Cocoa Tila

Cocoa Tila

Location: South Malé Atoll, near Cocoa Island, Maldives Depth: 8–28 m Difficulty: Intermediate Entry: Boat

Overview

Cocoa Tila is a submerged pinnacle adjacent to Cocoa Corner, near Cocoa Island (Makunufushi) in South Malé Atoll. The thila rises from the atoll floor to approximately 8 m depth, presenting a tall, impressive structure with distinct zones of marine life from summit to base. It is one of the more celebrated thila sites in the southern reaches of Malé Atoll, known for its strong coral coverage and consistently reliable shark and turtle sightings.

Diving

The pinnacle is typically circumnavigated clockwise, exploring different faces before ascending to the shallow summit plateau. Soft corals and gorgonian sea fans decorate the walls below 15 m, and the deeper ledges and overhangs provide shade for resting nurse sharks. The summit is shallow enough to spend extended bottom time observing the coral garden and its inhabitants.

Grey reef sharks are regular visitors, and Napoleon wrasse are almost always present in the area. During certain seasons, mantas pass over the thila on their way through the atoll system. Hawksbill turtles graze methodically on sponges across multiple depth zones.

Marine Life

• Grey reef sharks
• Nurse sharks (overhangs)
• Napoleon wrasse
• Hawksbill turtles
• Gorgonian sea fans and soft corals
• Manta rays (seasonal)

Practical Notes

Current can be focussed around the pinnacle — stronger on exposed faces, calmer in the lee. Suitable for intermediate divers with pinnacle drift experience. Visibility typically 15–25 m. Often dived together with Cocoa Corner in a morning session from South Malé Atoll resorts.