In January 2014, COMO Hotels and Resorts opened its second private island resort in the Maldives, COMO Maalifushi. This accommodation is located in the Thaa Atoll in the southern part of the archipelago, an ideal place for diving and surfing.
The Maldives is a paradise in which to relax and unwind. This territory is made up of small islands and atolls, turquoise waters, coral reefs, great marine biodiversity and white sand beaches that offer a state of unparalleled relaxation.
COMO Maalifushi
Thaa Atoll is located just 60 minutes by speedboat from Malé’s international airport, situated on the main island. This stunning ring-shaped coral reef is one of the largest in the world, encompassing more than 60 islands spread over 500 square miles, many of which remain uninhabited.
The resort marks the first interior design project in the Maldives by renowned Japanese designer Koichiro Ikebuchi. COMO’s property offers all the understated luxuries expected of a private island retreat, including the COMO Shambhala wellness sanctuary, world-class yoga facilities, and exceptional dining. Guests can also enjoy safe, authorized access to the Maldives’ vibrant marine life, perfect for diving, snorkelling, and fishing.
The surrounding waters of Thaa Atoll are renowned for sightings of whale sharks and hammerhead sharks. Additionally, some of the Maldives’ most sought-after surfing spots are located nearby, with expert lessons available during the season.
Accommodation
This serene retreat features 65 accommodations: 33 overwater villas and suites, and 32 beach villas, suites, and garden rooms. All are crafted from yellow balau wood with Kajan thatched roofs, blending indigenous architectural inspiration with an elegantly refined design to complement the island’s tranquil surroundings. The use of Kajan thatched roofs is also a hallmark of its sister property, COMO Cocoa Island.
To reach the overwater accommodations, guests cross a wooden walkway stretching over the lagoon. Each villa boasts a private terrace and pool, while the garden villas and suites are nestled amidst the island’s lush tropical vegetation.
COMO’s signature service is defined by warmth, discretion, and meticulous attention to detail. Guests staying in the most exclusive accommodations, such as the Maalifushi Beach Villas, COMO Residence, Maalifushi Water Villas, or COMO Villas, can enjoy the added luxury of a dedicated COMO private butler.
Restaurants and Bars
Indulge in Maldivian cuisine at the restaurants and bars of Thaa Atoll, each offering a unique culinary experience. Madi (meaning “manta ray” in the local language) is the perfect spot to start your day. This restaurant serves a fusion of Mediterranean, Indonesian, and Thai-inspired dishes. On select evenings, Madi hosts themed nights, including seafood barbecues and “thali” nights featuring South Indian specialities.
For those seeking a different culinary journey, Tai (Japanese for “red snapper”) offers fresh, locally sourced seafood. This Japanese restaurant features a sushi bar and charcoal-grilled dishes, along with noodles and rice specialities. The beverage menu includes Japanese whiskies, soju, shochu, and umeshu.
Open from 11 AM to 11 PM, Thila—named after the Maldives’ submerged reef formations rich with marine life—provides a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu includes fresh seafood, salads, pizzas, and Turkish pide. Guests can enjoy live music, a billiards area, and an outdoor poolside bar.
Thila also excels as a cocktail destination, serving both classic drinks and creative island-inspired concoctions infused with flavours like lemongrass, basil, and honeydew melon. Non-alcoholic cocktails are crafted with as much ingenuity as their spirited counterparts.
For an extra-special dining experience, guests can enjoy COMO Shambhala Cuisine Room Service, private dining options, or exclusive reservations for special locations, including nearby uninhabited islands.
Wellness and Activities
This resort features a dedicated relaxation sanctuary: COMO Shambhala Retreat, where the philosophy centres on healthy living and holistic rejuvenation. Guests can enjoy massages and bodywork therapies, holistic treatments for emotional balance, and skin restoration therapies designed to leave them feeling revitalized.
The retreat offers eight overwater treatment rooms with stunning ocean views, separate steam rooms for men and women, a sauna, a jacuzzi, a swimming pool, a gym, and an open-air yoga pavilion.
The hote also provides an array of activities for all interests. Guests can enjoy water sports, diving, snorkelling, fishing, surfing, sunset cruises, or a private picnic on a nearby island. The resort houses a fully equipped diving centre, catering to beginners and experienced divers alike.
For families, children aged 4 to 12 can enjoy “Play by COMO“, a program designed to keep young guests entertained, while everyone can make use of the on-site game room.
Services
COMO Maalifushi ensures an exceptional experience for families. Children can safely explore and make new friends within the secure island environment. The lagoon is ideal for swimming, and many suites and villas feature private lawns, creating perfect spaces for family relaxation.
Parents can unwind with the help of babysitting and childcare services. Additionally, the resort offers family-friendly excursions, from beachside picnics to dolphin-spotting sunset cruises.
For all guests, the resort provides a wide range of premium services, including:
24-hour manager assistance
Complimentary Wi-Fi in the reception, bar, pool area, and all accommodations
Airport transfers
Butler service
COMO The Shop for curated retail offerings
Laundry service (non-dry cleaning)
Twice-daily housekeeping
Multilingual staff
Currency exchange
Library
Assistance with travel arrangements and excursions
With these thoughtful touches, COMO Maalifushi ensures every guest enjoys a seamless and luxurious stay.
Discover more extraordinary places and other must-visit locations in our Luxury Travel section.