Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Review – 5-Star Luxury in the Maldives

Thinking of visiting Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives? This Sun Siyam Iru Fushi review covers its location on Noonu Atoll in the Indian Ocean, accommodations, dining, activities, and value.

When we planned our visit Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, we didn’t really know what to expect.

We had read reviews and scoured the internet for photos and videos about the Maldives’ 5-star resort, but nothing could have prepared us for the experience that awaited us.

From the moment we stepped off the speedboat and wandered into the private oasis, everything exceeded our wildest dreams.

Our adventure began with a short boat ride from the neighbouring Siyam World, another Sun Siyam property we had spent 5 nights in, that we reached via a picturesque 45-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport in Malé.

We had already been rewarded with aerial views of the Maldivian atolls, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs around Iru Fushi, and gazed across at it from our villa in Siyam World, so we knew we were in for an absolutely breathtaking scene.

Once we stepped off the boat we were greeted with warm smiles and a refreshing drink, even in the short downpour that hit as approached.

Black-tip reef sharks swam beneath jetty, palm trees swayed in the wind and between the tropical forest the sounds of soft music drifted towards us.

We couldn’t wait to start exploring.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Review

After our initial introduction to the Maldives over at Sun Siyam’s latest property, Siyam World, we had very high expectations of what would come next when we made our way to Iru Fushi.

It turns out things could only get better, and while Siyam World was a bursting from the seams with both beauty and action-packed days, Iru Fushi was more of the classic Maldives experience we had envisioned.

Iru Fushi was a far more relaxed vibe, with the sound of gentle waves lapping against the shore in front of our private pool being the perfect way to start each day.

The resort also boasts a private beach with exclusive cabanas, offering scenic views over the Indian Ocean, making it a luxurious and romantic experience for guests.

The lush greenery, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters provided a picturesque backdrop for a luxurious getaway that felt like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

That didn’t mean we were left wanting for things to do each day. In fact we managed to fill the daylight hours with an incredible amount of things to do, which you’ll discover further down in the article.

Did this place turn into our ultimate Maldives escape though? Read on in our Sun Siyam Iru Fushi review to find out….

Key Takeaways

• Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in Maldives offers a blend of seclusion and convenience, accessible via a 45-minute seaplane ride or a combination of a 35-minute domestic flight and 45-minute boat transfer from Malé.
• The resort provides a variety of luxurious accommodation options, including beach villas, water villas, and family suites, all equipped with modern amenities and designed to cater to different guest preferences.
• Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers extensive leisure activities, including water sports, spa treatments, and various dining experiences across 14 restaurants and bars, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable stay for all guests.

Where is Iru Fushi Located?

Nestled in the heart of the Noonu Atoll, at its southern tip of the atoll, Iru Fushi is approximately 200km north of Malé.

Set on a remote island archipelago in the Indian Ocean, this stunning location offers a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both tranquility and convenience.

The island’s lush greenery, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters provide a picturesque backdrop for a luxurious getaway.

How to Get to Iru Fushi

The journey to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an adventure itself.

Guests can opt for a 45-minute picturesque seaplane ride from Velana International Airport in Malé, or alternatively, a two-step journey involving a 35-minute domestic flight to Maafaru Airport and a 45-minute boat transfer is also available.

Both options offer breathtaking views of the Maldivian atolls and the vibrant turquoise waters, ensuring that thee journey to paradise begins the moment you leave Malé.

Seaplane

There’s no better way to arrive to your resort in the Maldives than via seaplane, and honestly we feel this is part of the entire experience that should not be missed.

The journey begins at Velana International Airport in Malé, where you will be greeted by a representative from Iru Fushi and escorted to the nearby seaplane terminal.

The seaplane ride takes approximately 45 minutes and provides stunning aerial views of the Maldivian atolls, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs below.

Once you land at the resort’s dedicated seaplane platform, you will be welcomed by the friendly staff and offered a refreshing drink.

From there it’s just a short stroll to the beach, where your holiday will finally begin.

The seaplane transfer will be organised for you by the resort once you book your trip.

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Domestic Flight and Speedboat

For those who would prefer to skip the seaplane transfer, the journey to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi can also be done via a domestic flight and speedboat.

First you jump on a 35-minute domestic flight from Velana International Airport in Malé to Maafaru Airport.

From Maafaru Airport it’s then just 45 minutes by speedboat to the resort.

