Sun Siyam Olhuveli Review: Affordable Luxury in the Maldives

Looking for an honest Sun Siyam Olhuveli review? You’re in the right place. This article will cover everything you need to know about staying at this Maldives resort—from the luxurious rooms and varied dining options to the exciting leisure activities and exceptional service. Perfect for both relaxation and adventure, Sun Siyam Olhuveli has something for everyone.

For 10 days we had lived it up in pure luxury in the north of the Maldives, staying at two incredible 5-star resorts by Sun Siyam.

Every aspect of our experience so far had been superb, and while we easily could have stayed in the Noonu Atoll for months more, it was time to head south and wrap up our trip with 5 nights in one of their other properties, Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

We flew from Iru Fushi to Malé via seaplane, which is always a sensational adventure, and then headed to the port to board a speedboat for the 45-minute journey to Olhuveli.

After a bit of a delay waiting for guests on other flights to arrive we eventually headed off, zipping across the crystal-clear waters en route to paradise.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed review of Siyam World, Sun Siyam’s newest 5-star resort!

We arrived to the sounds of smiling Maldivians playing the drums, met our concierge Hannah and were whisked away by golf buggy to a nearby restaurant for the check-in formalities.

Cold drinks were served along with some snacks while the paperwork was completed, and then it was time to head to our villa.

Swaying palm trees above, white sand below and a warm breeze all added to the tropical vibes as we bounced our way around the enormous 3-island resort, surrounded by the stunning turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

We had high expectations from the other two Sun Siyam resorts, and were curious whether this one would exceed or fall short of what we had experienced previously.

So it was time to see what we could find.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli Review – The Best 4-Star Resort in the Maldives?

After our unforgettable stay at Sun Siyam’s Iru Fushi and Siyam World, we had sky-high expectations for our next destination, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, a luxurious resort that embodies the quintessential Maldives experience.

Could this resort possibly top our previous experiences?

Olhuveli immediately impressed us with its sprawling, three-island layout and the instant sense of tropical paradise.

The vibe here appeared to be a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, and we saw plenty of people swimming and kayaking in the turquoise lagoon.

The resort features exclusive beachfront cabanas with breathtaking views, as well as the classic overwater bungalows that are best known in the Maldives.

While the serene environment was perfect for unwinding, we could tell that we would never be short of activities to fill our days.

From water sports to spa treatments, Sun Siyam Olhuveli offers something for everyone, ensuring that our days were as action-packed or as laid-back as we wanted.

Did Sun Siyam Olhuveli become our ultimate Maldivian escape? Keep reading to find out in our detailed review…

Key Takeaways

• Sun Siyam Olhuveli offers luxurious accommodations across three islands in the South Male Atoll, with options including beachfront villas, water villas, and spacious suites, all designed for comfort and privacy.
• The resort features a wide range of dining options and bars, catering to diverse culinary preferences through beachfront grills, fine dining, buffet meals, and an all-inclusive meal plan.
• Guests can enjoy numerous leisure activities at Sun Siyam Olhuveli, such as water sports, snorkelling, scuba diving, spa treatments, and evening entertainment, ensuring a memorable and entertaining stay.
• There is an ‘Adults Only’ island, where the minimum age is 18.

Where is Olhuveli Located?

Conveniently located in the turquoise waters of the South Male Atoll, Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a luxurious resort only 45 minutes by speedboat from the capital, Malé.

It’s important to note that the closeness of Olhuveli to the city means that it is not as exclusive or private as the harder-to-reach islands, but it comes with a much lower price point to match.

And it’s still as beautiful as you could ever imagine.

How to Get to Olhuveli

The journey to Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives begins at Velana International Airport, where a welcoming resort representative assists with the necessary speedboat transfer, facilitating the journey from the airport to this island paradise.

The speedboat ride, which takes approximately 45 minutes, is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the Maldivian waters and complimentary onboard WiFi to keep you connected.

The cost of the return transfer is around USD$250 per adult ($125 for children), and makes the whole journey effortless.

Once at the resort, golf buggies and electric mini-buses are available to help guests navigate the sprawling property with ease.

Postcard Paradise in the Maldives – Welcome to Olhuveli

Once we completed the check-in, our concierge Hannah drove us around the resort, over a long bridge to the next island and towards our accommodation.

One of the first things we noticed was how seamlessly the resort blends luxury with nature.

The villas we spotted were harmoniously integrated into the palms and sand, and every corner we passed was the definition of tranquil.

As we rounded our way into the second island we took a turn towards a long pier with the famous overwater bungalows that we had heard so much about.

Alesha’s mouth went wide-open in disbelief.

