The undersea restaurant in the Maldives: More than a novelty

Maldives is already one of the most unusual and magical holiday destinations in the world, particularly as home to about two-thirds of the world's overwater bungalows.

But for those who want to take the sea-life observation one step further than watching through a glass panel in your bungalow floor, you can dine at the world's first undersea restaurant at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Resort.

Open since 2005, the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is made of all glass and has 180-degree views of the magnificent tropical sea and plant life.

There are only 14 seats and 7 tables so it's wise to take advantage of the fact that you can make a reservation starting two weeks before you arrive, considering that the resort has 150 villas and rooms.

The cuisine is Maldivian-Western fusion with a seasonal menu, and it's open for lunch and dinner daily. Dress is “smart” and children under 12 aren't allowed to dine at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at all.

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Conrad Maldives Resort is one of the finest in the Maldives

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Seeing that all Maldives resorts are on private islands that are usually quite far apart, this isn’t a restaurant you can visit if you are staying anywhere else. In fact, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is two islands connected by a unique walkway, with a special area on one island dedicated to adults only. For this reason it’s a great choice for those looking for Maldives resorts with no kids.

Those fortunate enough to be staying at the Conrad Maldives will be treated to 5-star luxury throughout, with 71 overwater villas and 79 island villas to choose from. There’s also the Sunset Grill, which is an overwater restaurant, allowing diners to observe things from yet another angle, as well as an overwater spa.

>More information about the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Attractive off-season online specials

Honestly, the Conrad Maldives is among the most expensive of all Maldives resorts, with high season (December through April) rates starting at around US$1,400 per night for the water villas. But during the summer months (June through September) you can get amazing online specials starting at only US$675 per night in a water villa if availability is high.

Even if you see a rate under US$1,000 per night at any time of the year, it’s good value considering the quality and popularity of this special private-island hotel. They also do wedding planning and services, plus it’s obviously very popular among honeymooners, so it’s an excellent choice for a romantic getaway.