The boat is equipped with comfortable seating and refreshments to ensure a pleasant trip.

Both the domestic flight and speedboat transfer can be organised by the resort once you book your trip, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey to your tropical getaway.

It will also work out slightly cheaper than the seaplane.

The Perfect Maldives Escape – Touch Down Iru Fushi

Our trip from Siyam World to Iru Fushi was one we were eagerly looking forward to.

As we neared the island heavy rain began to fall, but it didn’t dampen our spirits. In fact, the rain seemed to make everything look even more lush and vibrant and added a touch of intrigue to our approach.

The moment we stepped off the boat we were greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality from the staff.

Their friendliness made us feel right at home, and despite the rain, the island’s beauty was striking.

Palm trees swayed gently, and the sound of the waves was incredibly soothing.

We made our way to the bar and were offered a delicious welcome drink, with hints of fresh fruit tantilising the taste buds.

The atmosphere was cozy, with the rain adding a comforting backdrop while guests relaxed with cocktails in hand, playing boardgames.

After enjoying our drinks and stepping through the check-in formalities, including downloading the Iru Fushi app where our entire itinerary was on file and we could make any extra bookings, our concierge Azzam arrived to take us to our accommodation.

Jumping in the buggy we drove across the island, with Azzam pointing out the different restaurants, bars and attractions that were at our beck and call.

It only took a few minutes before we arrived at our accommodation for the next few nights, and we knew immediately we were in for a special stay.

Our Accommodation – Deluxe Beach Villa with Pool

Azzam led us to the entrance of our Deluxe Beach Villa with Pool, unlocked the front door and gestured us to step inside.

Our jaws immediately dropped.

The Deluxe Beach Villa with Pool was nothing short of a dream come true.

The interior was spectacularly decorated with intricate timber architecture, with an enormous king size bed right in the centre of the circular main room.

Just outside through the sprawling glass sliding doors we spotted by a stunning view of our private pool, glistening under the Maldivian sun and surrounded by a lush, tropical jungle and a day bed at the end of a winding path.

Behind the bed another timber door led to the bathroom, which in itself was a wonderful feature and better than we ever could have expected.

There was a large, private outdoor jacuzzi in the centre of the space, with an open-air shower on one side, an outdoor shower, and an enclosed shower tucked away in the corner.

If a bathroom can make you say ‘wow’, you know you’ve found somewhere special.

Stepping outside there were a couple of chairs and a large separate lounge for relaxing, but the private pool was the real highlight.

Just beyond a path led through the trees towards the beach, and while it was out of sight from our villa, the fact that we were so close to the sea was truly wonderful.

Being part of the all-inclusive package also meant all the amenities, including mini-bar, was complimentary throughout our entire stay. Although to be honest, we didn’t really touch the mini-bar as there were no shortage of food and drinks the entire time we were at Iru Fushi.

What really made our stay special was the personalised service. Our concierge, Azzam, was amazing – he made sure we had everything we needed and even helped us plan some fantastic excursions.

In short our Deluxe Beach Villa with Pool was the perfect tropical retreat. It offered a wonderful mix of privacy, luxury, and natural beauty that made our stay at Iru Fushi truly unforgettable.

Other Accommodation Options at Iru Fushi

If the Deluxe Beach Villa with Pool isn’t quite your style, don’t worry – Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has a variety of other accommodation options that are equally impressive, each offering its own unique charm.

For those who love being directly over the water, the Sunset Horizon Water Villas and Infinity Water Villa are an excellent choice.

These villas provide stunning views of the ocean right from your private sun deck. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves and stepping out to see the sun rising over the turquoise waters – it’s a pretty magical experience.

Plus, having direct access to the lagoon means you can go for a swim or snorkel whenever you fancy.

Families or larger groups might prefer the Deluxe Family Beach Villas. These spacious accommodations come with two king size bedrooms and living areas, ensuring everyone has plenty of room to relax and enjoy.

The villas are set amidst lush greenery, offering a sense of privacy and a great spot for some quality family time in this hidden retreat.

If you want something a bit more budget friendly, the pool beach villa options are perfect and don’t skimp on any of the luxuries.

There’s also the famous Celebrity Retreat, which has housed some big names over the years complete with private courtyard, its very own private beach and large swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery.

No matter which type of accommodation you choose, you can expect modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and a serene environment that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy your holiday.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi truly has something for everyone, making it a fantastic choice for a memorable getaway.

