Two years ago, I stepped foot on the pristine shores of Avani+ Fares Maldives, mesmerized by its untouched beauty, laid-back luxury, and the warmth of its signature ‘Haharu’ hospitality.

Now, two years later, I’m back, and while the essence of Avani+ Fares remains as magical as ever, the resort has transformed into an even more thrilling paradise, with new dining experiences, entertainment hubs, and wellness offerings that elevate the island escape to a whole new level.

A Culinary Evolution: Charcoal, Smugglers Shack, and Tribe Sunset Bar

One of the most exciting additions to Avani+ Fares is Charcoal, the resort’s sizzling new grill restaurant. Indulge in a refined oceanfront dining experience where the mouthwatering aroma from the centerpiece charcoal grill draws you in. The restaurant serves up the finest dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and expertly paired wines, all complemented by breathtaking sunset views. Dining under the stars, with the sound of the waves as my soundtrack, was an experience worth savoring.

For a more unexpected culinary surprise, Smugglers Shack offers a sinfully delightful escape. Picture sunny skies, the sound of waves, and a refreshing rum cocktail in hand. Each visit brings a chef’s surprise menu, from sushi to tapas to tacos, ensuring every bite is just as delightful as the stunning ocean view.

The pièce de résistance, however, was the Adrift private dining experience, which absolutely took our breath away. The lovely team at Avani+ Fares Maldives prepared a romantic candle-lit dinner for us on the beach, complete with a surf & turf menu that maximised the local seafood on offer. Despite the rare rain that we experienced that day, the Adrift dinner was plenty romantic and undoubtedly one of my favourite experiences in the Maldives by far.

Right next door, Tribe Sunset Bar quickly became my favorite sundowner spot. Two years ago, I adored the beachfront cocktails at Skip Jack, but Tribe takes the golden hour experience to a whole new level. Sink into a sunken sofa with your toes in the sand, soak in the breathtaking Maldivian sunset, and as the DJ sets the vibe, sway to the beats or dance barefoot under the stars with a cocktail in hand. Tribe is the ultimate go-to sunset spot, where mellow vibes meet unforgettable island magic.

Maldivian luxury with a contemporary charm

The accommodations at Avani+ Fares Maldives redefine island luxury with a blend of contemporary elegance and comfort. Guests can choose from a variety of beach villas and overwater villas, each thoughtfully designed with floor-to-ceiling windows, private plunge pools, and indoor-outdoor showers that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings. The rooms exude modern sophistication while maintaining a laid-back tropical charm, ensuring an atmosphere of pure relaxation.

Beyond the stunning accommodations, the service at Avani+ Fares is exceptional—every staff member embodies the spirit of ‘Haharu’ hospitality, making guests feel genuinely welcome from the moment they arrive. Attentive without being intrusive, the team goes above and beyond to anticipate needs, personalize experiences, and create unforgettable moments, whether it’s arranging a surprise sunset dinner or simply ensuring every detail of the stay is perfect.

Fun for the Little (and Not-So-Little) Ones

The new Kid’s Club and Teen’s Club have added a fresh dimension to Avani+ Fares Maldives, making it a fantastic getaway for families. While I was here for a grown-up escape, I couldn’t help but admire how well the resort caters to young adventurers now. The Kid’s Club is a haven of creativity and exploration, packed with interactive games, arts and crafts, and educational marine activities.

Meanwhile, the Teen’s Club is a sleek, tech-savvy lounge where older kids can socialize, game, and dive into curated island adventures. Whether it’s a nature-based treasure hunt or a Maldivian craft session, these additions ensure that younger guests have just as much fun as the adults. The Teen’s Club was also the perfect retreat for the one rainy day we had in Avani+ Fares Maldives.

The Ultimate Indulgence: The Complete Spa Experience

On my last visit, the resort’s wellness offerings were already impressive, but now, the AvaniSpa has been fully realized, and it’s a sanctuary of serenity. From traditional Maldivian healing rituals to modern wellness therapies, the spa offers a holistic escape that soothes the body and soul. I indulged in a signature Vinotherapy Massage, which left me feeling completely rejuvenated. Vinotherapy makes use of candle wax which is blended with alcoholic scents including gin, wine and even Champagne. The spa’s design—open-air treatment rooms, gentle sea breezes, and nature-infused elements—creates a tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from everyday stress.

Adventure Remains at the Heart of Avani+ Fares

Of course, the resort’s signature experiences remain as thrilling as ever. I couldn’t resist hopping on a Manta Ray quest, where I had the chance to snorkel alongside these majestic creatures in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The team at Aquafanatics Fares continues to offer an incredible suite of watersports, including turtle and manta snorkelling, exhilarating underwater scooters, and an array of activities from jet skiing to stand-up paddleboarding.

However, the best experience of all? Simply grabbing your snorkelling gear and heading over to the house reef, where a vibrant underwater world awaits just steps from the shore.

A Return That Feels Like Home

Coming back to Avani+ Fares Maldives felt like reuniting with an old friend—one who has only gotten more fabulous with time. The warm Haharu hospitality remains unchanged, but now, with new dining gems, enhanced family-friendly offerings, and an upgraded wellness experience, the resort offers even more reasons to return. Whether it’s your first visit or a long-awaited return like mine, Avani+ Fares Maldives is a slice of Maldivian paradise that continues to surprise, delight, and feel like home.

Premium Ocean View Rooms start at £289 per night including breakfast. For more information or to book your stay, visit: https://www.avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives