Cocoa Island
Contemporary style, cooling muslin and natural woods create another sure success for this leading edge group. 33 “dhoni” suites and 1 and 2 bedroomed villas sit in the gin-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, linked by a board walk of sun-bleached wood. From your wide platform bed you can gaze to the watery expanse beyond and if the mood takes you, slip off your private deck into the silken waters for a refreshing swim before breakfast. A seven minute walk will take you around the beguiling refuge, passing hibiscus, sea grape and Ylang Ylang, and on a perfect night, watch the moon rise on one side of the island as the sun sets on the far curve of the earth.
Hedonists will relish the opportunity to set their shoe-less toes onto the white sands of this nirvana, known locally as Makunufushi, and situated in the less developed South Male Atoll, just 30 minutes speedboat ride from the international airport. Cocoa Island does not disappoint. An infinity edge pool blends with the ocean and COMO Shambhala Retreat features pavilions for massage and yoga, cooled by tropical breezes. Dine on locally caught lobster cooked Keralan style and consider if Robinson Crusoe really had it so bad after all!
