Maamunagau Resort: Where luxury meets purpose and conservation

At a time when some resorts still think palm trees and plunge pools are enough, Reinhold Johann, General Manager of InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort, is raising the bar, weaving thoughtful detail, purpose, and manta rays into every stay.

“Maamunagau isn’t just a beautiful destination, it’s a story,” Johann says. Guests arrive by seaplane, greeted personally, and settle into villas or residences with private pools and Club InterContinental benefits. Dining is just as elevated: The Lighthouse delivers 360-degree ocean views while teppanyaki theatrics keep things lively. But this isn’t indulgence for its own sake. “We proudly host Manta Trust and run coral conservation programs, guests leave with memories and meaning,” Johann explains.

Here, barefoot luxury is simplicity with depth. Guests slip from villa to soft sand, enjoy spa rituals over the lagoon, or gather at Fish Market for farm-to-sea flavours. Visiting Michelin-starred chefs and wellness experts add enrichment. “Guests don’t just pass through paradise, they become part of it,” Johann says..

Solo women travellers find a safe haven at The Retreat, an adults-only overwater sanctuary designed for peace and privacy. “We prioritise safety with well-lit pathways, 24/7 curator support, and villa privacy,” Johann says. The AVI Spa, wellness sessions, and marine adventures offer endless ways for solo guests to unwind and feel empowered.

Families aren’t forgotten: the resort was named #1 Best Resort for Families in the Maldives at the 2025 T+L Luxury Awards Asia Pacific. “We adore families and especially mums in need of a break,” Johann says. Kids thrive at Planet Trekkers Kids Club, while parents relax with spa treatments, yoga, or fine dining. Babysitting is available, and special events like SeaChella and an upcoming Atlantis-themed celebration keep little guests entertained.

Sustainability is woven into the experience, from solar panels and water recycling to eliminating single-use plastics. The resort’s crown jewel is its partnership with Manta Trust: guests can snorkel with mantas, adopt one, plant coral, or attend expert talks. “The Manta Retreat lets guests learn and connect, it’s about leaving with deeper appreciation and responsibility for this fragile paradise,” Johann says.