We had been told that the overwater villas were fully booked when we organised our stay, but apparently there had been a cancellation and we were upgraded for the first two nights.

Giddy with excitement we pulled up outside our villa, anxious to open the door and catch a glimpse of what was waiting for us.

The Accommodation at Olhuveli

Now it was time to explore the best accommodation options at the resort.

Our First Stay – Grand Water Villa with Pool

The Grand Water Villa with Pool at Sun Siyam Olhuveli was an extraordinary experience of luxury and comfort, and one of those bucket list moments that we had travelled all the way to the Maldives for.

As we entered the villa we were immediately captivated by the spacious living area, adorned with elegant, modern furnishings that perfectly complemented the breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing panoramic views of the crystal-clear lagoon.

The bedroom, with its plush king-sized bed and high-quality linens, promised us restful nights in sheer comfort.

There was a fully-stocked minibar with drinks and snacks (complimentary if you’re on the All-Inclusive package) and plenty of luxury amenities throughout.

The bedroom in our Grand Water Villa with Pool was large and comfortable.

Even the bathroom is luxurious!

The en-suite bathroom was a sanctuary in itself, featuring a deep soaking tub and a rain shower. Additionally, some villas come with a private hot tub, adding to the luxurious experience.

Stepping outside we soon discovered what all the hype is about with overwater bungalows.

The vast expanse of crystal seas were all around our private deck, with fish swimming literally beneath our feet.

Equipped with comfortable sun loungers and a private plunge pool, the deck provided an idyllic space to unwind and take in the serene surroundings.

We immediately fell in love, and could picture ourselves laying in the sun for days on end.

Our stay in the overwater villa was short however, and with a few massive days planned we didn’t get to take full advantage of the experience.

If we could wind back the clock we definitely would have scheduled in a day of nothing to really soak up the accommodation.

Our Second Stay – Grand Beach Suite with Pool

We have something to admit – the overwater villas are very cool, but personally we preferred staying on the beach.

Why?

There’s nothing better than stepping out of your villa, with a hot coffee in hand, and walking a few steps through golden sand and straight into the calm sea.

Case in point, our next stay in the Grand Beach Suite with Pool at Sun Siyam Olhuveli felt like stepping into a slice of paradise.

As soon as we walked in, the spacious living area with its modern yet cozy design made us feel right at home.

The initial entrance had wardrobes to hang our cloths and a small work desk, which we immediately turned into a charging station for our cameras.

To the left, bedroom boasted a king-sized bed wrapped in flowers and luxury bedding. There was the standard fully-stocked minibar, all complimentary as we were here on the All-Inclusive Package, and another work desk.

The Grand Beach Suite with Pool was actually our preferred accommodation, purely for beach access.

The sitting room of our villa.

Out the back there was the en-suite bathroom, featuring a large jacuzzi and rain shower, all in a private, enclosed courtyard with a sun bed at one end.

As always though the real beauty was outside, and as we pushed open the floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors we stepped out onto what felt like our own secluded getaway.

The terrace led straight out to our own plunge pool, surrounded by palms and just a few metres away from the beach, offering the exclusivity and comfort of a private pool.

Of all the accommodation we stayed in during our two weeks in the Maldives, the Grand Beach Villa with Pool was our favourite.

Other Accommodation Options

Other than the Grand Beach Suites and Water Villas, Sun Siyam Olhuveli has a variety of other styles and suites to match all budgets and group or family sizes.

These accommodations come with various facilities, including spacious sun decks and private pools, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.

Naturally, they are all equipped with luxury private bathroom amenities, air conditioning, and ceiling fans to provide a relaxing environment.

Whether you’re journeying with an extended family or a band of friends, these spaces provide ample room and modern amenities to ensure a delightful stay.

There’s no shortage of villas at Olhuveli!

Where every room has a view…

If you want the overwater villa experience without all the bells and whistles, you have more affordable options here at Olhuveli as well as the high-end luxury ones.

Restaurants at Olhuveli

Just like the other Sun Siyam resorts we visited, food is a massive part of the experience at Olhuveli.

There are a whole variety of different cuisines to enjoy, with fresh seafood obviously being a major staple. Soft drinks are included in the all-inclusive meal plan, ensuring guests have a variety of beverages to choose from.

If you’re on the all-inclusive package you can eat at any of the main buffet dining places, which are more than fine.

If you would like something a bit more high-end or special though it is definitely worth splurging for the specialty restaurants.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal by the beach or an elegant dining experience, Sun Siyam Olhuveli has something to satisfy every palate.

