As a one-island-one-resort destination, Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives has it all: luxurious villas, spectacular views, award-winning dining spots, as well as many activities like the overwater spa and aquatic adventures. In 2023 alone, the resort received nine awards, including the Best Luxury Boutique Resort in the Indian Ocean by The World Luxury Hotel Awards. Unlike other Maldivian island resorts, Grand Park Maldives is just a quick 20-minute speedboat ride away from Velana International Airport, located in Kodhipparu, North Malé Atoll famous for its dive sites and abundant marine life—so no need for expensive seaplanes.
Designed by the world-renowned hospitality firm, Hirsch Bedner Associates, Grand Park Kodhipparu’s architecture is sophisticated, featuring high ceilings and palm-fringed roofs. Outside, the exterior blends traditional Maldivian elements of wood and rattan with an inventive rustic appeal, giving it a tranquil vibe. Given the stunning blue tones of the sea, the resort’s neutral tones and nature-based accents all harmonise beautifully.
We really loved the host system at Grand Park. We were greeted by Kenza alongside a greeting party straight away as we got to the hotel. She showed us to our villa and also was in touch throughout our time at the resort checking in and helping out with bookings and logistics.
The Villas
With 120 villas spread across the island, 65 of them come with private pools, and all are designed with a contemporary exterior that still keeps Maldivian influence at heart. If you like swimming in shallow waters, you should stay at the Lagoon Water Villa set amidst the calm crystal-clear lagoon facing north of the island. The best part is lounging on the hammock, ideal for soaking up the sun. However, if you prefer direct access to the sea, the Ocean Water Villa features its own private staircase leading straight into the water.
Some like to feel the sand beneath their feet first thing in the morning and listen to the waves lapping against the shore—that’s where the Beach Pool Villa comes in, surrounded by lush greenery and complete with a private plunge pool. But if you want to lavish up your stay even more, or travel as a larger group, the Grand Residence is a beautifully designed water bungalow featuring two bedrooms, a living space, and two bathrooms. You’ll even get to watch Maldivian fish swimming from the villa’s glass floor—cool, right? The panoramic view here is simply breathtaking both day and night when you can stargaze while dining in the private sanctuary.
Villa amenities are also excellent. Our fruit bowl was refreshed every day with the freshest mangoes and we also had access to flippers and a snorkel kit so we could enjoy exploring the water around the resort. The amenities combined with the value and distance from Male makes Grand Park a great choice.
Food & Drink
At Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives, you can choose between half board, full board, or all-inclusive options, each starting with a sumptuous daily breakfast at the international Edge Restaurant. Half board includes dinner at Breeze Poolside Dining & Bar, Firedoor, or The Edge, while full board adds a leisurely lunch. For the ultimate experience, the all-inclusive plan is unbeatable, offering all three meals, unlimited select beverages, a replenished minibar, and exclusive perks like non-motorised water sports and even spa discounts!
Firedoor
With breathtaking ocean views, Firedoor offers an exclusive and tranquil escape to savour the serene beauty of the lagoon. This was a really exceptional restaurant experience and some of the best food we had in The Maldives. The restaurant specialises in premium steaks and fresh local seafood, blending modern and classic techniques. Standout dishes include Espresso Beef Short Ribs, slow-baked for eleven hours and served with a corn vegetable tart and Valrhona chocolate jus, Dark Side of the Moon, Pacific crab ravioli in squid ink with lemon caviar and sea urchin dashi, and Paccheri Aragosta, hollow-shaped pasta with lobster ragout, oyster butter, and candied orange.
However, the true highlight of Firedoor is its Josper grill, which allows chefs to smoke, slow roast, and grill dishes over coal for exceptional depth of flavour like the USDA Omaha Prime Rib Cutlet served with fondant potato, sautéed asparagus, and a red wine peppercorn sauce. You also have the Australian Tajima Wagyu Striploin accompanied by confit roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and first-press extra virgin olive oil.
To complement your meal, pair it with a glass of wine from their thoughtfully curated list or cocktails such as Fire & Door, made with dark rum, lime, mint, grapefruit, grenadine, and bitters. You could also try You, Me & Margarita, crafted with tequila, Cointreau, grapefruit, and lime. For something more adventurous, Spice Route blends orange vodka, amaretto, lime, guava, and ginger.
Breeze Poolside Dining & Bar
Ideal for enjoying the poolside, Breeze is very relaxed during the day, serving light bites and lunch featuring a modern twist on Asian and Mediterranean classics. The salad and appetiser list is extensive, with options like the Vitamin Bomb Salad, a vibrant mix of grated carrot, tomato, and fresh orange segments tossed with extra virgin olive oil. For a heartier choice, you have the Caesar Salad or the Beef Thai Style Salad, which comes with chargrilled beef strips, oak lettuce, mint, glass noodles, cucumber, tomato, and red onions, all drizzled with a lime chilli dressing. Alternatively, you can order a poke bowl or enjoy bites like tacos, burritos, and other finger foods. If you’re feeling really hungry, the menu also offers a selection of sandwiches, wraps, burgers, pizzas, and pasta. We particularly enjoyed the newly added Indian and Maldivian options on the menu with the flakiest tastiest roti bread.
After sunset, Breeze transforms into a laid-back bar where skilled mixologists craft amazing cocktails accompanied by easy beats and music. You may even spot general manager Raffaele Solferino spinning the decks along with the resident DJ. From classics to martinis, sangrias and mojitos, you’ll have a wonderful time.
Activities and Facilities
Overlooking the crystal-clear waters, the spa at Grand Park Kodhipparu was recognised as the Continent Winner for 2023 Luxury Boutique Spas. With seven overwater rooms offering uninterrupted lagoon views, this serene retreat will surely lift away any stress you have. Drawing from Balinese and Ayurvedic traditions, the treatments include signature massages that promote relaxation and renewal, body wraps that hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, and facial treatments for a radiant glow. The spa can also customise a signature treatment tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you leave feeling fresh and light. In addition to the therapies, you can enjoy calming yoga sessions, with daily complimentary classes led by the Resident Yoga Master. Choose from Hatha, Aerial, or Sunset yoga, designed to relax the mind and soul. Sessions are held twice a day, at sunrise and sunset, with private lessons available upon request.
And now for some real fun, you can’t visit the world’s most beautiful waters without diving into its adventures. Get your heart racing as you ski across crystal-clear waves, windsurf, kite surf, wakeboard, or kayak. If you’re less daring, book an excursion to admire the Maldives’ stunning over-and-underwater beauty. Cruise on a Dhoni—a traditional Maldivian boat shaped like a wooden sailboat—to watch dolphins and soak in the romantic sunset. For a closer look at marine life, snorkel with guidance from Sustainability Manager and Resident Marine Biologist, Dee Bello, who will teach you about marine conservation and lead activities to restore coral reefs. If you’re interested, visit the library, stocked with books on sustainability, marine life, the island, and beyond.
For your children, Grand Park Kodhipparu offers the Little Explorers Kids Club filled with engaging activities, games and entertainment. They can even try kid-friendly jet-skiing and snorkelling—imagine how exciting it would be for your child to watch fish swimming around. At the Beach Club, you’ll find facilities like a gym, game lounges and a yoga deck to keep you entertained all day. To capture all these cherished memories, the resort offers special 15-minute complimentary photography sessions.
To discover more about Grand Park Kodhipparu, click here.
View this post on Instagram
All imagery courtesy of Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives.