Indian Ocean Family Holidays

Glistening azure waters, soft powdery beaches and pristine scenery - the wonderfully diverse islands of the Indian Ocean are the perfect choice for a family holiday. Often mistakenly branded as one destination, the idyllic islands of Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives all sit gloriously in the Indian Ocean and yet offer amazingly different experiences. Common to them all are their exceptional resorts in spectacular settings. Robinson Crusoe would have been proud! Travel time to the Indian Ocean varies between 11-13 hours with a range of airlines offering both direct flights and in-direct routes via the Middle East.

A relatively small island (it takes roughly an hour to drive from south to north) located east of Africa and Madagascar and south of the Seychelles, Mauritius is famed for its beautiful white beaches, family friendly ambience, attentive service and world-renowned hotels and resorts which offer everything from colonial elegance to contemporary luxury. What’s more, it basks in a year round sub-tropical climate! Winter temperatures (from May to October) peak at around 26°C in the coastal regions whilst during their summer (from November to April), temperatures increase slightly averaging a balmy 29°C, with a gentle ocean breeze creating an ideal setting for family fun on the beach.

The Seychelles revels in breathtaking natural beauty! It comprises an archipelago of granite and coral islands with awe-inspiring beaches and lush forests which roll down to the warm, azure ocean. They make up the world’s only granite-formed oceanic islands, recognisable by their heavenly powder fine soft white beaches and iconic boulders which rise dramatically from the depths of the ocean. Island hopping is a ‘must’ and we recommend a combination of at least two islands including the capital island of Mahé, the captivatingly beautiful Praslin and the secluded hideaway of Denis Island, where a delightful highlight on a nature walk is coming face to face with one of the giant tortoises which roam freely!

The smallest, and perhaps the most exclusive of the archipelago’s in the Indian Ocean is the Maldives. The string of stunning coral atolls and islands provide a wide range of family friendly accommodation options and excellent facilities for all, from tots to teenagers, there is sure to be something to suit the needs of every family. Although activities are slightly more limited here due to the size of the islands on which most resorts are located, the vibrant house reefs and crystal clear seas that the Maldives boasts are fantastic for swimming and exploring the underwater world with a snorkel and fins! Or simply hop on a traditional wooden dhoni to admire playful dolphins or gaze at the spectacular sunset.