5 family friendly resorts in the Maldives you need to know

The Maldives has long been considered an adults-only destination, mainly attracting honeymooners and couples who aren’t shy about spending a fortune on luxury vacations. However, times have changed and now the Maldives is a perfect family-friendly destination. And rightly so! Beautiful weather, stunning resorts, endless tropical beaches and warm waters all around teeming with marine life. While there are countless resorts suitable for the whole family, there are some that really stand out and I will highlight 5 resorts that will range from entry-level properties all the way to over-the-top resorts where nothing is impossible. Let’s dive (pun intended) into it!

Sheraton Maldives Purnama Resort & Spa

Don’t forget the name and brand. Yes, it’s a Sheraton, but it’s very different from the ones you know at the airport or in the cities. Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Male means you can be jumping into a pool or crystal clear water within an hour of touching down in the Maldives. This in itself has been a big reason why you want to spend time on a long transfer? This is due to the fact that the hotel was one of the first when the Maldives opened to tourism about 5 decades ago, and after the renovation in 2019, the hotel will certainly not give up the space it has gained over the years. Of course, because many love, it first starts with the room. There are several types to look forward to, from overwater villas to beach villas, but all have enough space to comfortably accommodate a family. Another good highlight is the food quality which is sometimes not the best (to put it politely) in a mid-range property. Not through here, on the contrary. With several different food shops there is always a place to find the plate you like for the day.

But what really stands out at the Sheraton Maldives is the amount of space it has and the endless array of activities you can enjoy as a family. Whether it’s lounging on the beach line where the children play in the sand and the parents just hang out on one of the swings while taking in the gorgeous views, or playing football on the massive field against the staff who are always happy to play a match after hours, not to mention kids club where youngsters can live the best life while adults enjoy some well deserved time in the stunning spa,….

One & Only Reethi Rah

The legendary brand arrived in the Maldives almost 20 years ago and found itself one of the most beautiful and expansive islands north of Malé Atoll, meaning it’s only a quick boat ride away to paradise. The first thing you will notice when you walk into the reception area and next to your villa is the unique architecture by the hands of the master, Jean Michel Gathy himself. They are among the best in the business (they have done many amazing projects like Cheval Blanc Maldives, Aman Venice,… There is certainly no shortage of space inside and outside, and this is what you are looking for when traveling as a family. This resort also has some of the most beautiful and spacious multi-bedroom villas, some with private beaches with outdoor cinemas etc., are amazing.And because they have a big island that can be used as a giant playground, you can still find a real big tropical beach you are the only happy soul, a luxury that is increasingly difficult to find in the Maldives.

Children will be immediately spoiled by the staff when they arrive and as a logical result, adults will be spoiled too, because they will quickly realize that this is a place where they can relax knowing that the little ones are being taken care of. The kids’ club is, as you might expect, the center of activity for kids, but there are plenty of other activities around the island. Mandatory treasure hunting here is definitely off the charts with a beautiful island to search for that elusive chest!

Sea Finolhu Maldives

Located in the Baa atoll, this property is arguably one of the best locations in the Maldives for those who enjoy abundant marine life. Don’t get me wrong, it’s beautiful all around, but Baa Atoll is so special that it’s one of the only 3 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the Maldives since 2011. Another important thing is the fact that it’s one of the most beautiful places in the Indian Ocean. to see whale sharks and manta rays. Finolhu also has a very long beach that can be used for various purposes. from the perfect running track to the location for stunning photoshoots and all the way at the end you will find a wonderful beach bubble tent that you can book as an extra experience for the night. It’s magical to be able to see all the stars at night right from your bed and then jump into the outdoor bathtub in the morning to start your day in the best possible way. Food-wise you won’t be disappointed with some amazing restaurant options. Our favorites were the Japanese restaurant in the evening and the incredible crab shack for lunch.

