Summer Holidays to Maldives

These resort options suit families with children, each offering different levels of activity, facilities and transfer time.

• Shallow lagoon resorts: Many Maldivian resort islands are sheltered by reef and have gently shelving sand, which suits children who want to paddle and snorkel close to the beach. Conditions vary from island to island, so ask for the lagoon details before you book. Calm water in a sheltered lagoon removes much of the worry for younger swimmers. We recommend choosing a resort with a clearly sheltered beach for families with small children. It is exactly the brief our Maldives Family Holidays deals are built around.
• Kids clubs and family villas: Several resorts offer children's clubs and larger family villas, which give parents more space and children activities during the day. Programmes and facilities differ by property, so check the age groups covered and the hours on offer. Family villas can be a practical choice when travelling with more than two children. We check the programme and room layout with you so the stay fits your family's needs.
• House reef snorkelling: House reefs at many resorts are reachable straight from the beach, making snorkelling a simple daily activity for children. Sea turtles are seen on many of these reefs, though sightings are never guaranteed. Shallow reef-side snorkelling is a good first experience for older children and confident beginners. This is one of the most rewarding family activities in the Maldives, and it costs nothing beyond your time in the water.
• Speedboat and seaplane transfers: Transfers from the capital to resorts are by speedboat for nearby atolls and by seaplane or domestic flight for more distant ones. Speedboat journeys are shorter and simpler with children, while seaplane flights offer aerial views that many families enjoy. Both options add to the travel day, so factor in arrival time and any wait for connections. We plan transfer timings with you so the journey suits your children's needs.
• Dolphin and marine trips: Guided boat trips to see dolphins and marine life are offered by many resorts, and they are a memorable outing for families. Some activities carry age restrictions, so check the minimum ages before you book. Early morning and late afternoon trips are the most common times for wildlife spotting. These excursions give children a hands-on look at Maldivian marine life without leaving the resort's organised environment.