Best time to visit the Maldives

Visiting the Maldives in February

February is the Maldives’ driest and sunniest month of the year, averaging a glorious 10 hours of sunshine per day. Visibility is clear and the water is warm – ideal for snorkelling or scuba diving. Book well in advance as this is one of the most desirable times to holiday here. 

Visiting the Maldives in March

March is the second driest month in the Maldives. It’s also warm, with average daily temperatures of around 29 degrees Celsius. Surfing season starts, and visibility for diving is excellent, so it’s a great time for an active holiday.

Visiting the Maldives in April

April in the Maldives is hot and humid. As the dry season begins to give way, there’s a slightly greater risk of rainfall, though more so towards the end of the month. That generally means lower prices and thinner crowds.

Visiting the Maldives in May & June

The monsoon season is in full swing between May and June, bringing rainclouds and strong winds to this far-flung chain of islands. Despite the risk of storms, the temperature remains high – averaging 26-30 degrees Celsius. With falling rain comes falling prices, so those willing to risk unsettled weather will find these idyllic isles more affordable and secluded than during peak season.

Visiting the Maldives in July

Maldivians celebrate their country’s independence on 26 July, and it’s common to see parades and other festivities marking the day.

Brief but heavy downpours are to be expected in July, and visibility in the water is lower. However, you’re likely to spot more manta ray and whale shark at this time of year, and the warm water is perfect for a swim.

Visiting the Maldives in August

Whilst there are many adult-only options in the Maldives – it’s a renowned honeymoon destination, after all – a trip to this archipelago can also be a fantastic family affair. August isn’t the sunniest month, but still promises an average of seven hours of sunshine a day, and hotels launch a range of tempting offers ideal for families. So, gather up your loved ones and spend a week or two in August on tropical shores.

Visiting the Maldives in September

Hot, humid September is often the Maldives’ wettest month, with half of its days likely to see some rainfall. The upside to the downpours means you can save on accommodation, and it’s easier to find a quiet stretch of beach all to yourself.

More plankton in the sea during the wet season means lower visibility, but it also means more whale shark and manta ray to spot during a diving expedition. 

Visiting the Maldives in October

October is one of the final months of the wet season, typified by up to 220 millimetres of rain falling over half of the days. Despite the chance of rain, the water is still warm, and you can enjoy an average of eight hours of sunshine when the clouds do break. It’s still low season, which means plenty of offers and availability for the savvy traveller.

Visiting the Maldives in November

November marks the shift from the low, rainy season to the high, dry season – although you should still expect brief showers. It’s also the last month of the Maldives’ surf season. The temperature reaches highs of 29 degrees Celsius, dipping to a comfortable 25 degrees come night time. The sea is also temptingly warm, making the month’s calmer days ideal for water sports.

Visiting the Maldives in December

December in the Maldives continues the shift into the dry season, with showers becoming fewer as the month goes on.

The Maldives is a popular choice for a winter sun holiday, and hotels host all sorts of events to celebrate Christmas and New Year. If it’s value you’re after, look to travel nearer the beginning of December – before the holiday rush.