Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu - Maldives

A member of the prestigious 'Small Luxury Hotels of the World', this truly enchanting tropical hideaway is located on the private Dhuni Kolhu Island, in the Baa Atoll accessed by seaplane from Malé airport. Magical, intimate and an exclusive haven of serenity, Coco Palm is acclaimed to be the most beautiful of all islands in the region. Caressed by sea breezes, it offers postcard views of sandy white beaches fringed with swaying palms.

The breathtaking lagoon is rich in marine life and a utopia for snorkelers. This resort successfully manages to create an informal relaxed atmosphere, while showing particular attention to the small details which differentiate Coco Palm from the norm. Guests may choose between beach and lagoon villas, with the latter having such luxuries as four poster beds. The cuisine is as diverse and as colourful as the setting, wether it be indoor or alfresco.

One of the Maldives’ most natural resorts, this is an island that looks after its environment; the lush jungle-like flora, sand paths and focus on sustainable tourism is all part of the experience. To the front of the island there’s a beautiful wide beach. Snorkelling on the house reef from the curved side of the island is excellent, and local diving is also a highlight. The Baa Atoll’s waters are home to manta rays year-round, and from June to November there’s the chance to spot whale sharks. Every Wednesday here is ‘manta day’, where the resort’s resident marine biologist leads a group of guests out into the Baa Atoll to look for these fascinating gentle giants.

Cowrie Restaurant is the large buffet-style dining room. For à la carte dining, the Cornus Restaurant, hidden amongst the vegetation, serves up Maldivian, Thai and Indian specialties and at the Cornus Grill you can enjoy freshly grilled seafood in an open-air setting.

The charming thatched rooms differ by their setting – amid palm trees by the beach or on stilts over the lagoon – plus whether they are on the sunset side of the island, and/or have a plunge pool. Beach Villas have a terrace leading towards the beach. Deluxe Villas have a four-poster bed and plunge pool. Over water, there are Lagoon Villas with plunge pool and more spacious Sunset Lagoon Villas with stunning views.