Main Restaurants

At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, there are a few main restaurants for anyone who just wants the standard fare (with quality of course being very high).

Sunset Restaurant is the go-to spot for buffet-style dining, offering a mix of international dishes with live cooking stations. It’s where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner with beautiful sunset views.

Malaafaiy offers a more tranquil buffet experience, located on the quieter side of the island. The selection is similar to Sunset, with a range of global dishes, but in a more open-air atmosphere.

One thing to note is that while the food at both of these places if good, it’s definitely not the 5-star quality we encountered at Siyam World or Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.

If you want something to remember, check out the following:

Specialty Restaurants

At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, the specialty restaurants go beyond the usual offerings, providing unique dining experiences that stand out.

Maghrib Grill is the spot for fresh seafood and grilled meats, set right on the beach for a relaxed, laid-back meal.

We ate here one night and were absolutely blown away by how tasty the food was and the quality of service.

Siyam Orchid offers a journey through Asian cuisine, featuring Thai, Indian, and Chinese dishes in a beautiful overwater setting.

We ate here one night as well and absolutely loved it.

Namaste is where you’ll find authentic Indian cuisine, with rich flavours and a cozy atmosphere.

Teppanyaki Grill adds a bit of excitement with live cooking shows where chefs prepare Japanese dishes right in front of you.

These restaurants are perfect for when you’re looking to try something different and enjoy a more intimate dining experience.

Bars and Lounges

At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, the bars and lounges offer a range of atmospheres, perfect for unwinding after a day of island activities.

Each spot has its own unique vibe, from the lively energy of the main pool bars to the more tranquil settings where you can enjoy a quiet drink.

Dhoni Bar quickly became our favourite evening hangout. Located right by the main pool, it offered stunning views of the sunset, making it the ideal place to relax as the day wound down.

Every night, we found kicking back in the beanbags on the beach, watching the sunset and sampling a few too many cocktails.

There’s a hammock in the sea right outside the bar, which makes for a fun experience swinging above the waves with a drink in hand.

On one of the nights they had a DJ playing epic sundowner tunes right on the beach, and we were thrilled that the resort puts on these free events for guests.

Sunset from the Dhoni Bar.

Sundowner set from the special guest DJ.

Dhoni Bar.

Lagoon Bar is another standout, perched over the water with panoramic views. It’s a fantastic spot for a mid-day refreshment or a quiet evening drink. The vibe here is more serene, with the gentle sound of the waves adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Dream Bar offers a chic and modern setting, perfect for a more sophisticated evening out. It’s a great place to enjoy a signature cocktail or a glass of wine while soaking in the stylish surroundings.

These bars and lounges each offer something special, but it was the warm atmosphere of Dhoni Bar that made it our nightly retreat, blending great drinks, stunning views, and a relaxed island vibe.

Facilities at Olhuveli

Sun Siyam Olhuveli has plenty of facilities that really make the stay enjoyable. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking to unwind, stay active, or keep the kids entertained.

The Spa

The spa here is a standout and we found it to be a peaceful escape from the rest of the resort.

The treatment rooms overlook the lagoon, which adds a nice touch while you’re getting a massage or facial.

The treatments themselves are a mix of traditional Maldivian techniques and modern approaches, using natural ingredients that leave you feeling completely refreshed.

There’s also an private infinity pool, sauna and steam room, which we took full advantage of on our last full day at the resort.

Pools

Olhuveli has several public pools, and each has its own vibe and appeal.

The main infinity pool near Dhoni Bar is where we spent a lot of our time in the evenings. It’s lively, with plenty of space to swim or just lounge with a drink.

The pool at Dream Bar is arguably the more ‘happening’ of the public pools though, with unreal views over the lagoon and activities such as aqua-aerobics scheduled in.

On those warm afternoons, this is where we’d be found, enjoying a piña colada.

If you’re looking for something quieter, there are more secluded pools around the resort that offer a peaceful retreat too, especially at the ‘adults only’ island.

Fitness and Sports

For those who like to keep active, the fitness center is well-equipped with everything you need, from cardio machines to free weights.

We were impressed by the range of sports facilities, too, like tennis, badminton, and beach volleyball. The resort also has a lot of options for water sports, which we’ll go into further down in our Sun Siyam Olhuveli review.

More pool views.

There’s so much to explore here.

Kids’ Areas

If you’re traveling with kids, Olhuveli has you covered. The kids’ club offers a lot of activities that seemed to keep the little ones entertained, from arts and crafts to outdoor games.

Overall, the facilities at Olhuveli really cater to everyone, whether you’re here to relax, stay active, or just keep the kids happy.

