COMO Cocoa Island

COMO Cocoa Island: Ultimate Maldives Villa Escape at COMO Hotels and Resorts

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What makes COMO Cocoa Island a standout luxury resort in the Maldives?

COMO Cocoa Island is a sustainable luxury resort holding EarthCheck Silver certification, distinguished by its intimate scale and unique architectural design. The resort features villas shaped like traditional Maldivian dhoni fishing boats, creating an instantly recognizable aesthetic that sets it apart in the Maldives luxury market.

  • Unique Dhoni-inspired architecture: All 33 overwater villas are designed to resemble traditional Maldivian fishing boats, featuring curved wooden structures with thatched roofs, glossy teak floors, and white interiors that create a sophisticated yet understated aesthetic
  • Exceptional accessibility: Located just 40 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport, eliminating the need for seaplane transfers and allowing guests to begin their escape shortly after landing
  • Outstanding house reef: Direct access to a vibrant house reef just steps from each villa, where guests can snorkel among coral gardens with reef fish, turtles, and rays 
  • Intimate scale: With only 33 villas on a 350-meter-long island, guests enjoy exceptional privacy and tranquility rarely found at larger Maldivian resorts
  • World-class COMO Shambhala wellness: A comprehensive wellness retreat featuring Asian-inspired therapies, one of the few hydrotherapy pools in the Maldives, daily yoga classes, and holistic treatments in treatment rooms overlooking the lagoon
  • Sustainability commitment: Eco-friendly initiatives, including on-site water bottling, coral restoration programs, waste reduction, and refillable amenities, demonstrate environmental responsibility without compromising luxury

How does COMO Cocoa Island compare to other luxury resorts in the Maldives?

COMO Cocoa Island is one of the smallest luxury hotels in the Maldives, with just 33 villas, offering a boutique experience that prioritizes intimacy and authenticity over extravagance. This creates a fundamentally different atmosphere compared to larger Maldivian mega-resorts.

  • Size and atmosphere: While many Maldivian resorts feature 100+ villas and multiple restaurants, COMO Cocoa Island’s intimate 33-villa setup creates a peaceful, uncrowded environment where guests often feel they have the island to themselves
  • Design philosophy: The resort emphasizes understated elegance and simplicity rather than opulent, over-the-top luxury—featuring clean lines, natural materials, and a “barefoot chic” aesthetic instead of elaborate themed designs
  • Location advantages: Positioned in the less-trafficked South Malé Atoll, the resort occupies a quieter area with more pristine diving conditions than the busier North Malé region, where many resorts cluster
  • Wellness focus: The COMO Shambhala Retreat occupies one-third of the island, reflecting a deeper commitment to holistic wellness than typical spa amenities at other resorts
  • Value proposition: Guests consistently note the value for money is really good for a resort of this level, with reasonable pricing compared to similar-caliber properties, though extras like diving can add up
  • Dining structure: Unlike all-inclusive mega-resorts with multiple restaurants, COMO Cocoa Island features one excellent à la carte restaurant with daily-changing menus, creating a more curated but potentially less varied dining experience
  • Marine environment: The coral is in much better condition than most Maldivian resorts, with abundant marine life, including frequent shark and turtle sightings directly from the villas

Why choose a private island escape like COMO Cocoa Island for your Maldives holiday?

COMO Cocoa Island offers a private island buyout experience for up to 72 guests, but even regular stays provide extraordinary privacy and seclusion. This private island setting delivers unique advantages that elevate the Maldivian experience beyond standard resort stays.

  • Complete disconnection: The tiny island (350 meters long) with limited facilities encourages genuine relaxation and digital detox, allowing guests to fully disconnect from daily life in a serene, undisturbed environment
  • Exclusive marine access: The entire house reef encircling the island becomes your private underwater playground, with baby sharks, turtles, rays, and colorful fish visible directly from your villa without crowds or designated snorkeling times
  • Unmatched privacy for couples: With only 33 villas and no day-trippers or external visitors, honeymooners and couples enjoy romantic seclusion, private sandbanks, and intimate experiences impossible at busier resorts
  • Personalized butler service: Each guest receives dedicated attention from personal butlers who know their preferences and ensure seamless, discreet service throughout their stay
  • Natural beauty preservation: The island’s untouched landscape features wild palms, sea grapes, hibiscus, and a stunning 1-kilometer sandbank that appears and disappears with tides, maintaining authentic Maldivian character
  • Holistic wellness immersion: The comprehensive COMO Shambhala Retreat offers complete wellness programs, including twice-daily complimentary yoga, meditation, spa treatments, and healthy cuisine without leaving the island
  • Authentic Maldivian simplicity: The private island setting emphasizes natural beauty and tranquility over manufactured entertainment, appealing to travelers seeking genuine relaxation rather than resort activities

What dining and personalized service can guests expect at this COMO Hotels and Resorts property?

Ufaa serves modern interpretations of Indian and Mediterranean cuisine with emphasis on local produce and sustainably caught seafood, reflecting COMO’s philosophy of fresh, healthy, and refined dining. The personalized service extends from arrival through departure with exceptional attention to detail.

Dining experiences:

  • Ufaa Restaurant: The main restaurant offers flexible all-day dining with daily-changing menus featuring South Indian cuisine, Mediterranean dishes, fresh seafood, and organic vegetables—ensuring variety despite being the only restaurant on the island
  • COMO Shambhala Kitchen: Health-conscious cuisine available at every meal, featuring tandoor-cooked dishes, raw food options, nutrient-rich soups, salads, and predominantly vegetarian selections catering to wellness-focused guests
  • Faru Bar: Poolside bar with beach access serving creative cocktails, mocktails, fine wines, cigars, and light snacks from 10 am until late in a relaxed, feet-in-the-sand setting
  • Private dining options: Exclusive experiences including sandbank picnics with personal butler service, villa yakiniku dinners with Japanese-style grilling, romantic candlelit dinners, and “Cinema Under the Stars” setups
  • In-room dining: Comprehensive 7 am-11 pm service allowing breakfast on your private deck or romantic dinners overlooking the lagoon
  • Special culinary events: Seasonal offerings like seven-course Sardinian degustation menus and COMO Simple Cookbook signature dishes

Personalized service:

  • Personal butlers: Dedicated butler service from arrival through departure, learning guest preferences and anticipating needs throughout the stay
  • Daily refreshments: Complimentary minibar snacks refreshed daily, bottled water, and fruit baskets—unusually generous for luxury properties
  • Flexible scheduling: Early check-ins and late check-outs are arranged easily, with 24/7 speedboat transfers accommodating any arrival time
  • Customized experiences: Staff coordinate private excursions, spa appointments, diving schedules, and special celebrations with seamless attention to detail
  • Dietary accommodations: Chefs readily accommodate vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements with thoughtful, delicious alternatives
Book COMO Cocoa Island Here

Which villa options are available at Como Cocoa Island, and how do I choose?

COMO Cocoa Island features 33 overwater suites and villas shaped like traditional Maldivian dhoni fishing boats, offering six distinct categories to match different needs and budgets. The choice depends primarily on your party size, desired space, and whether you want a private pool or prefer direct lagoon access.

Villa categories available:

  • Dhoni Water Suites (75 sq m): The entry-level option featuring split-level design with king or twin beds, private sundeck with dining table and loungers, and direct lagoon access via stairs from your terrace—ideal for couples seeking authentic dhoni-style accommodation at the best value
  • Dhoni Loft Water Villas (110 sq m): Split-level design with expansive lower level living area and master bedroom on the mezzanine, making them great for families—features vaulted ceilings, full-length windows on three sides, both indoor and outdoor showers, and accommodates up to four guests, including children
  • Loft Water Villas (123-125 sq m): Spacious option with elevated loft bedroom, large living area that doubles as sleeping space for kids, floor-to-ceiling windows, secluded outdoor rain shower with steps directly into the ocean, and expansive sundeck—perfect for families wanting extra space without a pool
  • One-Bedroom Water Villa with Pool (125 sq m): Light-filled villas sitting on the eastern end of the resort with private entrance deck, private pool (4.8m by 2.8m), balcony with daybed, and dedicated Butler service—best for couples wanting pool privacy plus lagoon access
  • Two-Bedroom COMO Sunrise Villa (300 sq m): Features separate wings with interconnected living space, each wing with an en suite bedroom, a private pool (8.3m by 3.4m), a fully equipped pantry, and panoramic sunrise views—ideal for families or two couples traveling together
  • Three-Bedroom COMO Sunset Villa (590 sq m): Features two standalone villas connected by a wooden walkway, accommodates 9 guests including up to 5 children, and can be booked together as a three-bedroom or separately—the ultimate family or multi-generational option with two private pools, a 10-meter pool in one villa, an in-villa gym, private study, and dedicated COMO butler service

How to choose:

  • Budget-conscious couples: Dhoni Water Suites offer the best value while maintaining all signature features, including direct lagoon access and dhoni design
  • Families with young children: Dhoni Loft Water Villas or Loft Water Villas provide extra sleeping space in the lower living area without paying for separate bedrooms
  • Honeymooners or couples seeking ultimate privacy: One-Bedroom Water Villa with Pool combines intimate pool moments with butler service and sunrise/sunset views
  • Multi-family groups or extended families: Two or Three-Bedroom COMO Villas offer separate sleeping wings for privacy while sharing common areas for togetherness
  • Those prioritizing natural swimming: Any non-pool villa provides an authentic Maldivian experience with lagoon stairs and exceptional house reef access steps away

What is a water villa, and why pick an overwater villa at COMO Cocoa Island?

