There’s nothing like a private island resort in the Maldives for a post-lockdown escape in a safe, socially-distanced and stunning backdrop.

COMO Cocoa Island, located in the Maldives’ South Malé atoll, has announced it will reopen on 1 September.

Renovated in 2019, this understated private island resort barely had time to show off its new look before closing during the global lockdown in response to the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The 34 new overwater suites and villas have a unique ‘dhoni boat’ structure and curve out from the island itself, connected by an overwater boardwalk pathway. Guests can slip directly from their balcony into the turquoise lagoon to enjoy the colourful marine life.

With two private house reefs, the snorkelling and diving is some of the best in the world. The restaurant, Ufaa, honours nature, featuring seafood and organic vegetables in exciting, healthful combinations showcasing a blend of European and Indian flavours.

A third of the private island is occupied by COMO Shambhala Retreat. Facilities are spread out to maximise feelings of privacy and quiet, with hammocks and swings strung from trees.

A new Pilates studio has been added, while the yoga studio, which sits in an elevated position to take in the 360-degree lagoon views, is open-sided to allow for the natural flow of sea breezes.

On property, COMO will continue to adjust measures to remain in line with different government guidelines – including social distancing and temperature monitoring. If there is any doubt about a local government’s approach, COMO will always go further to ensure the safety of staff and guests.

This includes exceptional protocols on sanitisation per the best-in-class standards subscribed to as a company. In the long term, health isn’t ever a quick-fix but a life-long commitment. This is the driving force behind COMO Shambhala – the wellness heart of COMO Hotels and Resorts, which has always prescribed an integrative approach to wellbeing.

More than ever, COMO will be encouraging guests to deepen their journey in proactive wellness with the immune-boosting COMO Shambhala Cuisine, targeted fitness and results-driven treatments.