A spacious overwater villa. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

Gili Lankanfushi: A Family-Friendly Haven in the Maldives

A spacious overwater villa. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)
 
 

For families seeking an exclusive, luxurious getaway that offers activities tailored to all ages, Gili Lankanfushi stands out as a premier option in the Maldives. Known for its eco-conscious ethos and barefoot luxury, this resort provides an idyllic escape that caters just as well to families as it does to couples.

I had the pleasure of visiting Gili Lankanfushi with my family. The experience was nothing short of magical, and it’s clear why this resort is a top contender for travel advisors recommending a family-friendly destination in the Maldives.

Proximity to Malé: Convenience for Traveling Families
One of the major advantages of Gili Lankanfushi is its proximity to Malé International Airport. After a long journey to the Maldives, many families appreciate that Gili Lankanfushi is just a quick 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé. This is particularly beneficial for clients who have traveled a long way and want to skip the added hassle of a seaplane transfer, allowing them to start their vacation immediately upon arrival.

For families looking for an easy, stress-free option, this proximity is a game-changer, offering the luxury of the Maldives without the need for an additional flight. It’s also ideal for clients with young children, as the convenience of a direct boat transfer minimizes potential travel fatigue and allows for a smoother arrival or departure.

However, Gili Lankanfushi is also an excellent choice as a short stopover for those who do plan to explore further into the Maldives. Its location near Malé makes it a perfect starting or ending point for a broader Maldivian itinerary. Families can enjoy a few days of relaxation and activities at Gili before heading off to more remote atolls via seaplane, or they can finish their trip here, spending their final days in a world-class resort before the quick transfer back to the airport. This flexibility makes Gili Lankanfushi a versatile recommendation for clients with varying travel preferences.

Overwater Villas: A Dreamy Home for the Family
From the moment we arrived at the resort, we were whisked away to our spacious overwater villa, which served as our sanctuary for the week. The villa’s design perfectly blended luxury with sustainability, with an open-air living room, a rooftop deck and direct access to the lagoon. The expansive layout allowed our children the freedom to explore and play, whether it was snorkeling right off the deck or lounging in the hammock above the water.

For larger families, Gili Lankanfushi offers the Family Villa and Private Reserve, both of which provide ample space, privacy and additional amenities such as private pools. These options are perfect for clients looking for a bit more room to accommodate kids while still enjoying the utmost luxury.

Dining Delights for Every Palate
Dining at Gili Lankanfushi is a treat in itself. The resort’s focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients is evident in every meal. My family enjoyed dining at the beachfront restaurant Kashiveli, where we were treated to a variety of international cuisines. The resort’s weekly theme nights are a highlight, offering everything from Maldivian seafood feasts to Asian street food.

For families with younger children, there’s no need to worry about picky eaters. The chefs are more than happy to cater to special dietary needs and preferences. Our children loved the homemade ice cream available, and their eyes lit up during an

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The author’s children helpping out during an interactive acai-making session with the chef. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

The dining experience at Gili Lankanfushi can also be tailored to your family’s preferences. Whether it’s a private dinner on the beach, a family barbecue in your villa or an organic meal sourced directly from the resort’s garden, the culinary team ensures that each meal is memorable.

Activities for All Ages: Adventure and Relaxation
One of the best aspects of Gili Lankanfushi is its ability to balance relaxation with adventure. For families, this means endless opportunities to explore, discover and connect with the natural environment.

For surfing enthusiasts or those looking to introduce their children to the sport, Gili Lankanfushi partners with Tropicsurf, offering lessons for all skill levels. Our family participated in a family surf session at a local break, and it was an unforgettable experience. The calm lagoon and experienced instructors made it easy for us to feel confident on the board.

While there’s no designated kids’ club, Gili Lankanfushi offers a variety of scheduled activities twice daily, keeping children entertained and engaged. My kids were thrilled to take part in the treasure hunts and ice cream tastings, while the sandcastle contests became a family affair. One morning, we joined the resort’s gardening team in their organic garden, where the children learned about sustainable farming and even picked herbs for the day’s lunch.

The resort also offers more low-key activities like golf cart driving lessons, where children can safely navigate the pathways of the resort under staff supervision. Our children couldn’t stop talking about their adventure behind the wheel!

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Enjoying the stunning surroundings. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

Snorkeling and Marine Life Exploration
The Maldives is world-renowned for its underwater beauty, and Gili Lankanfushi offers direct access to a vibrant house reef teeming with marine life. Our family spent countless hours snorkeling right off the villa, encountering colorful fish, reef sharks and even a curious sea turtle.

For families with older children, the resort offers guided snorkeling tours with their resident marine biologists, providing a deeper understanding of the ecosystem. These tours are not only educational but also an incredible bonding experience as you marvel at the underwater world together.

Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Initiatives
One of the unique selling points of Gili Lankanfushi is its strong commitment to sustainability. The resort’s eco-friendly initiatives are woven into every aspect of the guest experience, from the organic gardens to the recycling programs. For clients who prioritize eco-conscious travel, this is a significant selling point.

My family was particularly impressed by the Marine Biology Shack, where we learned about the resort’s coral restoration projects. The children participated in a hands-on workshop, helping plant coral fragments that will contribute to the health of the local reef. It was a valuable educational experience that fostered a sense of responsibility and care for the environment.

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Cruising around while exploring the resort and its stunning shoreline. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

Wellness for All Ages
For parents seeking relaxation, Gili Lankanfushi’s Meera Spa offers a sanctuary perched over the lagoon. While I enjoyed a restorative massage, the children were entertained with an afternoon of fun-filled activities. Families can even opt for a family spa experience, where kids can indulge in mini massages or yoga sessions tailored to their needs.

The resort also offers complimentary wellness activities like sunrise yoga and meditation, which can be a great way to start the day as a family.

Conclusion: A Family Paradise in the Maldives

While Gili Lankanfushi may not have a traditional kids’ club, the resort’s attention to family needs makes it a standout option for travel advisors recommending a Maldives getaway. With twice-daily children’s activities, incredible dining options, proximity to Malé for added convenience, and a focus on both adventure and relaxation, Gili Lankanfushi is the perfect choice for families looking for an unforgettable, eco-luxury experience.

For advisors, the resort’s accolades, sustainable ethos and personalized service make it an easy recommendation for clients seeking a high-end family-friendly destination. Whether it’s snorkeling with turtles, learning to surf with Tropicsurf or enjoying a private family dinner under the stars, Gili Lankanfushi delivers a vacation that creates memories for both parents and children alike.

For more information, visit gili-lankanfushi.com/maldives-luxury-resort.

This story originally appeared in worldstompers.com, a family travel website created to inspire families with kids to expand their idea of adventures. You can follow the adventures of the Bazavilvazo family @worldstompers on Instagram and The Worldstompers on Facebook.

For more of @worldstompers’ travels to far-flung destinations, click here.