COMO Maalifushi welcomes Maldivian surfer Rishtha Shuja for ‘The Wave is Hers’
On September 15th 2026, COMO Maalifushi will welcome Maldivian surfer Rishtha Shuja for COMO Conversation: The Wave is Hers, an intimate conversation about her surfing journey, her connection to the sport, and the growing surf culture in the Maldives. Held in collaboration with Tropicsurf, the conversation will take place at Thila bar beach and is exclusively available to in-house guests.
Introduced to surfing by her late father, a respected Maldivian surfer, Rishtha began bodyboarding in 2019 before moving into competitive surfing in 2021. She has since competed nationally and internationally, including placing third at the 2024 Rannamaari Challenge and representing the Maldives at an Asian Games qualifying event in India. During The Wave is Hers, she will share her experiences, inspirations and aspirations with guests.
“We wanted ‘The Wave is Hers’ to embody our deep connection to this place. Surfing is a vital part of Maldivian culture, and Maalifushi provides our guests with a unique opportunity to fully immerse themselves in that experience. Rishtha’s story beautifully highlights this connection, along with the incredible surfing available right at our doorstep,” said Peter Nilsson, Managing Director of COMO Resorts, Maldives.
World-Class Surfing in Thaa Atoll
Located in Thaa Atoll, COMO Maalifushi is positioned centrally between Dhaalu and Laamu Atolls, giving guests access to an exceptional range of surf spots across the region. Maalifushi offers access to 14 recognised waves, providing a variety of breaks and conditions throughout the surf season.
Running from April through October, the season brings consistent southwest swells and favourable winds, creating world-class conditions for surfers of different abilities. Farms, one of the most versatile breaks, offers forgiving conditions for beginners and intermediates before developing into a longer, more powerful right-hander for advanced surfers. Nearby Chambers and Shipwrecks can pick up larger swells, adding to the range of experiences available.
The diversity of surf spots lets guests choose the ideal breaks based on the swell, tide, wind, and their skill level. Accessible waves help beginners build confidence, while more challenging reef breaks suit experienced surfers. With warm, clear conditions and uncrowded lineups, COMO Maalifushi is an exceptional base for enjoying the Maldives’ world- class surfing.
Set in untouched Thaa Atoll, COMO Maalifushi is a private island resort surrounded by turquoise lagoons, coral reefs and uninhabited islands. The resort offers beach and overwater villas, COMO Shambhala wellness, dining, and a range of experiences, including surfing, freediving, flyfishing and marine exploration. Its location provides access to some of the Maldives’ most rewarding surf breaks and an immersive way to experience the destination’s natural beauty and ocean culture.
