Think the Maldives is just for couples? Think again

There’s a well-worn myth that the Maldives, that vivid archipelago of 1,200 coral islands peppered across the Indian Ocean, is for honeymooners only. But the rumours of its exclusivity have been greatly exaggerated. In fact, there’s a Maldives resort for everyone, not to mention dozens of islands that suit holidaymakers of absolutely every age and travel style, from toddler to retiree, solo traveller to groups of friends. We explore two dazzling desert island destinations that invite you to come as you are.

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

The atmosphere With the gleaming aquamarine lagoons and thatched villas of your dreams, the welcoming coral island of Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has dedicated adult and children’s pools and multiple stretches of beaches on which to play or hide away. Diverse accommodations across 176 rooms suit your specific needs: affordable guest rooms within a main hotel area are top value for solo travellers, while a two-bedroom overwater villa and interconnecting rooms make things easy for multi-generational family groups.

The food There’s no one-size-fits-all approach at the Sheraton. You can choose from half-board, full-board, all-inclusive or premium all-inclusive. Dining credits are available at the fine dining and speciality restaurants for all meal plans. Premium all-inclusive also includes premium beverages, a 30-minute spa treatment and a sunset boat cruise. Seven places to eat range from casual buffets to seafood restaurant Sea Salt and barefoot-luxe Kakuni Hut, with its cute swing seating. Children aged 11 and under dine for free, and honeymoons and big anniversaries are topped off by Bubbles Under the Stars, a Champagne private dining experience.

Kids will love… the short transfer from the airport. Instead of the typical seaplane transfer, little ones will enjoy a breezy 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé. Less travel time equals more playtime.

Grownups will love… their own private plunge pool. On top of six guest room and cottage categories, you’ll find cottages, beach villas and overwater villas with cooling pools, ideal for a twilight dip under the stars.

Book your holiday

JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa

The atmosphere Family by JW Little Griffins Kids Club is the stuff of legend. It’s home to a 43ft play pirate ship and babysitting services, alongside some 100 activities aimed at children visiting the resort.

Yet you wouldn’t know it in JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa’s most romantic corners – private supper-club experience RIHA, for example, where you’ll embark on a high-end tasting menu, or the overwater Spa by JW, home to a secret infinity pool, couples’ treatment rooms and hair and nail salons. Meanwhile, 25 spacious Duplex Villas are the height of luxury for family celebrations.

The food Five restaurants and three bars all aspire to surprise and delight diners. You don’t have to be school-age to appreciate the thrill of a Thai feast in a treehouse-inspired, high-stilted Kaashi, while poolside pastas and pizzas are perennial crowd-pleasers at Fiamma. On the child-free end of the spectrum, make a beeline for the signature smoked cocktails at Wabi Sabi bar, followed by slick Japanese fare at Hashi or a steak or seafood platter at sultry Shio.

Kids will love… Making friends over daily activities from the sociable kids’ club: from pizza making to a raucous Beach Olympics tournament, wildlife walks and kite-flying.

Grownups will love… The discreet Wine Room, which offers curated wine pairing experiences for romantic dinners, complemented by the resort’s signature Thakuru (butler) service across all 60 stylish villas.

Book your holiday

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous checked baggage allowance and a dedicated 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Maldives holiday now at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa or JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Based on two sharing. Full balance due seven weeks before departure for long-haul holidays. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.