Water villas, also called overwater villas or bungalows, are accommodations built on stilts directly above the lagoon rather than on land. All 33 overwater villas at COMO Cocoa Island occupy the gently curved shapes of local ‘dhoni’ boats with villas connected by wooden walkways, creating an immersive ocean experience where you’re surrounded by water on all sides.

What makes water villas special:

  • Direct water access: Every villa features private staircases descending directly from your sundeck into the crystal-clear turquoise lagoon, allowing you to snorkel, swim, or dip your feet in the water whenever you wish
  • Uninterrupted ocean views: Floor-to-ceiling windows on multiple sides provide panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, with horizons stretching endlessly in every direction
  • Marine life viewing: Watch tropical fish, rays, baby reef sharks, and sea turtles swimming beneath your villa throughout the day without leaving your accommodation
  • Ultimate privacy: Positioned on wooden jetties extending into the lagoon, water villas offer seclusion impossible with beach accommodations, where other guests might walk past
  • Cooling ocean breezes: Elevated positioning over water ensures constant natural ventilation and refreshing sea breezes, complementing air conditioning
  • Romantic ambiance: The sensation of floating on the ocean, combined with the sound of gentle waves lapping beneath your feet, creates an unmatched romantic atmosphere

Why choose COMO Cocoa Island’s overwater villas specifically:

  • Unique dhoni architecture: Villas are designed to reflect the graceful curves of local ‘dhoni’ fishing boats with bright and airy interiors featuring high rafters, polished wood floors, New Zealand pine, and Kajan-thatched roofs—an authentic design found only at this resort
  • Exceptional house reef access: The coral is in much better condition than most Maldivian resorts, with abundant marine life, including sharks, turtles, and colorful fish visible directly from every villa without boat transfers to distant snorkeling sites
  • Intimate scale: With only 33 villas total compared to 100+ at mega-resorts, the wooden walkways feel uncrowded, and you often have entire sections of the lagoon to yourself
  • Included amenities: Every villa includes a private sun terrace that opens directly onto the lagoon, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing in total privacy, along with complimentary daily minibar snacks, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, and non-motorized water sports
  • Wellness integration: Water villas seamlessly connect to COMO Shambhala Retreat activities, with twice-daily complimentary yoga classes and easy access to spa treatments without sacrificing your ocean immersion
  • All-water property: Unlike resorts with mixed beach and water villas, where overwater accommodations command premiums, every guest at COMO Cocoa Island enjoys the water villa experience regardless of the category chosen

Are there two-bedroom or three-bedroom villa configurations or separate wings for families?

Yes, COMO Cocoa Island offers dedicated multi-bedroom configurations specifically designed for families and groups. COMO Cocoa Island offers family-friendly villas, including Dhoni Loft Water Villas, Two-Bedroom COMO Sunrise Villa, and Three-Bedroom COMO Sunset Villa, with separate wing designs providing privacy while keeping families connected.

Two-bedroom option:

  • Two-Bedroom COMO Sunrise Villa (300 sq m total): Features two separate wings with interconnected living space, each wing with an en suite bedroom, a private infinity pool, a nanny’s room with en suite bathroom, and a private study—accommodates six guests, including up to four children
  • Wing configuration: Each wing contains one en suite bedroom with a private terrace directly above the ocean, connected by shared living and dining areas in the center, with balconies on both sides for direct lagoon access
  • Privacy features: Wings can be closed off from the central living area, allowing parents and older children or two couples to maintain independence while sharing common spaces
  • Family amenities: Fully equipped pantry, expansive sundeck with loungers and dining table, private services of a COMO Butler, and panoramic sunrise views 
  • Pool specifications: Private pool measuring 8.3m by 3.4m with 1m depth positioned on a secluded deck that almost touches the edge of the ocean

Three-bedroom option:

  • Three-Bedroom COMO Sunset Villa (590 sq m total): Dual villas joined by a charming wooden walkway, with the first villa featuring a master bedroom, a spacious terrace, a 10-metre private swimming pool and gymnasium, and the second villa with two wings encompassing a living room, a nanny’s room with en suite, private study, and tranquil infinity pool
  • Maximum capacity: Accommodates nine guests, including up to five children, or the two villas can be booked separately when the wooden walkway is closed for privacy
  • Bedroom distribution: Contains either 1 King and 2 Twin Beds OR 2 King and 2 Twin Beds across three bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms
  • Dual pool advantage: Two separate private pools allow families to spread out—one 10-meter pool for active swimming and one infinity pool for relaxation
  • Premium amenities: Fully-stocked pantry, study room, extra service bedroom, in-villa gym, private services of a COMO butler, spacious sundeck with sunloungers and dining table, and panoramic sunset views 
  • Flexibility: Can function as one massive three-bedroom villa for reunions or celebrations, or as two separate one-bedroom and two-bedroom villas for multiple families wanting proximity with independence

Additional family-friendly features:

  • Dhoni Loft Water Villas as a family alternative: While technically one-bedroom, the lower-level living area converts to a children’s sleeping space, offering a more affordable family option than multi-bedroom villas
  • Butler service: All COMO Villas (two and three-bedroom) include dedicated butler service to coordinate children’s meals, activities, babysitting arrangements, and special requests
  • Babysitting services: Available for all villa categories, allowing parents to enjoy romantic dinners or spa treatments
  • Kid-friendly amenities: Extra beds and cribs available upon request in most villa categories, with age-appropriate activities and dining options coordinated by staff

What features do private pool or private sundeck villas offer for a luxury Maldives stay?

Not all villas have private pools—most offer direct lagoon access for a natural infinity-pool experience, while select villas, including Pool Villas, Two-Bedroom COMO Sunrise Villa, and Three-Bedroom COMO Sunset Villa, feature private plunge pools. However, every single villa includes a private sundeck, making it a universal feature across all categories.

Private pool villa features (One-Bedroom Water Villa with Pool, COMO Sunrise and Sunset Villas):

  • Pool specifications: Private swimming pool measuring 4.8m by 2.8m with 1m depth in one-bedroom villas, expansive sundeck with loungers and dining table, and secluded location on private jetty—larger pools in multi-bedroom villas (8.3m in Sunrise, 10m in Sunset)
  • Ocean-edge positioning: Pools are positioned to almost touch the edge of the ocean, creating the sensation of swimming where the pool merges with the lagoon horizon
  • Dual water options: Enjoy both private pool swimming in complete seclusion and lagoon access via stairs for snorkeling with marine life—best of both worlds
  • Butler service inclusion: Dedicated Butler service ensures pool towels are refreshed, pool cocktails delivered, and any preferences anticipated  throughout your stay
  • Sunrise/sunset optimization: One-bedroom pool villas positioned on the eastern end for spectacular sunrise views, while Sunset Villa offers the island’s best sunset panoramas
  • Enhanced privacy: Private pools allow swimming, sunbathing, or pool dining without any visibility from other villas or resort areas
  • Romantic features: Balcony with a daybed where you can relax as the sun rises and sets, perfect for couples seeking intimate moments
  • Family advantages: A shallower controlled pool environment is safer for young children than an open lagoon, while older kids and adults can still access reef snorkeling

Private sundeck features (all villa categories):

  • Universal inclusion: Every villa includes a private sun terrace that opens directly onto the lagoon, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing in total privacy 
  • Direct lagoon access: Wooden staircases descend from every sundeck straight into crystal-clear turquoise waters for effortless swimming and snorkeling whenever desired
  • Furniture and layout: All sundecks feature teak loungers, dining tables for private breakfast or candlelit dinners, and umbrella coverage for shade options
  • Outdoor shower integration: Secluded outdoor shower with steps into the sea in many villa categories, allowing you to rinse off under the sky with ocean views
  • Marine life viewing platform: Sundecks function as observation decks where you can watch rays gliding past, reef sharks circling, and tropical fish schooling without getting wet
  • Flexible dining venue: Room service meals can be arranged on your private sundeck, creating intimate dining experiences surrounded by the ocean, with a butler or server delivering directly to your villa
  • Yoga and meditation space: Private sundeck provides personal space for morning yoga practice, sunset meditation, or simply reading with uninterrupted ocean horizons
  • Photography opportunities: Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout villas provide plenty of space to unwind while watching the ocean, with sundecks offering perfect vantage points for capturing Maldivian sunrises, sunsets, and marine encounters

Luxury Maldives stay advantages:

  • No beach crowds: Unlike beach villas, where you share sand with other guests, private sundecks and pools ensure complete seclusion throughout your stay
  • 24/7 water access: No need to wait for resort pool hours or walk to beaches—step from your bedroom to your sundeck to the ocean in seconds at any hour
  • Wellness integration: Private outdoor spaces perfect for COMO Shambhala in-villa treatments, with massage therapists setting up on your sundeck for treatments with ocean breezes
  • Honeymoon romance: Sundecks can be transformed for romantic surprises—champagne breakfast setups, flower petal arrangements, or candlelit anniversary dinners arranged by butler service
  • Weather flexibility: Even during brief rain showers, covered portions of sundecks allow you to enjoy outdoor space, while sunny weather maximizes tanning and swimming opportunities
  • Complimentary minibar access: Stay includes daily replenishment of selected minibar items and bottled water, ensuring refreshments are always steps away from your sundeck lounging

How does wellness at COMO Shambhala work on Como Cocoa Island?

