Our Family Adventure in the Maldives (Yes… with three children!)

Ad – This trip was gifted in collaboration with Fushifaru Maldives and Meyyafushi Maldives.

I suppose I’ve always thought of the Maldives as one of those once-in-a-lifetime destinations — honeymoons, anniversaries, maybe a vow renewal if you’re feeling fancy. But never, ever did I imagine it would be somewhere I’d take my children.

And yet… here we are.

I’m 42, live up in Yorkshire (originally from near London), and I have three children aged 13, 11 and 8. When I was invited to experience two Maldivian islands — Fushifaru Maldives and Meyyafushi Maldives — I genuinely paused. Was this really somewhere suitable for children? Would they be bored? Would it be stressful? Would it feel awkward or out of place?

Spoiler alert: I couldn’t have been more wrong.

This ended up being one of the most magical, memorable family holidays we’ve ever taken — and I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s a trip I think my children will talk about forever.

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A quick note before we begin

I do need to say that this trip was part of a collaboration with Fushifaru Maldives and Meyyafushi Maldives, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity. That said, everything I’m sharing here is completely honest and based on our real experience. The warmth, kindness and level of care we received was genuinely exceptional — and something I would shout about regardless.

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The Maldives: not just for honeymooners

Before this trip, my only experience of the Maldives was our honeymoon 15 years ago. Back then, it felt romantic, peaceful, grown-up… and definitely not child-friendly.

But here’s what I learned:

There are over 150 resort islands in the Maldives, and every single one is completely different. Different sizes, different vibes, different energy, different experiences. Some are ultra-luxury and very adult. Others are lively, family-focused, adventurous and warm.

The key is choosing the right island.

And we absolutely did.

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Our journey & first impressions

We travelled in December, which is peak season — and coming from a freezing, grey UK, stepping into sunshine, warmth and turquoise water felt almost surreal. Even when it rained (which it did once), it was warm, tropical rain — the kind you laugh in rather than hide from.

From the moment we arrived, everything felt calm, organised and welcoming. The sea planes, the boat transfers, the smiling faces greeting us — the children were wide-eyed before we’d even stepped foot on the islands.

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🌴 FUSHIFARU MALDIVES

Boutique, barefoot luxury with soul

Our first stop was Fushifaru Maldives, a beautiful boutique island with a really calm, authentic feel. It’s intimate, personal, and full of character — not flashy, not overdone, just quietly beautiful.

Accommodation

We stayed in Jacuzzi Water Villas, and because there are only three two-bedroom villas on the island, we had two villas opposite each other. The children were old enough to have their own space, which worked brilliantly, but if yours are younger you could easily split adults and kids between villas.

Each villa was gorgeous — spacious, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable. The beds were huge, the bathrooms stunning, and there was even a bath positioned so you could soak while looking out over the ocean. The terrace and jacuzzi were a huge hit with the children, and being able to step straight into the sea was magical.

The snorkelling right from the villa was incredible — fish everywhere — and I loved being able to sit on the terrace watching the children explore the water safely.

The island vibe

Despite being almost full, Fushifaru never felt busy. People seemed to disappear into their own little pockets of paradise during the day, then reappear in the evenings for dinner. It felt calm, respectful, and wonderfully unpretentious.

The main pool was a big hit with the kids — lots of space, comfy loungers, and the pool bar staff were absolute stars (and very good at making cocktails).

Activities & facilities

There is so much to do:

• Watersports – paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkelling. Staff were brilliant and really looked after the children.

• Underwater playground – swings, bikes and even a little wreck. My husband took each child out one by one and absolutely loved it.

• Tennis & table tennis – perfect for early evenings.

• Kids club – ideal for younger children; calmer and more intimate.

• Gym – very well equipped (although I mostly admired it from afar…).

Food & dining

There are two main restaurants: a buffet and an à la carte option.

The buffet was perfect for families — so much choice, different themes every night, and incredible quality. The omelette station at breakfast became a daily ritual, and the children adored the pancakes. The staff remembered everyone’s preferences almost instantly, which felt incredibly personal.

A truly special moment

One of the highlights was visiting the sandbank island — a tiny stretch of sand with nothing but a hammock and a tree. We went over by boat, watched the sunset, and just soaked it all in. It’s one of those moments that stays with you forever.

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🌊 MEYYAFUSHI MALDIVES

After four nights, we moved on to Meyyafushi, and wow — what a contrast.

Where Fushifaru is intimate and traditional, Meyyafushi is modern, glossy and exciting. It was still in its soft opening phase when we visited, which made it feel extra special.

Our villa

We stayed in a two-bedroom overwater villa with a private pool, and it was enormous. The children were together in one bedroom, with a lounge area separating them from us — perfect for space and sanity!

The interiors were stunning: beautiful lighting, soft textures, luxury finishes, and a layout that worked brilliantly for families.

Pools & facilities

The main pool is huge and absolutely gorgeous, with shallow areas for little ones and plenty of seating. The bar service was brilliant — drinks just appeared as if by magic.

The island has a real “fun luxury” vibe — relaxed but exciting.

Food

The main restaurant was outstanding. Buffet style, but beautifully done. Fresh seafood, amazing curries, incredible fruit, desserts… honestly, everything.

This island is all-inclusive, which is worth noting if you’re travelling with children or teens — it makes everything feel so much more relaxed.

We were also lucky enough to see the underwater restaurant before it officially opened, and it was breathtaking. I’ve shared this on my YouTube vlog and it’s definitely something special.

Activities

This is where Meyyafushi really shines for families:

• Bowling alley (yes, really!)

• Games room with air hockey, pool, PlayStation 5, table tennis

• Padel tennis court

• Football pitch

• Kids club with crafts and activities

• Bikes to cycle around the island

My children absolutely loved this island. It gave them independence, freedom and fun — while still feeling completely safe.

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The people

At both resorts, the staff were outstanding. Kind, warm, welcoming, and genuinely interested in getting to know us. Within a day they knew our names, our drink orders, and what the children liked.

They took time to explain Maldivian culture, traditions, food, and daily life. We even cooked a traditional Maldivian tuna curry with the head chef — such a special experience for the children.

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A few practical things to know

• Seaplane transfers are extra (around 30–45 minutes)

• Green tax is payable (approx $12 per person per night)

• Both islands are very safe and family-friendly

• You really don’t need shoes — it’s barefoot living

• December weather is beautiful and warm

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Final thoughts

These two islands couldn’t be more different — yet both were exceptional.

Fushifaru felt intimate, traditional and peaceful.

Meyyafushi felt modern, vibrant and full of energy.

Both were incredibly family-friendly in different ways, and both gave us memories we’ll treasure forever.

If you’re considering the Maldives with children — do it. Truly. It’s not just a honeymoon destination. It’s a place of adventure, connection, beauty and calm. A place where your children can explore, learn, and feel completely safe.

This has honestly been one of the best family holidays we’ve ever had — and one I know we’ll talk about for years to come.

You can watch all of our daily vlogs over on my YouTube channel, and I’ve shared lots more over on Instagram at @simplycaroline.co.uk 💛

If you’re thinking about the Maldives — I hope this helps you take the leap.

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Disclaimer, some of these photos are mine and some are taken by the hotel photographers