Nova Maldives hotel review: Small but perfectly formed with ocean views abound

Sprinkled across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is an archipelago of 26 atolls that's often referred to as a tropical paradise. A haven for holidaymakers for decades, it's the place to go for guaranteed pristine beaches and unrivalled marine life.

At Nova Maldives on South Ari Atoll, the resort delivers the clear waters and soft white sand that define this destination alongside a vibe that seeks to appeal to solo guests as much as it does couples and families.

The welcome

We're greeted on arrival at Velana International airport in the Maldivian capital of Male, and staff wheel our luggage to the Manta Air check-in desk before we're transferred to the seaplane terminal to wait in a spacious lounge overlooking floating "runways".

After 25 minutes in the air, we dock beside a boat that whisks us to an arrival jetty lined with staff from Nova Maldives.

A welcome drink and chilled flannel accompany an efficient check-in before a short walk to our overwater villa where "Welcome to your soul place" is written in sand at the entrance. Smart wristbands access doors to spare any keycard mishaps.

The neighbourhood

Located on South Ari Atoll, Nova Maldives hosts 76 villas, including 25 over the water, plus family options, with a contemporary minimalist design, which allows the natural surroundings to shine.

The island brims with established vegetation and sandy footpaths that link villas and various facilities, including beaches, a tennis court and football pitch, a Precor equipped gym and wooden decks from which to catch boat trips, watch for rays and reef sharks, or snorkel the house reef.

There are 30-plus manta and whale shark viewpoints, ship wrecks and dive locations all within 40 minutes of the island in an atoll that's known for year-round marine opportunities.

The room

Pared-back interior design – think white walls offset by ash wood flooring, cosy materials and coastal canvas art – leaves it to the villa's large sliding doors to frame the ocean and reef beyond.

The view from the sumptuous king-size bed is classic Maldives – uninterrupted ocean views and beautiful sunsets. A broad wooden terrace is equipped with a table and chairs, a brace of loungers, and a Jacuzzi, plus steps leading directly into the sea.

Wooden sliding doors access a generous bathroom with a bath overlooking the deck and sea. A shower at the other end neighbours a discreet toilet cubicle, both with blue shell-shaped tile details. There’s a twin-sink counter inclusive of dual, circular illuminating mirrors plus a wooden drying rack – ideal for airing out swimwear after a dip in the crystal clear ocean on your doorstep.

The service

The ratio of staff to guests – which in this resort are referred to as "soulmates" – seems generous, but it doesn’t take long to begin recognising regular faces and strike up conversations. There are numerous greetings as you wander around the resort and what seems like a genuine interest from staff in what we make of the resort and food, as well as tips on the best places to sight wildlife around the island.

The scene

This compact little island fits plenty onto its tropical footprint without feeling cramped or crowded.

Quickly explored, everything from dining to spa, gym and reception is within a short walk while plentiful beauty spots, including sea swings, provide opportunities to absorb one of the most aesthetically-pleasing geographies on earth.

Snorkelling is encouraged with gear available to rent from The Aquaholics excursions hub. Access to deeper waters and the coral that fringes the beach and the island is via the boat jetty. Sadly much of the coral is dulled from bleaching, but some fresh colours are emerging and overall it supplies a great canvas against which to view some truly vibrant, eclectic fish species.

Closer to shore there are reef sharks, the occasional nurse shark and stingrays, particularly at dusk at the island’s viewing jetty.

The suitably serene Eskape Spa yields a memorable Balinese massage in overwater rooms, for singles or couples treatments.

There's also a jewellery shop and Awesome Stuff, a store that stocks souvenirs and local crafts with everything from clothing to skincare.

The food

Three restaurants tender abundant choices that reflect both location and variety of guest nationalities.

A short walk from Solis pool bar, a haven for friend-making conversations around its swim up serving area, is thatched roof all-day dining outlet Soul Kitchen which has indoor and patio seating.

The kitchen is resourceful and prolific for lunch and dinner, spanning the likes of seafood mornay, Italian beef stew, Maldivian tuna curry and chicken merango supported by various salads, soups, and canapes, with good options for vegetarians. Desserts are reliably tempting and the excellent ice cream is a must.

Soul Kitchen breakfasts are just as varied with red velvet croissants, egg Florentine, and a decent shakshuka. Dhiyaa hakuru – Maldivian coconut nectar – drizzled on pancakes is rewardingly naughty.

An early highlight emerges at Flames where grilled colossal prawns ($52), lobster bisque ($34) and tonka bean creme brulee ($16) demonstrate visual and flavourful finesse.

Signature overwater teppanyaki restaurant Mizu offers several meat, seafood and vegetarian-themed set menus delivered by animated chefs, including a Kaiso seaweed-themed selection ($115) and a farm and ocean mixed combination ($125).

We dispense with sandals to enjoy Wink bar’s sandy floor for live music, a huge variety of drinks and a pool table, popular with those that wish to challenge other guests to a game.

Highs and lows

We loved the island's compact set-up which makes it easy to get around and discover all that's on offer. The playful labels on refillable bathroom lotions and gels, with missives such as "Wash your worries away" and "Shower me in kindness" raised a few smiles, as did the sand-written doorway messages on arrival and departure. The only negative … the island’s apparent ability to make time evaporate.

The insider tip

Take a boat trip to see dolphins, rays or whale sharks that frequent these waters, if only to appreciate what lies beyond the intimacies of the island.

The verdict

The phrase "good things come in small packages" readily applies. Nova Maldives packs a lot onto a tiny island beside a sense of intimate seclusion that delivers a middle of nowhere feeling. If you wish to remain connected to the "real" world, however, decent Wi-Fi prevails.

The bottom line

Rooms start from $533 for a beach villa, including taxes and fees, based on a summer-discounted full-board rate for two adults. All-inclusive rates are also available. Seaplane transfers cost $465 per adult, $325 for children and are complimentary for infants. Check-in from 2pm; check-out until noon; www.nova-maldives.com

This review was conducted at the invitation of the resort and reflects standards during this time. Services may change in the future.