When is the best time to visit the Maldives?

Visiting the Maldives in January

Weather:   With plenty of sunshine and warmth, January is a great time for the Maldives holiday. The weather is hot, with quite comfortable humidity (75%) and cooling ocean breeze. There may be some rain, but at this time of year it passes very quickly while winds from the northeast blow away any clouds, meaning skies are clear and blue.

Despite being the coolest month of the year, a daily average temperature of around 27ºC - 29ºC during daylight hours, so make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen. The sea temperature remains a warm 27ºC. During January, the islands have nine hours of sunshine a day while rainfall averages around 75mm, with just around five wet days in the month.

Hotels:  January in the Maldives is peak season. This is due not only to finest weather, but also to the onset of holidays. Hotel prices are at their top, so it is recommended to book in advance, especially the festive packages Many go to the Maldives to celebrate the New Year and Christmas, which will certainly affect the cost of living. After January 10, hotel prices fall by about 15-20% of the Christmas and New Year offers and keep this way throughout February until early March.

Things to Do:  Start the year in the best possible ways. A calm January cannot boast of significant waves, but if you are not coming here to compete, there will be plenty of waves for surfing in North Male. Lohifushi Island has high stable waves, where the international prestigious O'Neill Deep Blue Open tournament is held. Also popular is the so-called "police island" where surfers can enjoy the waves. Male has a sandy bottom without corals, which is an indisputable plus for a surfer. Also in January you can go windsurfing, water skiing, canoeing, catamaran, scooter and banana boat rides.

Diving & Snorkeling:   The visibility for diving and snorkelling is great. From December to March the water currents flow through the atolls from east to west, this creates fantastic visibility along the eastern atolls. The current is usually strongest over this period. During this time many shark species gather in the eastern side channel entrances in large numbers while the mantas are attracted to the western side where the plankton flows out to the open ocean.

Highlights:   Locals celebrate New Year in the Maldives differently from the rest of the world. Their New Year comes in April, according to the lunar calendar. Therefore, all events taking place from December 31 to January 1 are designed exclusively for tourists. But don't worry about fireworks and New Year's celebrations. The Maldives hosts chic celebrations, New Years parties and masquerades in hotels. It is there that you can enjoy the atmosphere of the New Year under the palm trees.

Visiting the Maldives in February

Weather:   If you visit Maldives during the month of February the weather is at its most reliable with most days having clear blue skies, the occasional white fluffy cloud and very little rain. With plenty of sunshine and warmth, this is a great time for a beach holiday.

Hotels:   February is one of the best months to visit the Maldives, so hotel rates stay consistently high. This is a very popular time for travelling and booking in advance is advised.

Things to Do:   Calm water flat seas around the Maldives during high season are perfect for boat trips of any kind – the surface of the water is often like a mirror and perfect for spotting dolphins jumping in the distance, or turtles coming to the surface for a breath, before diving back down to the reef. Kayaking and paddle-boarding adventures are a must this time

Diving & Snorkeling:   The snorkelling conditions are likely to be better than you could ever dream of. Although the visibility is good for most of the year, in high season it is simply stunning with both divers and snorkelers able to to enjoy diving with manta rays, whale sharks and other tropical marine life, in calmer conditions.

From December to March the water currents flow through the atolls from east to west, this creates fantastic visibility along the eastern atolls. The current is usually strongest over this period. During this time many shark species gather in the eastern side channel entrances in large numbers while the mantas are attracted to the western side where the plankton flows out to the open ocean.

Visiting the Maldives in March

Weather:  In March, temperatures in the Maldives rise to an average maximum of 31°C – great for long days on the beach. Rare short rains of rain offer relief from the hot temperatures.

Hotels:  High season rumbles on, with accommodation booked out across the country. From March 1, hotel prices fall by another 10-12% from the February offerings and remain so until mid-May.

Things to Do:  March sees the start of the surfing season in the Maldives. The finest weather coupled with nine hours of uninterrupted sunlight makes Maldives in march a perfect destination to try out all outdoor activities and spend some cherished moments with your loved ones. The clear skies and soothing breeze creates a perfect ambiance for sunbathing as well.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Weather remains idyllic with perfect conditions for snorkelling and diving

Visiting the Maldives in April

Weather:   April is another wonderfully hot month in the Maldives, with plenty of sunshine and good water visibility; however, there is a slightly increased risk of rain, especially toward the end of the month. This is the official end of the Maldives’ dry season and also a little more humid. Expect more rains towards end of April.

Hotels:  From March 1, hotel prices fall by another 10-12% from the February offerings and remain so until mid-May.

Things to Do:  Fewer travellers venture to the Maldives in April, but it's a great time to visit with overall pleasant weather, good diving visibility, fun surf conditions, and agreeable sailing weather.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Water visibility for diving and snorkelling is still very good.

