COMO Cocoa Island

An easy 40-minute speedboat ride from Malé, this much-loved, idyllic little island is for many the essence of what a Maldives resort should be: peaceful, pampering, smart but unpretentious and refreshingly gimmick-free.

Here a number of accommodations are inspired by the graceful dhoni boats used by local fishermen. All suites and villas are over water, with beds perfectly positioned to afford views across the shimmering ocean. Decorated in a contemporary style with rustic woods, delicate colours and textiles, each has its own sun deck and direct access to the lagoon.

End your day of island life with a cocktail and your feet in the sand at Faru Bar before dining at Ufaa restaurant, serving modern interpretations of Southeast Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. The kitchen’s tandoor oven provides healthy, succulent grilled meats, vegetables and fish against the backdrop of the infinity-edge pool. Private beach living is the essence of your stay on Cocoa Island, with many activities on hand including exceptional diving, Ayurveda treatments, daily Yoga classes, and the superb hydrotherapy pool at the COMO Shambhala Retreat are all waiting to be experienced. Head out on a sunset cruise and if you are lucky you may see wild dolphins at play within close proximity of the resort.