Top Family-friendly Excursions in the Maldives

November 15, 2023November 29, 2023

Recommended Family-friendly Excursions at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Vilamendhoo, a family-friendly resort located in the celebrated South Ari Atoll, has all the ingredients for family adventures – sun, sea, sand, and lots of excitement and fun!

Featuring well-appointed family accommodations, facilities, and entertainment, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives provides a beautiful and safe holiday experience for you and your loved ones. We offer a plethora of activities that cater to guests of all ages, whether on-island or beyond the resort.

Once you have explored a few amenities available on-site, such as our games room, volleyball, swimming pools and certainly, our soft sandy beach, it is time to go on an excursion or two to discover the awe-inspiring underwater world of the Maldives.

Here are our suggestions for the top family-friendly excursions in the Maldives

Whale Shark Excursion

Whale Sharks at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Just about an hour Dhoni boat ride away from our adventurer’s paradise, close to Maamigili Island, is the Whale Shark Point of the South Ari Atoll — known as the premier location in the world where divers and marine enthusiasts can spot these gentle giants throughout the year.

Families joining this adventure can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience where they can swim alongside these magnificent creatures of the ocean. Our team will always be on hand and take the utmost care to be ecologically considerate during the excursion, so that you may enjoy this experience in a mindful and responsible way.

Recommended for families. Children aged 4 and above can take part in the trip accompanied by a parent.

See the full information here » Whale Shark Excursion with Vilamendhoo

Sea Turtle & Manta Ray Excursion

Family Excursions - Vilamedhoo Maldives Resort

Join our Sea Turtle & Manta Ray Excursion for a unique experience of the South Ari Atoll’s stunning marine ecosystem. This experience provides adventurous families with the chance to catch a glimpse of the Loggerhead, Leatherback, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Green Sea Turtle species. They can also discover several genera of Manta Rays which include Black Spotted Eagle, Torpedo, Feather Tails and Guitar.

Recommended for a families trip. Children aged 4 and above can participate in the excursion.

See the full information here » Sea Turtle & Manta Ray Excursion

Vilamendhoo Family Snorkeling Adventure

Family Adventure on a Maldvian Dhoni - Vilamendhoo Maldives

This full-day excursion on a Dhoni is organised for families who would like to combine whale shark, sea turtle and manta ray encounters. During your family escapade on a traditional Maldivian boat, you will sail across the Indian Ocean, offering endless shades of blue, tropical skies above and lush island scenery in sight, with lots of swimming and snorkelling opportunities in between.

Recommended for families with children from 4 years and up.

See the full information here » Full-day Family Snorkeling Adventure

Experience An Adventure-filled Family Holiday at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives

Family-friendly Maldives Resort of Vilamendhoo

Located in the South Ari Atoll, an area renowned for stunning marine life and biodiversity, Vilamendhoo is a family–friendly Maldives resort, featuring facilities, amenities, and plenty of activities for a perfect holiday for the whole family.

View Vilamendhoo’s » Family Holiday Experience

Have you booked your family holiday in the Maldives yet? Click here to view our special offers and deals.

February 23, 2023November 9, 2023

Snorkelling and Diving with Whale Sharks in Vilamendhoo

The Whale Sharks of the Maldives

“…Second excursion was the full day to see the whale sharks. Obviously no guarantee but were able to swim with them in three different locations. ” – Ant_Woodley, Plymouth, United Kingdom, Oct 2023 – TripAdvisor

“I also did a vila snorkeling tour, swam with whale sharks and manta rays again.”
Xiaodong, United States of America – Sep2023 – Booking.com

Whale sharks used to visit the Maldives during the Southwest Monsoon season. But now, they seem to hang around the warm waters of the Indian Ocean all year round, specifically in the South Ari Atoll.

Spotting a slow-moving whale shark beneath the Maldives’ clear waters and even snorkelling above or diving alongside one is truly an incredible experience.

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is a gentle filter-feeding giant that belongs to the shark family and is the world’s largest fish. They swim by moving their 12-ton bodies from side to side, unlike their agile relatives, the sharks, that use their tails for swimming.

