If Robinson Crusoe had spent less time befriending Man Friday and more time binge-watching Grand Designs and shopping at Armani Casa, he might have ended up somewhere a lot like COMO Cocoa Island in the Maldives — minus the survivalist angst and with considerably better spa treatments.
This dreamy dollop of eco-conscious floats in the Indian Ocean disguised as a series of elegant Keralan boathouses. Each overwater villa is a vision of white-on-white chic and polished teak, as though a minimalist interior designer had gone on a tropical bender and decided less really is more (but make it ultra-cool). The Dhoni Water Villas, in particular, might make you consider selling your earthly possessions and moving in permanently — if only to live out your best “Lucas Raven” fantasy.
Activities? Oh, they’ve got it all — if by “all” you mean everything delightful and absolutely none of it taxing. Spend the morning snorkelling over a house reef so pretty it could have its own Instagram account, and the afternoon being tenderized to perfection at the COMO Shambhala spa. Here, holistic treatments, Ayurvedic therapies, and massages that make you question every life decision that didn’t involve daily hydrotherapy await. (Pro tip: book the ‘Wellness Path’ course if you want to leave feeling like a particularly well-moisturized deity.)
If saltwater isn’t your thing, fear not: there’s a silky-smooth infinity pool where you can float about like a very expensive iceberg. Afterwards, refuel at Ufaa, the open-sided restaurant where the daily menu reads like a love letter to freshness — think Malabar Coast spice, Thai zing, and enough vegan and gluten-free options to make your most virtuous friend weep with joy. Or just rebel gloriously and order the tandoor-roasted lobster followed by a ginger mojito so potent it might qualify as a religious experience.
Footwear warning: Bring flip-flops or face the indignity of sinking into sand and decking gaps with all the grace of a drunk flamingo. Heels are about as useful here as a snow shovel.
Rooms —or should we say floating fantasies —come in several irresistible flavors: the split-level Dhoni Loft Water Villas are pure escapism, and the ultra-private one-bedroom Villas (hello, outdoor showers and dining pavilions!) are for those who like their seclusion with a side of Champagne. Insider tip: snag Villa 1001 or 1003 for direct access to the sea so private even the fish will knock first.
And because COMO Cocoa Island understands that even the most sybaritic soul has a conscience, rest assured: the resort’s eco-credentials are sparkling. Think reef conservation, local community projects, and a gentle reminder that you’re holidaying with a halo.
If you must leave your villa (it’s hard, we know), the Faru pool bar awaits with jazz beats, fruity punches, and an atmosphere so laid-back it’s practically horizontal. Breakfast is an event in itself — from buttermilk pancakes to organic egg-white omelettes — though frankly, you’re more likely to be seduced by the idea of eating everything while still wearing your swimsuit.
COMO Cocoa Island is what happens when castaway dreams meet five-star reality — and you’ll never look at a regular beach holiday the same way again. Pack light, live barefoot, and prepare to have your standards for “desert island bliss” permanently, gloriously ruined.
Visit www.COMOhotels.com to discover more!
By: Chris Flanagan
