Back in the 1980s, when the Maldives was a hidden paradise, you could explore its string of tropical islands and barely see another tourist. Today, it welcomes 1.5m visitors and boasts 130 resorts. But paradise isn't entirely lost. If you want to experience the real Maldives, head to Como Maalifushi.
Tucked away in the southern reaches, this remote island-retreat is the only hotel in the stunning Thaa Atoll. Sleek, stylish and seriously seductive, Como Maalifushi is blessed with cream-white beaches and a sapphire-blue lagoon – on which you'll land after a spectacular 60-minute seaplane from Male. A marvel of chic minimalism, the 65 suites and villas are dreams of pared-back design: sparingly appointed with soothing tones, sharp lines, and spacious living areas bathed in light that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. And what outdoors: clean-edged terraces with turquoise plunge pools and floor-to-ceiling cinematic views of the dazzling Indian Ocean.
The glamour continues across the resort with a superlative spa, exquisite service and sumptuous cuisine, plus a Japanese restaurant to die for. All this and a fabulous kids club, too (ages 4-12). Few resorts in the Maldives can match this level of low-key sophistication, and none match its beautiful location.
Highs
- The incredible location. As the only resort in the stunning Thaa Atoll, you get superb beaches, pristine waters and a thriving house reef
- Impeccably designed suites and villas with gorgeous interiors and large terraces with private pools
- Exquisite service. Luxury resorts are legion in the Maldives, but staffing can be patchy. Maalifushi gets it spot on
- A wealth of one-of-a-kind experiences on your doorstep, from romantic castaway picnics to night snorkelling with whale sharks
- Superlative cuisine, plus one of the finest Japanese restaurants found anywhere in the Indian Ocean
Lows
- After 5 years of exclusivity, new resorts are being constructed on the horizon, which means this pristine paradise won't be all yours for very much longer
- Expensive. A unique experience like this doesn't come cheap
- Leaving! Once you fall under its magic spell, there's a sense of parting with such sweet sorrow
Best time to go
September to April is the best for sunshine, with February-April the hottest and driest periods, though this does also mean more visitors and higher prices. June-October brings the monsoons, but it's still warm and you can often go weeks without a downpour. The best prices are from May onward. Avoid the Christmas period, when occupancy and prices are at their highest. Chinese New Year (5 February in 2019; 25 January in 2020) should also be avoided. COMO Maalifushi is open all year.
Our top tips
The best place to catch the sunset is from the terrace at Tai restaurant. Come early, grab a sofa, order a margarita, then watch the greatest light show on earth.