Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon

🏝️ Pristine white-sand private island with classic Maldivian lagoon
🤿 House-reef diving hub with access to 50+ North Ari dive sites
🦈 Superb marine life with frequent reef sharks and rays around the island
🌊 Infinity pool and sundeck looking straight over the lagoon and water bungalows
🛥️ Approx. 42 km from Malé with shared speedboat transfer (~90 minutes)
📶 Free Wi-Fi throughout

Official rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Board options: Full Board, All Inclusive, All Inclusive Premium
Child age policy on offers: typically up to 11.99 years
Minimum guest age for water-based activities and some room types may apply (check at time of booking).

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon occupies its own tiny coral island in North Ari Atoll – one of the Maldives’ most sought-after regions for diving. The island is encircled by a living house reef and a fringe of powder-soft sand, with jetties stretching into the electric-blue lagoon.

You’ll arrive into Malé, then head straight across the atoll by shared speedboat or optional seaplane (offered on some packages). Once you step onto the jetty, everything is within an easy barefoot stroll: dive centre, spa, restaurants and the infinity pool are all nestled between palms and white beaches.

Distance from Malé (Velana International Airport): approx. 42 km
Transfer type: Shared speedboat (standard on most packages)
Typical speedboat duration: ~90 minutes (weather and routing dependent)
Seaplane: Sometimes available at a supplement (luggage restrictions apply; ask your Travelisto consultant).

Approx. transfer time from airport: 90 Minutes

Ellaidhoo Island, North Ari Atoll, Maldives

Food at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is relaxed and hearty, with buffet spreads and views of the ocean never far away.

Madi Restaurant is the main buffet venue, serving international and Asian-inspired dishes at breakfast, lunch and dinner, usually with live stations and plenty of choice for vegetarians and pescatarians.

For something a little more intimate, Seanic offers à la carte dishes with a focus on fresh seafood and grilled favourites, while The Junction introduces speciality options in a more atmospheric setting.

Between dives and snorkel sessions, you can grab refreshments from the island’s bars – expect a laid-back beach bar vibe with tropical cocktails, beers, soft drinks and sunset viewpoints over the lagoon.

Board basis options include Full Board, All Inclusive and All Inclusive Premium, with higher packages generally layering in a wider drinks selection and extra inclusions. Inclusions and opening times may change by season; the team will confirm details on arrival.

What All Inclusive typically includes.

The island’s ocean-edge infinity pool is a focal point, perched above the reef with uninterrupted lagoon views. It’s flanked by a sun terrace with loungers and parasols, making it a sociable spot for an afternoon laze or a post-dive cool-down.

Beyond the pool, a ribbon of private white-sand beach wraps almost the entire island, dotted with palms and shaded areas. The shallow turquoise lagoon is ideal for paddling, while stronger swimmers and snorkellers can explore the drop-off at the house reef just a short swim from shore. Beach towels, sunbeds and umbrellas are usually provided.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon balances its famous underwater action with plenty of on-island activities:

Spa & wellness
• Tranquil spa offering massages and body treatments*
• Couples’ therapies available*
• Relaxation areas tucked between tropical foliage

Sport & fitness
• Air-conditioned gym (use included)
• Tennis court
• Squash court
• Table tennis, badminton and billiards

Watersports & diving
• On-site dive centre* with courses and guided dives to iconic North Ari sites*
• Snorkelling on the house reef* (equipment typically available to hire or included on some packages)
• Non-motorised watersports such as canoe and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)*

Other facilities
• 24-hour reception
• Souvenir and gift shop*
• Laundry service*
• Free Wi-Fi across key areas and rooms

*Charges apply for selected facilities and activities; services are subject to weather, demand and seasonal schedules.

Standard Room Garden View – approx. 35 m²
Set in low-rise blocks surrounded by tropical greenery, these comfy garden rooms are a great-value way to experience Ellaidhoo. Expect air conditioning, double or twin beds, a bathroom with shower, Wi-Fi, TV, safe and tea/coffee-making facilities. A minibar is typically available with items at extra cost.

Superior Room Ocean View – approx. 52 m²
More spacious rooms with an elevated vantage point over the ocean. Facilities are similar to Garden View rooms, with additional indoor space and a balcony or terrace where you can soak up sea breezes. Ideal if you like to retreat to your room between snorkel sessions without losing the views.

Beach Bungalow – approx. 38 m²
Tucked under palms along the beachfront, these thatched bungalows put you just a few barefoot steps from the sand. Inside you’ll find a relaxed island style with a bed facing towards the beach, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, tea/coffee set-up and a minibar*; bathrooms may feature semi-open layouts depending on allocation. Perfect for sunrise strolls and easy dips in the lagoon.

