Following a complete renovation in 2015 during which 90% of the resort was rebuilt from scratch, Summer Island is now looking superb and is easily one of the best-value midrange choices in the country. The resort, Maldivian village in style, has somehow gained almost 50 rooms, an infinity pool and a second restaurant without losing any of its charm.
As the international hotel conglomerates circle the country, it's refreshing that Summer Island remains 100% Maldivian owned. It's also helmed by a local female general manager, the first of her kind in Maldives. The island itself is very pleasantly vegetated, with hammocks strung up between palm trees and chickens running around, just like on an inhabited island. There's even a mosque (and a call to prayer) for the staff, which is integrated into the resort rather than hidden away.
The new-look rooms are all superb, though the family room stands out with its own small pool and tasteful decor and fittings. All rooms on the island have outdoor bathrooms, while the new water villas enjoy private sun terraces and direct water access. The standard beach villas are in blocks of four, of which the upstairs 'vista' rooms are the best. There are good beaches along one side of the island.
Summer Island has two restaurants – the main canteen serves up a large buffet three times a day, while the fancier Hiya is reserved for people staying in the water villas and guests on premium packages only. There's a Serena spa for pampering as well as a dive and water-sports centre. Environmental credentials are strong here: as well as heating all hot water by means of solar power, the resort is also planning to print 3D moulds for coral to build its own reef with, something that's never been attempted elsewhere in the country. All in all, this is a great value and progressively run option for divers and anyone seeking relaxed romance.
