When you think of the Maldives, pristine beaches, turquoise lagoons, and swaying palms naturally come to mind. But at Kuredu Island Resort & Spa, your stay becomes more than a beach holiday – it transforms into an immersive journey into Maldivian culture, flavors, and traditions. One of the most enchanting experiences to witness during your visit is the celebrated Maldivian Night, a vibrant festival of traditional Boduberu music and dance, along with local cuisine that brings the spirit of the Kuredu alive.
At the heart of this celebration lies the Coconut Counter, a special highlight dedicated to the Maldives’ national tree – the coconut palm. It’s here that you encounter Coco Laa Laa, an exquisite cocktail crafted especially for the night, which honors the timeless relationship between Maldivians and this remarkable tree.
The Story Behind Coco Laa Laa
The coconut palm tree or Ruh, as it’s called in Dhivehi holds a sacred and timeless place in traditional Maldivian life. Revered as the Tree of Life, it has supported generations of islanders with its remarkable versatility. Nearly every part of the Ruh has been used for survival, craftsmanship, and celebration. Its leaves once sheltered homes, intricately woven into thatched rooftops. Its sturdy trunks became graceful dhonis (canoes) that sailed the atolls. The husks, fibrous and strong, were fashioned into ropes, brushes, and even used as kindling for fires that warmed kitchens and hearts.
But the coconut palm offers more than utility and it is celebrated by Maldivians. From the tender young coconut (kurumba) to the mature nut (kaashi), every stage of its growth carries a unique name and purpose in Dhivehi culture. Coconut water cools and hydrates under the tropical sun. Its white flesh is transformed into sweet treats, curries, and traditional desserts. Even the shells are repurposed, crafted into musical instruments, ornamental souvenirs, or used as fuel for bonfires and beachside barbecues.
At Kuredu, this rich heritage is honored during the resort’s beloved Maldivian Night – a festive evening where culture, cuisine, and connection come alive at Babuna Bar. The Coconut Counter takes center stage, showcasing the many ways coconuts continue to shape daily life and Kuredu hospitality.
It’s here you’ll discover Coco Laa Laa, a signature cocktail that beautifully blends tradition and tropical indulgence. Creamy, smooth, and soulfully satisfying, this handcrafted drink layers the refreshing sweetness of fresh coconut water with the velvety richness of Baileys Irish Cream and the vibrant kick of white rum. A whisper of apple juice and fresh cream rounds out the flavors, creating a cocktail that’s both comforting and luxuriously island-inspired.
“Sipping Coco Laa Laa while watching the traditional Maldivian dance performance was truly magical,” shares a guest. “It made me feel connected to the island and its people in a way I never expected. It’s not just a cocktail, it’s an experience.”
Another guest adds: “I’ve never tasted anything like it. The setting, the coconut shell, the warmth of the people, it felt authentic and deeply personal. This was the moment I truly felt part of the Maldives.”
Ingredients of Coco Laa Laa
• 40 ml White Rum
• 40 ml Baileys Irish Cream
• 20 ml Fresh Cream
• 8 ml Apple Juice
• 1 Fresh Coconut (for water and serving)
The fresh coconut is key – it adds natural sweetness and authentic tropical freshness that bottled mixers simply cannot replicate.
The Ritual of Making Coco Laa Laa
Creating Coco Laa Laa is a tropical ritual that begins with cracking open a fresh young coconut, its water poured into a shaker, its shell reserved as a natural cup. White rum brings the bold island spirit, while Baileys Irish Cream and fresh cream add velvety richness, balanced by a hint of apple juice for a subtle fruity lift. Shaken with ice until perfectly chilled, the cocktail is then served back in the coconut shell, often garnished with toasted flakes or a tropical flower, a sensory celebration of taste, aroma, and the simple joy of sipping from nature itself.
Why You Must Experience It
Coco Laa Laa is not just a drink – it’s a cultural experience, a sensory journey, and a unique memory that defines your stay at Kuredu. When you join the Maldivian Night festivities and visit the Coconut Counter, you partake in a living tradition that showcases the ingenuity, respect, and love Maldivians have for their environment.
“At Kuredu, we strive to offer our guests authentic experiences that celebrate Maldivian culture and nature. Coco Laa Laa is a perfect example – it’s not just a cocktail but a story in a glass, a tribute to the coconut palm that supports our islands in so many ways. We invite everyone to taste this connection during our Maldivian Night and truly feel what it means to be part of this island magic” says, Zihuny Mohamed, Food & Beverage Manager at Kuredu.
Next time you find yourself on this island paradise, remember: the coconut palm is more than just a tree. It’s a symbol of life, community, and celebration. And with every sip of Coco Laa Laa, you’re invited to be part of that story.
Experience Maldivian Night every Saturday – See the weekly entertainment plan
