The Maldives is an incredible destination. Whilst its quite popular as a luxury beach break, some people may be overlooking its potential by staying to one island and atoll. On my recent trip here, I combined the eye-opening peace of Laamu with the endless adventures of Kanuhura, with the service and comfort of Six Senses throughout.
Six Senses Laamu
Laamu is really special and has a real investment in the local environment. There is a beautifully rustic feel to the island. It may take a little longer to get there by seaplane, however it is totally worth it to experience the reefs and sea life.
Since Six Senses Laamu is the only five-star hotel of the atol, the island instantly gives you that exclusive feeling. If you go on an excursion - and there are a few options, such as a dolphin cruise, diving, or turtle safari - you are likely to be the only boat around. There is a sense of privacy and exclusivity, but this peacefulness also means that the reefs remain in good condition, and the marine life is just amazing.
We had a tour of the SHELL Centre which is a working science research centre where they are working on improving the reefs. It is an interesting and eye-opening tour that highlights the sustainable focus of such beautiful destinations as this.
![Seaplane landing on water at sunset]()
Seaplane Six Senses Laamu
![Bike on balcony with lagoon behind. Bike has initials CB in wood on the back of the seat]()
Personalised initials on bike at Six Senses Laamu
You can really tell all the staff are very passionate about looking after the beauty above and below the water. Marine conservation and sustainability play a big part of your stay. You could tell that guest experience was really important too: my GEM (Guest Experience Maker) looked after me perfectly and was always there to check if I needed anything, or just to see how my day was going.
Six Senses Kanuhura
Where Laamu is rustic, even though the ethos is the same across both hotels, Six Senses Kanuhura is a little more modern. There are so many activities and excursions that this feels like a different experience of the Maldives: one that's well-connected and perfect for families.
![Vibrant pink and purple sky over lit up pool]()
Sunset from The Point
![Holding up a glass of prosecco on a cruise at sunset]()
Dolphin Cruise Fizz
The accommodation suits all, but especially for a Maldives stay it is great for families, and the indoor and outdoor teens' and kids' clubs are just the beginning of the activities. There is tennis and squash courts, snorkelling excursions, and a really secluded island called Masleggihuraa where you can go and the hotel will provide a picnic.
One of my favourite moments here was the turtle safari at Turtle Airport. We snorkelled over a stunning reef and saw about six turtles as they were popping up for air. Turtle Airport is a popular place for diving and snorkelling since you can often find Green and Hawksbill turtles, but with Six Senses Kanuhura, I had a really knowledgeable guide explaining the reef and knowing the best place to see the turtles.
![Beanbags and projector screen set up on a beach with the sunset behind]()
Beach Cinema Reserve
The Reserve is the largest option, having three bedrooms which is great for extended families. For my visit, this was the venue for an amazing private barbeque dinner and then a movie on the beach. We had dinner outside next to the pool, and were welcomed with the resident DJ playing for arrival drinks. After the barbeque, prepared by a private chef, a cinema was set up on the beach where they had bean bags and popcorn! This is all available to anyone staying in The Reserve.