COMO Maalifushi Maldives

COMO Maalifushi is the first and only resort to open on the unspoilt Thaa Atoll, in the archipelago’s southern reaches well regarded for its diving and surf breaks.

Its culturally appropriate architecture includes low-lying garden and overwater villas, with views of white beach, tropical greenery and cobalt lagoon. Guests can also enjoy yoga and holistic Asian therapies at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, with the entire guest experience defined by COMO’s exacting, passionate service.

Welcoming, passionate staff help make our luxury Maldives hotel stand apart, along with comprehensive facilities available to anyone staying with us overnight.

This is the first boutique hotel in the Maldives by Japanese architect Koichiro Ikebuchi, whose sensitive approach to nature and respect for cultural authenticity is reflected in COMO Maalifushi’s uncomplicated, succinct design.

Accommodation includes 33 overwater villas and suites and 32 rooms, villas, suites and residences amid lush tropical vegetation. All are built with New Zealand pine with Kajan thatched roofs.

Floor-to-ceiling windows open to substantial decks. Décor further brings the sea, sand and sky into the heart of every room, which have high-raftered ceilings and teak floors.

The Maldives has a consistent temperature of about 86°F (30°C). The tropical islands have two distinct seasons, or monsoons. April, a transitional time between the monsoons, is known for the clear water, which is appealing to divers.

The iruvai (northeast monsoon) is hot and dry and runs from December to April, making this the official high season. Rain is more likely from May to November (during hulghangu, or southwest monsoon), making this the official low season.

However, this is also a time when underwater visibility on the western side of the atolls is at its best. Surfing is particularly good during the official low season, from May to November.

ACCOMMODATION
Our Maldives resort accommodation references indigenous architecture while remaining elegantly pared back to reflect the island’s calming setting. Our overwater suites and villas are built off wooden walkways that stand above the shallow lagoon.

Each has its own private terrace for slipping into the sea, while our garden rooms benefit from being set in the island’s tropical heart. The views are consistently spectacular: either lush gardens, where children can play, or directly out to the watery expanse.

COMO VILLAS
The two-bedroom overwater COMO Villa sits above the lagoon and has a large pool. The COMO Villa also comes with its own private pool and butler, making this COMO Maalifushi’s ultimate luxury experience, with two large bedrooms suitable for two couples sharing, as well as families.

MAALIFUSHI WATER VILLA
This is one of COMO Maalifushi’s most spectacular over-water villas: an oversized, two-bedroom, light-filled bungalow, which sits on its own secluded jetty, featuring a private pool and sundeck.

MAALIFUSHI BEACH VILLA
Made up of two sleek, comfortable bedrooms (two doubles), the accommodation offers sunrise views out over an endless ocean. It features a private lawn and swimming pool with space for al fresco dining and a full butler service.

GARDEN ROOMS
Our Garden Rooms are located in the centre of the island, shaded by the resort’s tropical greenery and just a short foot-in-the-sand walk to all the resort’s amenities including the COMO Shambhala Retreat and restaurants.

They have an open-plan feel, and come with an outdoor deck and furniture for al fresco dining. Garden Rooms interconnecting with each other are available on request.

DINING AND CUISINE
At COMO Maalifushi, we rely on the same principles: local seafood that’s so fresh, we serve it as sushi and sashimi at our Japanese restaurant, Tai, as well as organic produce rendered in healthy, all-day dining at Madi, Thila, and on our COMO Shambhala menus.

Flexibility is key, our chefs always aim to accommodate food intolerances, the preferences of children, and discerning palates full of expectation.

MADI
Madi (meaning Manta Ray in the local Dhivehi language) serves light, flavourful food that takes its inspiration from the region’s fresh, tropical produce and abundant seafood. The menu boasts a range of local, Mediterranean and international dishes served throughout the day, from breakfast to late evening.

Madi also holds three themed nights each week. On Monday night the ‘Taste of the Indian Ocean’ explores the area’s characteristic sweet, sour hot and salty flavours, with traditional Maldivian Boduberu dancing and drumming.