The wellness centre at COMO Cocoa Island is one of COMO’s most beloved COMO Shambhala Retreats, where you feel like you are the only guest, nurtured in utmost privacy with treatments, experiences, products, and activities. A third of the entire island is now dedicated to COMO Shambhala, creating an immersive wellness experience that integrates into your entire stay rather than being just an add-on spa facility.

How the wellness experience works:

  • Complimentary daily activities: Complimentary group yoga sessions are conducted five days a week, while personal instruction is available at a time that suits you—guests can attend twice-daily yoga classes in the open-air pavilion overlooking the lagoon without additional charge
  • Holistic philosophy integration: Wellness isn’t confined to the spa—it extends to COMO Shambhala Kitchen serving nutrition-optimized dishes, complimentary activities like barefoot walking meditation on the sandbank, and in-villa wellness amenities including yoga mats and instructional videos
  • Flexible booking options: Guests can book individual treatments à la carte, opt for half-day or full-day wellness programs, or choose multi-night “Wellness Immersions” focused on specific goals like active renewal, better sleep, or fitness kick-starts
  • Expert-led treatments: Resident experts are trained in a variety of Asian techniques ranging from the relaxing to the invigorating, with treatments drawing from Ayurvedic, Thai, Balinese, and other traditional healing modalities
  • Natural environment integration: Treatment pavilions combine natural wood, traditional Maldivian coral walls, and thatched roofs, with open-air elements allowing ocean breezes and lagoon views during treatments
  • Personalized wellness consultations: Guests can receive Dosha assessments for Ayurvedic treatments, fitness evaluations, and customized nutrition recommendations from wellness experts
  • Educational component: Wellness Immersions suggest ways to adjust your home environment—shower habits, aroma usage, meal schedules, and more—for better sleep patterns and reduced stress that continue long after departure

Wellness programs available:

  • Active Renewal Immersion: Combines movement classes, body treatments, and massage therapies with a COMO PURIFY massage oil to take home
  • Sleep Enhancement Immersion: Sets you up for restorative sleep through treatments, environmental adjustments, and lifestyle recommendations
  • Fitness Kick-Start Immersion: Incorporates exercise sessions, active lifestyle treatments, and COMO Shambhala Muscle Mylk to support recovery
  • Four-Day Digestive Cleanse: Complete digestive reset with four-day, three-night cleanse menus emphasizing cold-pressed juices, warm broths, and herbal teas combined with gentle workouts and wellness activities

What COMO Shambhala wellness treatments and treatment rooms are available on the island?

COMO Shambhala Cocoa Island has four massage pavilions, including three for couples, with two double treatment rooms and one single treatment room with commanding views of the turquoise lagoon, plus a couples’ pavilion overlooking tropical foliage. The treatment menu spans Asian-inspired therapies, Ayurvedic rituals, beauty treatments, and specialized wellness sessions.

Treatment room features:

  • Lagoon-view pavilions: Open-air treatment huts positioned to capture ocean breezes with floor-to-ceiling views of the turquoise waters during your session
  • Couples’ pavilion: Private foliage-surrounded setting perfect for romantic treatments, allowing partners to experience massages or body rituals together
  • Privacy design: Each treatment room occupies its own standalone hut, ensuring complete seclusion and uninterrupted relaxation
  • Natural materials: Traditional coral walls, teak wood structures, and thatched palm roofs create an authentic Maldivian ambiance while maintaining five-star comfort
  • Open-air bathrooms: Treatment rooms feature stunning outdoor showers and preparation areas where you can rinse off, surrounded by nature

Available treatments:

  • Signature COMO Shambhala Massage: The resort’s flagship therapy combining dry brushing, invigorating body scrub, and calming massage strokes for full-body relaxation
  • Ayurvedic treatments: Beginning with Dosha body-type assessment, these include soothing back massages, detoxifying body masks, and traditional Indian healing therapies
  • Facial treatments: Sundãri facials and sensorial treatments to soothe sunburnt skin and comfort the complexion, specially designed for post-sun care and tropical skincare needs
  • Body treatments: Full-body scrubs, wraps, after-sun treatments, and specialized therapies using local ingredients, herbs, and natural elements
  • Reflexology: Asian-inspired foot therapy targeting pressure points to promote whole-body wellness and energy balance
  • Beauty services: Mani-pedi station offering manicure and pedicure services in the spa environment
  • Specialized therapies: Visiting practitioners periodically offer acupuncture, Chinese medicine consultations, cupping, and other specialized modalities

Treatment packages:

  • Discover COMO Shambhala Package: One 60-minute session of selected massages, facial treatment, or activity per person per day, allowing guests to experience different wellness modalities throughout their stay
  • Wellness Immersion packages: Multi-treatment programs combining massage, body work, movement classes, and nutrition guidance focused on specific goals
  • In-villa treatments: Many treatments can be arranged on your private villa sundeck, with therapists bringing massage tables and aromatherapy oils to your accommodation

Additional wellness facilities:

  • Pilates studio: New Pilates studio alongside the yoga studio offering sweeping views over the lagoon, equipped with reformer equipment for mat and reformer Pilates classes
  • Yoga pavilion: Open-air yoga pavilion with commanding 360-degree view of the island, hosting twice-daily complimentary group classes and private instruction sessions
  • Fully equipped gym: Air-conditioned fitness center with cardio and strength-training equipment overlooking the lagoon, available for complimentary use
  • Movement classes: Daily schedule includes guided meditation, breathing exercises, personal training sessions, and group fitness activities beyond yoga and Pilates

How does the hydrotherapy pool and hydrotherapy circuit enhance relaxation?

COMO Cocoa Island has one of the only hydrotherapy pools in the Maldives, where high-pressure jets massage the body—a safe and powerful therapy. The hydrotherapy pool used for water-based treatments is billed as among the most significant such facilities in the Maldives, making it a distinctive feature rarely found at other island resorts.

How hydrotherapy works:

  • Therapeutic water pressure: Our nervous system reacts to the pressure exerted by moving water, while warm water soothes the body, calming the nerves, heart, and lungs—releasing tension in the muscles 
  • Heat therapy benefits: Thanks to the virtues of hot water and high-pressure jets, the hydrotherapy pool offers deeper, more effective relaxation than traditional massage or dry land exercises
  • Medical applications: It is an effective treatment for helping chronic pain and aiding recovery from surgery and injury, allowing guests to improve aerobic conditioning, flexibility, and strength 
  • Low-impact exercise environment: Hydrotherapy exercises especially benefit those who have difficulty exercising on land, or are recuperating from injury, joint problems, or surgery 
  • Joint pressure relief: Water alleviates joint pressure and discomfort, and the consequently increased range of movement makes hydrotherapy optimal for physical rehabilitation 

Hydrotherapy experiences offered:

  • Aqua Yoga classes: This private island resort has one of the only hydrotherapy pools in the Maldives—recommended for an energising session of aqua yoga, combining gentle yoga movements with water resistance
  • Circuit training sessions: Circuit Instruction sessions, held in the shallow water of the heated Hydrotherapy Pool, can be enjoyed as an individual booking or for up to six guests 
  • Hydrotherapy massage: Held in the heated hydrotherapy pool, this low-impact workout is especially helpful for those with joint injuries or chronic pain, as warm water calms and eases tension in the muscles
  • Complimentary access: A huge hydrotherapy pool is free for all guests, allowing unlimited use throughout your stay for self-directed sessions or scheduled treatments
  • Private and group options: Book individual hydrotherapy sessions for focused rehabilitation or join small-group circuit training for social wellness experiences

Enhanced relaxation benefits:

  • Stress reduction: The combination of warm water, high-pressure jets, and buoyancy creates profound physical relaxation while calming mental stress and anxiety
  • Muscle recovery: Ideal for post-diving muscle soreness, active honeymoon recovery, or simply unwinding after snorkeling adventures on the house reef
  • Flexibility improvement: Water resistance combined with reduced gravity allows deeper stretches and a greater range of motion than land-based flexibility work
  • Pain management: Natural therapy for chronic pain conditions, arthritis, or post-surgical rehabilitation without pharmaceutical intervention
  • Circulation enhancement: High-pressure jets stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage, reducing inflammation and promoting healing

Pool specifications:

  • Heated water: Maintained at therapeutic temperatures for maximum muscle relaxation and comfort
  • Indoor/covered setting: Protected environment allowing year-round use regardless of weather conditions
  • Shallow depth design: Accessible for all fitness levels and those with mobility concerns
  • Professional supervision: Treatments led by trained hydrotherapy instructors who customize sessions to individual needs and limitations

Can guests book Pilates or personalised wellness programmes at COMO Shambhala Retreat?

Yes, absolutely. Join us for a restorative Pilates session where you can learn techniques that will help reduce pain and improve your overall posture, and COMO Cocoa Island offers comprehensive personalized wellness programs tailored to individual goals, fitness levels, and therapeutic needs.

