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The best time to go to the Maldives is between December and April when the monsoon season has ended. Specifically, we recommend booking your stay for the period from November to December 24th (prior to Christmas), as well as from January 10th to the end of April (excluding the Easter holidays, when prices tend to be higher). During these times, you can expect sunny and dry weather, as well as a more peaceful atmosphere at the resorts. It’s worth noting that the most expensive rates typically fall during the Festive Season, which lasts from December 25th to January 10th.
by Maldives Meteorological Service
The rainy season in the islands spans from May to October, characterized by strong winds and monthly precipitation ranging between 8 to 12 inches. Although this period might not be ideal for some tourists. It’s an excellent time to find amazing deals on accommodation and other activities. Visitors can save up to twice as much as during the peak season.
Additionally, surf enthusiasts flock to the area during these months, as they offer bigger waves and better swells for surfing. Despite the likelihood of rain and strong winds, travelers can still enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring the islands’ scenic landscapes.
The Maldives have a warm and humid tropical monsoon environment with an average yearly temperature of 28 degrees Celsius and relatively little variation from year to year. Average highs on the northern islands reach about 29.3 degrees Celsius before the southwest monsoons (April-May), while average lows drop to around 27.4 degrees Celsius before the northeast monsoons (December-January), making the seasonal cycle more pronounced in the north.
Hours of sunshine: 8 hours
Rainfall: 80mm
Hotel rates: $$$$
January is an ideal month for a beach vacation in the Maldives due to the abundance of sunshine and hot weather. Additionally, the water clarity is excellent during this period, making it an excellent time for tourists who want to snorkel or dive. Nonetheless, it is essential to keep in mind that January is a peak season, and early booking is recommended.
Hours of sunshine: 9 hours
Rainfall: 40mm
Hotel rates: $$$$
The month of February is one of the best times to visit the Maldives. This is the driest month of the year in the Maldives, with monthly rainfall of less than 40 millimeters, average high temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius, and around 9 hours of sunlight per day. The visibility is fantastic for both scuba diving and snorkeling.
Hours of sunshine: 9 hours
Rainfall: 45mm
Hotel rates: $$$$
The average high temperature in the Maldives during the month of March is 31 degrees Celsius, making it an ideal month for spending the day at the beach. There is a chance of brief downpours, which will provide a welcome reprieve from the oppressive heat. In March, not only does the Maldives welcome the beginning of the surfing season, but the visibility for diving and snorkeling is also exceptional.
Hours of sunshine: 8 hours
Rainfall: 120mm
Hotel rates: $$$
During the start of the low season, visitors can still expect to encounter significant crowds, particularly during the holiday season in Europe. However, the prices for accommodations tend to decrease during this time, making it a good time to travel for those on a budget.
It’s worth noting that the humidity level increases during this season, making the weather feel a little warmer than it is. While the low season may not be the best time for sunbathing or lounging on the beach, it’s still a great time to explore the local culture and attractions without the crowds that often accompany the high season.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 240mm
Hotel rates: $$
May in the Maldives is characterized by scorching temperatures, with the average maximum temperature soaring up to 31°C. However, this month marks the onset of the official wet season, putting the region at risk of thunderstorms and prolonged spells of rain. Diving conditions are slightly affected due to the presence of plankton in the water. On the bright side, travelers can enjoy significant price drops in hotel rates during this period.
The North and South Male Atolls witness the beginning of the surf season, drawing surf enthusiasts to the region’s resorts and guesthouses offering easy access to the breaks. Moreover, May heralds the start of the manta ray and whale shark spotting season, adding to the excitement of visiting the Maldives during this period.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 150mm
Hotel rates: $$
June brings frequent rainfalls to the Maldives, but it is also a month where clear skies are common, and temperatures remain warm, making it an excellent time to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach. For surf enthusiasts, the season continues in North and South Male Atolls, providing ample opportunities to catch the waves. If you’re planning a trip during this month, you can take advantage of the best value offers available. June marks the start of manta ray spotting season in the Northern Atolls, adding to the region’s already abundant marine wildlife.
Hours of sunshine: 6 hours
Rainfall: 200mm
Hotel rates: $$
July is considered a hot and humid month in the Maldives, characterized by short but intense rain showers. Despite the rainy weather, this period presents an excellent opportunity to take advantage of great value offers and indulge in some exciting activities, especially for avid surfers. While diving enthusiasts may experience slightly reduced water visibility due to the presence of plankton, the underwater experience is well worth it, thanks to the presence of majestic manta rays and whale sharks.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 200mm
Hotel rates: $$
August is typically considered the rainy season in the Maldives. Despite this, it remains a busy month due to school holidays in many countries, making it a popular time to visit the island nation. Although diving visibility may be slightly reduced due to the presence of plankton in the water, the abundance of enticing offers still attracts many visitors.
Although there may be occasional downpours, the rainfall tends to be short-lived and interspersed with sunshine.
Moreover, August offers an opportunity to take advantage of enticing offers, such as discounted rates on accommodation, dining, and activities. Many resorts and hotels offer special packages for families with children, making it an ideal time for a family vacation.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 220mm
Hotel rates: $$
The month of September marks the height of the rainy season and the peak of the low season in many tropical regions. However, this time of year is an excellent time for travelers who are looking for more than just a perfect tan. In fact, it’s an ideal time for surfers seeking the best waves and adventurers seeking cultural exchange and exciting activities.
For those who love water activities, diving in September may offer a slightly reduced visibility due to the plankton in the water.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 250mm
Hotel rates: $$
The Maldives experience their highest levels of rainfall and humidity in October, which can lead to entire days of rain. However, this also means that there are great value offers available during this time for those who are willing to spend ample time utilizing the amenities of their resort in addition to beach activities. Additionally, October marks the end of the Maldives’ surfing season and provides the final opportunity of the year to witness whale sharks and manta rays in their natural habitat.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 170mm
Hotel rates: $$$
In the Maldives, November is a month of change, since it represents the start of the high season and the conclusion of the low season. During this time, hotel prices begin to rise again, though not as dramatically as during peak season. However, keep in mind that the weather in November can still be unpredictable due to the end of the rainy season. While it may be hot and humid, days of rain are not uncommon at this time of year.
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours
Rainfall: 120mm
Hotel rates: $$$
In Maldives, the weather during December is more predictable than in other months, but even during other months, like the one we’re discussing, you can still expect a lot of sunshine and relatively little rain. However, it’s worth noting that during the festive season, which includes Christmas and New Year, many resorts impose surcharges and minimum stay requirements. Despite this, the festive season remains a popular time for Europeans to visit the Maldives.
