Among Maldives beach resorts, our eight split-level suites stand out for the generous indoor seating area with a Balinese day-bed, large bathroom and private terrace allowing for easy access to the lagoon’s warm waters. Light floods in, the ‘dhoni’-style boat design—the suite doesn’t float but is rather fixed to the lagoon—making you feel as if it’s just you and the sea.

The best resorts in the Maldives can’t match our Dhoni Loft Suites’ quirky design. These nine rooms work very well for families because of an expansive downstairs living area (which doubles up as a sleeping area for children) and then the master bedroom on a mezzanine level, just beneath the rafters. Again the terrace has steps straight into the lagoon.

With private sundecks and full-length windows overlooking the Indian Ocean, these Maldives villas bring the outside in. A dramatically elevated loft sequesters a king-sized bed while downstairs on the main level a large and airy sitting area doubles up as a sleeping area for kids.

The largest of Cocoa Island by COMO’s Maldives water villas, these four light-filled bungalows, all of which sit on their own secluded jetty, feature three private al fresco areas: an outdoor shower, a balcony with a daybed, and off the sitting area, which converts into a kid-friendly sleeping area, there’s a sun terrace fitted with a table and pair of loungers. 

Of the 33 suites and villas at our Maldives beach resort, Cocoa Island by COMO’s two COMO Villas—Sunset and Sunrise—offer the unique guest experience.

Approached by a private jetty, each villa is arranged with two wings, each with a bedroom (one king, one twin), ensuite bathroom, outdoor shower and private terrace. These wings are connected by living and dining areas with balconies on either side, which allows for step-off-the-deck access to the lagoon.