Wednesday dinners are Thai, showcasing a culinary journey through the region’s most popular dishes. The week ends with a seafood barbeque on Friday night, dining beneath the stars to the sound of live music from local musicians.

TAI
‘Tai’ (Japanese for red snapper), which is a celebratory fish in Japanese culture, showcases sustainable caught seafood from the Indian Ocean. There is also a cocktail bar offering stunning views of the Maldivian sunset.

THILA
Thila is named after rock formations in the Maldives that are covered with abundant marine life. As a place to congregate, it inspires our informal Maldives restaurant and pool bar where guests can come to chill out.

Food at Thila is easygoing and family-friendly, with salads, freshly cooked seafood and pizzas. Laid-back music, pool tables and an open-air pool bar with ocean views make Thila the relaxed and vibrant heart of island life on COMO Maalifushi. Pizza Cabana is open daily from 12.00pm to 6.00pm.

PRIVATE DINING
At COMO Maalifushi you can find a place for the most memorable of meals, from intimate gourmet meals on the deck of your villa to picnics and candlelit dinners on the beach. The nearby uninhabited islands can be yours as the sun sets and rises, with chef-prepared meals served by private butlers.

FAMILY CASTAWAY PICNIC
Swim, sunbathe, nap and make memories as a family with our castaway picnic. However you spend your time, waiting for you on the shoreline will be a gourmet picnic prepared by our chefs. A selection of different snacks can be found, with sweet treats for younger ones and a minibar for the adults.

FLOATING BREAKFAST
Begin the day without a care in the world, with a glass of Champagne and the sun rising over the ocean. On a deserted sandbank, tuck in to a gourmet breakfast selection from our chefs. For something extra special, we offer a range of delicious caviar.

ROMANTIC DINNER
Enjoy an unforgettable evening under a canopy of stars with only the sounds of the ocean and gentle sea breezes to distract you.

We set up an elegant dining table on the deck of your own pool, or away on the secluded beach where you will enjoy complete privacy while your personal butler serves you a three-course meal from our carefully selected dinner menu and a bottle of chilled Champagne.

COMO SHAMBHALA CUISINE
COMO Shambhala Cuisine is a unique nutritional concept that incorporates organic ingredients rich in living enzymes, vitamins and sea minerals while still delivering on flavor. Food is raw, steamed or grilled for maximum health benefits.

Chefs also make ample use of the tandoor, a type of Indian oven that allows for fat-free cooking whilst introducing a wonderful charcoal flavor. COMO Shambhala Cuisine is served at Madi, in-room dining, and private dining located at nearby uninhabited islands.

IN-ROOM DINING
In-room dining at COMO Maalifushi includes salads, pastas and refreshing juices and is available 24 hours.

WELLNESS
Our COMO Shambhala Retreat at COMO Maalifushi in the Maldives goes hand-in-hand with the private island resort experience.

Eight double treatment pavilions are set over the water, with doors that open wide so you can relax on a massage bed or in our oversized bathtubs listening to the sound of the waves and the ocean breeze.

We have steam, sauna and Jacuzzi areas, as well as an open-air yoga pavilion located on the sunrise side of the island, with views of the Indian Ocean. We have a state-of-the-art fitness centre, as well as expert instruction in yoga, meditation, and core connection.

Treatments are based on Asian traditions, from Thai Massage, Taksu and Indonesian Massage, to Foot Reflexology and Indian Head Massage. Our retreat also offers classic beauty treatments, including Sundari Facials, Guinot facials, manicures and pedicures.

COMO SHAMBHALA EXPERIENCE 
Each of our peaceful spa suites offers panoramic views across the Indian Ocean while also guaranteeing complete privacy as you enjoy your COMO Shambhala experience. In every suite there are two treatment beds, a changing area and access to a private sundeck.

These spaces suit treatments for both individuals and couples. All COMO Shambhala experiences include one of our signature therapeutic juices, designed to target specific areas of health and wellbeing.

MASSAGE THERAPY
COMO Shambhala Retreat offers a wide array of massage spa treatments. The signature COMO Shambhala Massage is a particularly nurturing treatment, employing long, soothing strokes.

