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Family Holidays in the Indian Ocean

“Take only memories, leave only footprints.” – Chief Seattle

Families enjoying time on beaches in the Indian Ocean

The Indian Ocean is a treasure trove of islands where turquoise waters meet soft white sands and a warm welcome awaits families of every shape and size. From barefoot luxury in the Maldives to the cultural riches of Mauritius and the pristine nature of the Seychelles, this region is made for those who want both adventure and relaxation. Safe, easy to explore, and brimming with activities for all ages, the Indian Ocean is where unforgettable family memories are made.

Maldives
A scattering of coral atolls, the Maldives is the ultimate blend of overwater luxury and family-friendly fun. Think snorkelling with colourful fish, dolphin cruises at sunset, and powder-soft beaches where little ones can play while parents unwind.

Mauritius
An island full of variety, Mauritius pairs calm lagoons and golden beaches with waterfalls, wildlife, and cultural treasures. Perfect for families who want a little adventure alongside plenty of relaxation.

Seychelles
With its giant tortoises, jungle trails, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the Seychelles is a natural playground for families. Its slower pace and safe, shallow bays make it ideal for children of all ages.

photos of private pool in over the sea villa, a family kayaking in the blue waters and tropical fish

The Maldives combines barefoot luxury with family-friendly ease, the ultimate destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. A scattering of coral atolls in the Indian Ocean, it’s a place where turquoise lagoons meet soft white sands, where colourful marine life thrives beneath the waves, and where overwater villas stretch out into endless horizons. Families will find both adventure and serenity here, with shallow beaches perfect for little ones, exciting water activities for older children, and plenty of space for parents to unwind in one of the world’s most idyllic settings.

Why the Maldives is Perfect for Families

The Maldives is often thought of as a honeymoon destination, but it’s also wonderfully family-friendly. Many resorts cater specifically to families, with kids’ clubs, shallow beaches, and activities designed for all ages. From snorkelling among tropical fish to dolphin cruises at sunset, every day offers new adventures that bring the whole family together.

Islands & Experiences Your Family Will Love

Family-Friendly Resorts – Many Maldivian resorts go above and beyond for families, offering spacious villas (often with private pools), kids’ clubs, and babysitting services. Some even have marine biology centres where children can learn about sea turtles, coral reefs, and conservation.

Snorkelling & Diving – The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to introduce children to the underwater world. House reefs just steps from the shore mean you can spot clownfish, rays, and even sea turtles together as a family. Older kids and teens can take PADI dive courses for unforgettable underwater adventures.

Water Adventures – Kayaking, paddleboarding, banana boat rides, and dolphin cruises make the Maldives perfect for active families.

Simply Relaxing – Of course, sometimes the best holiday moments are the simplest: building sandcastles, swimming in warm lagoons, and watching the stars from your villa deck at night.

With its blend of natural beauty, warm hospitality, and stress-free simplicity, the Maldives makes family travel feel effortless and unforgettable.

photos of boat on water beach and waterfall in Mauritius

Mauritius combines palm-fringed beaches with lush mountains, vibrant coral reefs with cascading waterfalls, and a rich cultural mix that makes every visit feel full of discovery. For families, it’s a dream destination: safe, welcoming, and packed with activities for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Mauritius delivers it with warmth and style.

Why Mauritius is Perfect for Families

Mauritius is easy-going and incredibly family-friendly. The island is compact and simple to explore, and many of its beaches are protected by lagoons, making them safe for children to swim and play. Resorts are designed with families in mind, offering kids’ clubs, babysitting services, and spacious villas or interconnecting rooms.

Beyond the beaches, the island offers a wonderful mix of experiences: nature trails, cultural encounters, wildlife parks, and watersports. English and French are widely spoken, and the friendly local culture makes travelling with children feel stress-free.

Experiences Your Family Will Love

Beaches & Lagoons – Mauritius is ringed by calm, shallow lagoons that are perfect for young swimmers. Belle Mare and Flic-en-Flac are favourites for families, with plenty of space for sandcastle building and safe waters for paddling.

Wildlife & Nature – Spot giant tortoises and playful monkeys at Casela Nature Parks, explore the colourful earth at Chamarel, or take a gentle hike through Black River Gorges National Park. Nature-loving families will find endless adventures on land as well as under the sea.

Cultural Discoveries – Visit bustling markets in Port Louis, taste fresh fruit on a plantation tour, or learn about the island’s diverse heritage through music, dance, and food. Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, making it as enriching as it is beautiful.

Water Adventures – Go on a glass-bottom boat trip, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or enjoy a family catamaran cruise complete with dolphin spotting. Older children can try kayaking, paddleboarding, or even learn to windsurf.

With its safe lagoons, welcoming resorts, and endless opportunities for adventure, Mauritius is a place where family holidays feel effortless, exciting, and unforgettable.

photo of sea turtle, beach and boats in the Seychelles

Scattered across the Indian Ocean, these islands are home to some of the planet’s most dazzling beaches, giant granite boulders, and a unique mix of wildlife found nowhere else. For families, the Seychelles offers a slower, gentler pace — a place where children can paddle in calm bays, parents can unwind on palm-fringed shores, and everyone can explore lush nature reserves and island adventures together.

Why the Seychelles is Perfect for Families

The Seychelles feels made for family travel. Its compact size and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to explore, while its calm beaches and shallow lagoons are ideal for younger children. Resorts and guesthouses welcome families warmly, offering flexible accommodation, kids’ clubs, and activities for all ages.

Island hopping is part of the magic, and moving between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue is simple, safe, and exciting, each island offering a different flavour of paradise.

Experiences Your Family Will Love

Mahé – The largest island and a natural starting point, Mahé combines soft beaches with mountain trails and cultural flavour. Families can explore colourful markets in Victoria, visit botanical gardens, or enjoy gentle hikes with panoramic views.

Praslin – Home to the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai, where the legendary coco de mer palm grows, Praslin also offers some of the Seychelles’ most family-friendly beaches, such as Anse Lazio and Cote d’Or, with shallow water and golden sands.

La Digue – A car-free island where bicycles and ox-carts set the pace. Children love exploring by bike, and Anse Source d’Argent, one of the world’s most photographed beaches, is a playground of shallow waters and dramatic granite boulders.

Wildlife Encounters – Spot giant Aldabra tortoises, go snorkelling in colourful marine parks, or take boat trips to tiny outer islands for birdwatching and coral reef adventures.

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Best Time to Go

Maldives: Best from November to April (dry, sunny, calm seas). May–October brings more rain and humidity but still warm, with good resort deals.

Mauritius: Best from May to December (cooler, drier, great for beaches). January–April is hotter and more humid, with a small risk of cyclones.

Seychelles: Best in the shoulder months of April–May and October–November (calm seas, perfect for snorkelling/diving). December–March is warmer and wetter; June–September is drier but windier.

Flight Time from UK

Maldives (Malé):
Direct: ~10–11 hours
Indirect (1 stop): 12–14 hours, depending on route and layover.

Mauritius:
Direct: 12 hours
Indirect (1 stop): 14–16 hours, depending on route and layover.

Seychelles (Mahé):
Direct: 10 hours

Indirect (1 stop): 12–15 hours, depending on route and layover.

Currency

Maldives: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) — USD widely accepted in resorts.

Mauritius: Mauritian Rupee (MUR).

Seychelles: Seychellois Rupee (SCR).

Time Difference

Maldives: +5 hrs (GMT), +4 hrs (BST).

Mauritius: +4 hrs (GMT), +3 hrs (BST).

Seychelles: +4 hrs (GMT), +3 hrs (BST).

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