7 Child-Friendly Activities to do in the Maldives
The Maldives is easily one of the world’s most beautiful and tranquil destinations. However, because of its serene nature, the country is often mistaken as the ultimate holiday destination for couples only. In reality, this picturesque archipelago in the heart of the sapphire Indian Ocean is an excellent location for a family holiday too—especially if you’re travelling with young kids. Here are 7 exciting child-friendly activities you can partake in the Maldives.
1. Snorkelling & Swimming
The turquoise waters surrounding the islands are a hallmark of the Maldives, and while most marvel at its glistening surface, its real beauty lies below. Not only are there several species coral which attract a myriad of marine life, but also, the visibility here is excellent and makes for an unparalleled snorkelling experience. However, if you’re wary of taking your kids into the deep, you can just as well see many fish if you wade in the shallows with a pair of goggles. Another great activity is swimming! The water here is so calm and clear that it often feels as though you’re in a giant saltwater swimming pool!
2. Game Fishing
The country is also one of the best big game fishing destinations in the world! A wide range of pelagic fish dwell in these warm waters and fishing here gives you the opportunity to wrangle fish like yellowfin tuna, barracuda, and swordfish. Take your little one out into the open seas to get the catch of the day. Another highlight of this excursion would be enjoying the fruits of your labour later that day. Resorts like Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives let you back your catch and either you BBQ it yourself or get one of their chefs to do so.
3. Dolphin Cruise
Set sail for the high seas as you embark on this exciting ocean adventure that is sure to be a thrilling experience for those of all ages! Most resorts offer this excursion, and you can book it so that you and your family can have a private boat ride as you go on this ocean safari. Watch as these playful animals jump out of the water and race the bow of your ship. Also keep your eyes peeled for whale sharks, turtles, and manta rays that frequent these waters.
4. Water Sports
Even though many people don’t find water sports to be child-friendly, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Kids from above the age of 12 can participate in water sports like banana tubing or water skiing. If you’re travelling with younger kids, there are other options like kayaking around the island or paddle-boarding.
5. Drop by the Kids’ Club
A family holiday is of course for bonding with the family, however, while on holiday you may want a small break from your kids, whether it be for a spa treatment or a romantic meal. It’s for this very reason that resorts in the Maldives have excellent kids’ clubs and babysitting services.
6. Marine Conservation
While the archipelago is celebrated for extensive coral reefs, the corals here have also been affected by coral bleaching. Climate change has direct and indirect impacts on this precious ecosystem, and in order to offset its negative effects, resorts have marine conservation programmes. These initiatives range from reef scaping to turtle and manta projects, or just a walk with a marine biologist to help raise awareness.
7. Have a Picnic on an Uninhabited Island
The Maldives consists of approximately 1,200 islands, and while most of them are either local islands or island resorts, some are too small to inhabit. These smaller islands are scattered between several resorts, and one fun family activity would be spending the day on one of these islets. Hop on board a dhoni and have your very own Robinson Crusoe experience, the only difference is you’ll have a delectable picnic basket and won’t be stranded for too long!