When most people think of the Maldives, they think of honeymoons. But the Maldives with kids is absolutely incredible.
Here’s everything you need to know “from where is the Maldives located?” to “what currency do they use?” and our top tip on family accommodation in the Maldives.
Where is the Maldives located?
The Maldives is a tropical Indian Ocean nation of 26 ring-shaped atolls south of Sri Lanka and India. As you can see from the Google Map below – it’s small. You will have to zoom out to see Australia to the east.
The capital of the Maldives is Male. The densely populated capital Male is known for colourful buildings and mosques. From Male, families will catch a speedboat out to the breathtaking coral islands.
How do you get to the Maldives?
From Australia, you will need to take two flights. The cheapest way to get there is on Air Asia via Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. Want full service? Try Singapore Airlines via Singapore, Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, Etihad and Virgin Australia via Abu Dhabi, or Emirates via Dubai.
And don’t forget – you can sometimes book a stopover in each of those places for no extra flight cost.
What can you do in the Maldives?
You can do as much or as little as you like. But expect most of the activities to be centred around the beach.
Try kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling in the Maldives.
The Maldives is famous for surfing. Many of the best breaks are only 30 minutes by speedboat from the resorts.
Sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, snorkelling, wakeboarding and stand-up paddleboarding are popular.
Most resorts also offer Yoga classes, tours of the Blue Lagoon and scuba-diving.
A scenic flight is a great way to see just how spectacular this string of coral islands is.
Or you can just chill out on the stunning beaches with a good book and a refreshing drink.
Yes, the Maldives is one of those places where you can drink from coconuts every day. Picture: Shutterstock
What currency do they use?
The Maldives currency is the Rufiyaa. One Rufiyaa is currently about 91c Australian. However, many of the resorts on the Maldives are all-inclusive – so you won’t have to think about money at all.
Is it expensive?
One of the biggest misconceptions families have about the Maldives is that it is expensive. Yes, these views do look expensive. But it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.
The Maldives looks expensive. But you can find fantastic deals. Picture: Shutterstock
Many of the Maldives islands actually offer all-inclusive packages. The cost up front may look more expensive compared to other hotels – but it includes absolutely everything. You won’t have to pay for food, you won’t have to pay for activities, you won’t have to worry about anything at all.
Family accommodation in the Maldives?
Of all the resorts and hotels in the Maldives, one stands out as brilliant for families with. Club Med. We love the Club Med Kani Maldives.
Club Med Kani Maldives.
One look at this place and you may think it’s out of your price range. But as we said above, the Maldives does have some incredible package deals and all-inclusive packages.
Kani is a private island surrounded by turquoise water. It’s close to Ninja – one of the Maldives famous surf breaks. And speedboats take keen surfers on trips to the break between June and October. Other surf tours go to Honkeys, Sultan, Chicken and Coke.
At the Kani Kids’ Club, children aged between 4 and 10 can take cooking classes, make sandcastles and learn how to propagate coral. Children aged above 6 can try sailing and kayaking.
Club Med Kani Maldives.
The resort has three fabulous restaurants. The Vehli serves Asian and international cuisine in an open-air terrace. The Kandu is the place for breakfast looking out over the lagoon. The kids will love watching the fish swim under the restaurant here. Kaana does delicious small plates and snacks. Did we mention – it’s all included?
Club Med Kani also has three bars. Beer, wine, spirits and cocktails are all included in the price. For adults only of course.
The rooms here are simply stunning. Each one is designed for privacy. The Garden club rooms are great for families. They fit up to four adults and two children.
READ MORE:
Early Bird Club Med Kani Maldives special deal
This flight search hack gets you a free stopover
Download your free kids’ travel diary for the holidays
How Club Med’s luxury resorts are going green
Plan your trip – school holidays 2019, 2020
Travel allows you to get outside your bubble. It makes you realise there are other ways to do things, and that’s OK. Plus, I am a huge fan of skiing and for the best powder – you need to head overseas.