Gili Lankanfushi: Sanctuary of Serenity and Luxurious Simplicity After flying overnight from London, I was running on pure adrenaline and excitement. Gili Lankanfushi had been on my bucket list for twenty years, and as I stepped off the speedboat onto the soft wooden jetty, it hit me—I was finally here. The kind of pinch-me moment that only the Maldives can deliver.
Even though I’ve been lucky enough to visit some of the most incredible resorts in the world, there was something different about this arrival. No over-the-top welcome, no overwhelming fanfare—just warm smiles, barefoot luxury, and that unmistakable sense of peace that Gili is known for.
Location
Situated just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, Gili Lankanfushi offers a quick escape from the airport but feels worlds away from anywhere. The resort is strategically nestled in one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives, surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it a secluded haven for those seeking privacy and natural beauty. The design of the resort is mindful, blending into the landscape so that even at full capacity, the feeling of solitude is never compromised.
Accommodation
At Gili Lankanfushi, the villas aren’t just places to stay—they’re an experience in themselves. Built entirely over water and crafted from natural materials like wood and thatch, they blend seamlessly into the surroundings, letting nature take centre stage. There’s no unnecessary excess, just thoughtful design that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of the ocean—waking up to the sound of waves, feeling the sea breeze drift through open spaces, and watching the sun melt into the horizon from your private deck.
Inside, the villas strike that perfect balance between rustic charm and effortless luxury. Think driftwood mirrors, handcrafted furniture, and soft, neutral tones that let the views do all the talking. And for those who love the idea of sleeping under the stars, each villa has a top deck with a daybed, where you can spend the night outside, completely surrounded by nature. Sadly, it rained during my stay, so I didn’t get the chance—but if anything, that’s just another reason to come back. I can already imagine drifting off under a Maldivian night sky, with nothing but the gentle sounds of the ocean around me.
I stayed in Villa 8, perfectly positioned for uninterrupted island views. My private deck quickly became my sanctuary—whether I was sinking into the oversized bathtub, swaying in the hammock over the water, or simply stretching out on a sun lounger with nowhere to be and nothing to do but take it all in.
Dining
If there’s one thing Gili Lankanfushi does exceptionally well (aside from, well, everything), it’s food. Every meal feels like an experience in itself, with ingredients as fresh as they come—many plucked straight from the island’s organic garden.
Kashiveli, the main restaurant, serves up a mix of international flavours with a Maldivian twist. Think freshly caught seafood, vibrant curries, and dishes that celebrate the island’s natural bounty. Breakfast here was a dream—homemade pastries, tropical fruit, and juices so fresh they taste like sunshine. But what truly took me by surprise was being handed a personalised breakfast menu. Such an unexpected and incredibly thoughtful touch, making the already special experience feel even more bespoke.
For a more laid-back vibe, The Overwater Bar is the perfect spot to graze on seafood platters and small bites while watching the sun dip into the horizon. There’s something magical about sitting over the water, cocktail in hand, with the warm ocean breeze carrying the scent of the grill.
And then there’s By the Sea—a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant that completely took me by surprise. I wasn’t expecting to find such bold flavours in the middle of the Indian Ocean, but every bite was an explosion of freshness and creativity. Definitely not one to miss.
For something a little more interactive (and indulgent), the Underground Wine Cellar and Chocolate Cave is a must. The sommelier leads you through tastings of some incredible wines, paired with handcrafted chocolates that are almost too beautiful to eat. Almost.
The Spa
Gili Lankanfushi’s Meera Spa is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Perched over the water, with glass floor panels revealing the reef below, it’s the kind of place where relaxation comes naturally. From traditional massages to holistic rituals inspired by wellness practices from around the world, every treatment is designed to restore balance and melt away stress.
As luck would have it, it rained on my arrival and for most of my first day—so I took it as the perfect excuse to spend a few hours at the spa. Listening to both the waves and the soft rhythm of the rain while completely unwinding was pure bliss. It was one of the most relaxing spa experiences I’ve ever had, and honestly, I’d highly recommend booking in as soon as you arrive. It’s the perfect way to shake off the jet lag and fully immerse yourself in Gili’s effortlessly peaceful way of life.
For those who prefer a more active approach to wellness, Gili also offers a fully equipped overwater gym with panoramic ocean views. And if being in the water is more your thing, there’s no shortage of ways to explore—whether it’s snorkelling, diving, or kayaking across the crystal-clear lagoon. The Ocean Paradise Dive Centre opens the door to some of the most vibrant dive sites in the atoll, where experienced guides lead unforgettable underwater explorations.
Staying
Gili Lankanfushi greets its guests with a philosophy that feels revolutionary in its simplicity: “No News, No Shoes.” From the moment you step off the boat, you’re invited to slip off your shoes, slow down, and fully embrace the island’s barefoot way of life. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s a mindset shift, one that instantly makes you feel more present, more connected to your surroundings, and a world away from the usual rush of everyday life.
Adding to the seamless ease of a stay here is the presence of your very own Mr. or Ms. Friday—a dedicated host who takes care of everything, often before you even realise you need it. It’s the kind of effortless service that never feels overbearing—just intuitive and perfectly timed. Whether it’s arranging a sunset dolphin cruise, setting up an intimate dinner under the stars, or simply making sure your villa always has your favourite snacks stocked, their attention to detail is next level. That said, one thing to note is that Gili isn’t as remote as some other Maldivian islands. While most of the resort feels completely secluded, some villas do have a direct view of local islands or distant industrial activity on the horizon. From other parts of the island, you’d never even notice it. If you’re someone who craves uninterrupted ocean views from every angle, it’s worth checking which villa you book. Personally, once I settled into the island’s laid-back rhythm, it wasn’t something that took away from the experience—but it’s good to know if absolute isolation is what you’re after.
But what really makes Gili special is that, despite its ultra-luxurious setting, everything feels relaxed, unpretentious, and deeply personal. There’s no scripted service, no rigid schedules—just the freedom to slow down and experience the island exactly how you want to.
Snorkelling
Explore the vibrant marine life at Gili Lankanfushi’s house reef, just a short swim from the beach where a 15-meter drop-off unveils a spectacular underwater scene. Turtles, rays, small sharks, and schools of vividly coloured fish thrive among the stunning coral walls. Their resident marine biologist leads guided snorkeling tours, sharing insights into the diverse species and the resort's coral restoration projects.
Sustainability is deeply ingrained in every aspect of Gili Lankanfushi. The resort's eco-friendly practices encompass waste management, water conservation, and enhancing biodiversity. Dedicated to maintaining a harmonious relationship with its environment
Final Word - Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
"Arrive as a guest, leave as a friend, and return as family.” That’s not just a sentiment at Gili Lankanfushi—it’s the reality. From the moment you step onto the island, there’s an unmistakable sense that you’re somewhere special. A place where luxury isn’t about excess, but about the little details, the heartfelt connections, and the way every experience feels entirely your own"
If you feel inspired to visit or have more questions about picking the perfect resort, contact me and I'll help curate your ideal trip. Book with me
Jane
PS - I can't wait to return, I might just see you there, if so, say hi!