Restaurants at Iru Fushi, Maldives

With a diverse array of dining options, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is as much about culinary experiences as it is relaxation and romance.

With 14 restaurants and bars, there’s no shortage of places to indulge in a wide range of cuisines and dining styles, both casual and gourmet.

Looking for some incredible seafood? Stop by Islanders Grill for the freshest fish imaginable.

Love Asian cuisine? Bamboo Restaurant has you covered.

Or if you want something a bit more casual you’ll find everything you would ever crave at Iru Restaurant.

The variety of dining options ensures that there is always something new and exciting to try during your stay.

Main Restaurants

The main Iru Restaurant at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers an extensive international buffet with a wide variety of dishes from around the world for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Guests can enjoy freshly baked bread, sweets, and a selection of international cuisines, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all.

The restaurant’s buffet-style setup allows guests to sample a range of flavors and dishes in a relaxed and casual setting.

One of the highlights of the main restaurant is the live cooking stations, where chefs prepare dishes in front of guests, allowing them to watch the preparation process and have dishes made to their preference.

Themed nights add an extra layer of excitement, offering a variety of international cuisines and ensuring that there is always something new to look forward to.

The breakfasts and lunches available in the dining pavilion were honestly some of the best we’ve seen at any luxury hotel, and we couldn’t believe the variety and quality of what was on offer.

Ready for a foodie adventure?

Specialty Dining

For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers several specialty restaurants.

Flavours, the French fine dining restaurant is renowned for its gourmet dishes and elegant atmosphere, providing a sophisticated dining experience for guests.

Bamboo has a collection of divine Southeast Asian meals that offer a fusion of authentic regional tastes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

The Trio is the Italian overwater restaurant providing a very special dining experience with authentic Italian dishes and panoramic ocean views.

And of course the Taste of India has the best, you guessed it, Indian dishes you’ll find anywhere in the Maldives.

Most of the speciality restaurants need to be reserved ahead of time, and you can either do this before you arrive to Iru Fushi or by asking your concierge to make a booking for you.

The freshest tuna steak you can get at Islanders Grill.

Bars and Lounges

Iru Fushi of course also boasts a variety of bars and lounges, each offering its own unique ambiance and selection of drinks.

The No Mistake beachside bar provides a relaxed beachside setting with stunning sunset views, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of activities. This is where we found ourselves every night for a sundowner.

Guests can enjoy a wide range of cocktails, wines, and other beverages while soaking in gorgeous views.

Right next door is Reflections, with a massive pool and a larger selection of cocktails and mocktails.

Fluid is the family-friendly bar complete with a massive lagoon-style swimming pool, so if you’re travelling with kids chances are you’ll spend plenty of time here.

The Bubble Lounge is a standout, offering a selection of premium champagne and sparkling wines in an casual and sophisticated setting.

And if you love your wine you must book in at The Cellar, the exclusive, underground bar that is on a reservation-only status and home to the finest wines and champagnes in the country.

Sadly we didn’t get a chance to enjoy a drink here, which just means we’ll have to come back one day.

Other lounges and bars around the resort offer regular evening entertainment and a variety of drink options, ensuring that there is always a place to relax and enjoy the evening.

Facilities at Iru Fushi

Iru Fushi is perfectly established as a luxury rejuvenation centre with a focus on health and wellness.

The standard facilities that one would expect at a 5-star resort are of course there, such as free WiFi throughout the property, daily housekeeping, laundry and 24-hour room service, ensuring that every need is meticulously taken care of.

Each accommodation comes equipped with personal safes, luxury bathroom amenities, and iron and ironing boards, while air conditioning and ceiling fans in all rooms guarantee a comfortable stay.

It is all the other features that set Iru Fushi apart though.

Spa and Wellness

The award winning Spa at Iru Fushi is a peaceful retreat, perfect for getting away from the daily grind. The manicured tropical garden is vast and pristine, creating a calming environment to relax and recharge.

Among the luxurious amenities, the spa features a serene spa room, ideal for unwinding and enjoying personalised treatments.

Signature Treatments

The spa boasts an impressive menu of signature treatments, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences.

There are traditional Thai and Balinese massages right through to modern therapeutic techniques, so no doubt you’ll find something for everyone.

The experienced therapists use high-quality products to ensure that each treatment leaves you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Hydrotherapy Pools and Steam Rooms

One of the standout features of the spa is its hydrotherapy pools and steam rooms. These facilities offer a unique way to relax and detoxify, and we spent an hour relaxing in one of them.

