Winner:JOINT GOLD Best All-Inclusive Hotel for Families
Who:OUTRIGGER Maafushivaru Resort - Maafushivaru, Atoll, Maldives
What:A five-star retreat set in the pristine South Ari Atoll.
Why:
Set in the pristine South Ari Atoll, OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is a five-star sanctuary where families can relax, explore, and connect. Just a scenic 25-minute seaplane ride from Male, the resort offers 81 luxury villas — from beachfront and poolside retreats to over-water bungalows — designed for comfort, privacy, and effortless family living.
The food here is superb with something to suit every palette – the stunning fresh fruit platters will tempt the fussiest eaters! Activity wise, families will love the mix of kayaking, snorkelling, or guided marine adventures in those turquoise waters. The resort’s PADI-certified dive centre opens up South Ari’s vibrant underwater world, where guests of all levels can spot turtles, rays, reef sharks and a myriad of fish.
For quiet moments, the luxurious spa provides a serene oasis for parents while little ones are entertained safely nearby – you can choose from rejuvenating experiences, including steam and sauna rooms, yoga and aerial yoga sessions, and sound healing journeys. Maafushivaru blends luxury, adventure, and family-friendly indulgence in one unforgettable island escape.
“Guided by ‘The OUTRIGGER Way’, guests are invited into a genuine relationship with land, sea, and community- offering families a rich cultural immersion far beyond the standard holiday experience. With over 75 years of heritage, Outrigger has perfected the art of the luxury family escape. In the Maldives, this translates into dreamlike days and unforgettable moments, where extraordinary family memories are waiting to be made.”
"A beautiful, intimate resort with good family appeal and a warm atmosphere... A very strong family offering in a standout location."
"I think many parents think that finding a kid-friendly and all-inclusive Maldives holiday is an impossibility, so this is a brilliant option. It's so important to support local culture - we have a sealife-crazy 9 year old who loves learning all about protecting the environment and activities around this and on coral reef conservation are a great way to incorporate this."
“A place where holiday memories that last a lifetime are made. With a heritage spanning over 75 years, they clearly know what they’re doing and the emphasis on environmental awareness for children is especially meaningful in an island destination like this.”
What makes it Special...
Families at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort enjoy effortless all-inclusive luxury. Breakfast and dinner are served at Cuisine Gallery, lunch at Edgewater Bar, with drinks and a daily-replenished minibar included. Children under 12 stay and dine for free.
Culinary options cater to every taste — from international buffets to European classics — while Koffee ‘N Chill serves homemade ice cream and pastries under swaying palms. Evenings bring refined dining at Moodhu Grill, over-water domes with reef views, Japanese fusion at Koto, and elevated dishes at Art-I-San.
Selected non-motorised water sports let families play, explore, and relax together in the turquoise waters of South Ari Atoll. The OUTRIGGER Way blends luxury with care for land, sea, and local communities. Through the OZONE initiative, families can discover and support coral reef conservation, making their holiday both memorable and responsible.
Ideal for..
OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is perfect for families, who are drawn to its safe, family-friendly blend of luxury and activities, allowing little ones to explore, play, and try water adventures, while parents relax in style.
Guests who love nature and marine life will find plenty to delight in, from snorkelling and diving over vibrant reefs to discovering the region’s conservation efforts. Those looking for a high-end escape can indulge in spa treatments, private dining, and attentive hospitality — all with a focus on comfort, connection, and creating lasting family memories.
Here, luxury and adventure go hand in hand, offering families the perfect balance of play, exploration, and relaxation in a stunning Maldivian setting.
Junior Fact File
Rooms at OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru Resort start from £829 ($1,094) per night, including breakfast and lunch. Dinner can be added with the Dine Around option, and drinks at all outlets are included.
The resort is just a scenic 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé International Airport, making it easily accessible while still feeling wonderfully remote. Families can arrive in comfort and step straight into turquoise waters, swaying palms, and effortless island luxury.
