The Maldives with kids: Paradise on a budget

The Maldives are a dream destination for families with children. Not only because of the idyllic beaches, but also thanks to the spectacular underwater world. Children will enjoy the colorful fish, turtles and maybe even dolphins during a boat trip. This paradise offers countless opportunities to make unique memories together with your children. The Maldives consists of more than 1,000 small islands, each with its own charm. Many islands are uninhabited or house luxury resorts. But what many people don’t know is that you can also stay on local islands. These are authentic and much cheaper than resorts. Here you can enjoy hospitality, delicious food and quiet beaches without the luxury price tag. Moreover, local islands offer a unique glimpse into the lives of their inhabitants, with their friendly culture and traditional way of life.

Malediven met kinderen strand Malediven met kinderen strand

What should you look out for when traveling to the Maldives?

  1. Types of islands: There are two types of islands: resort islands, where tourists stay and less strict rules apply, and local islands, where you get an authentic experience but have to be mindful of the local culture.
  2. Islamic islands: The Maldives is an Islamic country, which means strict dress codes apply on local islands. Outside designated bikini beaches, it is important to wear covering clothes. Alcohol is only available on resort islands.
  3. Friday as a rest day: Local ferries do not operate on Fridays. Therefore, plan your arrival and departure smartly to avoid unexpected speedboat charges.

Malediven met kinderen lokale cultuur Malediven met kinderen zonsondergang

Visa and currency

Upon arrival in the Maldives, you will receive a free visa that is valid for 30 days. Make sure your passport is still valid for at least six months when you leave and keep your visa safe; you will need it when you leave. Bring plenty of US dollars, as Maldivian rufiyaa is hardly accepted at resorts. Cash and a credit card are essential for payments.

Why go to the Maldives with children?

The Maldives offers a unique experience for families. The serene beaches and calm waters are ideal for younger children. For older children and teens, there are exciting adventures such as swimming with sharks, manta rays and whale sharks. It is the perfect destination to spend quality time with your family while enjoying one of the most beautiful places in the world. In addition to the activities, the islands also offer space to unwind and enjoy nature. This makes the Maldives not only adventurous, but also relaxing for the whole family.

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What can you do in the Maldives?

The Maldives offers an array of activities that are both relaxing and adventurous:

  • Snorkeling and diving: Discover colorful corals and rich marine life, ideal for both beginners and experienced divers.
  • Swimming with turtles, manta rays, sharks and whale sharks: A unique opportunity to meet these impressive animals in their natural habitat.
  • Dolphin excursions: Spot playful dolphins on a boat ride.
  • Sunset boat tours: Enjoy breathtaking views as the sun slowly sinks into the ocean.
  • Sandbank Visits: Enjoy a private island experience on a deserted sandbank.
  • Water sports: Try kayaking, paddleboarding or jet skiing.
  • Local culture: Visit local islands such as Rashdhoo, Mathiveri and Himandhoo and discover the hospitality of the Maldivian people.
  • Professional photo sessions: Capture this special journey with a family photo shoot against the most beautiful backgrounds.
  • Adventure trips: Go big game fishing, night crab hunting or take a night fishing trip.

The possibilities are endless, and there is something for everyone!

Malediven met kinderen snorkelen Malediven met kinderen snorkelen

How do you plan a trip to the Maldives?

Travel to the Maldives can be done from different places in the world. From the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe, you often fly via a stopover in the Middle East (such as Dubai or Doha) to Malé, the capital of the Maldives. Prices for return tickets are usually between €600 and €1,000, depending on the season and the airline. Once you arrive in Male, you can travel by speedboat or seaplane to your final destination. Combine your visit with Sri Lanka: from Colombo you can fly to the Maldives for about €250 return (price indication 2025). You can book a stay on a local island from as little as €100 per night for four people. Activities such as snorkeling and dolphin cruises are affordable (€10-50 per person). This makes the Maldives accessible to families on a smaller budget. Because everything taken care of at once? Consider one of these packages that I offer in partnership with a reliable travel provider:

  • Bronze Package: 5 days, 6 nights, destinations: Mathiveri, Himandhoo. Includes transfers, breakfast and activities such as nurse shark snorkeling, sandbank trips and water sports. Price: $1,750 per room (based on 2 people).
  • Silver Package: 7 days, 8 nights, destinations: Rasdhoo, Mathiveri, Himandhoo. Includes transfers, breakfast and activities such as whale shark trips, night fishing and beach barbecues. Price: $2,100 per room (based on 2 people).
  • Gold Package: 8 days, 9 nights, destinations: Gangehi Resort, Mathiveri, Himandhoo. Includes transfers, breakfast and activities such as big game fishing, private sandbank trips and scuba diving. Price: $2,550 per room (based on 2 people).

Special family rooms are available for families, with custom pricing. Contact me (info@kidsgotravel.com) at to tailor a package completely to your needs.

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Helpful tips for your trip

  • Transportation: Fast boats and ferries are affordable and convenient.
  • Accommodation: Combine a local island with a resort.
  • Best travel time: The best time is November to April. There may be rain in July and August, but temperatures remain pleasant.
  • What to bring: Sunscreen, water shoes and a snorkel kit are must-haves (although you can also rent/borrow the latter almost anywhere). For the Muslim islands, it is also helpful to bring light, covering clothing.

Conclusion

The Maldives with children is an unforgettable destination, whether you choose simplicity on a local island or luxury in a resort. With affordable activities and breathtaking nature, this is an adventure you will never forget. Tailor-made packages allow you to enjoy a worry-free vacation, completely tailored to your family. And don’t forget: a professional photo session is the perfect way to capture this special trip forever. Get inspired and create memories for life together with your children. What are you waiting for? Discover the magic of the Maldives and plan your dream trip today!

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