INDONESIAN MASSAGE
This authentic Indonesian Massage uses our signature blended massage oil to help rejuvenate the body. Our experts incorporate both rolling and kneading strokes, providing a good therapeutic workout and inducing deep relaxation.

HOT RIVER STONE MASSAGE
A powerfully therapeutic massage utilising hot and smooth oiled river stones. The hot stones glide along muscles, warming and loosening knots, correcting tensions at the deepest level. This melting sensation promotes a profound sense of relaxation.

INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE
Beginning in a seated position, our Indian Head Massage helps relieve stress-induced tension in the head, neck and shoulders. A gentle facial massage of the nine Marma facial points is also included.

COMO SHAMBHALA BATH
Our cleansing COMO Shambhala Bath treatment gently exfoliates and softens the skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and relaxed. After dry brushing your body, our expert therapists will apply COMO Shambhala’s Body Scrub, combining the exfoliating benefits of sea salt and sugar with a nut oil base, as well as luxurious shea butter.

Once this has been absorbed into the skin, enjoy an invigorating bath, before the session concludes with the long calming strokes of our signature COMO Shambhala Massage.

JAVANESE ROYAL LULUR BATH
This is a traditional beauty treatment at the Royal Palaces of Central Java. It is deeply luxurious, and perfect for tired skin.

The session includes a soothing Indonesian Massage , a body scrub with an aromatic mix of spices and a flower-filled bath. The treatment concludes with the application of body lotion to hydrate the skin.

SACRED LOTUS BODY TREATMENT
This treatment has been designed to give tone and firmness to the skin, increasing circulation and smoothing the visible outer layers.

The treatment begins with a nourishing oil application and soothing Abhyanga back massage, followed by a full-body energising enzyme scrub and firming, peptide-infused body mask to exfoliate and detoxify the skin. The treatment concludes with a vigorous contouring massage using Sacred Lotus lotion.

FACIAL CARE
COMO Shambhala Retreat offers a range of natural skincare products and advanced anti-ageing and rejuvenating facials. Our expert therapists can advise the best match for your skin.

MIND AND BODY DISCIPLINES
COMO Shambhala offers a variety of classes and activities daily, including yoga, Pilates and fitness sessions. In-house guests are welcome to join any of these classes. Our internationally accredited teachers are also available upon request for personal training and private sessions.

YOGA
Personal instruction can be booked at any time, presenting the perfect opportunity to discover the benefits of this ancient tradition, to develop a routine that you can incorporate into your daily lifestyle or to enhance your existing yoga practice. A complimentary yoga class takes place each day at COMO Shambhala, except on Fridays.

FAMILY YOGA
This family class incorporates a yoga lesson for two adults and two children over the age of three. Yoga can help improve concentration, stimulate the imagination and release energy in a fun, safe environment.

Kids will learn about animals, nature and basic anatomy, using animated yoga postures. For teenagers, yoga is a great way to reduce the everyday stress of school, exams and impending adulthood.

MEDITATION
With private guided sessions, those looking for meditation in the Maldives can learn the healing powers of this traditional practice. COMO Maalifushi also offers tutelage in the deep yoga breathing technique known as pranayama.

CORE CONNECTION
A Pilates-based class focusing on strengthening, toning and stretching your midsection, as well as helping you understand the key active muscles that make up the core.

WEDDINGS IN THE MALDIVES
COMO Maalifushi is a hideaway island surrounded by the sparkling turqoise waters of the Indian Ocean – a dream venue for your wedding in the Maldives.

From the moment you decide to hold your big day here, we’ll guide and support you through every step of the planning process, from crafting your own bespoke menus, to sourcing local musicians and finding the perfect blooms for your bouquet.

Our team is dedicated to tailoring your ceremony to your vision. Please speak to us if you have any special requests or customisations in mind and we’ll be happy to help.

HONEYMOON IN THE MALDIVES
The first weeks of a couple’s married life should be a time of intimacy and spontaneous extravagance – values at the centre of every honeymoon with COMO Maalifushi. We like to elevate each experience with value-added extras.