Island Transport

To get around the three massive islands the resort has a number of electric buses that you can jump on at various stops.

During our stay though we found these to be pretty unreliable, and often we would walk the entire way from our villa on one island to wherever we were meant to meet on the second island without seeing a single one drive by.

At times we’d also find most of the buses sitting at reception charging or out of order during the day.

Keep this in mind if you have a specific schedule you need to be somewhere and give yourself ample time to get around.

Activities and Excursions

At Sun Siyam Olhuveli there’s no shortage of things to do, whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of the Maldives or try something new.

The resort offers a wide range of activities and excursions that cater to all interests.

From snorkelling in the vibrant house reef to taking a sunset cruise, there’s always something to keep you entertained.

We found that the variety of options made it easy to balance relaxation with adventure, ensuring that each day brought something different and exciting.

3 Point Snorkelling Excursion

One of the highlights of a stay at Sun Siyam Olhuveli is the Three Point Snorkelling Excursion, which takes guests to three diverse snorkelling spots in the Maldives.

Each spot offers a unique underwater experience, with vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations that are sure to captivate snorkellers of all levels.

The excursion is guided by professional staff, ensuring both safety and an informative experience for all participants.

The adventure began early in the morning as we boarded the boat from the resort’s jetty. The guides gave us a quick briefing on what to expect and how to get the most out of the experience.

Our first stop was a vibrant coral garden. As soon as we entered the water we were surrounded by a stunning array of coral formations, with plenty of beautiful colours and fish.

The diversity of marine life was incredible, with schools of parrotfish, angelfish, and the occasional clownfish darting between the corals.

The clear waters had great visibility, allowing us to fully appreciate the beauty of this underwater world.

The second stop brought us to a location known for its larger marine residents. The current was a bit stronger here, but that only added to the thrill.

We were fortunate to spot a graceful sea turtle on the sea bottom at about 10m deep, as well as a few reef sharks.

Despite their reputation these sharks kept their distance and were fascinating to watch as they swam effortlessly through the water.

The highlight of the tour came at the third stop, where we had the incredible opportunity to swim with tawny nurse sharks.

These gentle giants, which can grow up to three meters long, were surprisingly calm and seemed unfazed by our presence.

It was a surreal experience to be in the water alongside these magnificent creatures, watching them move gracefully through the water.

The guides ensured everyone felt safe and comfortable, and their respect for these animals was evident throughout the encounter.

The 3-Point Snorkelling Tour was easily one of the best experiences we had at Olhuveli.

Scuba Diving

One of the best things to do in the Maldives has to be scuba diving, and here at Sun Siyam Olhuveli you can have the extraordinary chance to discover the vibrant marine life that thrives around here.

The resort’s SSI-certified dive center, located at the end of the jetty, provides easy access to the house reef, as well as boat trips out to different dive sites.

Jarryd did two boat dives at Olhuveli, and they were nothing short of amazing.

Each dive site offered something unique, from vibrant coral walls to fascinating marine life.

The crew made sure they were well-prepared before each dive, giving detailed briefings and making sure all the gear was in top shape.

The boat itself was comfortable, with plenty of space to relax between dives.

As Jarryd descended into the crystal-clear waters, he was greeted by schools of colourful fish, graceful eagle rays, and even a few reef sharks.

Snacks, tea and coffee were included onboard between dives and on the cruise back.

The entire experience was well-organised and truly unforgettable, offering some of the best diving Jarryd has done in years.

You can do your open water course or discover scuba here if you aren’t already certified as well.

Snorkelling the House Reef

Snorkelling the house reef at Sun Siyam Olhuveli was an easy yet rewarding experience.

The reef is close to shore, making it easy to access just by swimming from the jetty, and we were immediately greeted by a variety of colourful fish and healthy corals.

The water visibility was pretty murky close to the beach, but cleared up once we got to the drop off just past the jetty, allowing us to see everything clearly without needing to venture too far.

Free diving down the visibility got even better and we spotted some excellent coral.

It was a great way to spend some time in the water, and we enjoyed being able to explore the reef at our own pace, whenever we felt like it.

Snorkelling gear is included in your stay if you’re on the all-inclusive package.

Watching Manta Rays at the Jetty

This was one of the most unexpected yet truly awesome things to do at Olhuveli – watch the manta rays at night by the jetty!

Every single night as the sun set and the sky darkened, lights were switched on at the end of the jetty and we would head there to chill out and wait for something special.

There are resident manta rays that live close to the island, and most nights they come and feed beneath the pier.

We would sit in awe, watching them glide effortlessly through the water, their wide wings gently flapping as they swam just beneath the surface.

