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Best Time To Visit the Maldives
With its beautiful beaches and wide range of water sports, the Maldives is paradise year-round. If you're looking for uninterrupted sunshine and clear blue skies, we recommend travelling between January and April. On the other hand, if you're on a budget, consider booking a holiday between June and September if you don't mind a few days of rain during your trip.
Average weather in Maldives
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Weather in the Maldives
The Maldives enjoys a tropical climate, offering consistently warm temperatures year-round. With an average of eight hours of sunshine daily and temperatures ranging from 27 to 31°C, it's a paradise for sun-seekers.
The region experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season, from late April to November, sees most rainfall between June and September, often accompanied by storms and high winds. Conversely, the dry season spans December to April, characterized by abundant sunshine and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time to visit.
Seasonality in the Maldives
The Maldives experiences two distinct seasons: peak and low. During the peak season, there's a surge in tourism, leading to higher demand for accommodation and activities, resulting in increased prices. Conversely, the low season witnesses a decline in tourist numbers, making the islands less crowded and prices more affordable.
Peak season in the Maldives
The peak season in the Maldives, from December to April, draws many tourists seeking refuge from cold climates back home. However, bear in mind that during this time, hotel rates, as well as the costs of excursions and activities, are significantly higher compared to the low season. One unique aspect of the Maldives is that each resort is located on its own island, reducing the likelihood of encountering large crowds even during peak months.
Low season in the Maldives
The Maldives experiences its low season from May to November, coinciding with the wet season, characterised by occasional showers and cloudy skies, yet still offering warm temperatures. Despite the less-than-ideal weather conditions, visiting during the low season is advantageous for budget travellers, as both flights and accommodation are notably more affordable compared to other times of the year.
Pristine palm tree-fringed beaches
A myriad of rich tastes and flavours
Swim with majestic mantas
Watch sunsets in paradise
Honeymoon haven
Luxurious beach resorts
Holidays in the Maldives
With its stunning beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters, the Maldives is the perfect destination for both land and water activities. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities, whether it's snorkeling or sunbathing. Below, we've recommended the optimal times to visit to make the most of your desired holiday experience.
The Maldives has a tropical climate, offering hot weather throughout the year. However, some months are more favourable than others for beach activities. From December to April, the islands experience their driest and hottest weather, with an average of eight hours of sunlight per day. This period is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, as the water temperature is warm, and the waves are gentle.
With its abundance of coral reefs and diverse marine life, the Maldives is a top destination for snorkelling and diving. The prime time for these activities is from January to April when the weather is warmest and the waters are clearest, providing optimal visibility for an unforgettable underwater experience.
The surfing season in the Maldives stretches from February to November, with the best waves typically seen between April and October. June to September often brings the biggest swells, offering thrilling opportunities for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
Month by month guide to visiting the Maldives
Maldives in January
January sits comfortably within the dry season and has daily average temperatures of 27°C. With low humidity and abundant sunshine, it's a prime time for a beach getaway. This period, spanning from January to April, attracts many visitors seeking the perfect climate for their holiday.
Maldives in February
February brings a slight uptick in temperatures compared to the previous month, with daytime averages reaching 28°C. Known for its dry weather, February offers ideal conditions for enjoying the pristine beaches. Sea visibility is excellent, making it a perfect time for snorkelling and scuba diving adventures.
Maldives in March
March is a relatively dry month with average temperatures of 28°C, making it a popular month for holidays and one of the best months for relaxing on the beach.
Maldives in April
April marks the end of the dry season, however, the daytime temperature peaks at 31ºC and there are nine hours of sunshine per day to bask in. This is one of the best months for visiting the Maldives and is especially popular during the Easter holidays.
Maldives in May
May marks the first month that’s completely in the wet season. Humidity increases, along with the amount of rainfall. Temperatures still remain warm with an average of 28ºC.
Maldives in June
June’s level of rainfall reduces slightly compared to May, however, rain is still quite frequent. Temperatures sit steadily at 28ºC during the day.
Maldives in July
July is at the heart of the wet season and a large amount of rain continues. The weather is hot and humid with an average temperature of 28℃.
For a non-religious knees-up, see if your trip coincides with the Maldives’ Independence Day (July 26th), when you can celebrate the country’s freedom from British rule. During this time, the islands are awash with performances, food and parades; what better time to go island hopping.
Maldives in August
August isn’t the rainiest month of the year, however, it does experience the strongest rainstorms. Midday highs can reach 29℃ and there are typically 7 hours of sunshine a day.
Maldives in September
September is the rainiest month of the year and because of this, receives far less tourism compared to other times of the year. The temperature drops to 27℃ and humidity skyrockets.
The Maldives national day (Qaumee Dhuvas) is an important day for the Maldivian people and is celebrated with a parade through the capital city of Male. The timing of Qaumee Dhuvas changes each year depending on the Islamic Calendar but generally falls in September or October.
Maldives in October
October marks the unofficial end of the rainy season, however, rainfall can still be persistent. This doesn’t affect the temperature though as it stays at an average of 27℃ throughout the day. As one of the wettest months of the year, it's not a month we recommend choosing for your holiday.
Maldives in November
November is still a wet month in the Maldives, but any bursts of rain are normally short and are quickly followed by sunshine. Daily temperatures average around 27°C and it will feel humid during the day. The weather will improve towards the end of the month as the start of the dry season kicks in.
Republic Day (November 11th) is another celebration which marks the foundation of the Maldives’ democratic republic. While not as lively as Independence Day, you can bet centres like Malé will still put on a good show. Don’t miss “Republic Day foods”, huni hakuru folhi coconut cakes and masroshi fish-stuffed pancakes.
Maldives in December
With peak temperatures of 29°C and the weather a world away from the winter back home, the Maldives is the ideal destination to escape the cold.
Fishermen's Day is celebrated in the Maldives on December 10th each year as a tribute to their contribution to the local economy. Christmas and New Year is celebrated in the Maldives for tourists. Each resort will have its own celebrations of gala dinners, fireworks, barbecues on the beach and parties.
Best time to visit the Maldives frequently asked questions
Between December and April is the best time to visit the Maldives. The climate is hot with a low chance of rainfall making it the perfect time to enjoy the idyllic beaches.
The dry season in the Maldives is from December to April. These months see the least amount of rain, low humidity and temperatures remain consistent at around 28-30°C.
The rainy season, known as South West Monsoon, in the Maldives usually runs from May through to November. Expect short showers, high humidity and temperatures of 28-30°C during these months.
It is usually off-peak season in the Maldives from May to November as these months are a bit wetter.
The peak season in the Maldives is from mid-December to April, when you will see bigger crowds and an increase in holiday prices. Christmas, New Year and during the school holidays are the busiest periods on the islands.
The low season in the Maldives is between June to November, however, summer holidays have been increasingly popular so it is advised to always book at least 6 months in advance.
