If your idea of a white Christmas involves sand rather than snow, Finolhu in the Maldives has lined up a full festive programme. The resort, part of the Seaside Collection, runs its 'Magic by the Sea' season from 21 December 2026 into early January 2027, turning its Baa Atoll island into a mix of gala dinners, beach parties and family activities.
The setting helps. Finolhu sits inside the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is known for a two-kilometre sandbank that draws guests at low tide. The season opens with a festive tree lighting by the ocean, followed by a tropical twist on the classics: Santa arrives by island rather than sleigh, Christmas Eve gets a formal dinner, and New Year's Eve closes with a gala, live sets from international group the Goldsingers and a fireworks display to see in 2027.
Food is a big part of the pitch. Finolhu was named Best Culinary Resort at the TTM Awards 2026, and the festive calendar leans on it, spanning gala dinners, the resort's exclusive Anguru dining concept, beachfront seafood and gatherings at its casual Crab Shack.
There's more to do than eat, though. The resort's Art Lab hosts creative sessions through the season, with a pottery collaboration run by Casa Adams, the studio of ceramic artist Araceli Adams — guests learn traditional techniques and take home a piece inspired by the island. Families get a packed schedule too: the Oceaneers Club and Teens Hut run festive baking, treasure hunts, sports and island explorations, with separate programming for teenagers covering photography, music and outdoor activities.
Nature and downtime aren't forgotten. Guided snorkelling with the resort's marine biologist taps into Baa Atoll's rich reef life, with conservation activities for kids, while sunrise yoga and meditation sessions offer a quieter counterpoint to the evening DJ sets and the resort's signature White Parties.
Who's it for? This suits families with mixed-age kids better than most festive Maldives escapes — the teens' programme alone is a rarity — as well as couples who want a lively, sociable resort rather than a hushed honeymoon island. Because it's a resort-run seasonal programme, expect festive supplements on top of standard rates, and book early: Maldives resorts typically fill up for Christmas and New Year well in advance. Full details and reservations are on the Finolhu website.
Maldives Insider