“We also did the Whale Shark, Manta and Turtle excursion and were lucky enough to swim with all 3 which was a dream come true.” – Flavia, Australia July 2023 – Booking.com

Whale sharks can be seen in the plankton-rich waters near Vilamendhoo, and the Resort arranges snorkelling excursions. Diving with these magnificent creatures is also possible via our dive operator, Euro-Divers, based on the Resort. Whale sharks tend to favour the Western side of the Indian Ocean archipelago from May to December and then move to the Eastern waters from January to April. They can be spotted around the South Ari Atoll’s Maamigili Marine Protected Area (MPA). Vilamendhoo is situated in the South Ari Atoll and provides a strategic vantage point for megafauna enthusiasts as the Resort Island lies just in the path of whale shark feeding grounds.

Contact Vilamendhoo’s SEA department for further information about these gentle giants, the best time to spot them and to ask for whale shark excursion reservations.

“I was lucky enough to see three Whale Sharks whilst snorkelling between dives and a vast array of marine life. Eurodivers were great. Reasonable value.”
– SpaldingUKTraveller, Spalding, United Kingdom, Jan 2021 – TripAdvisor

“We swam with one of the largest whale sharks in the region. We saw mantas, turtles, dolphins, octopus, and beside that, we had a lot of fun on the boat that day! Great crew, thank you guys.”
– AnaP1718, Dec 2020 – TripAdvisor

Are you planning to explore the underwater world in the Maldives? Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is one of the best resorts in the Maldives for diving and snorkelling. Book direct and enjoy an array of special deals with flexible cancellation.

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October 13, 2021October 14, 2021

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Prepares for the 2021 Festive Season

2021 Festive Season Vilamendhoo Maldives

2021 Festive Season at Vilamendhoo Island

If your ideal festive holiday requires idyllic beaches, relaxing ocean breezes, delectable culinary experiences, dreamy sunsets, and a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, then escaping to the Maldives is always a good idea.

So swap snow for sun, sea, and sand and enjoy a wonderful stay at Vilamendhoo Maldives, where all your dreams of a tropical holiday can come alive.

The island of adventure of Vilamendhoo has put together an incredible programme of events and activities for your merriest festive season ever: Father Christmas’ island-style arrival, gala dinners, cocktail parties, live music performances, theme nights, Maldivian cultural shows, and much more!

Furthermore, you can always enjoy a myriad of activities, such as the Ocean Discovery, encounters with whale sharks, snorkelling trips, world-class diving, and sunset cruises.

Vilamendhoo looks forward to celebrating this magical time with you and your family. Our long sandy beaches, vibrant house reef, and out-of-the-ordinary experiences will guarantee you festive celebrations you will never forget.

Make the most of your stay on our island of adventure and ensure that you do not miss out on many of the spectacular experiences, activities, and offers available. Download the Vilamendhoo App to plan your itineraries and pre-book your activities.

For further information about the festivities at Vilamendhoo and to make a reservation, please email reservations@vilamendhoo.com or call +960 668 0637.

View our 2021 Festive Brochure here »

Travelling in the ‘New Normal’ – A Safe Holiday Experience at Vilamendhoo

Quick Links

Your Questions Answered Before You Travel | Facilitating PCR Testing at the Resort | Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update | Scuba Diving & Snorkelling Calendar

September 14, 2021September 15, 2021

Best Honeymoon Experiences in the Maldives

Best Honeymoon Experiences - Vilamendhoo Maldives

Best Honeymoon Experiences with Vilamendhoo Maldives

The Maldives is truly a lover’s paradise. Almost every round-up of the best destinations for romance includes the island nation, with a special mention of the over-the-top overwater bungalows, endless white-sandy beaches, and unique experiences for couples.

Our island of adventure welcomes honeymooners and romantic travellers alike, with a vibrant house reef teeming with sea life, breathtaking tropical views, and a multitude of things to do for two.

Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, or something a little more daring, you will have the honeymoon of your dreams at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa.