It’s included as part of the all-inclusive package, so make sure you take advantage of it.

Spa Café

For those who just can’t bare the thought of leaving the spa (we don’t blame you), the Spa Café offers a selection of healthy drinks and snacks that will beckon you to stay a little longer than anticipated.

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a light refreshment after your treatment. The café’s menu is crafted to complement the wellness experience, featuring nutritious options that are both delicious and satisfying.

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Wellness Programs

The Spa at Iru Fushi also offers comprehensive wellness programs tailored to meet specific health goals.

Whether you’re looking for a quick pampering session or a full-day retreat, the programs are designed to provide a holistic approach to well-being.

These programs often include a combination of treatments, fitness activities, and nutritional guidance.

Pools

Even though the bluest sea water you’ll ever see is right at your toes, Iru Fushi has a few glorious pools that you can also enjoy if you feel like a break from the ocean.

The resort also features a family pool, a child-friendly area catering to the whole family’s leisure and relaxation needs.

And we’re not just talking about the large private pool and private jacuzzi that you have in your villa.

There’s the sprawling pool at Reflections, the adults-only bar, which is the ultimate getaway if you want to read a good book with drink in hand.

For those who are travelling with kids, Fluid also has a landscaped, large swimming pool with an adjoining bar.

Fitness and Sports

For guests looking to stay active during their stay, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers a well-equipped fitness centre with state-of-the-art gym equipment and personal training sessions.

In addition to the fitness center, the resort offers group fitness classes such as aerobics and aqua aerobics, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

Other sports facilities include a yoga pavilion and tennis courts field, providing ample opportunities for guests to stay active and engaged during their stay.

Kids Club

The complimentary Kidz Club, known as ‘Kidz World’, offers a range of fun-filled activities for children aged 4-12, focusing on learning and mindfulness.

Activities include arts and crafts, treasure hunts, and themed parties, ensuring that children have a memorable and enjoyable experience during their stay.

The Kids Club is designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for young guests.

For parents seeking some time to relax, private babysitting services are available upon request. This allows parents to enjoy the resort’s amenities and leisure facilities with peace of mind, knowing that their children are well taken care of.

Activities and Excursions

You could be forgiven for thinking that a holiday at Iru Fushi is all about private dining, sun loungers and pool beach villas without much else to do.

The truth is if you’re looking for a bit of fun, there’s no shortage of options at the resort.

Thanburudhoo Venture – Deserted Island Getaway

The Thanburudhoo Venture is one of the most memorable experiences offered at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, and possibly the best thing we did in the Maldives.

This excursion takes guests to a secluded island where they can enjoy the pristine beauty of the Maldives in complete privacy.

The journey began with a short boat ride out to a couple of different atolls and reefs for snorkelling adventures amongst the stunning turquoise waters.

During our swims we were blown away by how healthy the coral were, and the abundance of marine life was incredible.

After a few hours we then made our way to the magical deserted island – a speck of empty white sand with nobody else around.

We jumped from the boat and straight onto the beach, where a umbrellas, picnic rugs and sun beds were organised around a table covered with fresh fruit, snacks and drinks.

Before taking a seat we did a lap of the island, purely to say we walked around the entire thing, and at one point had one of those ‘what is life?’ moments when it dawned on us that apart from the excursion team at Iru Fushi, we were the only people here.

Pure, empty paradise.

We went back for our picnic and helped ourselves to ice-cold beers and sandwiches, chatting away and being mesmerised by the lapping blue sea.

I even joked that if we weren’t already married, this would be the perfect place to propose to someone.

To add to the adventure a fast but intense squall hit, with rain bucketing down for a few minutes, and we all ran into the ocean laughing and splashing around as the water fell.

Eventually it was time to leave, and before too long we were back at Iru Fushi with the memories of our deserted island etched into our minds.

Here’s a video we put together of the entire experience. If you book just one extra activity at Iru Fushi, make it the Thanburudhoo Venture.

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

The sunset dolphin cruise at Iru Fushi is a must-do experience that showcases the natural beauty and marine life of the Maldives.

Departing in the late afternoon, the cruise offers a chance to see Spinner dolphins in their natural habitat as the sun sets. The resort’s speedboat is comfortable and well-maintained, making it a pleasant trip for everyone.

