The Maverick Surf and Dive Boutique Hotel

The house reef was the best I’ve experienced in the Maldives: beautiful coral in every colour, and huge numbers of fish, sharks, squid, turtles, mantas and larger fish. The coral looked undamaged, with no signs of bleaching, boat damage, broken coral or seagrass clearing. Since the resort is small, new and remote, it felt like a genuinely low impact eco stay, with five star service and food. We explored the village and local beaches and reefs, tried reef fish ball curry at the local cafe, and had Maldivian dishes at Mavericks too, including breadfruit chips, smoked dried tuna and muranga leaf, fried and in smoothies. The sashimi and ceviche were the best I’ve had, with such fresh, abundant fish, and Henry the head chef is a genius. I also caught a huge trevally on a hand line, with lots of patient help from the staff. We’ve visited the Maldives as a family many times, staying at high end resorts including Huvafen Fushi, Como malafushi, Como Cocoa and Six Senses Laamu, mainly for surfing and snorkelling. Mavericks has been our best holiday ever for its food, service and how easy it is to reach the surf breaks and snorkelling. We didn’t book through Perfect Wave. My son brought his own board and surfed the island break, Sarongs, every day, right in front of his tent. It’s a shallow, fast break for advanced surfers, so I’d bring a light steamer and reef booties. The currents on the reef can be tricky, so drift snorkelling is best if you’re confident or have a guide. I wouldn’t send young children or weak swimmers far out alone, though currents can be minimal if you choose your timing carefully. For capable ocean swimmers, good surfers and keen snorkellers who care about nature and their carbon footprint, it’s heaven and you feel like part of the family. Clayton, the F&B Manager, deserves a special mention. The service was exceptional. The internationally experienced management and staff were professional, patient and friendly, and went above and beyond. They anticipated requests and food preferences, then exceeded our expectations. The chefs were talented, inventive and passionate about local produce, and the servings were generous. The resort was immaculate, with stylish, spacious, luxurious tents. The bar boat was great fun too. If you’re after overwater villas, spas, gyms, pools, imported fruit, farmed seafood or French cheese platters, this probably isn’t the place for you. Those features often come with construction and more visitors, which can damage coral and reduce marine life. You could pair Mavericks with a stay at one of the many similar five star resorts instead.

We spent five nights at Mavericks, and the managers and staff were all really friendly. The food was a highlight too. Every morning I woke up eager to get to the restaurant and see what they’d made. Right outside the tent, the water was crystal clear, with safe diving and loads of marine life. There’s a fun right hand surf break just steps away as well, so it’s a dream spot for divers and surfers. It works well for couples and families, with plenty to do and lots of ways to enjoy nature. The stay went above and beyond.

We had an amazing time surfing, and the crew were really kind. The food was very good too. Mavericks is a fantastic place on Mundoo island, with plenty to do, including snorkelling, diving, surfing and fishing. We had beautiful weather throughout the trip.

The snorkelling was the best I’ve ever done. You don’t have to go far to see lots of large, colourful fish and beautiful coral. We also got to visit a private island for a beachside BBQ, which was a once in a lifetime experience, and had the chance to try a bit of Maldivian culture. The tents and dining areas were beautifully designed and welcoming. The meals were divine, and the service was impeccable, always delivered with genuine kindness. It’s a lovely place to relax while still trying new things. An unforgettable stay.