Pilates offerings:

  • Mat Pilates classes: Both mat and Reformer Pilates are available in specialist Pilates studios, with classes led by accredited teachers focused on strengthening, toning, and sculpting the entire body 
  • Reformer Pilates equipment: Full range of Pilates reformer and cadillac equipment  available in the dedicated Pilates studio for advanced equipment-based sessions
  • Group classes: Complimentary and scheduled group Pilates sessions allowing guests to learn proper form and techniques in a supportive environment
  • Private instruction: One-on-one Pilates sessions available for personalized attention, proper alignment correction, and customized routines based on your body’s needs
  • Specialized programs: Visiting Pilates practitioners periodically offer workshops, circuit workouts, and intensive programs for guests seeking deeper immersion
  • Therapeutic applications: Pilates sessions can be adapted for rehabilitation, chronic pain management, posture correction, or pre/post-natal conditioning

Personalized wellness programs:

  • Wellness consultations: Begin your stay with expert assessments, including fitness evaluations, Dosha analysis for Ayurvedic treatments, and goal-setting sessions with wellness coordinators
  • Multi-day Immersions: Wellness Immersions incorporate exercise sessions and treatments designed to benefit active lifestyles, sleep enhancement, or gentle cleansing with body treatments and massage therapies 
  • Custom nutrition plans: Work with experts to develop personalized eating strategies using COMO Shambhala Kitchen, with dishes optimized for your wellness goals, whether detox, weight management, or energy enhancement
  • Activity combinations: Programs blend movement (yoga, Pilates, personal training), treatments (massage, hydrotherapy, facials), and lifestyle guidance into comprehensive wellness journeys
  • Visiting practitioners: The resort periodically hosts specialized experts offering acupuncture, physiotherapy, advanced Pilates techniques, and other therapeutic modalities for limited periods
  • Take-home strategies: Programs suggest ways to adjust your home environment for better sleep patterns, stress reduction, and sustained wellness long-term 

Additional personalized wellness options:

  • Personal training: Individual fitness sessions in the fully equipped gym with customized workout routines matching your fitness level and objectives
  • Guided meditation: Private meditation instruction helping you develop mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, and mental clarity exercises
  • Nutritionist consultations: Discuss dietary needs, food sensitivities, or wellness goals with experts who can customize meal recommendations from COMO Shambhala Kitchen
  • Specialized workshops: Depending on visiting practitioners, guests might access workshops on topics like Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine, advanced yoga techniques, or holistic healing
  • Butler-coordinated wellness: For guests in COMO Villas, dedicated butlers arrange and coordinate all wellness appointments, ensuring seamless scheduling of treatments, classes, and programs

Booking and scheduling:

  • Wellness programs and Pilates sessions should be pre-booked when reserving your stay or upon arrival during your wellness consultation
  • Daily schedules are posted showing complimentary activities (group yoga, group Pilates) versus bookable private sessions
  • Multi-day programs like Wellness Immersions require advance planning to ensure proper sequencing of treatments and availability of practitioners
  • Flexibility built in—wellness coordinators adjust programs based on how you’re feeling, weather conditions, or diving/excursion schedules

What marine activities and snorkel or scuba options exist around Makunufushi?

Guests at COMO Cocoa Island can snorkel with white tip and blacktip reef sharks on reefs just a 15-minute boat ride from the resort, and the island’s location on Makunufushi in South Malé Atoll provides access to some of the Maldives’ most spectacular underwater experiences. The resort is surrounded by marine-rich waters with three spectacular house reefs and over 20 dive sites within a short boat ride.

House reef snorkeling:

  • Complimentary guided snorkeling: Expert guides introduce guests to COMO Cocoa Island’s house reef, where they can discover vibrant marine life in safe conditions, perfect for first-time snorkelers
  • Marine biologist-led sessions: Join the resident marine biologist to discover the house reef from an entirely new perspective, learning about marine life habits and underwater fun facts before your session
  • Direct villa access: Walk out to the end of private jetties, climb down steps, and swim along the reef with incredible visibility, then swim across the reef back to your villa
  • Night snorkeling: UV fluoro night snorkeling uses special UV torches and mask lenses to reveal stunning fluorescent greens, yellows, reds, and oranges emitted by coral species like tube coral and brain coral, with glowing lobsters and lionfish visible under ultraviolet lights
  • Free equipment: Snorkeling gear can be checked out from the Marine Sports Centre and kept at your villa throughout your stay for spontaneous water exploration

Guided snorkel excursions:

  • Two-reef exploration: Guided excursions take guests to two different reef sites near COMO Cocoa Island, where they discover vibrant coral and diverse marine life
  • Green turtle encounters: A 20-minute boat ride takes guests to pristine reefs where green turtles are frequently spotted, with a conservation talk at the Marine Sports Centre beforehand 
  • Reef shark snorkeling: Harmless white tip and blacktip reef sharks can be encountered 15 minutes from the resort, with a shark conservation briefing included 
  • Whale shark expeditions: Speed boat ride to Ari Atoll, where guests snorkel alongside the world’s largest shark, with a sandbank picnic lunch included 
  • Marine biologist add-on: Any excursion can include the resident marine biologist, providing expert insights and education throughout

Scuba diving options:

  • PADI certification courses: Comprehensive training from beginner to advanced levels offered through the on-site PADI dive center
  • Guided dive trips: Divers depart daily on spacious, shaded vessels with the resident marine biologist on board, with refreshments during surface intervals and all equipment prepared, loaded, rinsed, and stored by staff 
  • Famous dive sites: Access to dramatic Kandooma Caves and the ever-popular shark cleaning station at Cocoa Thila, among the Maldives’ most celebrated underwater locations
  • Night dives: Regular night dive departures exploring nocturnal marine behavior and different species active after dark

Additional water activities:

  • Dolphin watching cruises: Wild dolphins migrate in pods of 50 to 80 through South Malé waters, showcasing acrobatic jumps and bow wave surfing, with sunset views and sparkling wine on return
  • Catamaran sailing: Private two-hour sailing and snorkeling trips for couples through the Indian Ocean with tropical Maldivian breezes
  • Non-motorized water sports: Complimentary kayaking, windsurfing, sailing lessons in TOPCAT K1 and K3 catamarans with qualified instructors
  • Fishing experiences: Sunset reef bottom fishing using traditional Maldivian techniques, with your catch prepared for dinner, plus big game fishing charters
  • Coral conservation: Sponsor a coral propagating frame and help plant it with the resident marine biologist at the coral garden, receiving photographs and updates every six months

Where are the best reef and turquoise lagoon snorkel spots around the South Malé Atoll?

The best snorkeling at COMO Cocoa Island is walking to the end of private jetties, climbing down steps, and swimming along the reef with incredible visibility, but South Malé Atoll offers multiple world-class snorkel locations both at the resort and nearby. The South Male Atoll features wild drifts in deep channels, wrecks and caves, with the east side offering challenging elements and sizable fish.

Best house reef snorkel spots at COMO Cocoa Island:

  • Villa jetty endpoints: Each villa’s private jetty provides direct access to pristine coral gardens, with guests able to swim approximately 150 yards along the reef before crossing back to their villa
  • Shambhala Reef and Bay Reef: House reef dives explored during special events revealed blacktip reef sharks, napoleon wrasse, hawksbill and green sea turtles, moray eels, oriental sweetlips, giant clams, anemone fishes, cleaner shrimps, banner fishes, and butterfly fish 
  • Marine life concentration: Schools of Kashmir snapper, oriental sweetlips, needlefish, and occasional harmless reef sharks are visible during complimentary guided house reef excursions 
  • Coral condition: The coral is in much better condition than most Maldivian resorts, with vibrant health and abundant fish populations directly accessible from accommodations
  • Sandbank surroundings: The 1-kilometer-long sandbank extending from the island creates shallow lagoon areas perfect for beginner snorkeling with excellent visibility

Nearby South Malé Atoll snorkel destinations:

  • Fushifathi Finolhu Reef: Organized snorkeling trips visit this vibrant reef system with exceptional coral formations and fish density
  • Turtle congregation sites: Pristine reefs, 20 minutes by boat, where green turtles are frequently spotted, offering near-guaranteed encounters with these gentle marine reptiles
  • Reef shark hotspots: Reefs just 15 minutes away host white tip and blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat, safely viewable for snorkelers of all experience levels
  • Cocoa Thila area: While primarily a dive site, the surrounding waters offer excellent snorkeling with cleaning stations attracting diverse marine species
  • Channel edges: Channel dives focus on the eastern reef wall’s six channels with impressive tidal flows, creating nutrient-rich environments that support abundant marine life visible from the surface

Turquoise lagoon characteristics:

  • Crystal-clear visibility: Waters surrounding COMO Cocoa Island maintain exceptional clarity year-round, with visibility often exceeding 20-30 meters during optimal conditions
  • Shallow depth advantages: The lagoon’s gentle depth gradients allow snorkelers to observe coral formations and fish behavior up close without deep diving
  • Protected environment: The house reefs and nearby dive sites are amongst the best in the world for diving and snorkeling, with South Malé Atoll’s positioning providing shelter from strong currents
  • Turquoise water quality: The resort sits in spectacularly clear waters encircled by live coral reefs, creating the iconic Maldivian turquoise hue from reflected light through pristine waters
  • Marine diversity: Regular sightings include parrot fish, rays, reef sharks, sea turtles, moray eels, tropical fish schools, and seasonal manta ray appearances

Best times and conditions:

  • Year-round snorkeling is available, though December through April offers the calmest seas and optimal visibility
  • Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions for underwater photography and marine life activity
  • High tide periods allow easier swimming over shallow reef sections without disturbing the coral
  • Night snorkeling with UV torches reveals entirely different marine ecosystems and fluorescent coral displays

Does the resort offer PADI scuba courses, guided dives, or sealife encounters?

Yes, absolutely. COMO Cocoa Island has professional guides on hand and a range of PADI-approved diving courses for those wishing to earn their SCUBA license while at the resort, and the resort boasts an outstanding PADI 5-Star dive centre with a professional team focused on safety, quality instruction, and fun.

