There are family resorts, and then there are islands that seem to understand how families actually travel. Villa Park, set in the whale shark waters of South Ari Atoll, belongs firmly to the latter. Named Best Family Island Resort in the Maldives at the Fashion Travel Awards 2026, the resort has been recognised for an experience that feels generous, unforced and made for every generation.

Organised by Fashion TV Russia, the awards took place in Moscow in aboard the Radisson Royal Flotilla, bringing together tourism leaders, media, tastemakers and international travellers to celebrate standout names in global hospitality.

At Villa Park, the luxury is not only in the setting, though there is plenty of that. It is in the space to spread out, the ease of moving through the day, and the rare feeling that no one has to compromise. Children have the world of Park Players Kids’ Club, teens can cycle, snorkel or head out on the water, while parents find their own rhythm between the beach, Araamu Spa, long lunches and quiet moments by the pool.

Set on one of the largest natural islands in the Maldives, Villa Park has the scale to keep a holiday interesting and the softness to make it feel simple. Days move from palm-lined cycling paths to white-sand beaches, from watersports to whale shark excursions in the marine protected waters of South Ari, from casual family meals to evenings by the ocean. Polished, but never precious.

The recognition reflects Villa Park’s growing reputation as a Maldivian resort that does family travel with both style and substance, creating holidays that feel adventurous, easy and deeply shared.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the flagship property of the Sun Siyam Luxury Collection, has been honoured as the No. 2 resort in the Maldives in the Travel + Leisure Asia Pacific rankings for Best Family Resorts. This recognition acknowledges the resort’s successful approach to family travel, which focuses on providing experiential, restorative stays aligned with its core philosophy: to provide A Curated Island Sanctuary where the rhythm of slow island living supports meaningful family connection.

Signature Experiences for the whole family

The resort’s creative Signature Experiences foster genuine connection through shared discovery. Families immerse themselves in local heritage through the Maldivian Roots programme, exploring traditional cuisine, the nuances of the Dhivehi language, the artistry of Maldivian currency, and the communal spirit of Bodu Beru music. Alternatively, families may enjoy a quiet starlit Cinema by Moonlight aboard a private dhoni. Complemented by the support of a personal butler, these experiences remove the logistical burdens of travel, leaving families free to enjoy spontaneous moments, such as discovering Ice Block on the Go, the island’s signature ice cream tricycle, or the daily Treasure Hunt.

Wellness for multi-generational travellers

Wellness at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is similarly viewed as a communal journey. The spa experience has been thoughtfully balanced to ensure that while parents enjoy the restorative benefits of traditional Maldivian therapies, utilising organic, hand-crafted coconut oil or bespoke Ayurvedic healing, their children are invited to participate in their own introduction to self-care. Through the Sweet Pea Spa, younger guests can enjoy gentle massages, cocoa-infused rituals, and age-appropriate treatments that mirror the luxury of the adult experience, teaching the value of well-being in a way that is light-hearted and uniquely suited to their age.

Safe diving for the little ones

The warm, shallow waters of the Noonu Atoll serve as the backdrop for bonds to deepen through adventure. Through guided marine conservation efforts and explorations of the resort’s sheltered underwater playground at Nemo Garden, children and parents discover the vibrant coral life of the lagoon together. Older children and teens find empowerment in learning the fundamentals of scuba diving, sharing the wonder of ‘underwater silence’ in a controlled, expert-led environment. The Scuba Explorer programme welcomes children from eight years old.

A stay imagined with sophisticated comfort

From the private lounge at Velana International Airport to the personal welcome amenities in the villa, every moment has been crafted to immerse you in genuine Maldivian hospitality. With the 24 Hour Premium All-Inclusive Dine Around experience, multi-generational travellers indulge in sunset cruises and authentic local island excursions. It is a true invitation to luxury island living. For little travellers eager to discover, the Koamas Kidz Club offers a culture, nature, and wellness-oriented programme that encourages outdoor exploration. Furthermore, the resident marine biologist and the chef host interactive learning sessions specifically designed for children and teens.

