The small island retreat of Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Maldives is ideal for active families looking to ditch the deckchair this summer or for couples with young children looking for an authentic Maldivian baby-moon. What’s more, the resort is offering fantastic free giveaways (worth up to US$120) during June and July including a Bubblemaker diving introduction and a catamaran excursion - pending on how adventurous the kids are feeling!

For parents who dive and who would like their children to fully explore the Indian Ocean’s underwater world too, Vilu Reef’s Gold Palm dive centre offers the PADI Bubblemaker free of charge throughout June and July when one parent books a dive session. An introduction to scuba diving for children aged eight plus, this course teaches how to safely use the equipment and gives the kids a chance to experience diving for themselves while in the direct care and supervision of a fully qualified PADI professional.

Alternatively, for those who prefer to stay above the water, a complimentary catamaran trip is on offer for the entire family (based on two adults and two children) when one adult books a watersports activity. Skimming over the azure sea with a warm breeze, an hour sailing around the local sandbanks and deserted islands with an experienced skipper is a family treat not to be missed. And for those who feel brave enough, try sunbathing out on the catamaran’s trapeze.

Away from the water’s edge, Vilu Reef offers a whole host of activities to entertain energetic kids including table tennis and a volleyball court. The resort’s entertainment carries on in to the evening with live bands, cultural shows as well as the weekly crab racing!

Locally known as ‘the Garden of Eden’, because of its lush tropical vegetation, Vilu Reef offers plenty of dappled shade, perfect for little ones who need respite from the sun. Another attraction for families is that the resort plays host to lots of fish that swim right up to the water villas. This allows guests to get up close to a whole host of multi-coloured friendly fish without venturing far.

All accommodation has traditional style thatched roofs, which adds to its authentic feel and laid-back charm with either interconnecting rooms or a day bed which can be converted into an extra bed for children. In addition, the resort offers a children’s playground and, should parents’ wish for a romantic meal together, Vilu Reef can arrange for a baby-sitting service.

Excitable children will also love the short seaplane ride to the resort. The whole family will marvel at the stunning archipelago unfold beneath them, a view guaranteed to entice the holiday spirit.