465

‌

From

$784

Reservations:

+1 (888) 385-8465

Hotel Highlights

Welcome to the Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat, your slice of paradise nestled in the stunning South Ari Atoll of the Maldives! Priced starting at just $150 a night, this adults-only resort invites you to indulge in tranquility and adventure. Located a mere 5.6mi from the buzz of Dhangethi, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking beachfront vistas, swaying palms, and the gentle sound of waves lapping at your private stretch of sand.

View (from property/room), Bed in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Massage, Bed in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Rooms

Show 9 photos

580 sqft

Water Villa

Balcony

Free wifi

Minibar

Tea/Coffee maker

This villa features a patio, private entrance and air conditioning. Extra bed can be provided upon prior request.

Water Villa with 20% off on SPA - single occupancy in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Show 9 photos

1 King Size Bed

580 sqft

Water Villa, Single Use

Private Bathroom

Bathtub

Terrace

Private entrance

Show 4 photos

420 sqft

Villa, Beach View

Balcony

Free wifi

Minibar

Tea/Coffee maker

This villa has a patio, electric kettle and garden view. Please note that extra beds cannot be accommodated in this room.

Discover More

Feel free to dive into relaxation with our spa and wellness packages or splash into fun with complimentary snorkeling and water sports (for a small extra cost). The resort boasts a charming restaurant where delightful breakfasts set the perfect tone for your day of exploration. And don't forget to enjoy the peaceful views from your private entrance or terrace, ideal for sipping a delicious cocktail as the sun begins to set on another perfect day in paradise.

Bird's eye view in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Property building in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Experience the Best

With a stellar collection of 220 reviews, our guests rave about the charming ambiance and exceptional service at Drift Thelu Veliga. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, indulging in massage sessions, or enjoying a cozy evening in a non-smoking room, every moment will feel like a dream. So pack your bags and get ready for a getaway filled with gorgeous scenery, delectable dining, and unforgettable memories!

Coffee/tea facilities, Bed in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Plan Your Stay

As you step into the delightful Restaurant #1, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure! This enchanting dining spot captures the essence of both romantic and modern dining experiences, perfect for couples looking to enjoy a meal under the stars or friends gathering for a lively dinner. The menu features an exciting range of American and Asian cuisine—think spicy stir-fries, savory grilled specialties, and decadent desserts that will make every meal a celebration. Whether you’re savoring a sunrise breakfast or an intimate dinner by candlelight, the ambiance is sure to set the mood for a memorable evening.

Restaurant/places to eat in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Lounge or bar in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Amenities

Spa/Wellness packages

Snorkeling

Restaurant

Beachfront

Private beach area

Adults only

Free wifi

Room service

Restaurant

Restaurant #1

Traditional, Modern, Romantic, American, 0, 0, Asian

Natural landscape in Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat

Wow, wow, wow—what an absolutely incredible experience! We stayed for four nights but honestly wished we had at least four more. If you're planning a trip, do yourself a favor and book a water bungalow—it's a next-level experience. You won’t want (or need) to leave your villa! The service was exceptional, with every staff member going above and beyond to make our stay special. A huge thank you to Emdad, our wonderful waiter, and Maria, the amazing manager—both made us feel so welcome. We booked the half-board option, which included breakfast and dinner, and it was more than enough, with delicious buffet-style meals offering a wide variety of choices. One of the highlights of our trip was the house reef, which is absolutely teeming with life. We swam alongside reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and countless vibrant fish—it felt like snorkeling through a massive, living aquarium. The corals were surprisingly healthy, and the crystal-clear water made every moment underwater magical. I didn’t even feel the need to go diving because snorkeling alone was so fulfilling. Plus, they provide complimentary snorkeling gear, which was a fantastic bonus! Our water villa was spotlessly clean, beautifully decorated, and designed for pure relaxation. The resort offers twice-daily housekeeping, fresh towels each time, and thoughtful touches that make you feel completely at ease. Even the journey to the resort was an adventure—taking the seaplane was such a cool experience and added to the excitement of arriving in paradise. Overall, this was one of the most relaxing, luxurious, and unforgettable stays we've ever had. We only wish we could have stayed longer! If you're considering this place—just book it. You won’t regret it!

love this place , very peaceful. great staff. very barefoot and relaxed, and still chic. just how we like it. don’t worry too much about dressing up for anyone but yourself. I personally find that vibe fabulous. you do you at Drift. balenciaga or matalan, who cares? very clean - I think maybe it would be nice to be able to opt out of having towels and sheets replaced so often? (for environment etc.) I personally do not need my sheets replaced more than once a week, but the housekeeping staff did their job to perfection and with such care. they clearly work really hard to keep everything perfect. they were brilliant. re. tipping we just kind of spread our tips best we could amongst bellboys cleaners cooks waiters etc. i don’t think you have to. not everyone tipped. it’s up to you. they were just grateful. I would like to know that staff is looked after - that there is a a lovely place for them to spend leisure time etc as they live on the island, stuff to help them stay fulfilled (they seemed happy though! just my thoughts) suggestions aside - the place is tiny and pure magic , fabulous gardening/landscaping, magic little walkways. great food. the chefs try hard to offer a variety which is appreciated. we had three massages - they were great. the rest of the time just a lot of relaxation, snorkelling, kayaking, food and wine! they have great cocktails and mocktails too. will be back. thank you so much to everyone at Drift. it’s fabulous value.

