Our 5 Favourite Family Resorts in the Maldives

When planning a family holiday, finding the perfect balance between luxury for parents and endless fun for children can feel like a daunting task, but our 5 favourite family resorts in the Maldives—Soneva Jani, Soneva Fushi, Amilla Maldives, Kanuhura, and Anantara Dhigu—offer exactly that. At Holiday Maldives, we know that a successful family getaway requires more than just a beautiful beach; it needs engaging kids' clubs, spacious family villas, and activities that bring everyone together. As a family-owned, UK-based Maldives specialist, Based on supplier knowledge, client feedback and resort research, Holiday Maldives compares the practical trade-offs carefully. We don't do sales pitches; we offer honest, expert advice to help you choose the right island for your family's unique needs.

1. Soneva Jani: A Wonderland Over Water

Soneva Jani in the Noonu Atoll is famous for its spectacular overwater villas, many of which feature private water slides that plunge directly into the crystal-clear lagoon. This resort takes family fun to another level with The Den, a two-storey, 1,500-square-metre technology-free playground. Children can explore a pirate ship, zoom down a 32-metre zipline, or splash in the massive pool with its own cascading waterfalls.

For older children and teenagers, The Hangout offers a music room, telescope deck, and a mocktail bar. Families can bond over a movie at the overwater Cinema Paradiso or join a guided snorkelling safari. The retractable roofs in the master bedrooms allow for magical stargazing right from your bed, making every night an adventure.

2. Soneva Fushi: The Ultimate Jungle Playground

Located in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi is the original barefoot luxury island. It embraces a "No News, No Shoes" philosophy that encourages families to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The Den at Soneva Fushi is one of the largest children's clubs in the Maldives, offering everything from Lego rooms and music areas to a pirate ship and two swimming pools.

Families can cycle through the lush jungle paths, snorkel with manta rays in nearby Hanifaru Bay, or learn about marine conservation with the resident marine biologist. The resort's spacious beachfront villas, many with private pools, provide the perfect secluded haven for families to relax after a day of exploration.

3. Amilla Maldives: Space to Play and Grow

Amilla Maldives, also situated in the Baa Atoll, stands out for its contemporary design and incredibly spacious villas, which are ideal for larger families. The Sultan's Village Kids Club is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a daily schedule that includes everything from coconut painting and pirate flag making to mini-Olympics and pizza-making classes.

What we love about Amilla is its commitment to diverse family experiences. You can challenge your teenagers to a game of padel or tennis, explore the island's 3km cycling track, or embark on a sunset dolphin cruise. The resort even features a unique glamping experience, allowing families to spend a night under the stars in a luxurious bubble tent.

4. Kanuhura Maldives: A Bohemian Family Escape

Kanuhura, located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, offers a relaxed, bohemian vibe that appeals to both parents and children. The Sun Kids Club is a beautifully designed space featuring a splash pool with a three-metre purple flower waterfall and a floating water park anchored just offshore. The club's activities range from traditional Maldivian crafts to cooking classes where kids can decorate cupcakes.

Families can enjoy guided reef walks at low tide, rent bicycles to explore the island, or take part in a beach cleanup to learn about marine conservation. The resort's shallow lagoon is perfect for beginner snorkellers, ensuring that even the youngest family members can safely discover the underwater world.

5. Anantara Dhigu: Endless Activities for All Ages

Anantara Dhigu in the South Malé Atoll is a fantastic all-rounder, offering a short 35-minute speedboat transfer from the airport—a major plus when travelling with tired little ones. The Dhoni Kids' Club is packed with activities, from sushi-making classes and fun science experiments to treasure hunts and kids' disco nights.

The resort shares a lagoon with its sister properties, giving families access to a wider range of dining and activities. You can learn to surf, enjoy a family picnic on a deserted sandbank, or simply relax by the infinity pool. The two-bedroom family villas are thoughtfully designed, providing plenty of space and privacy for everyone.

Comparing Our Favourite Family Resorts

Frequently Asked Questions

What age do kids' clubs in the Maldives cater to? Most kids' clubs, including those at our favourite resorts, cater to children aged 4 to 12 years old. Children under 4 are usually welcome to use the facilities if accompanied by a parent or a babysitter.

Are babysitting services available? Yes, all the luxury family resorts we recommend offer professional babysitting services for an additional hourly fee. We advise booking this in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons.

Is it safe for children to snorkel in the Maldives? Absolutely. Resorts like Kanuhura and Anantara Dhigu have shallow, calm lagoons that are perfect for beginners. Many resorts also offer guided snorkelling sessions specifically designed for children.

Do we need to take a seaplane? Not necessarily. While resorts like Soneva Jani and Amilla require a seaplane transfer, others like Anantara Dhigu are accessible via a short speedboat ride directly from Malé airport, which is often preferred by families with babies or toddlers.