Family
K for Kids, H for Haven: child-friendly experiences at Four Seasons Maldives Kuda Huraa
Known affectionately as “KH,” Kuda Huraa may as well stand for “Kids Haven” for the quality and extent of activities geared towards younger guests at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa.
“There’s still a preconception that the Maldives isn’t great for children,” explains General Manager Randy Shimabuku. “But when you combine Kuda Huraa’s engaging activities, intimate size, accessible layout and effervescent service culture, nothing could be further from the truth.”
Kuda Huraa kids can visit the island’s cutest residents in the Resort’s turtle pools – where hatchlings from protected nests are hand-reared to increase their chance of survival in the wild – or learn about the vulnerable marine ecosystem with 3D movies in the Marine Discovery Centre. Little dudes as young as six can then swap the classroom for the ocean with year-round lagoon courses with the Resort’s Tropicsurf Surf School. Advanced courses and surf clinics are available for older children, or those with more experience.
Scuba programmes are available for oceanic adventurers as young as eight – and thanks to special permission from PADI, the resort is one of only a handful in the world where children can learn to dive directly among the fish in the shallow lagoon, as opposed to in the swimming pool.
Intrepid marine explorers will also love the resort’s shark snorkel safaris, dolphin cruises, sunset fishing and Robinson Crusoe escapes, while adventure and sports lovers will relish soaring above the ocean on X-Jetblades or trying their hand at wake-boarding, tennis, parasailing and banana-boating.
After an action-packed day, wellness aficionados as young as six can catch a tiny dhoni (traditional Maldivian boat) to The Island Spa for marine-inspired spa treatments packed with oceanic wonders. Discover miracle shells, nourishing seaweeds, wobbly waterbed massages and yoga on land and at sea.
Children aged 4-12 seeking a more structured approach to their day will find all the entertainment they desire courtesy of Montessori-trained Kids’ Club Manager Lisa Rowland, whose daily programme of complimentary activities includes crafts and cookery, spa sessions and scavenger hunts, beach games and garden fun. Under-fours are welcome when accompanied by an adult guardian or Resort babysitter.
In addition, a host of standard child-friendly extras await every child: goody bags; personalised treats and toiletries; child-size robes and slippers; complimentary meals for under-fives; and subsidised, tailored menus for 4-12 year-olds in all the restaurants. The resort’s chefs happily cater to picky palates and will even accommodate early sittings for hungry little tummies.
Kids’ Club also organises extensive two-week vacation programmes during busy periods such as Christmas and Easter. During this time, the daily-changing schedule is supplemented by seasonal activities and entertainment from egg hunts to parties with Santa, as well as evening events including movie nights, theme nights, karaoke, treasure hunts, discos and s’mores under the stars. There is also a Kids’ Buffet Lunch in Cafe Huraa during the Easter and Festive holidays (USD 15 per child; complimentary for under five years).
“We base our kids’ activities on the understanding that if the kids are having fun, the parents are too,” concludes Randy. “And the best way to do that is to treat them like the ‘little grown ups’ they believe themselves to be. It also helps that Kuda Huraa is a small enough island for kids to feel right at home, yet big enough for those wanting peace and privacy to seek those all-important kiddie-free moments. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Combining innovation, wellness and conservation, Four Seasons Resort Maldives Landaa Giraavaru is a 44-acre, 103-villa wonderland in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — a 30-minute seaplane flight from the main Velana International Airport.
Its sister property, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa lies to the south: an enchanting garden island complete with Island Spa sea sanctuary and Tropicsurf coaches and guides. It features 96 thatched beach and water accommodations constructed by local craftsmen using indigenous materials and techniques to reflect a true sense of the Maldives.
The luxury catamaran Four Seasons Explorer connects the two properties via three, four and seven-night cruises, plus private leisure, surf and manta ray charters.
The latest addition to the Maldives collection, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah, Baa Atoll opened in December as the group’s first exclusive-use private island: off limits to everyone else, limitless to the guests.
Action
Ifuru Island Maldives introduces vibrant Water Park and expanded kids club activities
Ifuru Island Maldives has announced that the brand-new Water Park Facilities at the Coconut Kids Club are now officially open for guests. The much-anticipated launch on November 1, 2024, marks a new chapter in family-friendly entertainment at the resort.
Designed for children aged 4 to 12, the Coconut Kids Club now boasts a vibrant water park complete with interactive splash zones and playful water play areas. These exciting additions provide a safe and engaging space where children can enjoy endless aquatic adventures, while parents relax and unwind in the sun.
Alongside the new water park, the Coconut Kids Club continues to offer a daily schedule of fun and educational activities, including arts and crafts, games, and creative projects, offering children enriching experiences throughout their stay.
“We’re delighted with the overwhelmingly positive feedback from our guests,” said Marcel Sawyer, General Manager of Ifuru Island Maldives. “It’s wonderful to see families creating joyful memories together, and we’re thrilled to be part of that experience.”
The new water park is now open, inviting young guests to explore and enjoy, as Coconut Kids Club fosters a vibrant, family-oriented atmosphere where quality time and unforgettable moments are central.
