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Best Five-Star Resorts in Maldives


My love for the Maldives started eight years ago when I went there for my honeymoon. The place is what I envision as paradise on earth. I made a vow then to return every year. Having visited multiple atolls and different resorts, I’ve come to prefer the natural islands. COMO Maalifushi, COMO Cocoa Island and Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives, the three five-star resorts I visited on my latest trip, are all centered on exactly this: the sublime natural beauty of the Maldives. Herein are my highlights.

LUXE CASTAWAY FEELS AT COMO MAALIFUSHI

COMO Maalifushi Maldives tropical island resort as seen from above by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

A luxurious five-star resort located in the remote Thaa Atoll, COMO Maalifushi is accessible only by a 60-minute seaplane ride from Malé. From the moment I step onto the resort, I am immersed in a feeling of complete relaxation and indulgence. As my husband and I are greeted by the warm staff and taken to our overwater sunset villa by our butler, I am struck by the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the lush greenery that surround us. It’s like stepping into a postcard-perfect paradise.

The resort boasts extraordinary dining. Our first morning started with a floating breakfast, aesthetically arranged by the staff in the infinity pool of our overwater villa. Elegant and refined, Tai restaurant also stands out. Every dish is a work of art, from the fresh tuna tataki to the reef lobster. With its beautiful sunset view, Madi is another must-visit spot, where we enjoyed an exceptional three-course dinner on the beach by candlelight and under a blanket of stars.

COMO Maalifushi Maldives overwater villa drone shot by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager
COMO Maalifushi Maldives resort floating breakfast in pool with ocean view by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

Along with relaxing massages at the COMO Shambhala Retreat, we also did a day trip to pristine Picnic Island. Just a short boat ride from the resort, the island is a secluded oasis. Our butler arranged for a gourmet lunch to be delivered to the island at our convenience, and it was a feast for the senses. As we enjoyed our meal, the sudden rain added to the magical atmosphere and appreciation for the island’s raw beauty. The sense of freedom and castaway vibe made us feel like a Robinson Crusoe-like adventurers—it was a priceless experience, one I highly recommend.

COMO Maalifushi Maldives resort lush nature and beachfront pool by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager
COMO Maalifushi Maldives resort jetty and beach with crystal clear water by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

From the exceptional health-centered dining to the breathtaking views, every aspect of the resort is designed to indulge and rejuvenate. All the resort staff were dedicated to ensuring we had an unforgettable experience, and did we ever.

SWIMMING WITH TURTLES AT COCOA ISLAND

COMO Cocoa Island Maldives jetty to oceanfront resort by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

Next stop: COMO Cocoa Island. On a small island in South Male Atoll, it’s the perfect blend of luxury, relaxation and marine adventure. Similar to its sister resort, Cocoa Island’s natural location is a sublime one, nestled in a surreal turquoise lagoon with a kilometer-long sandbank.

The overwater villas are uniquely shaped like the traditional Maldivian boat known as Dhoni. These villas offer breathtaking views of the lagoon and the vibrant marine life. Designed with a minimalist approach, they exude elegance and simplicity. They’re spacious and comfortable too, with an outdoor deck perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun.

COMO Cocoa Island Maldives overwater villa by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager
COMO Cocoa Island Maldives beach resort on sandbank drone shot by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

Twice a day with the tides, a sandbank emerges creating a surreal change in the scenery. You can walk along it, surrounded by crystal clear water on all sides, and watch as the waves crash on the surrounding reefs. It’s an experience that feels almost otherworldly.

Getting into the water is a must and Cocoa Island’s dive center staff are some of the best I have experienced. We went on a snorkeling trip with them which I will never forget. We had hawksbill turtles swim alongside us. The water is so clear that you can see the vibrant colors of the fish and coral from the surface. You can also participate in coral planting, which is such a nice way to learn about the ocean and deepen mindfulness for marine life.

The overwater villas, the disappearing-reappearing sandbank, the food, the wellness, the underwater activities—my stay here nothing short of extraordinary.

A SUBLIME SANDBANK SETUP AT TAJ EXOTICA

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives resort overwater villas and sandbank drone shot by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

On Embhodoo Finolhu Island, “finolhu” meaning sandbank in Maldivian, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives is built on what was one. The natural beauty of the location is stunning, with pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters as far as the eye can see.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives resort pool and beach view by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives resort white sand beach, crystal clear water and jungle drone shot by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

Their Taj Private Beach Villa is extra special. Located on its own private beach, it offers guests ultimate privacy and seclusion. With its stunning architecture, luxurious furnishings, and breathtaking views of the ocean, this villa is truly a dream come true, with plenty of private outdoor spaces both sunny and shaded. I most loved lounging in the hammock or sinking my toes into the powdery sand in front of our villa before entering the turquoise lagoon.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives resort pool beside turquoise ocean by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

We happened to celebrate our anniversary here, starting the day with a floating breakfast and continuing with the most relaxing personalized treatment at the Jiva Spa. I have to say, this spa exceeded all my expectations—the therapists connect with you on a deeper level, ensuring your treatment is a delight to your senses. The day ended with cocktails as the sun set and a three-course dinner at the Deep End restaurant.

We also planned a snorkeling trip with mantas and sharks, but we always like to save some activities as pretext for another visit. I’ve heard the TAJ diving center is one of the best in the Maldives, so for sure we will return. Until next time, Maldives.

COMO Cocoa Island Maldives beach resort on sandbank drone shot by Roxana Cozma of Wanderlust Voyager

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: ROXANA COZMA, LUXURY HOTEL CONNOISSEUR, SHARES DREAM TRAVEL INSPIRATION ON WANDERLUST VOYAGER.





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