Surf Cokes and Chickens breaks
Cokes is a world-class, fast, hollow right-hand reef break located on the eastern side of Thulusdhoo island. It produces long, punchy barrels on mid-to-large west and southwest swells and is famous among experienced surfers for its speed and intensity.
Location
Cokes (Cokes Reef, Thulusdhoo), Thulusdhoo, Maldives
Duration
Typical session 2–4 hours; half-day (3–5 hours) or full-day (6–10 hours) surf trips.
Best Time to Visit
March–October (peak SW monsoon May–September for most consistent swells).
Pricing
Approximate costs (USD):
- Shared boat/transfer day trip: $40–$120 per person depending on operator and season.
- Private speedboat charter: $200–$500+ (half or full day).
- Surf guiding/bootleg guide: $40–$80 per session.
- Board rental: $20–$50 per day (performance shortboards more expensive). Note: Prices vary by operator and season; cash and card options depend on provider.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Fast, hollow right-hand barrels ideal for experienced surfers
Long, high-speed sections with steep take-offs
Close proximity to Thulusdhoo island amenities and surf camps
Often less crowded than some North Malé atoll peaks on big swell days
Itinerary
Pickup from resort/guesthouse/Thulusdhoo jetty
Meet your operator; board safety brief and equipment check.
Boat transfer to Cokes
Short ride by local dhoni or speedboat; watch for swell and wind direction.
Morning surf session
Multiple rotations; pick best peak for your skill level. Keep hydrated.
Lunch and rest on board or nearby sandbank/Thulusdhoo
Many operators provide boxed lunch; some stop at the island for food/shower.
Afternoon session or transfer to other nearby breaks
Optional second session depending on conditions and energy levels.
Return to Thulusdhoo
Debrief and drop-off at jetty or resort.
Safety Requirements
Strong intermediate-to-advanced surfing ability required for most conditions
Reef awareness — sharp coral, shallow sections at low tide
Wear a leash and consider reef booties for entries/exits
Check tide: optimal sessions often on mid to high tide depending on swell size
Be mindful of strong rips and currents; never surf alone if unfamiliar with the break
Sun protection and hydration — tropical sun is intense
Tips
Respect local surf etiquette and other surfers; Thulusdhoo has a local surfing community
Hire a local guide or surf skipper who knows set patterns and channel locations
Aim for mid-to-high tide on smaller swells; Cokes can be very shallow on low tide
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and minimal jewelry to avoid losing items
Secure travel/boat insurance that covers water-sport activities
If renting a board, choose a performance shortboard for steep take-offs; longboards are not ideal here