EVENTS & MEETING SPACES
COMO Maalifushi is an one-of-a-kind option for event venues in the Maldives – days here are filled with ocean views, water sports and island living. Whether it’s a corporate retreat, birthday celebration or a reunion of family and friends, COMO Maalifushi can provide gourmet culinary offerings, exciting activities, live music and more.

For an even more extraordinary experience, you can even buy out the entire island for you and your guests to have all our facilities to yourselves. Our team is dedicated to tailoring every event to your vision.

PRIVATE ISLAND BUYOUT
COMO Maalifushi lies in the southern reaches of one of the Maldives’ most remote atolls. It feels like how the islands used to be – natural and wild, with no noise or light pollution.

To rent the whole island is to have nature, surf and world-class diving at your fingertips, with a collection of villas that afford elegance,privacy and peace. It’s the perfect castaway experience, without ever compromising on luxury or sophistication.

EXPERIENCES
COMO Maalifushi is the only resort to open in the Maldives’ Thaa Atoll, nestled in the archipelago’s southern reaches and just a 60-minute seaplane journey from the capital, Malé.

It is the ultimate away-from-it-all destination for families, couples, surfers and divers, with some excellent breaks nearby, seasonal whale shark and manta ray sightings as well as Lavadhoo, Maalifushi’s uninhabited private island perfect for a castaway experience.

Young guests are also encouraged to enjoy COMO’s signature service, design, cuisine and approach to wellness, through Play by COMO.

TURTLE EXPEDITION SNORKEL
A short briefing will be given about the turtle species around the island, followed by a 20-minute boat ride to a beautiful outer reef where you can see these gentle creatures, as well as other reef fish, in their natural habitat. Turtles are curious animals and will sometimes swim close to the boat.

SURFING
Several Maldivian atolls have coastlines that capture swells from numerous directions, giving consistently excellent surfing conditions. At COMO Maalifushi, we have partnered with luxury surf outfitters, Tropicsurf, for exciting adventures and teaching for all levels.

The ever-popular Farms area is a great starting point, with a contoured reef-corner that delivers mechanical-shaped waves ideal for many different styles of surfing.

For guests who want to see it all, our Surf Pass allows guests to embark on an expedition to the finest breaks and best-kept secrets of the region. Tropicsurf guides will escort you to secluded surfing at three atolls — The ‘Surf Machines’ at Laamu, ‘Farms’ at Thaa and the ‘Kasabu’ at Dhaalu.

A full time Tropicsurf guide is based exclusively at COMO Maalifushi from April to October. Guests can learn from scratch or simply brush-up on their techniques with our guides, who can assess your performance according to our 100 point-skill progression and tailor your path to rapid improvement.

LAVADHOO SLEEPOVER
If you’ve ever wanted to know the thrill of having an entire private island to yourself, then this is the experience for you. Our uninhabited private island, Lavadhoo, will be yours for the night, with all the luxury touches to make the evening memorable.

The experience begins with an evening sunset cruise, where dolphins are often sighted leaping ahead of your dhoni boat. When you arrive at Lavadhoo, enjoy an elegant barbecue by the ocean, with an assortment of salads, grilled meat, fresh fish, sweet treats and Champagne.

After a sunset dinner, we’ll set up a projector and beanbag chairs on the beach, where you can watch an open-air, candlelit movie of your choice, before retiring for the evening to your tented bed set up on the sand. A beautiful breakfast spread will be provided the following day.

DOLPHIN CRUISE
Watch wild dolphins as they migrate in pods through our atoll. Sometimes the dolphins will jump out of the water to showcase their acrobatic spills, or come up close to surf the boat’s bow waves. As you watch all this you can enjoy the beautiful sunset panorama, sip Champagne and feast on a gourmet canapé platter.

DIVING AT COMO MAALIFUSHI
COMO Maalifushi offers one of the greatest underwater regions on the planet, thanks to the remote location of our resort, the sheer abundance of marine life and clear visibility of the water.

25 sites in the Thaa Atoll have been chronicled, but there are numerous unexplored channels and reefs – the waters provide for divers of all abilities. Along with our professional guides, our resident marine biologist can also accompany you to explain about the surrounding flora and fauna.