PADI scuba courses offered:

  • Discover Scuba Diving: While not a scuba certification course, Discover Scuba Diving is a quick and easy introduction to exploring the underwater world, teaching basic safety guidelines and skills under direct PADI Professional supervision 
  • PADI Scuba Diver: An intermediate step for earning Open Water Diver certification, ideal for those short on time but wanting to become certified divers 
  • PADI Open Water Diver: Full certification course, allowing independent diving to 18 meters worldwide after completion
  • Advanced certifications: Full range of PADI courses and specialties from beginner to divemaster offered by multilingual instructors 
  • Specialty courses: Underwater photographer, drift diver, and nitrox specialty courses available for certified divers wanting to expand skills
  • Kids’ Bubblemaker: Children can join the fun with the kids’ bubblemaker program, introducing young adventurers to scuba in a safe, age-appropriate format

Dive center facilities and services:

  • Comprehensive equipment: Facilities include a shop, rental equipment, a storage facility, fish ID books, an air-conditioned classroom, and freshwater showers 
  • Full-service support: All equipment is prepared, loaded onto boats, offloaded, rinsed, and stored on guests’ behalf, eliminating logistics concerns
  • Advanced options: Full rental gear, nitrox, and underwater cameras available for experienced divers wanting technical capabilities
  • Professional vessels: Divers depart daily on spacious, shaded, and powerful vessels with refreshments offered during surface intervals 
  • Multilingual instruction: The dive team is multilingual and shares a wealth of local diving experience, ensuring clear communication and safety

Guided dive experiences:

  • House reef dives: The house reef is a popular choice, especially for night dives, with the first real dives often conducted here for newly certified divers
  • Boat dive trips: Four boat dives to various sites typically offered during multi-day diving packages, exploring the atoll’s diverse underwater landscapes
  • Marine biologist-led dives: Private guides available at an additional fee, with the unique opportunity to enjoy expert-led dives with the resident marine biologist, whose knowledge and curiosity enhance the experience 
  • Famous dive sites: Divers explore colorful reefs, overhangs, and action-packed sites teeming with turtles, reef sharks, vibrant reef fish, and even manta rays at locations like Kandooma Caves and Cocoa Thila 
  • Night diving: Night dives depart regularly, revealing nocturnal marine behavior and species rarely seen during daylight hours

Sealife encounters offered:

  • Turtle snorkeling expeditions: Swim alongside gentle green turtles in their natural habitat with a conservation talk beforehand 
  • Reef shark encounters: Snorkel with harmless white tip and blacktip reef sharks with a shark conservation briefing 
  • Whale shark expeditions: Speed boat adventure to Ari Atoll to snorkel alongside the world’s largest shark, with a sandbank picnic lunch 
  • Dolphin watching: Evening excursions to watch pods of 50-80 wild dolphins swim playfully and jump acrobatically, often surfing boat bow waves
  • Manta ray sightings: The nearby UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll offers seasonal manta ray sightings, with excursions arranged for appropriate viewing periods
  • Educational programs: Resident marine biologist gives weekly talks in Faru Bar on marine life, environment, and local ecosystem topics, enhancing guests’ understanding of encounters

How do dhoni water excursions or dhoni loft water villas enhance sea-based experiences?

All 33 villas at COMO Cocoa Island are shaped like traditional Maldivian dhoni fishing boats, creating an immersive connection to Maldivian maritime heritage, while dhoni boat excursions provide authentic traditional sailing experiences. Both elements deeply enhance the sea-based experience through cultural authenticity and optimal ocean engagement.

How Dhoni Water Villas enhance sea experiences:

  • Unique boat architecture: The dhoni-style boat design makes guests feel as if it’s just you and the sea, with suites fixed to the lagoon but creating the sensation of floating 
  • Direct water immersion: Dhoni Water Villas offer seamless connection to the turquoise lagoon, with private staircases descending directly from your deck into swimming-ready waters
  • Optimal positioning: Villas positioned on wooden jetties extending into the lagoon place guests surrounded by water on all sides, maximizing ocean views and marine life visibility
  • Split-level advantage: Split-level design with private terrace and staircase to lagoon makes guests feel like they’re floating on the ocean, creating an intimate connection with water impossible in beach accommodations
  • Marine observation platform: Snorkeling right beneath your feet, close to your private terrace, reveals a turquoise lagoon teeming with rich marine life and multicolored fish of various species 
  • Cultural authenticity: Dhoni boats are one of the oldest known sailing vessels in the Maldives, so staying in dhoni-shaped villas connects guests to centuries of Maldivian seafaring tradition

Dhoni Loft Water Villas’ specific advantages:

  • Elevated ocean views: Master bedroom on mezzanine level beneath the rafters offers superb ocean views from the comfort of your bed, waking to panoramic seascapes
  • Expansive lower living area: Downstairs living area with generous seating provides families space to gather while maintaining a constant ocean connection through floor-to-ceiling windows 
  • Family-friendly water access: Lower-level living space opens directly onto sundeck and lagoon stairs, allowing easy supervision of children’s water activities while parents relax indoors
  • Vaulted ceilings: Full-length windows on three sides with vaulted ceilings create airy, light-filled spaces that maximize natural light and ocean visibility
  • Indoor-outdoor flow: Both indoor and outdoor showers allow guests to rinse off under open sky while watching the lagoon waters, enhancing the barefoot luxury experience

Dhoni water excursions offered:

  • Sunset dhoni cruises: Take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhoni or head out in search of dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and other amazing marine life in guided wildlife watching trips 
  • Traditional sailing experience: Dhoni excursions provide authentic Maldivian sailing experiences, with guests experiencing the same vessel type used by local fishermen for centuries
  • Dolphin watching dhoni trips: Sunset cruise excursions on dhoni boats to watch dolphins at play and flying fish skirt across the water, with a traditional vessel enhancing cultural authenticity
  • Island hopping: Dhoni boats transport guests to neighboring islands for cultural exploration, maintaining traditional Maldivian inter-island travel methods
  • Fishing dhoni charters: Sunset fishing excursions where the catch can be prepared for lunch the following day, using traditional Maldivian fishing techniques from dhoni vessels

Enhanced sea-based experience benefits:

  • Lower profile on water: Dhoni boats sit closer to water level than modern speedboats, providing a more intimate connection with waves, marine life, and the ocean environment
  • Quieter propulsion: Traditional dhoni design often results in gentler movement through water, reducing disturbance to marine ecosystems and allowing closer wildlife approaches
  • Cultural immersion: Dhoni is inspired by traditional Maldivian fishing boats, so both villa design and excursion vessels connect guests to authentic local maritime heritage
  • Romantic atmosphere: The elegant curved lines and wooden construction of dhoni boats create inherently romantic settings for sunset cruises and couples’ excursions
  • Photography opportunities: Distinctive dhoni silhouettes against Maldivian sunsets create iconic imagery, with traditional boat shapes providing recognizable cultural context
  • Stable platforms: Dhoni hulls designed for fishing stability provide excellent platforms for marine observation, snorkeling preparation, and relaxed ocean viewing
  • COMO luxury yacht option: The luxury yacht features three cabin rooms, lower and upper sundecks, indoor and al fresco dining spaces, and a sea-level platform for water adventures, offering bespoke diving, atoll hopping, or champagne sunset excursions in ultimate comfort

When is the best time to visit for turquoise waters, sunrise views, and serene island vibes?

The dry season starts in November and lasts till April, the best time to visit the island due to favourable weather for sightseeing and calm seas for enjoying water activities. October to April are the months when any rain is least likely, with February-April being the hottest and driest period of all, creating optimal conditions for experiencing COMO Cocoa Island’s signature turquoise lagoons and serene atmosphere.

Best months for different priorities:

  • Peak turquoise water clarity (December-April): The dry season offers warm, sunny days and minimal rainfall with lower humidity and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities, snorkelling, and diving—this period delivers the most crystalline turquoise lagoon visibility
  • Optimal sunrise views (February-April): Feb-April being the hottest and driest period ensures clear morning skies with minimal cloud cover, perfect for guests in COMO Sunrise Villas to capture spectacular dawn panoramas over the Indian Ocean
  • Maximum serenity (May-November): The wet season is generally less crowded, which means more privacy and lower rates, offering the most peaceful island experience despite occasional afternoon showers
  • Honeymoon season (December-January): Christmas could feel a little crowded as the island will be at maximum capacity, creating a festive atmosphere but slightly less seclusion—book well in advance for holiday periods
  • Diving enthusiasts (May-November): May to November is the best time to visit if you are a keen diver, as increased plankton levels attract larger marine life such as Manta Rays and Whale Sharks 

Weather patterns throughout the year:

  • Dry season advantages (November-April): With calmer seas and excellent visibility, this is the best time for snorkelling and diving, also perfect for sunset cruises and other outdoor activities 
  • Temperature consistency: Temperatures are consistently between 26-32 Centigrade, and the tourist seasons are dictated by the change in the monsoons—warm year-round regardless of season
  • Wet season characteristics (May-November): Showers are typically short-lived and often occur in the late afternoon or evening, with still plenty of sunshine during the day, minimally disrupting morning and midday activities
  • Marine life activity: The landscapes are at their greenest during the wet season, and you might find more marine life activity due to increased plankton levels

Practical considerations:

  • Pricing differences: As it’s the high season, expect higher prices for accommodations and activities during December-April, with advance booking recommended
  • Festival atmosphere: Peak travel times like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter might bring more visitors, but also create a festive atmosphere
  • Activity flexibility: While there might be more waves and wind during the wet season, water activities are still possible—divers often prefer this period for diverse marine encounters
  • Romance factor: The intimate 33-villa scale means COMO Cocoa Island maintains serene vibes even during peak season, unlike larger 100+ villa resorts

Which months offer the clearest turquoise lagoon and calm snorkeling conditions?

