Tucked away in the far south of the Maldives, Ayada Maldives is one of those rare resorts that blends five-star luxury with access to some of the most consistent and uncrowded waves in the country. Unlike resorts such as Lohis or Pasta Point, Ayada doesn’t have a private break peeling out the front. Instead, it acts as a surf hub, running daily boat trips to an array of nearby breaks, with something for all levels. For surfers looking for variety and avoiding the crowds, it’s paradise.
From long, peeling lefts to punchy rights, the breaks around Ayada cater to a range of abilities — and the resort offers surf day passes that ensures you’re heading to the best waves for your level each session. Add in world-class villas, fine dining, a top-notch spa, and all the adventure you’d expect from a remote Maldivian atoll, and Ayada Maldives offers a surf trip like no other.
Here’s a full guide to what you can expect.
CLICK HERE TO GET A QUOTE FOR AYADA RESORT
Getting to Ayada Maldives
Part of what makes Ayada feel so exclusive is its remote location. You’ll need a bit more travel time compared to the surf resorts closer to Malé, but the reward is far fewer crowds in the water and a island that really does feel like it’s in a world of its own.
- Fly into Malé (MLE) – All international guests arrive into Velana International Airport.
- Domestic flight and speedboat transfer – depending on what time you land and the current flightschedule, there are two routes to Ayada Maldives:
Via Kaadedhdhoo (KDM):
- Domestic flight: 55 minutes
- Speedboat trip: 50 minutes
Via Maavarulu (RUL):
- Domestic flight: 70 minutes
- Speedboat trip: 15-25 minutes
Yes, it’s a little more effort than hopping a speedboat to other resorts like Lohis or Pasta. But once you arrive, the remote setting makes it clear why surfers make the trek: lineups here are far less crowded than those near the capital.
When you land in Malé one of the Ayada team will take care of your luggage and help check you in for your domestic flight. You’ll then have access to the domestic flight lounge whilst you wait – and yes that includes drinks and snacks too!
Villas and Accommodation Options
Ayada is a five-star luxury resort, and it shows in the variety and quality of its villas. From the great value Garden Villas though to the luxurious Overwater Villas and Suites, they all blend of modern comfort with Maldivian design.
- Garden Villas – Tucked into lush greenery, these are the most affordable option without sacrificing Ayada’s trademark comfort.
- Beach Villas – Steps from the sand, with private gardens, decks, and the option to upgrade to a private pool option too.
- Ocean Villas – Overwater living with infinity pools, glass-floor panels, and direct ladder access to the lagoon.
- Sunset Lagoon Suites – A mix of beach and overwater vibes, perfect for couples chasing privacy or those who want to be closer to the facilities on the main part of the island.
- Ayada Royal Ocean Suite – The pinnacle of luxury, with multiple bedrooms, expansive decks, and panoramic views.
Whether you’re a solo surf traveler, a couple on a honeymoon, or a family tagging along for the adventure, there’s a villa to match.
CLICK HERE TO GET A QUOTE FOR AYADA RESORT
Dining at Ayada
With eight dining venues, Ayada’s food scene is a highlight in its own right.
- Magu – The main restaurant with buffet dining, live cooking, and rotating themes.
- Kai – Pan-Asian fine dining with Japanese, Chinese, and Thai influences.
- Ocean Breeze – Mediterranean cuisine served over the water.
- Zero Degree – Poolside dining and a chilled hangout for snacks, pizza, and light meals.
- Mizu – Teppanyaki grill for interactive chef-led dinners.
- Sea Salt – Beach BBQs under the stars, a must-do during your stay.
- Ottoman Lounge – Turkish-style café serving shisha, teas, and Middle Eastern treats.
- Private Dining – From sandbank picnics to in-villa dinners, Ayada offers customizable experiences.
Surfers especially appreciate the variety — plenty of fresh, healthy fuel for long sessions in the water.
You can also choose to upgrade to the Crystal or Diamond all inclusive packages, which includes dine around meals as well as all your drinks too, both soft drinks and alcoholic.
Surfing at Ayada Maldives
The Surf Pass System
Because Ayada doesn’t have a wave directly out front, surfing here is organised through surf day passes and their experienced surf team.