Celebration
Halloween extravaganza: week of spooky delights for families at Sheraton Maldives
Prepare for an unforgettable escape at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, where Halloween festivities blend seamlessly with luxurious experiences. This year, the resort elevates the excitement with a full week of thrilling adventures, immersive Halloween-themed activities, and fun for the whole family. With an exclusive “Kids Stay & Eat Free” offer, there’s no better time to plan a family getaway at one of the top family resorts in the Maldives.
Beginning on 28th October, the Halloween festivities kick off with the Creepy Food Challenge at Anchorage, where guests can sample creatively eerie dishes that will excite both kids and adults alike. For those with an artistic flair, there will be a Halloween Sip & Paint session at Kakuni, allowing guests to sip cocktails while crafting their very own Halloween masterpiece. As night falls, Anchorage Bar will transform into a magical wonderland for the Witches & Wizards Disco Night, where the whole family can dance under the stars in costume, fully embracing the festive spirit of Halloween in paradise.
On 29th October, guests can dive into the day with Aqua Aerobics at the main pool, where spooky costumes and devil horns are encouraged! After splashing around, the fun continues with the Wrap the Mummy Station at Anchorage Bar, where participants can channel their inner mummy in this playful challenge. As the evening draws near, attendees can prepare for the spectacular Avatar Performance at Anchorage Bar, a show that will captivate guests with its mysterious, otherworldly magic.
30th October welcomes the Day of Vampires and Devils, starting with a special themed breakfast, where guests can snap a photo with a vampire. The eerie vibes continue in the afternoon with the Vampire Face Paint Station at Anchorage Bar, allowing kids (and adults) to transform into their favourite Halloween characters, complete with candy vampire teeth. The night promises to be unforgettable with a Vampire Pop-Up Performance and Karaoke session at Anchorage Bar, inviting guests to unleash their inner creatures of the night.
Halloween itself, 31st October, marks the pinnacle of the celebration, with the entire resort embracing a spooky atmosphere. The day begins with a ghostly surprise as haunting characters roam the resort for the Halloween Ghost Cosplay during breakfast, creating perfect photo opportunities for families. Later, guests can join the Pumpkin Carving session at Anchorage, where both kids and adults can showcase their creative skills. As the sun sets, the festivities reach their peak with the Thriller Night Flash Mob and DJ party at Anchorage Bar, followed by a hair-raising visit to the Haunted House, open from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm—perfect for families who love a good scare!
The evening culminates with a lavish Hollow Beach Buffet, where families can enjoy a mouthwatering spread of Halloween-inspired dishes while soaking in live music under the Maldivian sky.
Throughout the week, the Kids Club will be buzzing with special Halloween-themed activities, including pirate sword-making, “Find Jack Sparrow” treasure hunts, Halloween mocktail potion making, creepy cupcake decoration, and fun-filled pool parties, ensuring the little ones are fully immersed in the spooky spirit.
Celebration
Festive journey of luxury and sustainability: holiday highlights at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Vilu Reef
The festive season at Sun Siyam Iru Veli and Sun Siyam Vilu Reef promises unforgettable experiences for guests of all ages. Both resorts have curated distinct themes to celebrate the holidays, focusing on transformation and sustainability while providing luxurious experiences for their visitors.
Sun Siyam Iru Veli: Metamorphosis – A Festive Transformation
This year, Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s festive theme, “Metamorphosis,” symbolises growth and renewal. The resort has embraced a journey of transformation, offering elevated services and experiences while maintaining the core values that its guests cherish. From family-friendly Christmas fun to wellness journeys and a celebratory Christmas dinner, every aspect of this festive period is designed to showcase the beauty of change and renewal. Christmas Day activities include a Whale and manta shark snorkeling trip in the morning, followed by Santa’s arrival at Dolphin Beach, and a Christmas Cinema Paradise for Kids & Family at Chemistry in the evening. Adults can also start their Christmas morning with yoga and pilates classes as part of a wellness activity.
For New Year’s Eve, DJ Toni Mesas will set the stage for an energetic evening. An international DJ from Barcelona, Toni is known for his love of electronic music, particularly techno house. Following his performance, the Wildfire Arts Collective, premier cirque-style entertainers from Los Angeles, will deliver a breathtaking fire show during the cocktail party and New Year’s countdown.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef: Island Harmony – Eco-Friendly Festive Splendour
At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, this year’s theme, “Island Harmony,” embraces an eco-friendly celebration with a focus on cultural sustainability. The island will be adorned with decorations made from coconut, bamboo, and palm leaves, reflecting the resort’s commitment to eco-conscious luxury. Christmas celebrations will include Santa’s arrival at Aqua Beach, live music, and beach games for families and children, such as sand sculpting for kids and a family movie night. Island excursions, sunset fishing, and a variety of watersports will also be available.
On New Year’s Eve, DJ Cosmicatx, Saudi Arabia’s first female superstar DJ and producer, will lead the festivities with her music. Additionally, the world-renowned LED artists, SuperLEDShow, will perform mesmerising acts to ring in the new year. Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes will deliver electrifying, tightly-choreographed sessions mixing mind-melting projections, lights, acrobatics, and pure artistry—ensuring a memorable night for all in attendance.
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