December to April offers calmer seas and excellent visibility, making this the best time for snorkelling and diving. February through April being the hottest and driest period of all delivers the absolute peak conditions for turquoise lagoon clarity and calm water snorkeling.

Month-by-month breakdown:

  • December-January: High season begins with excellent visibility and calm seas, though occasional brief rain showers are possible early December—Christmas and New Year bring maximum guests, but water conditions remain superb
  • February-March: Feb-April being the hottest and driest period means these months offer the clearest turquoise waters, minimal rainfall, calmest seas, and lowest humidity—absolute prime time for house reef snorkeling
  • April: Tail end of peak season maintains exceptional water clarity with slightly warmer temperatures and fewer crowds than December-March, still offering superb snorkeling conditions
  • October-November: October and November are the moderate season, offering a balance between warm temperatures and occasional showers—a transitional period with good visibility at lower prices
  • May-September: Wet season months with more frequent afternoon showers and slightly reduced visibility due to plankton blooms, though this attracts larger marine species like manta rays and whale sharks

Snorkeling condition specifics:

  • Water visibility range: During December-April dry season, underwater visibility regularly exceeds 20-30 meters, allowing clear views of coral gardens, reef sharks, turtles, and tropical fish directly from villa jetties
  • Sea state calmness: Calmer seas during the dry season mean minimal wave action and current strength around the house reef, ideal for beginner snorkelers and families with children
  • Surface conditions: Dry season provides glassy, mirror-like lagoon surfaces in early morning hours before afternoon breezes pick up, perfect for underwater photography and marine life spotting
  • Current patterns: South Malé Atoll’s protected positioning and COMO Cocoa Island’s lagoon location create naturally calm conditions year-round, though December-April offers the gentlest currents

Turquoise lagoon color intensity:

  • Peak turquoise hues (February-April): Maximum sunshine, minimal rainfall, and lowest sediment levels create the most vibrant turquoise-blue lagoon colors that define Maldivian paradise imagery
  • Clarity factors: Dry season’s reduced rainfall means less freshwater runoff and minimal plankton blooms, maintaining the crystalline clarity that makes the turquoise color so spectacular
  • Photographic opportunities: Clear skies combined with calm waters during December-April deliver ideal lighting for capturing iconic turquoise lagoon photos from villa sundecks and during snorkeling

House reef advantages at COMO Cocoa Island:

  • Direct access from every villa means guests can snorkel whenever conditions are optimal without waiting for organized excursions or boat transfers
  • The coral’s exceptional health creates stunning underwater scenery regardless of season, though visibility peaks from December to April
  • Protected lagoon positioning minimizes weather disruption—even during the wet season, morning snorkeling often remains excellent
  • Three distinct house reefs surrounding the island provide options for different skill levels and varying current strengths

Alternative wet season benefits:

  • Divers often enjoy the wet season due to the increased chance of seeing larger marine life such as Manta Rays and Whale Sharks 
  • Between June and October, you can swim alongside gentle whale sharks in nearby waters 
  • Lower visibility from plankton attracts pelagic species, offering different but equally rewarding marine encounters

How can guests maximise sunrise views from a COMO sunrise villa or private sundeck?

COMO Sunrise Villas are strategically positioned on the eastern end of the resort specifically to capture spectacular dawn panoramas. One-Bedroom Water Villa with Pool is located on the eastern end of the resort with panoramic sunrise views, while every villa’s private sundeck provides unobstructed horizon views perfect for greeting the day.

Positioning and villa selection strategies:

  • Book COMO Sunrise Villa: Two-Bedroom COMO Sunrise Villa features panoramic sunrise views with fully equipped pantry, expansive sundeck with loungers and dining table—purpose-built for dawn experiences
  • Request eastern-facing villas: When booking Dhoni Water Suites, Dhoni Loft Water Villas, or Loft Water Villas, request eastern-facing jetties for optimal sunrise positioning
  • Pool villa advantage: One-Bedroom Water Villa with Pool includes balcony with daybed where you can relax as the sun rises and sets, providing comfortable viewing platform without leaving your accommodation
  • Elevation benefits: Dhoni Loft Water Villas have master bedroom on mezzanine level beneath the rafters offering superb ocean views from the comfort of your bed—wake to sunrise without stepping outside

Optimal viewing times and preparation:

  • Best months for clear sunrises: February-April being the hottest and driest period ensures minimal cloud cover for unobstructed dawn views
  • Sunrise timing: In the Maldives near the equator, sunrise occurs roughly 6:00-6:30 am year-round with minimal seasonal variation—set alarms accordingly
  • Pre-dawn positioning: Arrive on your sundeck 20-30 minutes before official sunrise to witness the sky’s color transformation from deep purple through pink, orange, and gold
  • Weather monitoring: Check conditions the evening before—calm, clear nights typically predict spectacular sunrise mornings

Villa features to leverage:

  • Private sundeck setup: Every villa includes a private sun terrace that opens directly onto the lagoon, perfect for sunbathing in total privacy—position loungers facing east the night before
  • Indoor viewing advantage: Floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides with vaulted ceilings in Dhoni Loft Villas allow sunrise viewing from bed on cooler mornings
  • Outdoor shower experience: Both indoor and outdoor showers in many villas mean you can greet the sunrise while showering under open sky
  • Butler service coordination: For COMO Villas with dedicated butler service, arrange sunrise coffee/tea delivery timed with dawn for luxurious viewing experiences

Activities to enhance sunrise experiences:

  • Morning yoga sessions: Complimentary group yoga sessions are conducted five days a week in the open-air pavilion—sunrise yoga combines wellness with dawn views
  • Private sundeck yoga: Practice morning sun salutations on your private terrace, flowing with the sun’s ascent over the horizon
  • Sunrise meditation: The tranquil pre-dawn hours provide perfect conditions for mindfulness practice on your sundeck overlooking still lagoon waters
  • Photography golden hour: The 30 minutes after sunrise offers magical lighting for capturing villa exteriors, lagoon reflections, and marine life visibility

Food and beverage arrangements:

  • In-villa breakfast timing: Room service and in-villa dining available 7 am-11 pm—order breakfast delivery timed with sunrise for romantic morning dining on your sundeck
  • Coffee delivery: Request butler or room service to deliver hot coffee/tea 15 minutes before sunrise so it arrives perfectly timed
  • Champagne sunrise: Special occasion? Arrange champagne and tropical fruit platter for celebratory dawn toast on your private terrace
  • Healthy breakfast options: COMO Shambhala Kitchen healthful cuisine available at every meal—start your day with nutrition-optimized breakfast while watching sunrise

Marine life sunrise encounters:

  • Early morning reef activity: Marine species are most active during cooler early morning hours—snorkel immediately after sunrise for optimal fish sightings
  • Turtle spotting: Sea turtles often surface near villas during calm dawn hours to breathe—watch from your sundeck for magical encounters
  • Bioluminescence remnants: On rare occasions, pre-dawn darkness reveals glowing plankton in lagoon waters visible from your sundeck stairs
  • Shark patrol viewing: Reef sharks commonly patrol shallow waters at dawn—spot them from your terrace without disturbing their natural behavior

Romantic sunrise experiences:

  • Couples should request villas with daybeds or loungers sized for two people to share sunrise views intimately
  • Surprise your partner with pre-arranged breakfast and flower petals on the sundeck, coordinated through butler service
  • Capture sunrise proposal or anniversary moments—the private sundeck setting ensures complete seclusion for memorable occasions
  • Book couples’ spa treatments immediately after sunrise to transition from dawn tranquility into wellness relaxation

What should travellers pack for a serene white-sand private island escape in the Maldives?

Lightweight, warm-weather clothes are essential—pack a couple of pairs of shorts, flowy t-shirts, sundresses, and plenty of swimsuits. A rash vest with SPF protection of 50+ is essential to protect your back while snorkeling, and COMO Cocoa Island’s barefoot luxury atmosphere means prioritizing comfort, sun protection, and minimal formal attire.