Highlights:   The spirit of Easter in The Maldives is all about hope, love and joyful living. The celebration comes with a special Easter dinner followed by beach orpool parties with the in-house bands and DJ and a treasure hunt to make your day more fun-filled and entertaining.

Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Ramadan takes place in the ninth month of the lunar calendar. It lasts for a sacred 30 days during which Muslims must observe strict fasting. Only children, the elderly, pregnant women and those who are not able to fast for medical reasons are exempt from it. During this period, during daylight hours, it is forbidden to eat, quench thirst, smoke, listen to music loudly ... and a number of other prohibitions. After Ramadan comes the Great Feast, or Eid al-Fitr - the holiday of the end of Ramadan. Festivities on this occasion usually last for several days. This is the weekend when the Maldivians are just feasting and having fun from the heart.

Visiting the Maldives in May

Weather:   May is hot, with average maximum temperatures of 31°C, but is the start of the Maldives’ official wet season and comes with risks of heavy rainfall, but storms usually move through the archipelago quickly.

Hotels:  From mid-May, hotel prices fall again by 50% and stay until early August

Things to Do:  This month has a lot going for it: Fairly reasonable prices, fewer people at the resorts and optimal surf and scuba conditions are just some of the perks.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Diving visibility is slightly reduced due to the plankton in the water.

Highlights:   The holy month of Ramadan (known as Ramazan in the Maldives) begins in May although the exact date changes each year. Guests visiting Maldives’ resorts during the holy month are unlikely to notice anything different to any other month – meals and alcohol are served as usual. If you’re visiting a local island, there will be some restrictions that you’ll understandably be asked to respect.

During Ramadan, shops closer earlier and you won't be able to drink or eat in public on the inhabited islands.

Visiting the Maldives in June

Weather:   With choppy seas, hot, humid and windy weather June is the time of south-west monsoon season in Maldives. June is not the best month to travel to the Maldives, as the winds pick up, for the most part can be quite cloudy and rainfalls are frequent in June, but there is still many sunny days are common and temperatures warm too.

Hotels:  From mid-May, hotel prices fall again by 50% and stay until early August

Things to Do:  Surf season continues in Central Male atolls and room rates remain low. Manta ray spotting season begins in the Northern Atolls. June is is an excellent time to indulge in activities like whale shark and dolphin trips, deep-sea fishing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The surface swells during this time can get to about 1-2m especially during June and July which is the main rainy season.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Diving visibility in June in Maldives is slightly reduced due to the plankton in the water, however there’s a huge advantage for divers as manta rays and whale sharks come to feed on the plankton.

During June to November the currents move easterly through the channels. During this time Hanifaru Bay in UNESCO Biosphere reserve on Baa atoll offers some of the best sightings of mantas and whale sharks. They come to the protected area to feed on plankton that has been built up from the southwest monsoon. The underwater visibility is also much better on the western side during this season.

Highlights:   The holy month of Ramadan continues into June. Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Ramadan takes place in the ninth month of the lunar calendar. It lasts for a sacred 30 days during which Muslims must observe strict fasting. Only children, the elderly, pregnant women and those who are not able to fast for medical reasons are exempt from it. During this period, during daylight hours, it is forbidden to eat, quench thirst, smoke, listen to music loudly ... and a number of other prohibitions. After Ramadan comes the Great Feast, or Eid al-Fitr - the holiday of the end of Ramadan. Festivities on this occasion usually last for several days. This is the weekend when the Maldivians are just feasting and having fun from the heart.

Visiting the Maldives in July

Weather:   With seven to eight hours of daily sunshine July is one of the rainiest months in the Maldives. The average temperature in Maldives in July ranges between 27 to 30 degrees Celsius, while the nights are relatively cooler at 25 degrees. The downpours are unpredictable but don't last more than a 30-minutes and the wind speed varies between 11 and 14 knots.

Hotels:  From mid-May, hotel prices fall again by 50% and stay until early August

Things to Do:  The sea temperature is 28 degrees Celsius in July, making it pleasant for swimming and other water activities.

Diving & Snorkeling:   During June to November is the southwest monsoon when the currents move easterly through the channels. During this time Hanifaru Bay offers some of the best sightings of mantas and whale sharks. They come to the area to feed on plankton that has been built up from the southwest monsoon. The visibility is also much better on the western side during this season. The wind picks up during this time and the sea can get a bit rougher. There is still many sunny days but for the most part can be quite cloudy. The surface swells during this time can get to about 1-2m especially during June and July which is the main rainy season.

Highlights:   The Maldives Independence Day (26th July) is celebrated in style each year, with various festivities taking place, including parades and performances.

Visiting the Maldives in August

Weather:   Weather: Still hot and sunny August in the Maldives is humid, with an average 7 hours of sunshine each day and short heavy downpours. Expect a some showers, wind and storms, 27 - 31°C (average 29°C).