It was mesmerising to see them up close, without even having to get in the water, almost as if they were performing a slow, underwater ballet.

It’s one of those experiences that makes you appreciate the incredible marine life of the Maldives and leaves you with memories that linger long after the trip is over.

And best of all, it is completely free!

Water Sports

If spending the day out on the water sounds like your kind of fun, you will love the options at Olhuveli.

There’s a variety of activities available to suit all skill levels and interests, such as:

• Windsurfing
• Kitesurfing
• Kayaking
• Jet skiing
• Paddleboarding
• Sailing

We tried a few different ones during our stay, like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.

The calm waters around the resort lagoon made it an ideal spot for beginners and more experienced paddlers alike.

The resort offers both single and double kayaks, so we could choose to paddle solo or together. We enjoyed exploring the shallow areas around the island, spotting fish and other marine life in the clear waters below.

Sunset Yoga on the Beach

Another thing you can do at Sun Siyam Olhuveli is join a sunset yoga session on the beach.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll find yourself on the soft sand, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the ocean.

It’s not just about the yoga—it’s the entire experience of unwinding in such a beautiful, serene setting.

The changing colours of the sky, the gentle breeze, and the tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect way to end the day, leaving you feeling relaxed and connected to the natural beauty around you.

Is the All-Inclusive Meal Plan Worth it?

The all-inclusive meal plan at Sun Siyam Olhuveli covers a wide range of dining options, including buffet-style meals, beachfront grills, and overwater bars.

Guests can choose from Bed and Breakfast, Half Board, Full Board, and All-Inclusive plans, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience throughout their stay.

It also includes standard drinks and cocktails, but not the high-end liquor.

Personally we thought having the meal plan was well worth it, as it allowed us to eat what we wanted and drink whenever we felt like without having to worry about extra fees at the end.

Accessibility

Sun Siyam Olhuveli is committed to providing a welcoming environment for all guests, including those with disabilities.

The resort features wheelchair-friendly pathways and specific room adaptations to ensure comfort and convenience. These accessibility features make it possible for everyone to enjoy the beauty and luxury of the resort without any barriers.

Room for Improvement – The Customer Service

While just about everything at Sun Siyam Olhuveli was fantastic, there was one thing we found to be lacking, especially when compared to the other Sun Siyam resorts – their customer service.

Many of the staff were absolutely wonderful and made our stay very enjoyable, but there were more than a handful of occasions where we were left scratching our heads.

Our concierge for example was excellent when we first checked in, then basically became a ghost, taking more than a day to respond to simple messages and questions, and giving all kinds of wrong information when asked.

It got to the point where we just gave up on messaging her and instead talked to other staff members, as she became so unreliable.

Yes, we realise that’s a first world problem, but after the two legendary concierges we had at Siyam World and Iru Fushi we were genuinely surprised at the massive drop in service.

The water sports guys were ‘too cool for school’ and seemed more interested in their looks than helping guests, but this seemed to be a bit of a theme with the water sports team at all the other resorts as well.

small catamarans and kayaks are available to rent, or use for free if you’re on the All-Inclusive Package.

The beaches are beautiful here.

Definitely set aside an hour to go kayaking while you’re here.

We also had an issue on our first night with the bartender giving Alesha an alcoholic drink rather than a mocktail, promising that there was no alcohol in it after being asked twice, then coming back to us 10 minutes later saying it had rum in it without offering an apology (Alesha is on heart medication and doesn’t drink alcohol) but the service at the bar drastically improved from then on.

The reception staff didn’t seem too eager to help whenever we stopped by with a question either, which actually turned out to be a few times as our room key continually stopped working.

For the most part though the rest of the staff were great, especially the team at Diving Olhuveli, the servers at the specialty restaurants and the wait staff at Sunset Restaurant.

Looking back, if we hadn’t just been completely spoilt at their other two 5-star resorts beforehand we probably wouldn’t have thought the customer service was too bad at Olhuveli, so take our experiences with a grain of salt.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli Review – 8/10

There was a lot to love about Sun Siyam Olhuveli, and for the price and location, along with the options for dining and activities, we thought it was remarkable.

This truly beautiful 4-star resort has elements of pure luxury, especially with the specialty restaurants and high-end villas, all without having to take an expensive seaplane ride from Male.

Taking into account our entire experience, and the few issues we found with the customer service, we still give it a solid 8/10 for our review of Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

If you’re looking for a gorgeous, all-inclusive resort in the Maldives with lots to do that doesn’t break the bank, it’s definitely worth booking Sun Siyam Olhuveli.

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