Niyama Private Islands in the Maldives presents fresh experiences for surf enthusiasts. The resort comprises two islands—Play and Chill—with two primary breaks: Vodi, just off Play Island’s shore, and Kasabu, a five-minute speedboat ride west of Vodi. Surfing is available year-round, though March through November typically brings larger waves and fewer crowds.
© Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort
Through May 7, surf strength coach Cris Mills is offering tailored individual and group sessions in the water, at the gym and in the spa for guests who want to sharpen their surfing skills. Mills takes a holistic approach that blends surf coaching, movement analysis, breath-work and posture training to improve performance and injury resilience.
Professional surf photographer Naomi Adbib is in residence at the resort through July, documenting guests on the waves. Adbib specializes in surf, water and lifestyle photography and routinely captures surfers in dynamic action. While on site she can accompany private lessons to photograph progress and also capture drone and video footage, which she edits into short highlight reels for guests.
© Niyama Private Islands Maldives Resort
To reach more remote breaks, the resort recently added a new speedboat, Sea Breeze, which carries up to six guests plus a surf guide. The boat enables excursions to more distant atolls and uninhabited islands for a more exploratory surf experience.
After a session, surfers can gather at the Surf Shack to relax with the photographer and coach. The on-site food truck serves cocktails and gourmet snacks, creating a social hub for sharing waves and stories.
Niyama Private Islands features 134 villas, suites and pavilions across Play Island and Chill Island, combining luxury accommodation with direct access to the archipelago’s surf options.