Here Are the Top Things to Do on Honeymoon at Vilamendhoo:

• Relax on some of the most picturesque beaches you could ever see

• Snorkel with marine creatures such as sea turtles, reef sharks, and a variety of colourful fishes in the house reef

• Pamper yourself after a huge day of adventure at the over-the-water Duniye Spa (listed as one of the best spa destinations in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia)

• Opt for a romantic beach dinner under a blanket of stars

• Cruise around South Ari Atoll with our Ocean Discovery Excursion

• Learn to scuba dive with Euro-Divers Vilamendhoo

• Sip on a refreshing cocktail or two at Bonthi Bar while watching an incredible sunset

• Explore the crystal-clear lagoon by paddleboard or kayak

• Renew your vows amidst the inspiring beauty of the Indian Ocean

• Capture those lovey-dovey moments to treasure for a lifetime with Vila Memories

Over the Water or on the Beach?

Now that you have an idea of how to spend your honeymoon on our island of adventure, the only decision left to be made is whether you want to go for one of those exclusive Jacuzzi Water Villas, which offers you a direct access from your private deck straight into the ocean, or if you prefer to stay at a secluded Beach Villa amidst tropical greenery and just steps away from the palm-lined beach. View our Maldives Villas here »

Download the Vilamendhoo App

To help you plan and enhance your experience in paradise, download our free mobile concierge app: the Vilamendhoo App, so you can start to design your itineraries and arrange your experiences. On top of that, you can also enjoy access to up-to-date resort information, weekly events, and much more! Download the app here »

Travelling in the ‘New Normal’ – A Safe Holiday Experience at Vilamendhoo
Quick Links

Your Questions Answered Before You Travel | Facilitating PCR Testing at the Resort | Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update | Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Calendar

August 9, 2021August 13, 2021

Swimming with Manta Rays in the Maldives at Vilamendhoo

Swimming with Manta Rays in the Maldives: A Maldives Bucket List Experience

Many travellers who visit the Maldives add manta ray encounters to their bucket list of adventures, and a stay at Vilamendhoo, with its enviable location in South Ari Atoll, can fulfil all that and more.

Manta rays are truly magical to watch, and an up-close experience with these pelagic creatures is high on every traveller’s things to do in the Maldives.

Mantas, the queen of the ocean, can be seen at well-known manta hotspots and cleaning stations: Mahibadhoo and Rangali Madivaru, which are within easy reach of Vilamendhoo. Although mantas can be huge in size, they are harmless and pose no danger to humans. In fact, they are usually curious sea creatures and swim around snorkellers and divers.

Manta Rays in The Maldives with Vilamendhoo Island South Ari

Manta rays can be spotted in South Ari Atoll, particularly at Rangali – also known as Manta Point – a marine protected reef on the south of Rangali Kandu, cruising and feeding on plankton around the rich waters throughout the year. On the one hand, from May to October, manta ray sightings are more common, allowing divers and snorkellers to see them on almost a daily basis in larger congregations.

The team at Euro-Divers Vilamendhoo will guide dive enthusiasts and ocean lovers alike to experience this unique wildlife adventure in a respectful and ethically considerate manner.

Make sure to check our Facebook page and Instagram for the latest updates, and sign up for a diving or snorkelling trip when staying at Vilamendhoo.

Book Now for the Maldives Manta Season – For Vilamendhoo, It’s All Year-round

Whether it be a solo getaway, a dive holiday with your friends, or an adventure-filled family vacation, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is here to provide you with a safe and beautiful holiday experience in paradise.

Have you booked your Maldives getaway yet? Click here to view our special offers and deals.

Staying at Vilamendhoo soon? Learn more about our ‘A Safe Holiday Experience’ enhanced health & safety guidelines.

Featured Image: Euro-Divers Vilamendhoo

May 20, 2021June 3, 2021

Wellness Experiences To Try On Your Maldives Getaway

Wellness Experiences at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

At Vilamendhoo, we understand how important it is to be still able to relax and rejuvenate on your Maldives getaway whilst simultaneously engaging yourself in a range of adventure-filled experiences our idyllic destination has to offer.

Offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, you have the opportunity to combine natural active activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming, with a myriad of wellness and relaxation experiences such as yoga, spa, and holistic healing in our adventurer’s paradise.

Here are the top three wellness experiences to try on your Maldives getaway at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, whether you are on your romantic holiday or a family vacation.

Relax and Revitalise at Duniye Spa

Wellness Experiences Maldives at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa - DUNIYE SPA

Duniye Spa is the top choice when it comes to taking some ‘pampering time’ here at Vilamendhoo; it is the quintessential destination to soothe the mind, body, and soul. The variety of treatments will take you on a blissful journey for the senses, using only carefully selected, sustainable, and organic products.

Choose your spa treatment here: Duniye Spa at Vilamendhoo

Join a Healthy Cooking Class at the Overwater Asian Wok Restaurant

Be The Chef - Healthy Cooking Class at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Experienced and novice cooks alike may join an interactive on-request Maldivian culinary journey with our ‘Be the Chef’ cooking class, conducted at the overwater Asian Wok Restaurant. The culinary session allows you to learn how to prepare your favourite dishes, using fresh and natural ingredients from land and sea.

Learn more here: Culinary Experiences at Asian Wok Restaurant

Stretch Yourself to Wellness with Yoga

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa offers both guided one-on-one and group yoga classes dedicated to helping you get your pose on and relax your mind, body, and spirit. Our calm and serene surroundings make the ideal setting to practice yoga. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, the yoga classes are suitable for all ability levels.

To book your session, please contact the Reception upon your arrival.

Guests staying with us here at Vilamendhoo soon may book these wellness experiences at the Reception or by emailing our team at reservations@vilamendhoo.com.

Ready to Plan your Blissful Maldives Getaway?

Do not hesitate to get in touch with our team about arranging your Maldives holiday. Guided by our purpose of care, we continue to allow maximum flexibility for the new normal traveller. Book with the freedom of FREE Cancellation on Room Rate for cancellation received three days before arrival.

A Safe Holiday Experience in Paradise at Vilamendhoo

Quick Links: Health & Safety Guidelines | Facilitating PCR Testing at the Resort | Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update | Guest Reviews – Holidaying in the New Normal at Vilamendhoo

April 8, 2021April 15, 2021

Mother’s Day Weekend – Things to Do in the Maldives

Mother’s Day Weekend at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives

Looking for special and thoughtful things to do this Mother’s Day weekend? Sure, chocolates and flowers are lovely, but how about trying something out of the ordinary this year? On your holiday here at Vilamendhoo, show much appreciation to your mom by treating her to specially-curated experiences.

Here are some Mother’s Day Weekend things to do at our family-friendly Maldives resort that are sure to put a smile on her face.

Treat Mom to a Special Dinner

Vilamendhoo Island Resort

With mouthwatering cuisine to satisfy every taste, palate, and mood, served in exquisite locations, destination dining at Vilamendhoo is excellent for a perfect family get together. Whether it be a family beach dinner under the starry skies or a special dinner just for you and your mom at one of our à la carte restaurants – the overwater Asian Wok or Hot Rock, our talented Food & Beverage team will go above and beyond to make sure that you will cherish the experience forever.

Pamper Mom with a Heavenly Massage

Mother's Day Weekend - Spa & Massage at Vilamendhoo Maldives

No questions asked – mom has earned some well-deserved pampering, so why not treat her to a rejuvenating spa day? Set her up with a ‘Balinese Massage’ at our overwater Duniye Spa. This 60-minute gentle and calming massage uses acupressure, skin rolling, and relaxing strokes to soothe, restore and calm the mind and body. Or check Duniye Spa Menu to give mom more ideas for her spa pampering day.

Sign Up Mom for a Maldivian Cooking Class

Mother's Day Weekend - Cooking Class at Vilamendhoo Maldives

If your mom enjoys culinary, consider signing her up for a cooking class where she can learn to cook her favourite local dishes in a guided session adjusted to her preferences and skills. This experience will allow her to recreate the dishes and add a touch of the Maldives to your home.

