Joanna James
Ranked among Asia's most family-friendly holiday hotspots, the Maldives is a dream destination for kids and adults. From water sports to exciting excursions, here are ten activities young travellers can enjoy in the paradise isles.
As an activity that both kids and adults can enjoy without any prior experience or expertise, signing up for a snorkelling session is a must for all holidaymakers based in the Maldives. One need not venture far to find a coral reef teeming with marine life as the house reefs encircling most resort islands are breathtaking underwater landscapes laden with multi-coloured fish species.
Whether one is based at Saii Lagoon Maldives or any similar one of the 5-star hotels in Maldives or a budget rest in Male, enjoying a dolphin watching tour is a must for families exploring the archipelago. As a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the chance to spot the friendliest mammals on earth in their natural habitat is one that will engage the imagination of all children regardless of their age.
There's nothing like a shopping spree in the capital of Male to make family time on holiday a memorable experience. Lined with eclectic local markets the likes of Chaandhanee Magu and trendy boutiques and local fashion labels, the retail outlets occupying the city is perhaps the best reason to visit Male.
The Maldives is the perfect location to learn how to dive with professional instructors and even gain a PADI certificate or a Bubblemaker certification for children. Head to any one of the country's dive centres and water sports hubs to learn the basics of scuba diving and practice those skills in the safe waters off the coast of the islands.
Sandbanks are ideal for swimming with small children as they provide tranquil waters that are bounded by the sandbank so that no big waves can impede your enjoyment.
While it may not be on the top of many tourist itineraries, children and adults alike can explore the countless cultural hotspots in the nation's capital and learn more about life in the Maldives by touring the National Museum and other landmarks such as the Grand Friday Mosque.
Travellers who are lucky enough to be staying at a hotel with its own kid's club will find that most resorts organise both on-site and outbound activities for the whole family or children of specific ages. From cooking demos and beach yoga to gaming and hikes around the island, there's always plenty to do closer to home base.
Hermit crabs are set against one another in this activity that's a big hit with locals who like to bet on the winning crab.
As a beachfront sport that only requires a volleyball and a net, spending a few hours bouncing around passing the ball can be some of the most memorable moments of a Maldivian getaway.
From sunset cruises to island hopping expeditions, boating activities are as diverse as they are awe-inspiring.
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