Paradise Found - Kandima Maldives
Sarah Irlam and her partner escaped to the tropical shores of Kandima Maldives for a sun-soaked island retreat
Our recent stay at Kandima Maldives was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Travelling from the UK, we arrived on a direct 10 hour British Airways flight from London Heathrow Airport, stepping into the Maldivesí 35 degree heat; a striking yet welcome contrast to the cooler weather we had left behind.
Upon arrival, the immigration process was efficient, aided by completing the necessary documentation online in advance. We were warmly greeted by Kandima representatives, who introduced us to the resortís dedicated mobile app. This proved invaluable throughout our stay, allowing us to check in, reserve restaurants, order in-room dining and explore the extensive range of daily activities.
Our onward journey was seamlessly arranged with Manta Air. Within minutes, we were escorted to the seaplane terminal and soon airborne for a breathtaking 45 minute flight over the Indian Oceanís turquoise lagoons. For guests who prefer an alternative, a domestic flight to Dhaalu Airport followed by a short boat transfer is also available.
Kandima Maldives
We received a warm welcome upon arrival at the resort jetty, where staff greeted us with refreshments and cool towels before completing check-in. We were then transported by buggy to our accommodation, an Aqua Villa with Swirl Pool. The suite was spacious and elegantly designed, featuring a bathroom with ocean views, a rain shower, and a private whirlpool overlooking the sea. Direct access to the lagoon allowed for snorkelling, where we regularly spotted different types of rays and on occasion turtles and young reef sharks.
Accommodation options are diverse, ranging from studios and beach villas to overwater villas with pools or whirlpools. All are thoughtfully designed and well-equipped, with amenities including robes, toiletries, coffee machines and outdoor seating areas, with guests on all-inclusive packages benefit from daily replenished minibars.
The resort also offers a range of unique experiences, from floating breakfasts in private pools to secluded island picnics and beach BBQs, where guests are transported by boat to enjoy a private island escape for a few hours, complete with Wi-Fi connectivity for added reassurance.
Food & Drink
The resort offers an impressive variety of dining options, each with its own distinct atmosphere. Our first meal at Zest, one of the buffet restaurants, set the tone perfectly, with a wide selection of delicious international cuisine and a temperature-controlled salad room that kept everything beautifully fresh. After lunch, we relaxed at the beach club, enjoying music, cocktails and the stunning surroundings.
Dining quickly became one of the highlights of our stay. Sea Dragon serves Asian and Chinese-inspired cuisine with a Maldivian twist in a spectacular oceanfront setting, we found the lobster and crispy squid were particularly memorable. For a more casual option, Azure offers pizzas, pasta and seafood, while Smoked provides a unique beachfront dining experience with premium cuts such as Wagyu, ribeye and lamb shank, served under the stars. Additional venues include Zest and Flavour for buffet dining, as well as convenient in-room dining via the resortís trusty app.
For lighter options, Aroma CafÈ and the Deli offer coffee, fresh juices, snacks, and takeaway meals, all of which can also be delivered directly to your room. The app-based system for reservations and services was intuitive and efficient throughout our stay.
Facilities
Kandima excels in its activity offering, catering to a wide range of interests. Guests can participate in yoga (including aerial and ashtanga), Pilates, fitness classes, water sports, art sessions, and excursions such as dolphin watching and turtle swimming. The resort also features a fully equipped 24-hour gym.
The Aquaholics Water Sports Centre provides access to activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, snorkelling and scuba diving, as well as organised excursions.
Families are particularly well catered for. Kandiland, one of the largest kidsí clubs in the Maldives, offers both indoor and outdoor facilities with qualified staff. Older children and teenagers can enjoy sports facilities including tennis, football and badminton, as well as Fast Track, the resortís unique oceanfront e-go-kart circuit. Kandima also features one of the longest swimming pools in the Maldives.
A recent addition is Play Space, launched last year, which includes bowling, karaoke, virtual reality experiences, an escape room and arcade games, providing entertainment for both children and adults.
Stretching approximately 3km, the island is ideal for walking and cycling, with complimentary bikes available. Alternatively, buggy transfers operate throughout the day for convenience.
Looking ahead, Kandima continues to innovate. The Coral Residences, set to open in early 2027, will introduce a new concept of luxury villa ownership combined with rental opportunities. Additional upcoming facilities include padel courts and a golf simulator, further enhancing the resortís already extensive offering.
Final Thoughts
Kandima Maldives is a destination that truly caters to all types of travellers; families, couples, groups and honeymooners alike. Whether seeking relaxation, adventure or quality time together, the resort delivers an outstanding and memorable experience.
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