Think the Maldives is just for loved-up couples and once-in-a-lifetime honeymoons? Think again. Sun Siyam Olhuveli is a sleek, family-friendly resort that keeps the wow-factor – think white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and spa treatments over glass floors but swap sky-high price tags for smart all-inclusive packages and genuinely great-value perks. With a free kids’ club, no sea plane faff, and children up to the age of 15 staying and eating gratis – yes free! – this is barefoot luxury that works for real-life families. 

Let’s talk activities. Because yes, there’s a lingering myth that the Maldives is all sunbathing and sipping – lovely for lolling à deux, not so relaxing with fidgety small people in tow. Olhuveli has taken that myth, shredded it, and thrown it into the Indian Ocean. There are infinity pools, calm lagoons for paddleboarding, jet skiing, kayaking and even fly-boarding if you’re feeling brave. Snorkel straight off the beach to a technicolour reef (turtles and rays included), or level up at the on-site dive centre, which offers guided trips to over 50 surrounding sites. There’s also tennis, volleyball, fishing excursions, island tours and a trip to Malé for a slice of culture. Boredom? Never heard of her. 

The vibe is unfussy, elegant and built for easy holidaying. Villas – especially the Grand Beach Suites – are light, modern and enormous, with private pools, indoor-outdoor bathrooms and plenty of space for kids to flop without taking over your zen. Prefer an overwater moment? The Water Villas are dreamy, but more suited to couples or teens who won’t fall off the deck while running for snacks. Either way, it’s all surprisingly luxe for a resort billed as four-star. The same goes for the food – buffets are polished and generous, with a welcome mix of crowd-pleasers and zingy Maldivian dishes. 

And then there’s the spa – because even if you’ve brought the kids, you still deserve you time. The main spa is a peaceful haven with double treatment rooms and ayurvedic rituals, where you can stare down through the floor and watch fish swirl beneath you while being pummelled into calm. There’s also a dreamy Ocean Spa on the quieter Dream Island side, with hydrotherapy, hot tubs and a sauna for extra smugness. Kids in the club, cocktail in hand, tropical fish underfoot? Now that’s what we call good parenting.