Hotels:   August is vacation time therefore, from August 1, hotel prices rise again by 45% and keep this way until September

Things to Do:  This is a great time for experienced sailors to charter a monohull if the primary goal is to challenge the wind. Otherwise, families, groups, and couples who plan to spend time relaxing on a boat will benefit from a catamaran, known for their stability, space and comfort despite windy conditions.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Scuba divers trade reduced visibility (caused by an abundance of plankton) for an increased chance to spot mammoth sea creatures like mantas and whale sharks and enticing offers mean this is still a popular time to visit.

Highlights:   Many luxury resorts in the Maldives hold Food Weeks, Wellness restreats, music festivals and performances in August to attract the guests.

Visiting the Maldives in September

Weather:   With the southwestern monsoon winds dominated, the weather in Maldives in September is a culmination of the wet season with frequent monsoon showers, skyrocketing humidity and slightly low temperatures in the day. A maximum day temperatures of 30°C, and there’s still an average 7 hours of sunshine each day, but rain is more likely and there is a risk of storms.

Hotels:  Off-Season Is the Right Season! If you are looking for the cheapest rates in the Maldives water villa resorts that is the time to go. And you can even save more by booking directly.

Things to Do:  Height of the rainy season and peak low season, September is a good time for surfers and travellers more interested in cultural exchange and activities than the perfect tan.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Diving visibility is slightly reduced due to the plankton in the water, but there are great opportunities to spot whale sharks and manta rays feeding on the plankton.

Highlights:   Many luxury resorts in the Maldives hold Food Weeks, Wellness restreats, music festivals and performances in August to attract the guests.

Visiting the Maldives in October

Weather:   October is the last month of the low season, that marks the end of the wet monsoon, but you can still expect severe storms and highly unpredictable weather. The surf remains excellent across the country and accommodation prices are low. While water villas can be very luxurious, it would probably put a damper on your island vacation if you never got to leave the room.

Hotels:  Off-Season Is the Right Season! If you are looking for the cheapest deals in the Maldives water villa resorts that is the time to go. And you can even save more by booking directly.

Things to Do:   October is the last month of the Maldives’ surfing season, with the South-West monsoons, which occur between May and October, providing outstanding surfing the Central and the Northern atolls.

Diving & Snorkeling:   Due to the heavy rainfall and higher levels of plankton in the water, visibility for snorkeling and scuba-diving is reduced, but still, a great time to spot manta rays and whale sharks.

Highlights:   National Day in the Maldives commemorates the day Mohammed Thakurufaanu and his men overthrew the Portuguese on Male in 1578 in a mutiny that saw the islands regain independence.

Visiting the Maldives in November

Weather:   The Maldives' end of the wet season November is shoulder season, when prices start to grow again, although weather is still unpredictable and can rain for days, even though it's hot and humid. Expect short showers in the afternoons and otherwise bright, sunny days with an average maximum temperatures of 30°C.

Hotels:   During November, hotel prices stay 50% higher than the off-season offerings. Starting mid-month, expect a Black Friday sales at many luxury resorts with up to 50% OFF for Staying in the new year

Things to Do:  Manta ray season comes to an end at Hanifaru Bay.

Diving & Snorkeling:   The visibility of the water begins to clear of the plankton, making for good scuba-diving and snorkeling.

Highlights:   A historical event, which in the Maldives is usually called Victory Day (November 3). Republic Day (November 11) is an event of national importance in the Maldives when the re-formation of the republic of the islands is celebrated. Like Independence Day, Republic Day is celebrated with marches and parades. In addition, in the evening, official events turn into songs and dances, widespread noisy and vibrant festivities.

Food festival is dedicated to World Food Day, which is also celebrated in the Maldives.

Visiting the Maldives in December

Weather:   An excellent choice for some winter sun, the weather during December is warm with long periods of sunshine, but there is an increased likelihood of rain and storms. The latter part of the month is considerably dry with warm and pleasant days.

Hotels:  Hotels usually continue great offers until just before the Christmas peak, so earlier in the month is a good value time to travel. In contrast to the off-season (September-October), luxury resort prices in December are about 50% higher, and from December 22nd prices lifts 95% one more time with the highest offerings for Christmas and New Year eve

Things to Do:   December in the Maldives evoke a picture of pristine beaches, clear turquoise lagoons and reef-ringed atolls with colorful marine life – the ideal setting for adventure, exploration and indulgent experiences.

Diving & Snorkeling:   December starts the northeastern monsoon season in the Maldives. This time of year offers the best visibility and plankton-rich currents draw in a variety of marine life. With tons of shark action, December is the best month for diving in the far southern atolls of the Maldives. Found at these remote islands, you’ll see pelagic species making their way through channels and around pinnacles.

Highlights:   There is one and only the Festive season to look forward to with gala dinners full of indulgent foodie treats and entertainment to suit all tastes. Fisherman’s Day: The country recognises the work of its fishermen and honours them with a celebration. This annual celebration takes place on December 10th