Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas

A family-friendly island in a UNESCO reserve

Anantara Kihavah sits in Baa Atoll, a protected marine area where manta rays glide through Hanifaru Bay and coral reefs teem with life. The island itself is lush and natural, with no groynes or seawalls to disrupt the scenery. It’s small enough to walk around in under 30 minutes, but the paths wind through towering palms and white sand, making every stroll feel like an adventure. Bicycles are provided for exploring, and a complimentary buggy service runs 24/7 for those who prefer a ride.

The resort’s location is well-suited to families. The seaplane transfer from Malé takes just 35 minutes, offering a thrilling introduction to the Maldives as you fly over blue-green lagoons and tiny islands. For early or late flights, a domestic plane to Dharavandhoo Airport followed by a short speedboat ride is also an option. The resort handles all transfer bookings, so parents can focus on keeping the kids excited rather than logistics.

The welcome ritual at Anantara Kihavah is one of the most playful in the Maldives. Staff line the jetty in crisp white uniforms, greeting arriving guests with the rhythmic beats of Bodu Beru—traditional Maldivian drums and singing. A cold towel and refreshing drink ease the journey, and a butler escorts each family to their villa, setting the tone for a stay filled with warmth and attention.

Villas built for families

The resort offers 80 villas, ranging from one-bedroom overwater sanctuaries to two-bedroom beach pool residences. All are designed with families in mind, featuring private pools, expansive terraces, and open-air bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers. The overwater villas sit on stilts above the lagoon, with glass floors in the bathrooms so kids can watch fish swim beneath them. The beach villas open directly onto soft sand, with shaded pavilions for al fresco dining and loungers well suited to afternoon naps.

The two-bedroom beach pool residences are a standout for families. These spacious villas include a master bedroom, a second bedroom with twin beds, and a shared living area that opens onto a private pool. The layout ensures privacy for parents while keeping the kids close by. Each villa also comes with a personal villa host, who can arrange everything from babysitting to private cinema screenings under the stars.

Thiththi Boli Kids Club: where fun meets learning

The Thiththi Boli Kids Club is popular with children aged 12 and under. The club offers daily supervised programs, blending fun activities with educational experiences inspired by Maldivian culture and marine life. Kids can participate in treasure hunts, beach games, and craft workshops, or learn about the reef ecosystem through interactive sessions with the resort’s marine biologists.

For younger guests, the club provides a safe space to play and explore, complete with indoor and outdoor areas. Older children can join cooking classes, where they learn to prepare simple Maldivian dishes, or try their hand at spa treatments designed just for kids. The club also organizes movie nights under the stars, with a big outdoor screen set up in the island’s lush jungle center. Parents can drop off their children knowing they’re in good hands, while they enjoy some well-deserved downtime.

Marine adventures for all ages

Anantara Kihavah is a paradise for families who love the ocean. The house reef is one of the best in the Maldives, accessible directly from the beach or overwater villas. Snorkeling here is like stepping into an aquarium, with reef sharks, eagle rays, and hawksbill turtles often spotted just a few meters from the shore. The resort provides complimentary snorkeling gear, and the marine lab offers guided snorkeling tours for beginners.

For older kids and teens, the resort’s dive center offers PADI certification courses and guided dives to nearby sites. The marine biologists also run a Kids Marine Biology Program, introducing children aged 8 and up to the wonders of the reef. They learn about coral propagation, adopt a coral rope to help regenerate the reef, and even get the chance to snorkel with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay during the season (May to November).

Dolphin-watching cruises are another highlight, with the resort’s dhoni (traditional Maldivian boat) taking families out at sunset to spot spinner dolphins leaping through the waves. For those who prefer to stay dry, the resort’s observatory offers stargazing sessions with a powerful telescope, where kids can learn about constellations while sipping hot chocolate.

Dining: experiences the whole family will love

Anantara Kihavah offers a variety of dining options that cater to families. The main restaurant, Manzaru, serves a buffet breakfast with a kids’ corner featuring favorites like pancakes and fresh fruit. For lunch and dinner, families can choose from Asian fusion at SALT, teppanyaki at FIRE, or Mediterranean dishes at PLATES. The resort also offers flexible dining plans, including half-board and full-board options, so parents can relax without worrying about meal logistics.

The underwater restaurant, SEA, is a must-visit for families with older children. Dining here feels like being inside an aquarium, with panoramic views of the reef and marine life swimming past the glass walls. The menu features international dishes with a focus on seafood, and the resident wine guru can recommend pairings for parents. For younger kids, the resort offers babysitting services during dinner, so parents can enjoy a romantic meal while the little ones are entertained.

For a casual meal, the poolside swing beds at Manzaru are well suited to families. Kids can splash in the pool while parents enjoy a light lunch or a cocktail. The resort also offers private dining experiences, including beach picnics and floating breakfasts delivered to your villa pool. Room service is available 24/7, with a dedicated kids’ menu featuring simple, familiar dishes.

Activities to keep everyone entertained

Anantara Kihavah is packed with activities that appeal to all ages. The resort’s water sports center offers everything from kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skiing and parasailing. Kids can try their hand at windsurfing or sailing, while teens might prefer the thrill of a seabob ride or a game of beach volleyball.

On land, the resort features a tennis court, a fitness center with Technogym equipment, and a trampoline park for energetic kids. The library is stocked with books and board games, and the recreation area includes life-sized chess, badminton, and table tennis. For families who love movies, Cinema Paradiso offers open-air screenings under the stars, complete with popcorn and cozy daybeds.

The resort’s spa is a sanctuary for parents, with six overwater treatment rooms offering massages and wellness rituals. The relaxation area includes a cold plunge pool, steam room, and sauna, all with stunning lagoon views. Yoga and meditation classes are available for those seeking a mindful escape, and the resort’s wellness program, Balance Wellness by Anantara, offers personalized consultations and nutritional guidance.

Why families choose Anantara Kihavah

Anantara Kihavah strikes a strong balance between luxury and family-friendly fun. The resort’s spacious villas provide privacy and comfort, while the Thiththi Boli Kids Club ensures kids are engaged and entertained. The house reef offers polished snorkeling right at your doorstep, and the variety of dining options means even picky eaters will find something they love. The resort’s location in Baa Atoll also makes it well-suited to families who want to explore the marine life of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

A good rule: with families that Anantara Kihavah is one of the best resorts in the Maldives for a reason. It’s not just about the beautiful villas or the stunning island—it’s about the experiences that bring families together. Whether it’s snorkeling with turtles, dining underwater, or simply lounging by the pool, every moment here feels special.

For families who want a resort that caters to all ages without compromising on luxury, Anantara Kihavah is a top choice. It’s a place where kids can be kids, teens can find adventure, and parents can relax knowing their family is in good hands.