Tucked away in the Kaafu Atoll, surrounded by the endless blues of sea and sky, JW Marriott Maldives has found a beautiful new way to bring its guests closer to the spirit of the islands. Every Wednesday, the resort hosts Indian Ocean Night-a vibrant, open-air celebration of Maldivian culture and the coastal traditions that shape life across this part of the world.
The experience unfolds at Veyo, a restaurant known for its panoramic ocean views and laid-back elegance. As the sun sinks low and the stars begin to appear, the space comes alive with music, color, and the warm scents of spice and grilled seafood.
A Taste of the Ocean’s Edge
Dinner is at the heart of the evening, and it’s anything but ordinary. The resort’s chefs have designed a rotating menu called Whispers of the Indian Ocean-a flavorful journey through the kitchens of the Maldives, India, and beyond. Small plates like Bis Keemiya (a Maldivian version of the samosa) and steamed tuna dumplings start things off, followed by deeply spiced dishes like Maldivian Chicken Curry and Alleppey Prawn Curry, all made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients.
Live grill stations add energy and aroma to the night, while Bodu Beru drummers and singers create a rhythm that’s impossible to ignore. It’s not just a dinner-it’s a celebration of where you are.
Culture in Every Detail
Indian Ocean Night isn’t just about what’s on the plate. Guests are also invited into one of the Maldives’ oldest crafts: Liyelaa Jehun, the art of traditional lacquer work. A master artisan from Thulhaadhoo Island-one of the few places still preserving this heritage-demonstrates the process in real time, carving, painting, and finishing each piece by hand.
There’s even the chance to take part in the process, and the results are more than souvenirs-they’re stories.
Learn to Cook the Island Way
If you find yourself inspired by the flavors, the resort offers a hands-on cooking workshop led by a local chef. Set by the sea at Pure, JW Marriott’s open-air culinary space, the session takes guests through the steps of classic Maldivian recipes like Mas Huni and Fiyala Curry. You’ll chop, stir, and season while hearing how these dishes fit into daily life in the islands.
It’s relaxed, it’s delicious, and you’ll come away with more than a new recipe-you’ll take home a little slice of island culture.
A Resort That Does More Than Pamper
Just a short 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, JW Marriott Maldives offers more than stunning villas and perfect views. It’s a place that invites connection-with nature, with culture, and with yourself.
Whether you’re floating in your private pool, gazing out across the lagoon, or sharing a meal steeped in generations of tradition, the experience is deeply personal and completely unforgettable.
Ready to experience Indian Ocean Night and everything else the Maldives has to offer?
Book your stay with Lets Go Maldives and start planning your island journey today.