Water Bungalow – approx. 79 m²
The signature option at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, these overwater bungalows stand on stilts above the lagoon. You can usually look down to the sea life through a glass-floor feature, and many have an outdoor terrace for sunbathing and direct steps into the water. Inside, expect generous space, stylish furnishings, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, tea/coffee, dressing area and a minibar*. Many Water Bungalows have outdoor showers; room suitability for children can be limited here due to open decking and direct water access – check with us when booking.

All rooms feature:
• Air conditioning
• Wi-Fi access
• Private bathroom with shower
• TV and in-room safe
• Tea and coffee-making facilities
• Minibar (items typically chargeable)

*Images indicative; layouts/views may vary.

🤿 House-reef snorkelling with abundant fish life*
🌊 Diving with on-site PADI/SSI-style dive centre to 50+ Ari Atoll sites*
🏸 Tennis, squash, badminton and table tennis
🎱 Billiards and casual indoor games
🛶 Non-motorised watersports including canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)*
🧘 Relaxed island ambience ideal for sunrise walks and stargazing on the jetty

*Activities are subject to weather, seasonal schedule and local charges.

🛎️ 24-hour reception and concierge-style assistance
🧺 Laundry service*
🛍️ Souvenir and gift shop*
🌐 Free Wi-Fi across most public areas and rooms
🏥 Basic medical assistance or doctor-on-call typically available*
👨‍👩‍👧 Child policy usually up to 11.99 years on offers (room-specific suitability to be checked)
💼 Luggage assistance on arrival and departure

*Extra charges may apply; services and facilities can vary by season and occupancy.

Transfer, baggage rules and regulations apply for all Maldives island stays and will be detailed on your Travelisto confirmation. Speedboat and seaplane services operate on fixed schedules and are weather-dependent, so waiting times at Malé may occur. Luggage allowances can be more restrictive on seaplanes than on international flights.

Local currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), though US dollars are widely accepted in resorts.
Language: Dhivehi; English is commonly spoken on the island.
Electricity: Typically 220–240V with UK-style plugs in many resorts, but adaptors may be required.
Dress code: Resort casual; lightweight clothing and reef-safe sunscreen recommended.

Honeymoon and wedding anniversary perks are often available at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon (such as a cake or turndown touches); ask us to check the latest offers when you enquire.

For entry rules, visas, and health guidance see the UK FCDO Maldives advice.

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon Prices & Book
Choose your dates in the search box for live availability and the latest offers. Many packages include speedboat transfers from Malé; seaplane upgrades may be available on request. Book with low deposits and full ATOL protection when you book with Travelisto.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long is the transfer from Malé to Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon?
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon lies about 42 km from Malé in North Ari Atoll. The standard shared speedboat transfer usually takes around 90 minutes, depending on routing and sea conditions. Seaplane transfers, if offered, are faster but come with different schedules and luggage limits.

2. Is Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon mainly for divers?
While anyone who loves beaches and snorkelling will enjoy the island, Ellaidhoo is particularly popular with divers thanks to its excellent house reef and access to 50+ renowned dive sites around North Ari Atoll. There is an on-site dive centre offering courses and guided dives, and it’s common to see reef sharks and rays around the island.

3. What is the difference between All Inclusive and All Inclusive Premium here?
All Inclusive at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon typically includes main meals in the buffet restaurant plus a selection of drinks at designated bars. All Inclusive Premium often adds a broader drinks menu and occasional extra perks. Exact inclusions can change and may vary by the offer you book, so always refer to your Travelisto holiday documentation for the up-to-date breakdown.

4. Are children allowed at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon?
Yes, families are welcome and many offers use a child age of up to 11.99 years. However, room suitability for young children – especially in Water Bungalows with open decking, steps into the lagoon and glass-floor sections – can be restricted for safety reasons. Let your Travelisto consultant know your children’s ages and they’ll recommend the best room options.

5. Do the Water Bungalows at Ellaidhoo have direct access to the sea?
Most Water Bungalows are built on stilts over the lagoon and feature a private deck with direct access to the water via steps, along with wide ocean views. Many also include a glass-floor viewing panel and outdoor shower. Because of the open water access, they may not be suitable for younger children.

6. Is snorkelling good straight from the beach?
Yes. Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon sits on its own house reef, so you can usually snorkel directly from the beach or via designated entry points. The drop-off attracts colourful fish, reef sharks and rays. Depending on your package, snorkel gear may be included or available to rent on site.

7. Is Wi-Fi free at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon?
According to current resort information, Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout much of the resort, including rooms and key public spaces. Speeds can vary with island occupancy and weather but are generally good enough for messaging, browsing and light streaming.

8. Are there honeymoon or anniversary benefits?
Yes, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon often offers honeymoon and wedding anniversary touches – such as a small cake, bed decoration or similar – when you travel within a specific period after your wedding date or anniversary. Proof of marriage is normally required on check-in, and inclusions may change by season. Ask Travelisto to confirm what’s available for your dates.