Entertainment
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives to host third Surf Music in Paradise with Jimmy Barnes

Australian music legend James Dixon ‘Jimmy’ Barnes is set to return to the Maldives for a third Surf Music in Paradise event at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives.
Over five evenings from August 31 to September 7, guests at Kandooma Maldives can enjoy exclusive, intimate, sunset shows featuring all of their favourite songs. Jimmy will play three nights, his son David Campbell takes the stage for one gig and daughter Mahalia Barnes another.
The intimate setting on the beach and rooftop bar of Kandooma Maldives ensure fans can take the party long into the night.
Jimmy was just 16 when he joined the band Cold Chisel in 1973. Raised on tough soul music and gutsy rock, Jimmy bought his monumental passion and a versatile vocal style to this five-piece band who would eventually become the most powerful live act in the heyday of Australian pub rock.
In 1984, Jimmy went solo, his debut album Bodyswerve topping the charts, as did his 1986 album, For the Working Class Man. The #1 hits kept coming through the late 1980s and early 1990s with Freight Train Heart, the live set Barnestorming, Two Fires, Flesh and Wood, and of course Soul Deep – an album of R&B classics that sold almost a million copies.
In 2017, Jimmy was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the performing arts as a musician, singer and songwriter, and through support for not-for-profit organisations, particularly to children with a disability.
Throughout his career, Jimmy has won five Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Awards, including his induction into their Hall of Fame in 2005.
Jimmy’s music has been Australia’s national soundtrack for 40 years and his iconic status in the history of Australian rock’n’roll is reflected in this induction. Lots of things have changed over his decades in the public eye, but the one constant is his powerful connection with live audiences across more than 10,000 gigs. Night after night. Year after year.
Jimmy’s music, both in Cold Chisel and solo, has been the backing track to a million surf missions, parties and endless nights out. The third Surf Music in Paradise event at Kandooma Maldives inspires a very special experience – one that promises maximum fun, dancing and socialising in luxury and style.
Located in the South Male Atoll, a mere 40 minutes by speedboat from the main Velana International Airport, the 32-acre Kandooma Maldives resort features spectacular architecture inspired by sea barnacles. The resort exudes a tropical island atmosphere; its lush tropical greenery, white sand beaches and turquoise waters are more than enough paradise for guests to enjoy relaxed seclusion and privacy.
All the accommodation has been built around the edge of or on the water. Each villa type is fresh and contemporary in appearance, with clean lines and minimal clutter, incorporating all modern amenities, whilst retaining the warmth of natural wood finishes. Large picture windows mean that you are only a glance away from the great blue outdoors. Choose from four room types: Beach View Villas, Seaview Beach Houses, Family Beach Houses and Seaview Overwater Bungalows.
The Kandoo Kids Club – one of the largest children’s facilities in the Maldives with an outdoor splash pool — and daily activities coupled with the “Kids Stay & Eat Free” programme makes this the perfect retreat for family travellers.
The Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala, the proximity to world class diving and surf spots guided by the onsite PADI five-star dive centre and surf school, and “The Marquee” – a fully-fledged indoor event space catering up to 180 attendees — mean that there is something for everyone at Kandooma Maldives.
Entertainment
Game on! Kandima unveils Maldives’ most exciting all-ages entertainment hub

Kandima Maldives, the bold lifestyle resort known for redefining island getaways, has once again raised the bar with the launch of PlaySpace – an all-ages entertainment destination transforming the leisure landscape of the Maldives.
Centrally located within the island resort, PlaySpace blends nostalgic retro flair with cutting-edge fun, offering a dynamic mix of activities for families, thrill-seekers, and social guests alike. From action-packed bowling and immersive virtual reality to escape room challenges and private karaoke sessions, the venue strengthens Kandima’s position as the Maldives’ leading active lifestyle destination.
According to Dermot Birchall, General Manager at Kandima Maldives, “At Kandima, we’re constantly evolving the island experience. PlaySpace adds a new dimension – it’s immersive, social, and above all, wildly entertaining.”
Key Highlights of PlaySpace Include:
- Bowling Lanes with a Twist: Themed experiences such as Team Challenge, Date Night Deluxe, and Family Blitz, complemented by snacks, drinks, and curated playlists.
- Karaoke & Cocktails: Private singing rooms paired with wine, beer, or bubbly under the Karaoke & Cocktails Package.
- VR & Arcade Zone: Thrilling VR adventures, air hockey, billiards, and timeless arcade classics.
- Escape Rooms: Brain-teasing challenges for up to three guests – ideal for team bonding or friendly competition.
- Eats & Treats: A variety of gourmet snacks including paninis and mini pizzas, plus refreshing beverages like Tropical Dreamscape and Lychee Breeze – all alcohol-free.
With its vibrant 80s-inspired design and bold approach to leisure, PlaySpace perfectly reflects Kandima’s playful luxury ethos. Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, it promises guests a unique and energetic addition to their island stay.
Adding to the excitement, Kandima has also introduced Fast Track, the Maldives’ first and only oceanfront e-go-kart circuit. Spanning 500 metres with 10 turns and speeds reaching up to 80 km/h, this professional-grade asphalt track brings a high-octane edge to island adventure.
As Kandima continues to innovate and launch new experiences, guests can expect even more surprises in the near future – with fun, flair, and freedom at the heart of it all.
Entertainment
The Presets to ignite nights in exclusive Kandooma Maldives showcase in April 2026

