By Kareen & Manuel – 26th Aug 2021
Many people stereotyped the Maldives as a honeymoon-only destination or still think of it as solely for dreamy romantic wedding scenes. However, tides have since changed. The region has evolved and is continuously improving to accommodate a wide range of travel demands from tourists – and this includes becoming a perfect island getaway for families with children too!
From renting a hut on the beach, swinging in a hammock (while the little ones play on the white sand for hours), to jumping in the waves, snorkeling in shallow waters, and basking in the warm golden sunshine, the amazingly refreshing islands always have something for everyone to enjoy. You will absolutely have a treasured magical moment with your kids to share and cherish!
Known for having over a thousand paradise-like atolls and more than a hundred pristine resorts to choose from, picking on the right option could be quite a daunting task. As a response, based on our own experience, we would like to relay a few essential considerations for you to note and keep in mind to avoid unnecessary challenges.
Special Rates for Kids
Most child-friendly resorts in the Maldives offer special rates for children aged two years and under, with only the US$6 green tax to pay. And a few may even extend the stay-for-free up to 12 years old! On the other hand, some charge 50% of the adult rate as a child rate, while additional beds may incur extra costs.
Accommodation
Depending on the distance, there are three ways to get from the airport to the resort – speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight. We recommend that you stay closer to the airport if you are traveling with an infant or have taken multiple flights to reach the capital, Malé. The speedboat ride will allow you to save time spent on the journey and take a much-needed rest the soonest.
Certain resorts that are further distant from Malé are accessible only by seaplane or domestic flights. It extends both the overall time in transit and the cost of the trip. On the bright side, the thrill of an aerial ride over the picturesque islands is an unforgettable experience in and of itself!
Room Type
The majority of resorts have several types of rooms, ranging from beach villas to deluxe over-the-water suites. Beach villas are built directly on or in front of beaches, whereas a water villa will be on stilts above the lagoon. It is worth noting that water villas have direct access to the island lagoon via a narrow staircase, which poses a safety hazard for young children. And because water villas are on either side of an open wooden walkway that leads to the lagoon, young children will require supervision when accessing it. Hence, some resorts have a minimum age criterion for water villa bookings, so check with the property before making any reservation.
Kids Clubs
It’s critical to get your choice for low or mid-end resorts right, as only a few have kids clubs or babysitters; the rest cater primarily to honeymooning couples. In general, children love spending the entire day on the beach. But the perks of having a Kids Club allows parents to unwind and be at peace, knowing that the children are well looked after and entertained!
Nowadays, nearly all the top-end resorts have clubs for kids. These are remarkable places, with stunning pools and a host of activities, which means parents can drop off their little ones (usually under 12) at any time, for free during the day. A number of them also have teens clubs.
Family Activity
Some guests may prefer not to spend their entire holiday sunbathing and swimming or get bored with monotony. So resorts are careful to provide a program of excursions and activities for everyone. Here are several of the excitements that make the island country an excellent choice for any family holiday.
The Maldivian vacation with children is no longer something unusual and risky. Like any resort destination, the Maldives will surely be another fun or yet extraordinary adventure for the whole family. The main thing is to arm yourself with information and recommendations. We wish you a wonderful carefree holiday!
Recommended Kids Friendly Resorts in the Maldives:
