More in the Maldives

From more than 100 resorts on 1,000-plus islands, here are three that stand out among the atolls.

Club Med Kani All comers are welcome, of course, but Club Med Kani is a firm favourite for families, attracted by a well-run children’s club for four- to 10-year-olds and scores of all-inclusive activities for four- to 17-year-olds. Children from two years are welcome, and those under four stay free. Little adventurers can join coral propagation sessions, cooking lessons, face painting and a flying trapeze school; children aged eight and older can take lessons in sailing, snorkelling, wakeboarding and kayaking. travel-associates.com.au Soneva Jani The night skies here are some of the most dazzling on Earth, and this year-old resort in Noonu Atoll makes them a starring attraction. Each of Soneva Jani’s 24 villas, arrayed around a five-island lagoon, feature retractable roofs to encourage heavenly contemplation. For more serious stargazing, there’s an overwater observatory with a five-metre telescope and a resident astronomer on hand. A new seaplane service flies guests between Soneva Jani and sister resort Soneva Fushi. travel-associates.com.au Lux South Ari Atoll Full marks for being able to pronounce (or spell) the resort’s location, on the island of Dhidhoofinolhu. Recently refurbished, the resort has 193 villas – some on land, others over the lagoon – with all the amenities expected: a dive centre, two pools, tennis courts, gym. Its distinguishing features are a cut-above spa tended by a “wellness concierge”, eight eateries and five bars, and a focus on watersports. Meanwhile, sister resort Lux North Male opens this month with 67 penthouses, each served by a butler. travel-associates.com.au