Book a Beach Yoga Session with Mom

Mother's Day Weekend - Beach Yoga at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Mother’s Day celebration at Vilamendhoo could be spent with beginning or concluding the day with a restorative yoga class. The session is performed in a peaceful beachside setting. It is a wonderful opportunity for mom and yourself to optimise your overall health, with an emphasis on balancing mind, body, and spirit.

Schedule a Family Photoshoot

Mother's Day Weekend - Family Photoshoot at Vilamendhoo Maldives

When is the last time your family posed for a group portrait? Vila Memories, our on-site photography studio, offers several packages for family photoshoots. The photography team have the creativity and equipment needed to capture those beautiful family moments in paradise, worth taking back home with you.

For all reservations on culinary, dining, spa, yoga and photography sessions, please contact us OR email reservations@vilamendhoo.com.

Have you not booked your Maldives holiday yet? See all our special offers here.

April 7, 2021April 14, 2021

Capture Moments of Your Maldives Holiday with Vila Memories Photo Studio

Vila Memories Photo Studio

Vilamendhoo Maldives’ photography studio, Vila Memories, is your one-stop shop for beach, family, and wedding photography. Ideal for couples, friends or families, our team of photographers have the passion and creativity, and equipment needed to capture those memories worth taking back home with you.

A photograph is a return ticket to a moment otherwise gone. So, why not capture those precious moments and make them last a lifetime?

Vila Memories Photo Studio Maldives

Vila Memories photographers are experts in capturing moments of your holiday in beautiful images to treasure for a lifetime. They understand the natural lighting conditions and know not only the picturesque corners of our island paradise but also the best time and angle for your shots. The results will most definitely be ‘Instagram-worthy’ images that are sure to receive ‘likes’ and ‘loves’ from your family and friends.

Vila Memories Photo Studio Maldives

How would you like your time in the Maldives captured? With a fun photo session or perhaps a themed one? Enjoy packages customised especially for you.

Basic: 20 digital images plus 1 printed 8” x 12” image

Bronze: 50 digital images plus 1 printed 8” x 12” image

Silver: 50 digital images plus 10 printed images in an album

Gold: 100 digital images and 26 printed images in an album

Platinum: 100 digital images and 50 printed images in an album

Wedding: 100 digital images and 40 printed images in an album

Due to high demand, we encourage you to book at least 24 hours prior to the arrangement (at least a day before departure).

Book a Photography Session with Memories Photo Studio »

Have you not booked your Maldives holiday yet? See all our special offers here.

March 5, 2021September 13, 2021

Family-friendly Maldives Holidays | Traveling With Children

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, the famed dive resort in the South Ari Atoll in the Maldives, is a relatively large island with separate adults-only areas, but it also offers plenty of space for children to be themselves with family-friendly accommodation and facilities.

Children at Vilamendhoo will have lots of fun in the sun, enjoy the soft, sandy beach without fear of getting hurt, and play in the wading pool at the family-friendly Boashi Bar Pool, amidst the island’s tropical gardens. The outdoor playground with a jungle gym is right next to the Boashi Bar Pool, which serves delicious snacks and ice cream for children and cocktails for adults.

It is never too late to introduce children to the joy of diving. Kids from 8 years and above can join the ‘Children’s introductory SCUBA course – Bubblemaker‘ with our Euro-Diver’s Center. The island is surrounded by an excellent house reef teeming with marine life for guests of all ages to enjoy, either while snorkelling or gazing at the fish from the jetty or edge of the beach.

That’s not all! Youngsters can enjoy a complete excursion program and fun night-time activities to take part in. Babysitting services are available and can be arranged by contacting Reception.

Enjoy a wholesome family vacation with our Family plan that makes it much more affordable.

?Accommodation Tip: Stand-alone Beach Villas accommodate 2 adults and 2 children below the age of 15 years, so no need to rent a second Villa just for the children. Children can have their own beds and baby cots are provided for infants.

When holidaying with extended families and friends or with teens, guests can also opt for Adjoining Beach Villas. These double-stand beach villas are adjacent yet without connecting doors or passages, and share a common verandah.

View Vilamendhoo’s » Family Holiday Experience

Family-friendly holidays with Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives

Are you planning on visiting Vilamendhoo? Browse through our special offers here »

Living in the ‘new normal’ – A Safe Holiday Experience at Vilamendhoo.

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Your questions answered before you travel | Facilitating PCR Testing at Resort | Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update | Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Calender

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February 27, 2021September 9, 2021

Destination Weddings to Remember at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives

Destination Weddings in the Maldives

Destination weddings are ideal if you are seeking tailor-made wedding and honeymoon experiences that will be truly unforgettable. Not only is your wedding going to take place in a stunning destination, but it also serves as a wonderful vacation for you and your significant other.

Recreate the tropical island wedding of your dreams with Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa. Regarded as one of the best dive resorts in the Maldives, Vilamendhoo is also the perfect place to embark on your forever love story or rekindle your love with a renewal of vows ceremony. Enjoy the best of what this idyllic paradise has to offer: crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and remarkable experiences to last a lifetime.

Here is Why Vilamendhoo is the perfect Maldives Resort for Destination Weddings

Vilamendhoo can cater and make arrangements for your dream wedding, ensuring nothing but the best memories and unique experiences for you on your biggest day. We offer a selection of wedding experiences based on your desires and requirements, whether it is a traditional Maldivian ceremony set on the beach or a specially-arranged underwater wedding in the Indian Ocean, providing a touch of adventure.

Located in South Ari Atoll, renowned for its pristine natural beauty and marine diversity, Vilamendhoo provides an incredible backdrop for your unique life celebration. Imagine having a panoramic tropical paradise for your wedding, surrounded by azure lagoons, swaying palm trees and extraordinary displays of sea life all around.

Vilamendhoo is not only an excellent venue for your dream destination wedding but also your honeymoon. As soon as you are declared husband and wife, your honeymoon begins. Create your own romantic experiences at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa with options including a candlelit dinner on the beach, a lavish Him & Her spa treatment, or a private sunset cruise to inspire your sense of adventure.

Let our experienced team of wedding planners take care of all the essentials. We can organise your wedding venue according to your wishes, photography sessions with Vila Memories to capture those moments, and a sumptuous feast in the island’s most atmospheric setting. But, if you choose to celebrate your special day as intimate as possible, the team at Vilamendhoo will also fulfil that and more.

Vilamendhoo offers special rates and arrangements with lots of flexibility to accommodate your needs and requests to make your life celebration hassle-free and memorable. However you choose to celebrate, Vilamendhoo Island is the perfect Maldives resort to turn your dream destination wedding into reality.

Plan your Destination Wedding in the Maldives with Vilamendhoo

With a picture-perfect location and unique opportunities for romance, Vilamendhoo is the ideal destination to unite two hearts or rejoice in one’s love. As you plan your dream destination wedding, have a look at our Maldives Wedding page to inspire you.

For enquiries, please contact our wedding planners at reservations@vilamendhoo.com.

FAQs. Is the Maldives safe to host my wedding?

Maldives: is a WTTC Global Safe Travels Destination and received the ‘Safe Travel Stamp’ for implementing health and safety measures, in line with the World Travel & Tourism Councils’ Global Safe Travels protocols.

Vilamendhoo: Learn more about the Health & Safety Guidelines and our ‘A Safe Holiday Experience In Paradise’ initiative which includes PCR Test facilitation at the Resort. Guests who completed their Maldives holiday and returned home have nothing but praise about the experiences, the Maldivian hospitality, and feeling safe in their secluded haven. Read guest reviews.

Vilamendhoo continues to allow maximum flexibility for today’s traveller. Book now at your convenience with the freedom of FREE Cancellation on Room Rate for cancellation received 3 days prior to arrival.

Category: Travel Guide