Imagine your favourite music festival—but swap muddy fields for white sands, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. In April 2026, acclaimed electronic duo The Presets will trade stadiums and festival crowds for an exclusive beachfront series of shows at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, offering fans an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime island escape curated by Music in Paradise.
From Coachella to Splendour in the Grass, The Presets—Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes—have made their mark on the global stage. But this time, they’re doing things differently. From 11–18 April 2026, fans will experience a week of sun-drenched luxury capped off by three electrifying live performances, including a sunset DJ set on the beach and an exclusive rooftop party at the resort’s Sunset Bar.
“We’re beyond excited to host The Presets at Kandooma,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Their energy, talent, and incredible live shows are a perfect match for our vibrant island setting. Guests can expect something truly unforgettable.”
With a career spanning two decades, The Presets are electronic music royalty in Australia. Their breakout 2008 album Apocalypso went triple platinum and produced the festival anthem “My People.” With multiple ARIA Awards, APRA Songwriter of the Year titles, and collaborations like the RAKA EP with Golden Features under their belt, the duo continues to shape the sound of electronic music worldwide.
Their 2018 album HI VIZ soared to the top of iTunes within hours of release and included hits like “Do What You Want” and “Martini,” both nominated for major Australian music prizes.
Fans can now secure the Early Bird Gold Experience Package for A$3,790 per person (twin share) for seven nights in a Beach Villa—saving over $1,000. This VIP experience includes:
- Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
- 3 Intimate Performances
- Meet & Greet with artists
- Professional Photo with artists
- Music in Paradise Welcome Bag
- Music in Paradise Event Poster
- Event commemorative t-shirt
- Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
- Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
- Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
- Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, and replenished daily
- Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Additional packages offering different villa types are also available exclusively from Music in Paradise here. All packages exclude airfares.
Celebration
Family fun and Maldivian traditions await this Eid at Summer Island Maldives

This Eid al-Adha, Summer Island Maldives extends an exclusive ‘Eid Bliss’ offer to Maldivians and work permit holders, inviting them to unwind and celebrate. Located just 45 minutes by speedboat from Malé, this tropical island provides a barefoot escape ideal for those seeking simplicity and comfort.
Available for stays between 5th and 15th June 2025, the limited-time Eid offer includes full board accommodation starting at just USD 250 per night for two adults (minimum two-night stay), inclusive of all taxes and service charges.
For guests planning a longer stay, the rate is reduced to USD 225 per night for stays of four nights or more. Those looking for a shorter retreat can book one-night stays at USD 290. Families can especially benefit from this offer, as one child under 12 stays free, making it the perfect Eid retreat for relaxation, reconnection, and the creation of lasting memories.
Guests booking the Eid offer will enjoy:
- Full board meals at Samuga Restaurant
- Evening tea at Nevi Bar
- Complimentary return speedboat transfers
- 30% off spa treatments and water sports
- 20% off excursions and beach dinners
- 15% off à la carte dining, in-villa dining, and bar snacks
On Eid Day – Friday, 6th June 2025 – the island will come alive with colourful Maldivian traditions. Guests can look forward to the spirited rhythms of Bodu Beru, the dramatic folklore of Bodu Mas & Koadi, and the lively procession of Dhafi Negun, all complemented by Summer Island’s signature warm and welcoming touch.
“Eid celebrations are a big deal at Summer Island Maldives and are especially popular among our local guests,” said Mohamed Thaufeeq, Resort Manager of Summer Island Maldives. “This year, we are once again preparing to mark the occasion with traditional cultural activities and our signature Summer Island spirit. Whether planning a family retreat or a peaceful escape to recharge and reconnect with a loved one, this is the perfect time to experience the island’s joyful Eid atmosphere.”
Rooted in genuine Maldivian hospitality, Summer Island Maldives welcomes all to celebrate the spirit of Eid in a setting where simplicity, nature, and heartfelt service come together.
-
Action14 hours ago
Netflix’s ‘All the Sharks’ puts global spotlight on tiger shark paradise in Maldives’ Fuvahmulah
-
Action1 week ago
Consistently awarded, beyond compare: Machchafushi Island Resort’s house reef
-
Cooking1 week ago
Jumeirah Olhahali Island welcomes Shimmers’ Chef Emanuele for exclusive culinary residency this July
-
Drink1 week ago
Cellar of quiet distinction: Vakkaru Reserve wins fifth Wine Spectator Award
-
Action1 week ago
Siyam World kicks off August with star-studded football camps
-
Awards6 days ago
Atmosphere Kanifushi marks 6 years as Maldives’ leading family resort
-
Drink1 week ago
Dare to taste with W Maldives at Island Alchemy Ft. Beckaly Franks
-
Action1 week ago
Making waves all summer long: Manta rays, mini explorers take over The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives