Kandima Maldives: An Island That Refuses to Sit Still
Head of Interior Designer Caroline Milns on creating a bathroom gallery in her own home - using the space as a canvas for creative experimentation and proving how thoughtful design can transform an interior
There’s a version of the Maldives you’ve seen a thousand times: overwater villas, silence, sunsets built for two, and then there’s Kandima Maldives, an entirely different story that is proof that the Maldives isn’t just for romance and honeymooners. Set on a sprawling three kilometre island in the Dhaalu Atoll, it’s a high-energy island retreat where families, couples, and groups of friends, where travellers of every stripe come to do more than simply unwind.
More Than a Room With a View
With 270 stylishly designed studios and villas, including sweeping overwater and beachfront options, Kandima delivers on the classic Maldivian fantasy of turquoise water and private decks. But it doesn’t stop there. Couples can still say “I do” (or renew their vows) against a stunning ocean backdrop, but the island’s real magic lies in how much more there is to do once you’ve unpacked.
Built for Action, Not Just Relaxation
This is where Kandima truly sets itself apart. Thrill-seekers can hit Fast Track, the resort’s newly opened 500 metre asphalt e-go-karting circuit, with racing sessions running from day into night. Just opened, PlaySpace raises the bar for indoor entertainment, featuring two themed escape rooms, karaoke, bowling, retro and VR arcade gaming, perfect for a date night or an all-out family challenge.
Water lovers are equally spoiled. Kandima’s house reef offers exceptional snorkelling straight off the beach, while Aquaholics runs more than 20 watersports and excursions — from diving and jet-skiing to glass-bottom kayaking and parasailing. On land, guests can burn energy at the full-sized football pitch, tennis courts, or BURN studio’s fitness and aerial yoga classes, with the newly launched Kandima Running Club hosting guided sunrise and sunset runs.
Genuinely Family-First
Kandima’s family credentials go far beyond a kids’ pool. Kandiland, one of the largest kids’ clubs in the Maldives, offers supervised fun for younger guests and babysitting services. Add in movie nights under the stars, sunset beach yoga, and one of the region’s longest infinity pools, and it’s clear this is a resort designed around togetherness, not separation. Even the spa gets in on the inclusivity: EsKape Spa offers children’s massages alongside its signature Maldivian Ocean Dream treatments, because at Kandima, age never means exclusion.
A Food Scene With Range
Ten restaurants and bars cater to every craving, from steaks at SMOKED and Asian fusion at Sea Dragon, to Mediterranean flavours at AZURE, with the in-resort Fresh Labs farm reopening to guests this summer. Floating breakfasts, beachside lobster barbecues, and laid-back spots like the Beach Club and Breeze Bar round out a dining programme built for every mood.
Creativity and Nightlife, Too
For guests wanting to slow down differently, KULA Art Studio hosts year-round painting and craft classes with a resident artist. Come evening, Breeze, the Beach Club, and Forbidden Bar bring the island to life with thematic nights and DJ sets — ready-made setups for any artist looking to play in a new setting.
Kandima Maldives proves the destination isn’t just for honeymooners anymore; it’s for everyone who wants their Maldives holiday to actually feel alive.
Book the escape of a lifetime at Kandima’s website at kandima.com, studios from £231/night and villas from £312/night
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