Located 45 minutes by seaplane north from Male’ International Airport, Velaa Private Island is a unique destination, developed to embody the very best of the Maldives. Set in the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean and bathed in the azure skies, Velaa Private Island is an elegant fusion of Maldivian culture with contemporary luxury.

The island is part of the Noonu atoll situated towards the northwest edge of the Maldives archipelago. It shares its name and its home with the generations of sea turtles that have flocked here to nest and hatch here for countless years. In fact, in the local language, the island’s name literally means “turtle island”. Now as Velaa Private Island, plenty of room is made for its marine visitors, with a hatchery and conservation plan in place.

The Island at just less than 20 hectares in size (500m x 400m), is small enough to feel exclusive, yet large enough to allow all guests privacy.

Accommodating up to 10 guests, Nika Residence offers the ultimate designer beach villa retreat. Vertical wall panels have been crafted with materials such as raffia and natural wood, and earthy textiles facilitate a natural indoor and outdoor flow. The design creates a warm, yet stylish atmosphere, arranged with hand-crafted, minimalistic furniture pieces; a sprawling five-metre dining table cut from two pieces of rare black marble slab; and positioned beneath a stunning, beaded Craaft chandelier.