Meet the winner
Cocoa Island is a private island in the Maldives. Wrapped in white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the resort is in close proximity to some of the best dive sites in the world. Yet it is also accessible, for the resort is located in South Male’s coral atolls, a 35-minute speedboat transfer from the international airport. The tranquil setting is enhanced by the understated elegance of Cocoa Island’s rooms, which resemble local dhoni fishing boats and feature direct access to the shallow lagoon. All have a private outdoor sun deck, as well as spacious living and sleeping areas decorated in flowing white muslin. The pale colours contribute to the overall feeling of quiet, contemporary design. Ufaa, the resort’s restaurant, serves fresh local produce and seafood cooked in the Keralan style, while Faru bar overlooks the pristine infinity-edge pool. Cocoa Island’s spa, COMO Shambhala Retreat, offers rebalancing treatments, including Ayurveda, massages and facials.