Essential clothing for white-sand island life:

  • Swimwear (4-5 pieces): The average temperature in the Maldives is hot—85°F or hotter, so you’ll be spending a lot of time in your swimsuit—pack multiple bikinis/trunks to have dry options available
  • Beach cover-ups: Kaftans keep you covered up from the sun after coming out from the sea, with no hurry to change swimwear, and you could just walk around in it comfortably, even to the dining area 
  • Lightweight breathable fabrics: Pack light, breathable clothes like cotton or linen, including shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses, for the hot, humid tropical climate
  • Evening wear (smart-casual): Some resorts have dress codes for dinner, so pack a couple of smart-casual outfits—flowy dresses, linen shirts, casual slacks suitable for Ufaa Restaurant dining
  • NO heels or formal shoes: Most hotels allow and encourage barefoot dining, even in formal settings—COMO Cocoa Island embodies the “no news, no shoes” philosophy
  • Flip-flops and sandals: Pack two pairs of sandals—one for walking around the resort and another pair to wear with dinner outfits, plus flip-flops for beachside 

Critical sun protection items:

  • Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+): The Maldives has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round, requiring sunscreen, and please pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect beautiful coral reefs from harmful chemicals 
  • Rash guard/UV shirt: A rash vest with SPF protection of 50+ fits tight to prevent chaffing, is quick-drying, and is essential for all-day snorkeling—buy before arriving as resort shops charge $50 
  • Wide-brimmed sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat provides shade, while sunglasses with UV protection are a must for protecting the face from intense equatorial sun
  • Polarized sunglasses: Multiple pairs recommended as one pair may get lost or damaged during water activities
  • Lip balm with SPF: Don’t forget lip balm with SPF—often overlooked but crucial for preventing dried, cracked lips
  • Aloe vera gel: Useful for soothing sunburns if sun protection fails

Water activity essentials:

  • Waterproof phone case: I always bring a dry bag to keep valuable items safe when going on snorkeling or boat trips—protects electronics during water excursions
  • Dry bag: A dry bag proves very convenient to store valuable items while heading towards the beach, going for boat trips, snorkeling, or other water activities 
  • Underwater camera/GoPro: Capture the breathtaking underwater world with a GoPro or underwater camera, and consider bringing extra memory cards for house reef snorkeling documentation
  • Water shoes (optional): Some guests prefer water shoes for walking on reef areas, though COMO Cocoa Island’s sandy entries minimize this need
  • Personal snorkel gear (optional): While most resorts provide snorkel gear for rent, if you’d prefer to use your own equipment, pack your snorkel, mask, and fins—though COMO provides complimentary high-quality gear

Documentation and practical items:

  • Passport and travel documents: You’ll need to fill out an entry form to enter the Maldives, which provides a QR code for arrival—print copies and keep in a safe space
  • Travel insurance documentation: It’s essential to have travel insurance in case you fall seriously ill or need emergency evacuation 
  • Universal power adapter: The Maldives operates on 230 volts, so you’ll need to pack an adapter, particularly if traveling from the United States—UK-style plugs are used
  • Credit/debit cards: You usually settle your bill by card at the end of your stay, so you don’t need to carry cash around your Maldives resort 
  • Small USD cash: US dollars are widely accepted in the Maldives with small denominations for tips and small purchases—though service charges are included at COMO Cocoa Island

Wellness and comfort items:

  • Reusable water bottle: The Maldives is an eco-conscious country, and many guesthouses and hotels offer reusable bottles with water each day for refilling
  • Light activewear/yoga clothes: Pack light breathable gym clothes for complimentary sunrise yoga sessions, fitness facilities, and COMO Shambhala activities 
  • Books/Kindle/tablet: A tablet or Kindle is perfect for entertainment during flights and beachside reading without filling your bag with books 
  • Prescription medications: Don’t forget prescription medications, and consider packing a basic first aid kit 
  • Minimal toiletries: Most resorts provide basic toiletries, but bring your own essentials like toothpaste, deodorant, and specific skincare products 

What NOT to pack:

  • Alcohol: Alcohol is prohibited in the Maldives, so skip duty-free purchases—resorts have their own bars for enjoying drinks 
  • Heavy/warm clothing: Evenings remain warm, so you won’t need heavy clothing—at most, pack one light sweater for air-conditioned spaces
  • Hairdryers and beach towels: Leave hairdryers, snorkeling gear, and beach towels at home as these items are provided at resorts 
  • Excessive jewelry: Avoid expensive or sentimental pieces—leave valuable jewelry at home except engagement and wedding rings 
  • Too many electronics: Avoid overloading luggage with too many electronic devices—embrace the chance to disconnect 

COMO Cocoa Island specific considerations:

  • Pack light, as speedboat transfers are weight-conscious, and villa storage is compact in dhoni-style accommodations
  • Barefoot luxury means casual elegance—no need for formal evening wear or dressy shoes
  • The intimate 33-villa scale creates a relaxed atmosphere where expensive accessories and designer outfits are unnecessary
  • Focus on comfort, sun protection, and items enhancing your wellness experience rather than fashion-forward luggage

How can I personalise my stay and arrange transfers to COMO Cocoa Island?

Unlike most resorts in the Maldives, guests do not need seaplanes to access the island—the resort is just a 40-minute speedboat transfer from Malé International Airport. To make reservation arrangements, you must first send your flight details, including your arrival and departure times, to the resort staff at least 72 hours before you arrive, allowing COMO Cocoa Island to coordinate seamless arrival and departure experiences.

Transfer arrangement process:

  • Pre-arrival coordination: Please share your flight details with the property at least 3 days before your arrival to secure your seat(s) for the transfer
  • Airport greeting: The resort team will meet you at the Malé International Airport arrivals hall and be on hand for assistance, eliminating confusion when navigating a foreign airport
  • Transfer logistics: Staff escort you from arrivals to the nearby speedboat dock where your boat awaits, handling luggage and paperwork throughout
  • Journey details: The speedboat transfer from Malé International Airport to COMO Cocoa Island takes approximately 40 minutes, offering a seamless journey across the South Malé Atoll 
  • 24/7 availability: Speedboat transfers accommodate any arrival time, including red-eye flights and late-night arrivals—no waiting for scheduled seaplane departures

Transfer pricing:

  • Standard shared speedboat: Round-trip charges are US$350 per adult and US$175 for children between 2-11 years, with infants below 2 years receiving complimentary transfers 
  • Private speedboat option (1-4 guests): US$900 per boat one-way plus 10% service charge and taxes, providing an exclusive transfer experience
  • Private speedboat (5-8 guests): US$1,600 per boat one-way plus 10% Service Charge and Taxes—ideal for families or groups traveling together
  • Complimentary transfer packages: Some resorts offers include complimentary return speedboat transfers, particularly during promotional periods

Personalizing your stay before arrival:

  • Special occasion notifications: Inform the resort of honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, or celebrations when booking—staff arrange surprise celebrations, room decorations, and special touches
  • Dietary requirements: Submit food allergies, preferences, or special diets in advance so chefs can prepare customized menus from your first meal
  • Villa preferences: Request specific villa locations (sunrise-facing, maximum privacy, near spa) or room configurations when making reservations
  • Activity pre-booking: Private dining options have very limited space, so we suggest booking experiences when you book your room—reserve sandbank dinners, spa treatments, diving courses ahead
  • Wellness programs: Coordinate multi-day Wellness Immersions with advance planning to ensure proper treatment sequencing and practitioner availability
  • Butler service coordination: For COMO Villas, butlers ease you through your arrival, organise castaway picnics with children and arrange meals, becoming your chief activities planners during your stay 

On-island personalization options:

  • Daily preference learning: Staff observe your habits—preferred breakfast time, favorite cocktail, walking route—and anticipate needs throughout stay
  • Flexible scheduling: Early check-ins and late check-outs are arranged easily based on flight times and availability
  • Custom excursion planning: Work with activities coordinators to design unique experiences like private yacht charters, combined diving/snorkeling trips, or island-hopping adventures
  • Room service customization: Room service menu is wide and varied, available from 7 am to 11 pm daily, with chefs accommodating special preparation requests
  • Celebration coordination: Staff arranged a special beachside table and celebratory cake unbeknownst to guests one evening for their 30th wedding anniversary—nothing goes unnoticed

Full island buyout option:

  • COMO Cocoa Island offers a private island buyout experience for up to 72 guests, ideal for weddings, milestone celebrations, or corporate retreats
  • Provides complete privacy and personalized service across all villas, dining venues, and wellness spaces
  • Event spaces include laidback bars, sunset-facing villas, an expansive courtyard with group activities like private yoga, whale shark expeditions, or beach barbecue

What personalised service options—celebrations, dining, or wellness—can COMO provide?

COMO offers a variety of private dining experiences in unforgettable locations across the island, with menus for special events devised in consultation with chefs, and you can discuss a specific setup for a proposal or family celebration. The dedicated team provides personalized service to ensure every detail is perfect, working closely with guests to create seamless and memorable celebrations.

Celebration personalization:

  • Anniversary surprises: Staff remember everything from previous visits, even down to food and drink likes from 5 years before, arranging surprise beachside tables and celebratory cakes for wedding anniversaries 
  • Honeymoon packages: Romantic touches including flower petal arrangements, champagne deliveries, couple’s spa treatments, and sunset cruise experiences
  • Proposal setups: Private sandbank settings arranged with champagne, flowers, photographer services, and a dedicated butler ensuring perfect moments
  • Birthday celebrations: Custom cakes, room decorations, special dining arrangements, and activity packages coordinated by the resort team
  • Wedding ceremonies: COMO Shambhala Retreat’s Sandbank is a popular destination for wedding blessings and can accommodate up to 30 guests, with a larger courtyard space holding up to 80 guests
  • Milestone events: From planning the ceremony to organizing the reception, staff work closely with couples to create seamless celebrations with detailed timelines and constant contact 

Personalized dining experiences:

  • Sandbank sunrise breakfast: Price US$328 per couple from 6:30 am, includes a bottle of champagne, gourmet breakfast, sandbank setup, and a dedicated butler—first rays of morning sunlight over the Indian Ocean
  • Sandbank dinner: Price US$688 per couple from 6:45 pm, includes a five-course meal for two, a bottle of champagne, a sandbank setup, and a dedicated butler beneath the canopy of stars
  • Sandbank BBQ: US$788 for BBQ spread with selection of seafood and meat, live cooking services of a chef, butler services, and a bottle of Champagne 
  • Sandbank picnic: Intimate dining table on the eastern sandbank where a personal butler serves a three-course picnic meal, a bottle of prosecco, and a fruit platter 
  • Villa Yakiniku dinner: Cook a delicious spread of grilled meat, seafood, and vegetables in the privacy of your villa, complemented by a special selection of sake, with flameless charcoal that minimizes smoke 
  • Cinema Under the Stars: Open-air screening of your favorite movie under starlight with plush bean bags and warm popcorn, with a three-course dinner and drinks while you watch 
  • Special degustation menus: Exclusive seven-course degustation menu celebrating the flavours of Sardinia, prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients sourced directly from the Maldives 
  • Candlelit villa deck dining: Arrangements on request for Candlelit Dinner, Dinner on the Deck, Tented Dinner with customized menus and romantic setups