- Day Passes include a minimum of two daily boat trips to nearby breaks.
- Surfers are divided into groups based on ability:
- Experienced surfers are taken to heavier, more advanced waves like Tiger Stripes or Blue Bowls.
- Developing surfers head to mellower options like Two Ways or Love Charms when conditions suit.
- For those looking for coaching or learning to surf, there are some awesome waves on offer around Ayada that are perfect for getting to grips with the surf.
This system ensures you’re always getting the best waves for your level, and it keeps the lineups organized and safe. It also means if you’re travelling with mixed levels of surfer, everyone has an epic time!
The Waves
The Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is wave-rich, with consistent swells from March through November.
- Love Charms – A long, playful left with multiple take-off zones.
- Two Ways – A fun peak offering both lefts and rights. Perfect for intermediates.
- Tiger Stripes – A powerful left-hander with steep walls and barrel sections, better for advanced surfers.
- Blue Bowls – A mechanically perfect right with long walls and the potential for barrels.
- Five Islands – A consistent right with long rides and room for turns.
Unlike resorts with one “house wave,” Ayada’s variety means you can chase the best conditions each day and there’s plenty on offer for all swell and wind directions.
Surf Season
- March – May – Smaller, glassy conditions, ideal for intermediates and progression.
- June – August – Peak swell season, with bigger, more consistent swells.
- September – November – Consistent, clean waves with favourable winds and slightly fewer crowds.
Other Facilities at Ayada
Even if you’re surfing twice a day, there’s plenty more to fill your time. It also means if you’re being joined by non surfers they’ll have plenty to keep them busy whilst you’re chasing waves!
- AySpa – A 3500sqm sanctuary with hammam, hydrotherapy pool, and wellness treatments.
- Fitness Centre & Yoga – Stay surf-fit with gym sessions or balance it out with yoga overlooking the ocean.
- Diving & Snorkelling – The southern atolls are some of the richest dive areas in the Maldives, with mantas, reef sharks, and pristine coral. Ayada also has some of the best house reef of any resort in the Maldives.
- Water Sports – SUP, kayaking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and jet skis.
- Kids Club – One of the best in the Maldives, making Ayada a good family option.
- Cultural Activities – Maldivian cooking classes, music nights, and art workshops.
Day Trips and Excursions
Ayada’s remote location means day trips have a truly off-the-beaten-path feel.
- Uninhabited Island Picnics – Spend a day on a deserted island with nothing but sand, sea, and a gourmet picnic.
- Local Island Tours – Visit fishing villages to learn about Maldivian life beyond the resorts.
- Dolphin watching – The southern atolls are prime for spotting dolphins
- Fishing Trips – From hand-line reef fishing to big game.
- Outer Atoll Surf/Dive Safaris – For the adventurous, longer trips to outer reefs with even fewer crowds.
Why Surfers Choose Ayada
- Wave Variety – Unlike single-break resorts, Ayada offers access to multiple world-class waves.
- Surf Pass System – Tailored trips for both advanced and developing surfers.
- Crowd Factor – The extra travel time and remote location means less surfers in the water
- Luxury Accommodation – Villas with plunge pools and five-star service.
- Remote Location – Fewer surfers overall compared to resorts near Malé.
Booking Surf Packages at Ayada Maldives
You can book your surf trip to Niyama through Stoked Surf Adventures – our surf travel experts can piece together your perfect surf-specific packages, This includes all your domestic tranfsers, surf passes, and answer any questions you have about villa options, meal plans, travel logistics and more.
Less stress, more surfing!
CLICK HERE TO GET A QUOTE FOR AYADA RESORT
Final Thoughts
Ayada Maldives is a surf hub with a difference. Rather than staking your trip on one wave, you’ll explore a handful of world-class reefs, guided by experienced surf staff, and matched to the best conditions for your ability. Off the water, the luxury villas, fine dining, spa, and excursions make it one of the most well-rounded Maldivian resorts on offer.
If you’re chasing a balance of wave variety, remote exclusivity, and uncompromising luxury, Ayada should be on your list. We’ll take care of all the details so all that’s left is to pack your boards and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.