Coco Bodu Hithi

This tiny speck of an island gem, set in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll, is every bit as beautiful and serene as its pictures would have you believe. The 100 stunning, yet sustainable villas, set beachside between trees, or overwater, are designed to perfection, with a relaxed, rustic feel and a host of modern comforts. And while the island is small-yet-perfectly-formed, there are plenty of tailored excursions, adventures, and activities to choose from, over, under and beside the water. Diving, water-skiing, surfing, parasailing, big game fishing, wake- and knee-boarding await the adventurous. Sailing, paddle-boarding and kayaking and eco-explorations offer something gentler. Not-to-be-missed ‘From the Heart’ experiences include champagne breakfasts, outdoor cinema evenings and sunset cruises, all designed to woo and wow uber-romantics. And the Coco Spa is also a great way to unwind, with treatments tailored to your personal preferences. It’s a gourmet paradise too, with five top-tier restaurants and two bars, each offering brilliant views of the beaches and endless ocean, meaning you can round your days off discovering something different every night.

The Scene

Setting foot onto the sweeping arrival jetty of Coco Bodu Hithi after a 40-minute speedboat ride direct from Malé Airport (so no hanging around for a seaplane!), you’re instantly met by towering palms, long, white-sand beaches and a feeling of complete and utter blissfully disconnected relaxation.

Our Room Pick

Our category of choice at Coco Bodu Hithi are the gorgeous, 188 square-foot thatched Island Villas (the largest villas at this resort). Tucked between tropical trees, their décor is simple but luxurious, their bathtubs so big, you’ll be tempted to jump right in; and outside their private walled gardens include a comfortable day bed for two overlooking the gorgeous pool and rustic outdoor shower. Elsewhere, a private sundeck comes complete with loungers, a cosy daybed and a private pathway straight to your exclusive share of the beach, just steps away.

The Vibe

There’s an intimate, castaway island vibe here at Coco Bodu Hithi (albeit a super-stylish castaway island with jaw-dropping, uber-luxe villas, an idyllic glass-edged infinity pool, a dreamy spa and divine wining and dining options)! Families do stay here, but it’s by far a better spot for serenity-seeking couples and honeymooners who come here for the unforgettable picture-postcard setting; to sink their toes into soft white sand, breathe in the clean sea air, swim alongside turtles and sharks or take in the sunset from their own private terrace and feel like they’re on their very own private island.