Personalized wellness programs:

  • Customized Wellness Immersions: Multi-day programs focused on active renewal, sleep enhancement, fitness kick-starts, or digestive cleansing tailored to individual goals
  • Private yoga instruction: One-on-one sessions scheduled at times that suit you, beyond the five complimentary group classes weekly
  • Dedicated spa treatments: One-time 60-minute COMO Shambhala massage per person included in special packages, with options to book extensive treatment series
  • In-villa wellness services: Massage therapists bring tables to your private sundeck for treatments with ocean breezes and lagoon views
  • Hydrotherapy programs: Personalized circuit training or aqua yoga sessions in the heated hydrotherapy pool based on fitness levels and rehabilitation needs
  • Nutritional guidance: COMO Shambhala Kitchen creates meals optimized for your wellness goals, whether detox, energy, or weight management

Butler service personalization:

  • Butler service eases you through arrival, organizes castaway picnics with children, and arranges meals, becoming your chief activities planner 
  • Dedicated butlers for all COMO Villa guests (Two-Bedroom Sunrise and Three-Bedroom Sunset Villas)
  • Butler Binoy and staff remember preferences and anticipate needs like no other, professional to the last, from welcome to departure 
  • Butlers coordinate all reservations, excursions, dining, and special requests seamlessly throughout the stay

Special request fulfillment:

  • You can put all your requests in a Special Requests box while booking a room, in case you require any additional information on travel services 
  • Staff accommodate unique dietary needs, activity preferences, privacy requirements, and celebration arrangements
  • Resort maintains flexibility to create bespoke experiences beyond standard offerings

How are transfers arranged to Makunufushi, and what is a typical dhoni transfer like?

Guests reach the island via a scenic 40-minute speedboat transfer across the turquoise waters of the South Malé Atoll—no seaplane required. COMO Cocoa Island, also known locally as Makunufushi, is nestled amid the coral atolls of South Malé, making it one of the most accessible luxury Maldives resorts.

How transfers are arranged:

  • Advance booking requirement: Keep in mind, there are no Maldives resort transfer service providers at the International Airport, so all island transportation must be reserved before you arrive 
  • Flight detail submission: Send complete arrival and departure flight information to the resort at least 72 hours before arrival via email to [email protected]
  • Airport coordination: Upon landing at Velana International Airport (Male), COMO representatives meet you in the arrivals hall holding identification signs
  • Escort service: Staff guide you through customs, immigration, and baggage claim, then escort you to the nearby speedboat terminal
  • Luggage handling: Resort team manages all luggage from airport to boat to villa, eliminating guest effort
  • Flexible scheduling: Complimentary return speedboat transfers from Malé International Airport included in special packages, with transfers available 24/7 regardless of flight times

Typical speedboat transfer experience:

  • Modern speedboat vessels: Spacious, shaded, and powerful vessels with refreshments offered during the journey—far more comfortable than traditional dhoni fishing boats
  • Journey duration: Consistently 40-45 minutes across calm South Malé Atoll waters, shorter than most Maldives resorts requiring seaplane transfers
  • Scenic route: Scenic journey across the turquoise waters of the South Malé Atoll, passing coral atolls, sandbanks, and neighboring islands
  • Comfortable seating: Air-cushioned seats with a shade canopy protecting from the tropical sun, with open sides allowing the ocean breeze
  • Refreshments provided: Cold towels, bottled water, and welcome drinks served during the transfer
  • Photography opportunities: Unobstructed views of Maldivian seascapes, flying fish, occasional dolphin sightings, and approaching island panoramas

Traditional dhoni vs. resort speedboat:

  • Design difference: While COMO’s villas are shaped like traditional dhoni boats, the actual transfers use modern speedboats rather than authentic wooden dhoni vessels
  • Speed advantage: Modern speedboats complete the journey in 40 minutes versus 1.5-2 hours traditional dhoni would require
  • Comfort enhancement: Speedboats provide cushioned seating, shade, and stability compared to basic wooden dhoni benches
  • Cultural connection: All 33 villas are shaped like traditional Maldivian dhoni fishing boats, maintaining cultural authenticity in accommodation rather than transfer vessels

Dhoni excursions vs. transfer:

  • Traditional dhoni experiences are offered as island activities—sunset cruises, fishing trips, dolphin watching—rather than airport transfers
  • Take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhoni or head out in search of dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and other amazing marine life 
  • These authentic dhoni boats sit lower in the water, providing an intimate ocean connection during leisurely excursions
  • Slower pace and traditional construction create romantic, culturally immersive experiences perfect for sunset viewing

Practical transfer considerations:

  • Transfers are arranged by the islands exclusively, so there is no alternative independent speedboat option—must book through the resort
  • You’ll be on the beach in under an hour—the private island resort is only a 40-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport 
  • No weather delays, unlike seaplanes, which cannot operate during rain or poor visibility
  • Life jackets are provided for all passengers, with professional captains ensuring safe passage
  • Radio communication between the resort and the boat ensures villa preparation timed perfectly with arrival

Are special requests like UFaa dining, sandbank picnics, or private scuba trips available on request?

Yes, absolutely. Please make your reservations at least a day in advance, since private dining options are very limited, and we suggest booking this experience when you book your room. You can also discuss a specific setup for a proposal or family celebration with chefs, with COMO Cocoa Island excelling at accommodating personalized special requests.

Ufaa Restaurant dining customization:

  • Menu flexibility: Ufaa serves a mix of Maldivian, Indian, and Mediterranean dishes with menus changing daily, ensuring a variety of flavours and fresh ingredients 
  • Dietary accommodations: Chefs readily customize dishes for vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, or other dietary requirements with advance notice
  • Special occasion setups: Private tables arranged within Ufaa for anniversaries or celebrations with decorative touches and champagne service
  • COMO Shambhala options: COMO Shambhala Cuisine incorporates organic ingredients rich in living enzymes served at Ufaa and available via in-room dining 
  • Seating preferences: Request lagoon-view tables, intimate corner seating, or group arrangements for family gatherings
  • Extended meal times: Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with flexible dining to suit guests’ preferences—accommodates early risers and late diners

Sandbank picnic and dining options:

  • Sandbank picnic (US$388): Sandbank setup, bottle of prosecco, three-course picnic meal, and fruit platter with personal butler service 
  • Sunrise sandbank breakfast (US$328): From 6:30 am with a bottle of champagne, gourmet breakfast, sandbank setup, and a dedicated butler—first rays of morning sunlight
  • Sandbank dinner (US$688): Five-course meal for two, bottle of champagne, sandbank setup, and dedicated butler from 6:45 pm 
  • Sandbank BBQ (US$788): BBQ spread with seafood and meat selection, live cooking services of a chef, butler services, and Champagne 
  • Custom sandbank experiences: Beyond standard packages, staff arrange bespoke picnics with specific cuisine preferences, photography services, or extended time
  • Weather backup plans: All experiences are subject to weather conditions, with the resort offering alternative indoor or villa-based setups if the weather is unsuitable

Private scuba and diving trips:

  • Private dive excursions: While not explicitly stated as “private trips,” guests can arrange dedicated boat trips with a marine biologist or instructor
  • Marine biologist-led dives: Resident marine biologist available at US$150 per excursion, providing expert-led private dives focused on education and unique sightings
  • Custom dive site selection: Coordinate with the dive center to visit specific sites based on your interests—wrecks, caves, channels, or coral gardens
  • Private instruction: PADI courses provide one-on-one or small group instruction rather than crowded classes
  • Flexible scheduling: Dive trips depart daily with timing adjusted for your preferences, tidal conditions, and optimal marine life viewing
  • Equipment customization: Dive center accommodates equipment preferences, nitrox certification, underwater photography setups, and specialized gear

Additional special requests available:

  • Private yacht charters: COMO luxury yacht perfect for exploring further afield, with three cabin rooms, lower and upper sundecks, indoor and al fresco dining spaces, and a sea-level platform for water adventures 
  • Whale shark expeditions: Speed boat ride to Ari Atoll, where guests snorkel alongside the world’s largest shark, with a sandbank picnic lunch 
  • Private fishing charters: Sunset reef fishing or big game fishing expeditions, with your catch prepared by chefs for dinner
  • Dolphin watching cruises: Private sunset cruises to watch wild dolphin pods without sharing the boat with other guests
  • UV night snorkeling: Private sessions exploring fluorescent coral displays with a marine biologist guide
  • Catamaran sailing: Private cooking classes, cinema under the stars, and romantic sunset cruises all bookable on request
  • In-villa treatments: Spa therapists conduct COMO Shambhala treatments on your private sundeck
  • Photography services: Professional photographers arranged for proposals, weddings, underwater sessions, or family portraits

Booking process for special requests:

  • Contact [email protected] or extension 3 for in-house guests to arrange special experiences
  • Book early, as private dining options have very limited space, and popular times fill quickly
  • All prices are subject to a 10% service charge and prevailing government taxes
  • Surcharges apply to full-board and half-board guests for private dining experiences 
  • Staff accommodate last-minute requests when possible, but advance planning ensures availability and optimal execution

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