For solo dives, all divers are required to hold an International SCUBA diving license, which you will be asked to provide along with your logbook.

For beginners looking to learn, we have professional guides on-hand and a range of PADI-approved diving courses for those wishing to acquire their SCUBA license while at the resort.

SUNSET BOTTOM FISHING
Put your skills and luck to the test with reef bottom fishing — a long-standing tradition in the Maldives — while the sun sets. Potential catches such as Red Snapper, groupers and Barracuda can be cooked by our chefs at Madi or Tai for lunch or dinner the following day.

PLAY BY COMO SPACE
Our dedicated Play by COMO Space is designed to inspire purposeful and creative child-directed play for children aged four to 12, with carefully-selected toys, books, games and art materials.

The Play Space is open daily between 9.00am and 6.00pm. Toddlers under four must be accompanied by a babysitter or parent at all times. Click here to learn more about Play by COMO.

WATERSPORTS
COMO Maalifushi offers motorised water sports activities for the more adventurous traveller. Guests can zip around the lagoon, experiencing the heart-pounding fun of wakeboarding, waterskiing and tubing.

CHARTER CAMERON
Our 68 ft luxury yacht opens up the archipelago’s wildest reaches. Guests can travel between our two Maldivian resorts: COMO Cocoa Island and COMO Maalifushi, on this elegant liveaboard vessel. Cameron can also be chartered for fishing, surfing and diving trips — all tailored to your party’s requirements.

WHALE SHARK NIGHT SNORKEL
Our boat will take you from the resort to find the largest fish in the sea, where you can choose to join them under the waves or simply watch them from the deck.

The clear Maldivian waters allow for an aquarium-like view of the gentle giants, allowing you to observe them closely as they feed. This activity is only available from the start of November to the end of April, when the whale sharks migrate through the warm Maldivian waters.

LIGHT TACKLE AND FLY FISHING
The ideal fishing trip comprises of great weather conditions, beautiful scenery, thriving marine life and excellent equipment – things you find with ease at COMO Maalifushi. Our private island resort is surrounded by long expansive flats, calm clear lagoons, uninhabited islands, drop offs, channels and pristine reefs.

We have fishing options to the north and south of Maalifushi: light tackle on the inner atoll drop-off to pick up titan triggerfish, giant trevally and red snapper, jig for grouper or venture where fish have never seen a fly.

Most sites are within 30 minutes, ensuring more time fishing. For the keen fishing adventurer, we can also fish the whole atoll of over 150km2. Other species to catch are bonefish, yellow marlin, sailfish, wahoo, mahi mahi, dogtooth, big eye and yellowfin tuna.

We fish from our Hewes Redfisher 18 for the ultimate range, speed and ride across the atoll. With plenty of storage space, it enables you to target a multitude of species to make the most of your fishing excursion. For a more luxurious trip, COMO’s elegant 68ft Hatteras luxury yacht ‘Cameron’ is also available for charter.

SPLASH NET CRUISE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING
Try a sunset cruise with a twist, as we set off in search of dolphin pods migrating through the Thaa Atoll.

Once in the open water you can hop onto our dhoni’s splash net and experience the thrill of being towed safely through the ocean. As the sun sets, you can indulge in a glass of wine or beer, and freshly prepared canapés.

GUIDED CATAMARAN SNORKEL
Float in the tropical Maldivian breeze as our catamaran — sailed by our expert watersports instructors — propels you across the atoll. You will visit uninhabited islands and sandbanks where you can snorkel unspoiled corals teeming with marine life.

ROMANTIC BEACH DINNER
Make memories under a canopy of stars. Our team can set up an intimate dining table on the deck beside your private pool, or in a secluded part of the beach. A private butler will serve the three-course meal and pour your Champagne all evening.

AQUA SAFARI WITH MARINE BIOLOGIST
Join our marine biologist for an in-depth guide of the coral reef. You will set out from the house jetty with your snorkels, and our marine biologist will provide interesting facts about the marine creatures you spot along the way.

