Fushifaru Maldives on Friday hosted Lhaviyani atoll’s very first Coconut Climbing Competition.

With contestants from all around the atoll, including Innahura, Cocoon, Kanuhura, Hurawalhi, Kudadoo and Fushifaru, it was a fantastic day to bring everyone together to celebrate Maldivian culture. There was no better way to revive this Maldivian tradition that hasn’t taken place since 1985!

The contestants were asked to climb the coconut tree all the way to the top, come down safely and then husk a coconut all under time pressure.

Fushifaru’s very own Maldivian Coconut Climber Thoha took away the winner’s trophy as he completed his round in only 42 seconds!

Fushifaru’s Coconut Tree Climbing Competition was officially endorsed by the tourism ministry and the prizes were sponsored by Dhiraagu. The winner’s prize consisted of an Apple iPad, the latest AirPods, a wireless charger and a power bank, courtesy of Dhiraagu.

The second and third placed contestant won a stay at Fushifaru Maldives.

With speeches from Fushifaru’s General Manager Ahmed Siaar and the chief guest, Senior Policy Director from the tourism ministry Ibrahim Farhad, the event truly felt unique and special and celebrated the Maldives’ rich cultural traditions.

“Not only was this an occasion to remember, but it was also a great opportunity to connect with colleagues from other resorts in our beautiful Lhaviyani atoll,” a statement issued by Fushifaru read.

“A big thank you to our fantastic participants and supporters for helping to make this event such a success – we can’t wait to celebrate this event next year!”

Only a 35-minute breathtaking seaplane flight away from Velana International Airport, Fushifaru is nestled between a national Marine Protected Area and three of the Maldives’ most iconic dive sites. Fushifaru is a with an endless promise of adventure, excitement, discovery and serenity all in one diverse landscape.

Merging quintessential Maldivian design with modern aesthetics, this boutique Maldivian chic resort’s 49 Beach and Water Villas exude a sense of cosines yet luxurious in space and amenities. Each of the villas features open-air bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, private verandas with dining areas and breath-taking views of the surrounding area – some villas feature private plunge pools.

Dining experiences focus on regional and international flavours to suit every taste and dietary requirement. Scrumptious breakfast buffets and palate pleasing international cuisine are offered at Korakali whilst flavourful Asian delicacies and mouth-watering varieties of freshly caught seafood can be savoured at Raakani. Signature cocktails and detoxtails are complemented by the best sunset views on island whilst lounging by the pool at Fanihandhi. A range of international dishes and snacks can be served straight to the privacy of your villa, 24 hours.

Above the waterline — to up the ante on adventure, a fully-equipped gym overlooks the Indian Ocean, whilst a multi-sports court hosts regular matches between residents and guests. Alternatively, take your game to the water with jet skis, kayaks and catamarans. Off-island visits include the largest tuna canning factory in the Maldives or numerous social and sustainable activities.

Below the waterline — Fushifaru Kan’du, a national Marine Protected Area home to three iconic dive sites including the renowned Fushifaru Thila, is teeming with marine life, unique cave formations and a marine cleaning station and sits right beside the resort. A true haven for diving enthusiasts and snorkelers alike.

Private wedding celebrations, picnics and desert island getaways are available at the resort’s own sandbank – only a few metres away in a crystal clear turquoise lagoon.