Maalifushi by COMO
Maalifushi by COMO sits in Thaa Atoll (mid-south), a 50-minute seaplane from Malé.
Expect 33 villas — small enough to feel boutique. On the marine side, the house reef is decent, with some sections more active than others. Best suited to families, couples, surfers, and divers.
Why people come here
Maalifushi by COMO is a gem in the Maldives, and it's easy to see why. The resort's location in the pristine Thaa Atoll offers a sense of seclusion that's hard to find elsewhere. The overwater villas are a standout feature, with their infinity plunge pools and direct access to the lagoon. The resort's design, with its thatched roofs and minimalistic interiors, creates an atmosphere of rustic chic that's both elegant and inviting.
The villas: Overwater and garden suites
The resort offers 33 overwater villas and 26 garden suites, each designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable stay. The overwater villas are built on wooden jetties above the shallow lagoon, featuring infinity plunge pools, large sundecks, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer striking views of the Indian Ocean. The garden suites, on the other hand, are nestled into the island's tropical heart, with direct access to the beach and private plunge pools. Both types of accommodations are spacious and well-appointed, with high ceilings, oak floors, and marble bathrooms.
Dining: A culinary journey
Food at Maalifushi is a highlight, with two exceptional restaurants offering a range of cuisines. Madi, the all-day diner, serves a variety of local, Mediterranean, Indonesian, and Thai-influenced dishes, with themed nights that add a touch of excitement to the dining experience. Tai, the overwater Japanese restaurant, is a must-visit for its locally sourced seafood and sushi offerings. For those who prefer privacy, in-villa dining and romantic beach dinners can be arranged. The resort's COMO Shambhala cuisine, focusing on healthy and organic options, is also available.
The house reef: A snorkeler's paradise
The house reef at Maalifushi is exceptional, offering some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Maldives. The reef is concentrated with marine life, including baby black-tip reef sharks, stingrays, and a variety of colorful fish. Complimentary snorkeling equipment is provided, making it easy for guests to explore the underwater world. The resort's location in the Thaa Atoll also means that guests can enjoy seasonal whale shark sightings and visits to nearby uninhabited islands.
Signature experiences: Beyond the ordinary
Maalifushi offers a range of signature experiences that go beyond the typical resort activities. Guests can enjoy a COMO Shambhala spa treatment in one of the eight overwater, ocean-facing treatment rooms, or participate in a yoga session in the open-air pavilion. The resort also offers surfing opportunities, with excellent breaks nearby, especially during the wet season from May to November. For those looking for a unique adventure, kayaking to nearby uninhabited islands is a worth trying.
The transfer: A scenic journey
Getting to Maalifushi is an adventure in itself. The resort is accessible via a 50-minute seaplane transfer from Male International Airport, followed by a 5-minute speedboat ride. The seaplane journey offers a striking perspective of the atolls, islands, reefs, and lagoons, with the fifty shades of oceanic blue taking your breath away. The transfers are well-organized, with the seaplane transfer arrangements coordinated to match the arrivals of international flights.
Who it suits
Maalifushi by COMO is well suited to a variety of travelers. Families will appreciate the spacious villas and the range of activities available, from snorkeling to kayaking. Couples will find the resort's romantic setting and private dining options well-suited to a secluded getaway. Surfers will be drawn to the excellent breaks nearby, while divers will be amazed by the healthy marine life and the exceptional house reef. The resort's focus on wellness and healthy cuisine also makes it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while on vacation.
The honest bit
While Maalifushi is undoubtedly a luxurious and exceptional resort, there are a few things to keep in mind. The breakfast buffet, while delicious, is a bit underwhelming for a resort of this caliber. However, the a la carte options are excellent, and guests can order whatever they want. The sand around the resort can be a bit coarse in certain areas due to natural wave action on the nearby outer reef, but the main beach on the northwestern side of the island has large stretches of powdery soft sand. Additionally, the seaplane transfers, while striking, can involve some waiting time at Male Airport. The resort is working on improving these transfer inconveniences, and the completion of the seaplane terminal and a dedicated COMO lounge will make any waiting more pleasant.
What makes Maalifushi by COMO unique?
Maalifushi by COMO stands out for its location in the pristine Thaa Atoll, its exceptional house reef, and its range of luxurious accommodations. The resort offers a unique blend of luxury and natural beauty, with overwater villas and garden suites that provide striking views and direct access to the lagoon.
What dining options are available at Maalifushi by COMO?
Maalifushi offers two exceptional restaurants: Madi, an all-day diner serving a variety of local, Mediterranean, Indonesian, and Thai-influenced dishes, and Tai, an overwater Japanese restaurant known for its locally sourced seafood and sushi offerings. Guests can also enjoy in-villa dining and romantic beach dinners.
What activities can guests enjoy at Maalifushi by COMO?
Guests at Maalifushi can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling and diving at the exceptional house reef, surfing at nearby breaks, and kayaking to uninhabited islands. The resort also offers COMO Shambhala spa treatments and yoga sessions in the open-air pavilion.
How do guests get to Maalifushi by COMO?
Maalifushi is accessible via a 50-minute seaplane transfer from Male International Airport, followed by a 5-minute speedboat ride. The seaplane journey offers a striking perspective of the atolls, islands, reefs, and lagoons.
Who is Maalifushi by COMO best suited for?
Maalifushi by COMO is well suited to families, couples, surfers, and divers. The resort's spacious villas, range of activities, and focus on wellness make it a good fit for a variety of travelers.
What is the best time to visit Maalifushi by COMO?
The best weather in the Maldives is between January and April, which is also the high season. The monsoon runs from May to October, peaking in June. However, the wet season can offer excellent surfing opportunities and lower rates.
Are there any drawbacks to staying at Maalifushi by COMO?
While Maalifushi is a luxurious and exceptional resort, the breakfast buffet can be a bit underwhelming for a resort of this caliber. Additionally, the sand around the resort can be a bit coarse in certain areas, and the seaplane transfers can involve some waiting time at Male Airport. However, the resort is working on improving these transfer inconveniences.
What is the COMO Shambhala Spa like at Maalifushi?
The COMO Shambhala Spa at Maalifushi is a palatial affair, with eight overwater, ocean-facing treatment rooms and an open-air yoga pavilion. The spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and wellness therapies, all designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
Can guests arrange private dining experiences at Maalifushi?
Yes, guests at Maalifushi can arrange private dining experiences, including in-villa dining and romantic beach dinners. The resort's themed nights and alternate dining options ensure that guests will not get gastronomically bored during their stay.
What is the service like at Maalifushi by COMO?
The service at Maalifushi by COMO is exceptional. The staff is friendly, well-trained, and attentive, ensuring that guests have a memorable and enjoyable stay. The resort's focus on personalized service and attention to detail sets it apart from other luxury resorts.