MARINE BIOLOGIST PRESENTATION
These informative and entertaining twice-weekly talks discuss many areas of marine life, environments and ecosystems.

Our resident marine biologist is happy to answer any questions you have, or simply discuss the things you have seen and found on the reefs during your time with us — helping you to accurately identify fish, plants and other aquatic life.

FAMILY CASTAWAY PICNIC
Swim, sunbathe, nap and make memories as a family with our castaway picnic. At lunch a gourmet picnic will be waiting for you on the shoreline. A selection of snacks can be found on the island, with sweet treats for children and a private bar for the adults.

WINDSURFING LESSON
Windsurfing is a thrilling blend of sailing and surfing. Each lesson moves at your own pace, as we cover the fundamental techniques needed to balance on the board then harness the wind’s energy.

CATAMARAN SAILING WITH BOAT CAPTAIN
Sail in harmony with the wind and the water as our captain takes you around the lagoon, showcasing some of the Indian Ocean’s finest panoramas. Depending on the wind speeds, this journey can be a relaxing smooth sail across the ocean, or an thrilling, bouncing ride over white-crested waves.

PRIVATE CHARTERS
Private boat charters can be tailored to meet your particular interests. Please note that if you would like to visit the nearest resort — which is one hour away from COMO Maalifushi — we require advance permission before confirming your trip.

CORAL PROPAGATION
In 1998 and 2016, the El Niño climate cycle resulted in particularly warm seas in the Indian Ocean, which bleached a large number of coral reefs surrounding COMO Maalifushi.

While there is still a plethora of untouched reefs to snorkel and dive in the immediate area, it is important for the local economy that all the islands’ coral flourishes.

Our Resident Marine Biologist has teamed up with Seamarc — a marine consultancy company — to plant new coral frames on the seafloor, which encourage new reefs to grow and prosper.

Guests at COMO Maalifushi can sponsor one of these frames, and track its progress via twice yearly photographic updates as well as complimentary guided dives every time they visit the resort.

SAILING LESSONS
The consistent sea breezes along COMO Maalifushi’s lagoon are ideal for sailing. Our TOPCAT K1 and K3 catamarans are lots of fun to sail. Book a sailing lesson to learn what it takes to operate a sailboat safely — these one-hour lessons are tailored to your ability level.

REEF EXPLORER
This guided excursion takes you to two different reef sites near COMO Maalifushi where you will discover vibrant coral colours and abundant marine life. Our knowledgeable guides will swim with you through these luscious seafloor landscapes, helping you spot and identify the Indian Ocean’s flora and fauna.

COMPLIMENTARY EQUIPMENT RENTAL
COMO Maalifushi offers a range of snorkelling, kayak, stand-up paddleboard and windsurfing equipment for guests to use. These are available at the Marine Sports Centre on a first come, first served basis.

NIGHT SNORKELLING
Discover a new side of the house reef as the sun sets and nocturnal marine life emerges. Our guide will assist you on this hide-and-seek excursion to spot these shy creatures, such as the Lionfish and Moray Eel.

This is also the time where our resident school of Jackfish go on the hunt — zooming around at great speed, in stark contrast to their lazy daytime pace.

GUIDED KAYAK SNORKEL ADVENTURE
Enhance your snorkel experience with a guided kayak tour around COMO Maalifushi’s house reef. Our experienced guides will lead you on a 20-minute paddle to the edge of the reef’s drop-off.

Here you will snorkel along the house reef, where colourful marine life such as Parrotfish, Angelfish and Surgeonfish are a common sight. Occasionally you may spot Eagle Rays or Green Turtles gliding by.

LOCAL ISLAND CULTURAL EXCURSION
Join our two hour cultural excursion to a nearby island. You will stroll along the island streets with your guide, then enjoy traditional snacks at a local café. You may also spot local children kicking a football around the coconut trees.

UV NIGHT SNORKELLING
Join us for a colourful underwater show as we reveal a hidden side to COMO Maalifushi’s house reef. Using special torches and lenses for your mask, you’ll discover the many hues of fluorescent pink, green, yellow and purple that some corals and reef animals emit at night.