Families here are spoiled for choice with the space available, but there are plenty of activities for everyone. Oceaneers Club is a safe haven for daily children’s programs that keep little ones entertained throughout the day. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy all the other facilities and just have proper quality time between themselves. Don’t worry, the property also makes sure that families have the best time too. The white party near the crab shack at sunset is without a doubt a perfect example. Great beats produced by a DJ standing in an open VW bus on an idyllic tropical beach is all you need to dance and drink the night away! Because there’s no party like a party on a sunny beach…right?!

Gili Lankanfushi

A firm favorite among many and rightfully so. Along with the Sheraton Maldives, it is one of the first properties in the area and thus manages to secure one of the most stunning natural islands (now many of the islands are reclaimed meaning they don’t have the lush vegetation you would find in nature). Gili Lankanfushi makes you feel like you’re in the movie Robinson Crusoe, and honestly it’s definitely one where you hope there will be a continuation because this resort feels like you’re wrapped in the softest blanket imaginable that you ever want to escape. Of all the resorts mentioned here, Gili has the fewest rooms, only 45 to be exact. And everything is overwater, so if that makes you feel a bit iffy then I don’t suggest staying here. However, I have stayed here twice with my children from the age of 2 and up and I have never been uncomfortable with it. The great thing about this place is that it never gets crowded, even at breakfast, most people gather to sit under the palh tree on the beach while being served some of the best food found in the archipelago. The very small number of rooms helps on all levels, as the staff will understand your choice very quickly and there is a sense of calm among the guests that is difficult to describe, but very pleasant.

There is no kids club on the island and it may come as a surprise to many, but Gili Lankanfushi wouldn’t be Gili Lankanfushi if it didn’t have a trick or two. Your butler, or properly named Mr. or Mrs. Friday (yes, Robinson Crusoe is back) will make sure that the youngsters have the time of their lives while the adults relax in the spa, or have fun snorkeling, … How? Well, the in-house seamstress makes the children into custom-made uniforms so they can join the other staff on the island, attending morning meetings, setting the table, helping the cook find fresh produce in the vegetable garden and more. Or how about building a huge sandcastle on the beach? My favorite is to give driving lessons for the golf buggy after the driver’s license will be waiting for him in the room. Don’t worry, it’s only legal on the island, but believe me, the kids won’t want to go to the kids club again!

Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort

After a scenic seaplane flight from Male you will arrive at this beautiful resort in Raa Atoll. Yes, it’s Intercontinental which is a brand known worldwide for business travel, but this property is anything but! From the moment you step on the island you immediately know this place is made for relaxation and fun. I mean, what other Intercontinental lobby has a swing hanging from the ceiling while looking out over the blue water all around? Not to mention the lighthouse at the back of the island that you might have spotted when you landed in front of the resort. This property has all types of accommodation, but the unique one is the lagoon pool villa because it is located on the edge between the sea and the lagoon, allowing you to drink coffee on the front terrace overlooking the lagoon and swim. pool (or a second coffee on the back terrace) while looking out over the sea that is literally teaming with wildlife. Not going to lie, I have done many resorts but this place is one of the best to see all kinds of fish from the island or even your villa.

While the kids club on the island has a lot to offer, the most important thing for me is that they also have a club for adults, where children are not allowed. Hallelujah! More resorts should look into this! It’s called a retreat and here you’ll have a stunning pool to relax in, a bar that makes the cocktails you want, and finger food available all day long. What more could parents want? Maybe a cool activity for a youngster to get away from the sight that is almost glued to their hands. Even those available at the Intercontinental Maldives with cool master classes where they learn how to make the best mocktails, or cooking lessons where they learn the basics for everything that can be served in a Michelin star restaurant. There is literally a good time for everyone in the family.

Kristof Eyckmans

Kristof Eyckmans is a travel writer from Antwerp, Belgium. He has lived all over the world and while he loves wildlife and nature, he still enjoys the beauty of the urban jungle.