A Festive Journey Inspired by the Ocean, Our Home
Beneath the Blue

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Immerse yourself in a season of ocean-inspired wonder and unforgettable island moments at our sanctuary. Guided by the rhythms of the sea, Beneath the Blues invites guests to celebrate the festive season through extraordinary culinary experiences, restorative wellness journeys, family adventures, marine conservation activities and cherished moments of togetherness.

From festive traditions and starlit celebrations to inspiring visiting practitioners, island discoveries and barefoot festivities, every experience has been thoughtfully curated to honour the magic of the ocean and the spirit of the season.

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits:

 

The First Spark: Christmas Tree Lighting
22 December 2026

The festive season begins with one of Gili’s most cherished traditions. As the sun sets over the lagoon, gather beneath the palms for the illumination of our ocean-inspired Christmas tree, marking the start of a season filled with joy, connection and celebration.

Inspired by the wonders of the marine world, the evening brings together festive entertainment, seasonal culinary delights and the warmth of the Gili family, creating a magical first chapter in our Beneath the Blues journey.

 

Sea of Stars: Christmas Eve Dinner
24 December 2026

Celebrate Christmas Eve beneath a canopy of stars during an unforgettable evening inspired by the beauty and abundance of the ocean. Thoughtfully crafted by our culinary team, this festive dining experience showcases exceptional ingredients, vibrant flavours and creative presentations designed to delight every sense.

Set against the gentle soundtrack of the waves, it is an evening where island elegance, festive traditions and meaningful togetherness come beautifully together.

 

Christmas Day Celebration
25 December 2026

Awake to the magic of Christmas on our island sanctuary, where a day of festive discoveries, family-friendly experiences and island-inspired celebrations awaits. Whether gathering with loved ones, indulging in seasonal delights or embracing the relaxed rhythm of island life, every moment is designed to create lasting memories.

Celebrate the joy of togetherness and experience Christmas, the Gili way.

 

Beneath the Blues Cocktail Reception
26 December 2026

Raise a glass to the festive season during an elegant evening inspired by the colours and mysteries of the ocean.

Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, thoughtfully curated culinary creations and captivating island ambience as day transitions into night, bringing guests together for a memorable celebration Beneath the Blues.

 

New Year’s Eve Celebration
31 December 2026

As the final sunset of the year paints the sky with brilliant hues, join us for the most anticipated evening of the festive season.

With exceptional dining, live entertainment and unforgettable celebrations beneath the stars, New Year’s Eve at Gili is a moment to reflect, reconnect and welcome the year ahead surrounded by loved ones, new friends and the warmth of the Gili family.

 

Taittinger Champagne Dinner
07 January 2027

Conclude the festive season with an elegant evening celebrating exceptional cuisine and world-renowned Champagne. Thoughtfully crafted by our culinary team, this intimate dining experience brings together remarkable flavours, carefully paired vintages and meaningful moments shared in a truly spectacular island setting.

 

Explore the full festive programme and let the journey unfold.

 

 

Other Happenings

2026, Experience, November

Details November Island Moments

Let the rhythm of the island guide your senses this November. Savour the artistry of our By The Sea Chef’s Special, indulge in the Ice Cream of the Month, and uncover the magic of our signature Potion 9¾ Cocktail. Thoughtfully curated and inspired by the beauty of the lagoon, each offering promises a journey of flavour, wonder, and discovery.

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2026, Experience

Details Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes Cook Book

Available for purchase now!
Celebrate 20 years of culinary creativity with Chef Hari Govindaraj through Plant to Plate, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives’ first-ever cookbook. Featuring over 60 vibrant plant-based recipes inspired by island life, wellness and sustainability, this beautifully curated collection brings a taste of Gili into your home. Ready to bring the flavours of our island sanctuary into your own kitchen?

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2025, Experience

Details Beneath the Blue: Festive Celebrations

Inspired by the beauty and wonder of the ocean, Beneath the Blue invites you to celebrate the festive season through unforgettable dining experiences, meaningful moments of connection and enchanting island traditions. From elegant soirées beneath the stars to family-friendly festivities and extraordinary culinary journeys, discover a season thoughtfully crafted to inspire, delight and bring loved ones together.

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