During the cruise the sunset provides a beautiful backdrop, painting the sky in warm colours. The crew members are friendly and knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts about the dolphins and their behaviour.

They do a great job of really trying to find these beautiful creatures, and on our trip we had the opportunity to see dolphins swimming and jumping around the boat.

The cruise lasts about two hours, giving us plenty of time to enjoy the experience. Sparkling white wine and light refreshments are served on board, adding to the enjoyment.

This excursion is a great way to spend an evening at Iru Fushi, combining relaxation with the excitement of seeing dolphins in the wild.

Note – Just remember that the dolphins are wild animals, and sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Water Sports

For water sports enthusiasts, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers a variety of activities to cater to thrill seekers and casual enthusiasts alike.

You can choose from windsurfing, kiteboarding, jet skiing, kayaking or wakeboarding, and we personally went wakeboarding and kayaking in the lagoon.

Kayaking is included in your all-inclusive package, while the motor sports cost extra.

Snorkelling and Diving Safaris

You simply cannot come all the way to the Maldives and not go snorkelling or diving at least once.

Or if you’re like us, multiple times a day.

The resort’s vibrant house reef is a highlight for snorkelling enthusiasts, offering a chance to explore the underwater world up close.

The lagoon is crystal clear and there’s a whole variety of marine life and coral to enjoy, including turtles, sharks and rays (don’t worry, they’re friendly sharks and rays).

The Indian Ocean provides a stunning backdrop for these activities, enhancing the snorkeling and diving experience.

You can also book a snorkelling safari that will take you out to some further reefs.

If you’re a certified diver, or looking to try scuba diving, you can book for a diving safari as well.

We didn’t dive at Iru Fushi, but met some people who did and said it was superb.

Sports and Land-Based Activities

Not too keen to spend all day in the water? No problem!

At Iru Fushi there’s also a whole bunch of land-based activities to enjoy.

Guests can enjoy a game of tennis on the resort’s full-size, floodlit tennis courts, providing ample opportunity for friendly matches or serious games.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the resort offers nature walks through lush tropical vegetation, allowing guests to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Creative activities such as craft classes are perfect for guests looking to indulge their artistic side. The resort also boasts a billiards room for indoor recreation, providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere for socialising and entertainment.

Is the All-Inclusive Meal Plan Worth It?

When you book a stay at Iru Fushi you can either go for a standard package or opt for the all-inclusive meal plan.

In our opinion it is absolutely worth going for the all-inclusive.

While the normal deals won’t let you go hungry, the all-inclusive gives you the freedom to eat where you want, when you want, with most drinks included.

It’s a tremendous flexibility to have and really adds a whole new layer of relaxation to your holiday as you aren’t constantly thinking about how much more you are spending.

In our opinion it’s definitely worth booking the All-Inclusive Meal Plan so you can eat as much as you like while here.

Accessibility

Committed to ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi caters to all guests, even those who require special accessibility.

The resort features accessible pathways throughout the property, ensuring easy movement for guests with disabilities.

Specially designed rooms are available, which include features such as wider doors and grab bars in bathrooms, providing added convenience and safety.

The resort offers the following accessibility features for guests who might need an extra hand:

• Trained staff to assist guests with disabilities
• Dedicated parking spaces located close to the main facilities
• Accessibility requirements can be notified in advance to ensure needs are met during the stay

These features aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests, especially in the bedroom and living area.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Review – 9.5/10

This was the best resort we have ever stayed in.

Yes, that’s a massive call to make for a couple who have travelled the world for 16 years non-stop.

But we’re sticking to that claim.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi offers a next level luxurious experience in one of the most stunning parts of the Maldives.

The magnificent vistas and exquisite accommodations matched with its diverse dining options and extensive leisure activities all come together to create something special.

And as amazing as everything was, it was the staff that truly elevated this 5-star resort into something exceptional.

Every team member we encountered, from the housekeepers to the restaurant staff, our concierge Azzam and the activity staff (ok the water sports guys acted a little ‘too cool for school’, but even they were nice and helpful) were constantly smiling and went above and beyond with every service they offered.

Honestly, as amazing as a resort’s facilities can be, if it doesn’t have the best staff possible, it’s going to fall flat. And this is why Iru Fushi is so damn good.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi provides the perfect setting for a dream holiday.

And with that, we give it a confident 9.5/10. It was so amazing that we would go back again in a heartbeat.

We hope this review has inspired you to consider this remarkable destination for your next vacation.