With searches for family trips soaring, Seen in the City looks at why this unexpected location makes for the perfect family summer getaway
Since becoming a parent, one of the things that has struck me is how difficult it is to find the balance between a hotel that is family-friendly and one that still ticks the boxes of what you want from your break away. So often you have to forego luxury for something that caters entirely to children, but why can’t you have both? You don’t need to battle through a buffet of chicken nuggets and chips to find good food, or have a basic and uninspiring room. Enter Kandima Maldives.
The Maldives is often synonymous with luxury, romantic breaks away and I’ll admit a family getaway wasn’t the first thing that came to mind when I discovered Kandima Maldives. Yet this is a hotel that blends tropical adventure with creativity, wellness, and next-level family fun, making it the ultimate last-minute summer escape that ticks every box.
With direct flights operating year-round, summer is the most affordable time to unlock a dream trip to the Maldives. And with kids-eat-and-stay-free deals and huge discounts on longer stays, a luxurious escape becomes surprisingly attainable. Kandima’s vibrant, contemporary take on island life is turning heads for its creativity, inclusivity, and bold approach to multigenerational travel. Here’s just why Kandima Maldives is the perfect family hotel.
Its Kandima Summer Kamp (7 July – 7 September 2025)
This year, the island resort is going big on immersive family fun with a two-month-long Summer Kamp, an age-inclusive, experience-packed programme designed for curious minds and active spirits. Guests of all ages can join in a rotating schedule of workshops, watersports, creative sessions, and cultural experiences hosted by a roster of visiting talent, including:
- British DJ and BBC tastemaker Jaguar, who’ll host sunset sets and creative sound labs for music-loving guests
- F2 competitive racer Théo Pourchaire, offering hands-on Karting 101 masterclasses, time trials and interactive Q&As
- Collaborative art sessions, beach games, nature trails and more—giving families quality time and room to roam
PlaySpace – A New Era for Teens in Paradise (Coming soon)
Opening this season, PlaySpace is Kandima’s brand-new entertainment hub designed just for teens—an often-overlooked group in resort life. Think bowling, VR gaming, arcade game zone and karaoke for friendly matches, and even an EsKape Room for the daring, with a café for the ultimate chilled day indoor. It is the perfect go-to when the sun takes a break—part of the resort’s bold move toward truly multigenerational experiences that keep every family member entertained in rain or sunshine.
A timeless escape where age is no barrier
Step into a different world when landing at Kandima, where time stands still. The resort takes age-inclusivity seriously, with the on-site EsKape Spa offering gentle treatments for children in addition to a range of pampering Maldivian-inspired massages. From day to night, a program of entertainment awaits, transitioning from energetic pool parties in the day, to open-air film screenings and live music with DJ till late night, catering to both early risers and night owls. The best of all? Unlike the average seaside resort which can stake claim on a stretch of private beach, the whole island at Kandima is to be explored.
An island of novelty, discovery, and first times
Whether an active family or seeking new experiences, Kandima’s fitness facilities and activity offerings cater to all ages and interests. Days can unfold with barefoot freedom, starting with a morning of cycling through the lush palm tree forests, followed by adrenaline-fueled parasailing sessions and snorkel excursions for parents to join with their children, in addition to other watersports like jet skis, banana boats, and kite and wakeboard surfing. Guests can also wind down with more peaceful sunset fishing cruises and coconut painting classes in the lakeside KULA Art Studio. Evening vibes shift into pool parties, live music under the stars, and open-air cinema screenings.
A culinary paradise with global flavours
Kandima offers a wide range of dining experiences, from all-day buffets to bespoke private beach dinners. Enjoy sizzling grilled steaks at SMOKED, freshly caught seafood at AZURE, and creative cocktails at Forbidden Bar. With over ten restaurants and bars serving diverse European, and Pan-Asian cuisines, the gastronomy at Kandima is as varied as the island itself.
Don’t miss the incredible direct booking offers on Kandima’s website – With the “Kool Summer” deal featuring up to 55% off on stays and the “Stay Longer” offering an enhanced 60% off room rates, with complimentary gifted experiences and more.
Book your stay at Kandima Maldives here.
