Indian actor Karan Tacker recently traded set calls for sea breezes, taking his parents to Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives for a trip built entirely around time together rather than a packed itinerary. It's a useful reminder that the Maldives works just as well for slower family holidays as it does for honeymooners.
The resort sits in North Malé Atoll, a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport — one of the reasons it suits families with older relatives who'd rather skip a seaplane transfer. The Tackers stayed in a lagoon-facing villa, and much of the trip revolved around the simple stuff: long meals, quiet afternoons and evenings at Sunset Social, the resort's laid-back sunset spot.
That said, there was plenty on the water too. Tacker tried a clear-bottom kayak plus the higher-octane options — a jet ski and a Seabob — before the family took a semi-submarine ride to watch marine life through panoramic windows without getting wet. His parents opted for the calm route instead, with Balinese massages at SPA Cenvaree Retreat. Other highlights included a guided painting session, afternoon tea on the catamaran nets and a floating breakfast, the kind of indulgent Maldivian cliché that tends to earn its keep.
Dining ranged across teppanyaki, an Indian grill and Mediterranean dishes, and Tacker's takeaway was telling: the itinerary mattered less than sitting around the same table. For anyone travelling with parents or mixed-age family, that's the real point — pick a resort close to the airport with both adventure and spa options, and let everyone set their own pace.
The trip also lands in a busy season for the country's resort scene. Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in Baa Atoll has announced a 'Roots & Tides' heritage programme running 22 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, with Bodu Mas performances, beach BBQs, kids' activities and gala dinners. Meanwhile The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli marks its 10th anniversary with a 10-day celebration from 10 November 2026 featuring guest chefs, bartenders and coral restoration work. If you've been putting off a Maldives trip, the next few months offer more than the usual sun-and-lagoon formula.