Kids Stay & Eat for Free

“At Sun Siyam our philosophy of ‘Attainable Luxury’ is rooted in the belief that true indulgence should be inclusive and heartfelt. This summer, we are delighted to offer families a more seamless way to experience our island sanctuary. Our Kids Stay & Eat for Free offer, available for children up to 15 years old, is more than an invitation; it is a commitment to creating space for multi-generational connection, complemented by a bespoke collection of recreational activities designed to enrich every moment of their stay,” said Pasan Wijewardana, Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing.

While the Maldives is globally celebrated as a romantic escape, family travellers often face a challenge: finding a resort that offers more than just beautiful beaches. Canareef Maldives is redefining the family holiday experience by offering something rare in the destination; space, adventure, and meaningful experiences for every generation.

Located in the southernmost atoll of the Maldives, Canareef stands apart from traditional island resorts. Unlike many Maldivian islands that can be explored in minutes, Canareef stretches across an impressive 4.5 kilometres, making it one of the longest resort islands in the country. This expansive setting gives families something uniquely valuable: freedom to explore.

Instead of feeling confined to a small island after a day or two, children and parents alike can enjoy endless opportunities for discovery. Every bike ride reveals something new; from hidden beaches and lush greenery to serene mangroves, scenic pathways, and peaceful corners of the island waiting to be explored. At Canareef, the journey itself becomes part of the holiday experience.

One of Canareef’s most distinctive family-friendly features is its direct bridge access to the neighbouring local island, Hulhudhoo, an experience rarely found in the Maldives. While visits to local islands at most resorts typically require a paid excursion involving boat transfers and scheduled group tours, Canareef allows families to explore independently and at their own pace.

With bicycles, families can simply cross the bridge whenever they choose. Just across, the charming Hulhudhoo Duck Park offers a delightful first stop, especially for younger children. A second stop could be Maafishi Kilhi, one of Addu’s government-protected wetland areas, where families can experience the island’s unique natural ecosystem. On the western side of Hulhudhoo, Mathikilhi, another protected wetland area, offers yet another opportunity to discover the rich biodiversity of the region. History enthusiasts can also visit Koagannu Cemetery, one of the oldest cemeteries in the Maldives, known for its beautifully hand-carved limestone and coral tombstones dating back more than 900 years. Beyond these natural and historical attractions, cultural landmarks, local fishing boats, and traditional farms offer families a rare opportunity to connect with the authentic heritage of Addu beyond the resort environment.

Children are equally spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. The resort’s Kids Club provides younger guests with engaging games, creative activities, and supervised play in a safe environment, giving parents time to relax while children stay entertained.

For families who love the water, Canareef offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. With three swimming pools, including a large Olympic-sized pool and two additional pools designed for relaxed family enjoyment, there is always a place to splash, swim, and unwind.

Young adventurers can also take their first steps into the underwater world through discover scuba sessions or the Bubble Maker course, a specially designed introduction to diving for children. These beginner-friendly experiences help build confidence while creating unforgettable first encounters with marine life.

Above the surface, excitement continues with a wide variety of water sports for all ages. From paddle adventures and jetski rides across the lagoon to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, families can experience the vibrant marine world of Addu together, discovering colourful reef fish, turtles, and thriving coral ecosystems.

Among the most memorable family experiences is the resort’s dolphin excursion. Watching dolphins leap through the ocean at sunset creates magical moments of shared wonder, experiences that stay with families long after the holiday ends.

Back on land, tennis courts, cycling trails, beach games, and countless outdoor activities ensure there is always something to enjoy. Whether children are full of energy or simply curious explorers, Canareef offers something rare in the Maldives: room to roam.

At Canareef Maldives, family holidays are about more than relaxation, they are about connection. It is a place where children can explore freely, parents can truly unwind, and families can create meaningful moments together in a setting unlike anywhere else in the Maldives.

As family travel continues to evolve, Canareef Maldives stands at the forefront of a new kind of island holiday, one defined not just by luxury, but by freedom, adventure, and unforgettable shared experiences.