Lotta

This place is paradise on earth! It not only exceeded our expectations but as well made us experience our best summer vacation so far! The property is on a small unique island and consists of water villas and bungalows. They created a small tropical forrest on the island part so that the bungalows are well hidden and you can have your privacy. The water villas have their privacy on the terrace where you can directly enter into water. The villas were spacious, very clean (they provide twice a day housekeeping!) and had tasteful decoration. Because it is a 'retreat', there are no big loud parties or screaming people or children. You can really relax and get most of the experience. The sea is just fabulous! We were able to experience most of the underwater wildlife from reef sharks (baby to middle size), turtles, rays to various tropical fish. You don't need to be excellent swimmer there. You just need to bring your snorkelling gear or use one from the property (for free). And in the evening, you can just spend hours with star gazing if you want. Food has been delicious. There was always something for vegetarians. Dinner menu is different each night. The staff has always been very kind and showed excellent hospitality. For us this has been an unforgettable stay. We will come here for sure again.

Simge

The service was great and the staff was amazing! One of us was celebrating his birthday and we did not mention anything, and yet the staff decorated our dinner table, his bedroom, provided a free bottle and cake. When the staff passed by during the day, they would wish him a happy birthday. The rooms were flawless (they would clean them and prepare them twice a day). The showers were working perfectly fine; with great water pressure. The bed was comfortable, and the views were amazing. The room layout in general was beautiful. The island is beautiful, filled with fishes and different kinds of sharks (teeth less and therefor you can do snorkeling near them, you can get snorkeling equipment for free and pretty much spend hours swimming around the island and looking at all sorts of fishes). The fact that the island is also not too big and not too small was great, making it not crowded and yet big enough to see beautiful places. The food was great for the dinner, with plenty of choices (including for vegetarian). Dinner does not include drinks (water, juices, alcohol, etc.) for half board and full board. Breakfast included the drinks (juices, water, coffee).

Nesrine

A truly beautiful and very peaceful island. Our water villa on the sunset side was light and airy, well furnished, spotlessly clean (cleaned twice a day) with efficient air con plus a ceiling fan, which was great as it was extremely hot in the middle of the day. The views are truly amazing with a big deck and direct access to the ocean. The sunsets were lovely and the night time sky equally so. The coral is a short swim and largely healthy with many different types of fish. The staff are unfailingly friendly and smiley and cannot do enough for you. The food is eclectic but good and plentiful with a different theme every night at the live cooking station, manned by a really cheerful chef! Be aware though that alcohol (unless on AI) is very expensive. The island is tiny which may not suit people looking for a lot to do, though there are various trips available. It is beautifully kept and there is no need for shoes from the moment you arrive until you leave. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday in lovely surroundings this is the place. Read less

Amanda

Wow, wow, wow—what an absolutely incredible experience! We stayed for four nights but honestly wished we had at least four more. If you're planning a trip, do yourself a favor and book a water bungalow—it's a next-level experience. You won’t want (or need) to leave your villa! The service was exceptional, with every staff member going above and beyond to make our stay special. A huge thank you to Emdad, our wonderful waiter, and Maria, the amazing manager—both made us feel so welcome. We booked the half-board option, which included breakfast and dinner, and it was more than enough, with delicious buffet-style meals offering a wide variety of choices. One of the highlights of our trip was the house reef, which is absolutely teeming with life. We swam alongside reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and countless vibrant fish—it felt like snorkeling through a massive, living aquarium. The corals were surprisingly healthy, and the crystal-clear water made every moment underwater magical. I didn’t even feel the need to go diving because snorkeling alone was so fulfilling. Plus, they provide complimentary snorkeling gear, which was a fantastic bonus! Our water villa was spotlessly clean, beautifully decorated, and designed for pure relaxation. The resort offers twice-daily housekeeping, fresh towels each time, and thoughtful touches that make you feel completely at ease. Even the journey to the resort was an adventure—taking the seaplane was such a cool experience and added to the excitement of arriving in paradise. Overall, this was one of the most relaxing, luxurious, and unforgettable stays we've ever had. We only wish we could have stayed longer! If you're considering this place—just book it. You won’t regret it!

love this place , very peaceful. great staff. very barefoot and relaxed, and still chic. just how we like it. don’t worry too much about dressing up for anyone but yourself. I personally find that vibe fabulous. you do you at Drift. balenciaga or matalan, who cares? very clean - I think maybe it would be nice to be able to opt out of having towels and sheets replaced so often? (for environment etc.) I personally do not need my sheets replaced more than once a week, but the housekeeping staff did their job to perfection and with such care. they clearly work really hard to keep everything perfect. they were brilliant. re. tipping we just kind of spread our tips best we could amongst bellboys cleaners cooks waiters etc. i don’t think you have to. not everyone tipped. it’s up to you. they were just grateful. I would like to know that staff is looked after - that there is a a lovely place for them to spend leisure time etc as they live on the island, stuff to help them stay fulfilled (they seemed happy though! just my thoughts) suggestions aside - the place is tiny and pure magic , fabulous gardening/landscaping, magic little walkways. great food. the chefs try hard to offer a variety which is appreciated. we had three massages - they were great. the rest of the time just a lot of relaxation, snorkelling, kayaking, food and wine! they have great cocktails and mocktails too. will be back. thank you so much to everyone at Drift. it’s fabulous value.

Lotta

This place is paradise on earth! It not only exceeded our expectations but as well made us experience our best summer vacation so far! The property is on a small unique island and consists of water villas and bungalows. They created a small tropical forrest on the island part so that the bungalows are well hidden and you can have your privacy. The water villas have their privacy on the terrace where you can directly enter into water. The villas were spacious, very clean (they provide twice a day housekeeping!) and had tasteful decoration. Because it is a 'retreat', there are no big loud parties or screaming people or children. You can really relax and get most of the experience. The sea is just fabulous! We were able to experience most of the underwater wildlife from reef sharks (baby to middle size), turtles, rays to various tropical fish. You don't need to be excellent swimmer there. You just need to bring your snorkelling gear or use one from the property (for free). And in the evening, you can just spend hours with star gazing if you want. Food has been delicious. There was always something for vegetarians. Dinner menu is different each night. The staff has always been very kind and showed excellent hospitality. For us this has been an unforgettable stay. We will come here for sure again.

Simge

The service was great and the staff was amazing! One of us was celebrating his birthday and we did not mention anything, and yet the staff decorated our dinner table, his bedroom, provided a free bottle and cake. When the staff passed by during the day, they would wish him a happy birthday. The rooms were flawless (they would clean them and prepare them twice a day). The showers were working perfectly fine; with great water pressure. The bed was comfortable, and the views were amazing. The room layout in general was beautiful. The island is beautiful, filled with fishes and different kinds of sharks (teeth less and therefor you can do snorkeling near them, you can get snorkeling equipment for free and pretty much spend hours swimming around the island and looking at all sorts of fishes). The fact that the island is also not too big and not too small was great, making it not crowded and yet big enough to see beautiful places. The food was great for the dinner, with plenty of choices (including for vegetarian). Dinner does not include drinks (water, juices, alcohol, etc.) for half board and full board. Breakfast included the drinks (juices, water, coffee).

Nesrine

A truly beautiful and very peaceful island. Our water villa on the sunset side was light and airy, well furnished, spotlessly clean (cleaned twice a day) with efficient air con plus a ceiling fan, which was great as it was extremely hot in the middle of the day. The views are truly amazing with a big deck and direct access to the ocean. The sunsets were lovely and the night time sky equally so. The coral is a short swim and largely healthy with many different types of fish. The staff are unfailingly friendly and smiley and cannot do enough for you. The food is eclectic but good and plentiful with a different theme every night at the live cooking station, manned by a really cheerful chef! Be aware though that alcohol (unless on AI) is very expensive. The island is tiny which may not suit people looking for a lot to do, though there are various trips available. It is beautifully kept and there is no need for shoes from the moment you arrive until you leave. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday in lovely surroundings this is the place. Read less

Amanda

Wow, wow, wow—what an absolutely incredible experience! We stayed for four nights but honestly wished we had at least four more. If you're planning a trip, do yourself a favor and book a water bungalow—it's a next-level experience. You won’t want (or need) to leave your villa! The service was exceptional, with every staff member going above and beyond to make our stay special. A huge thank you to Emdad, our wonderful waiter, and Maria, the amazing manager—both made us feel so welcome. We booked the half-board option, which included breakfast and dinner, and it was more than enough, with delicious buffet-style meals offering a wide variety of choices. One of the highlights of our trip was the house reef, which is absolutely teeming with life. We swam alongside reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and countless vibrant fish—it felt like snorkeling through a massive, living aquarium. The corals were surprisingly healthy, and the crystal-clear water made every moment underwater magical. I didn’t even feel the need to go diving because snorkeling alone was so fulfilling. Plus, they provide complimentary snorkeling gear, which was a fantastic bonus! Our water villa was spotlessly clean, beautifully decorated, and designed for pure relaxation. The resort offers twice-daily housekeeping, fresh towels each time, and thoughtful touches that make you feel completely at ease. Even the journey to the resort was an adventure—taking the seaplane was such a cool experience and added to the excitement of arriving in paradise. Overall, this was one of the most relaxing, luxurious, and unforgettable stays we've ever had. We only wish we could have stayed longer! If you're considering this place—just book it. You won’t regret it!

love this place , very peaceful. great staff. very barefoot and relaxed, and still chic. just how we like it. don’t worry too much about dressing up for anyone but yourself. I personally find that vibe fabulous. you do you at Drift. balenciaga or matalan, who cares? very clean - I think maybe it would be nice to be able to opt out of having towels and sheets replaced so often? (for environment etc.) I personally do not need my sheets replaced more than once a week, but the housekeeping staff did their job to perfection and with such care. they clearly work really hard to keep everything perfect. they were brilliant. re. tipping we just kind of spread our tips best we could amongst bellboys cleaners cooks waiters etc. i don’t think you have to. not everyone tipped. it’s up to you. they were just grateful. I would like to know that staff is looked after - that there is a a lovely place for them to spend leisure time etc as they live on the island, stuff to help them stay fulfilled (they seemed happy though! just my thoughts) suggestions aside - the place is tiny and pure magic , fabulous gardening/landscaping, magic little walkways. great food. the chefs try hard to offer a variety which is appreciated. we had three massages - they were great. the rest of the time just a lot of relaxation, snorkelling, kayaking, food and wine! they have great cocktails and mocktails too. will be back. thank you so much to everyone at Drift. it’s fabulous value.

Lotta

This place is paradise on earth! It not only exceeded our expectations but as well made us experience our best summer vacation so far! The property is on a small unique island and consists of water villas and bungalows. They created a small tropical forrest on the island part so that the bungalows are well hidden and you can have your privacy. The water villas have their privacy on the terrace where you can directly enter into water. The villas were spacious, very clean (they provide twice a day housekeeping!) and had tasteful decoration. Because it is a 'retreat', there are no big loud parties or screaming people or children. You can really relax and get most of the experience. The sea is just fabulous! We were able to experience most of the underwater wildlife from reef sharks (baby to middle size), turtles, rays to various tropical fish. You don't need to be excellent swimmer there. You just need to bring your snorkelling gear or use one from the property (for free). And in the evening, you can just spend hours with star gazing if you want. Food has been delicious. There was always something for vegetarians. Dinner menu is different each night. The staff has always been very kind and showed excellent hospitality. For us this has been an unforgettable stay. We will come here for sure again.

Simge

The service was great and the staff was amazing! One of us was celebrating his birthday and we did not mention anything, and yet the staff decorated our dinner table, his bedroom, provided a free bottle and cake. When the staff passed by during the day, they would wish him a happy birthday. The rooms were flawless (they would clean them and prepare them twice a day). The showers were working perfectly fine; with great water pressure. The bed was comfortable, and the views were amazing. The room layout in general was beautiful. The island is beautiful, filled with fishes and different kinds of sharks (teeth less and therefor you can do snorkeling near them, you can get snorkeling equipment for free and pretty much spend hours swimming around the island and looking at all sorts of fishes). The fact that the island is also not too big and not too small was great, making it not crowded and yet big enough to see beautiful places. The food was great for the dinner, with plenty of choices (including for vegetarian). Dinner does not include drinks (water, juices, alcohol, etc.) for half board and full board. Breakfast included the drinks (juices, water, coffee).

Nesrine

A truly beautiful and very peaceful island. Our water villa on the sunset side was light and airy, well furnished, spotlessly clean (cleaned twice a day) with efficient air con plus a ceiling fan, which was great as it was extremely hot in the middle of the day. The views are truly amazing with a big deck and direct access to the ocean. The sunsets were lovely and the night time sky equally so. The coral is a short swim and largely healthy with many different types of fish. The staff are unfailingly friendly and smiley and cannot do enough for you. The food is eclectic but good and plentiful with a different theme every night at the live cooking station, manned by a really cheerful chef! Be aware though that alcohol (unless on AI) is very expensive. The island is tiny which may not suit people looking for a lot to do, though there are various trips available. It is beautifully kept and there is no need for shoes from the moment you arrive until you leave. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday in lovely surroundings this is the place. Read less

Amanda

Location

Thelu Veliga, South Ari Atoll, 20183 Theluveligaa, Maldives, Maamigili Island, 20183, Maldives

Reservations:

+1 (888) 385-8465

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