The Complete Guide to The Best Time And Month to Visit The Maldives

Crystal clear turquoise waters that lazily lap at sun kissed sandy beaches, clear and sunny skies punctuated by a stray cloud - this is the Maldives. The Maldives are home to some of the finest and most luxurious resorts in the world. This idyllic island nation is #1 on every traveller's dream beach destination bucket list. Heaven on Earth, the Maldives is also known as The Sunny Side of Life, where the sun shines all year round, making it the ideal anytime holiday destination. The Maldivian culture boasts some of the best hospitality in the world, with the warmest locals, tantalising cuisine, and hundreds of islands to explore. 

The Maldives is made up of 20 atolls, which are clusters of islands. Although there are 1,192 islands, only 187 are inhabited, where luxurious beach resorts and hotels are located. The largest island in the Maldives is Malé, also the capital of the Maldives, with its largest airport, and one of the most densely populated island nations and cities in the world.

Best Time to Visit Maldives   

Although any time is a great time to visit the balmy island nation that is the Maldives, there are excellent times to visit to enjoy the most. The best time to go to the Maldives is between November and April, when the weather is warm and balmy. Average temperatures are around 29°C. 

Getting to the Maldives is straightforward - you have to take a flight to Malé, where all incoming flights land. Unless you're staying at a hotel or resort in crowded Malé, you'll need to travel to your hotel or resort island. Depending on what resort you're checking into, you will have to travel from the Malé airport to your island's resort via speedboat, seaplane, or chartered aircrafts! Many travellers don't realise this, and may not account for the added expenses. 

However, every Maldivian vacation is truly worth the time, resources, and money spent, because it is a once in a lifetime magical experience! Let’s find out the best time to travel to the Maldives. 

Best Season to Visit Maldives  

Maldives is breathtaking year-round. You can see right to the bottom of the sea bed in the Maldivian waters, scuba dive in some of the most majestic coral reefs, and soak up the sun on the glistening beaches that boast powdery soft sand and a variety of seafood that's next to none! Learn about the 3 travel "seasons" to find an ideal time for you to travel to the Maldives. 

Peak Season

December to April is summer in the Maldives and peak season. It's also the best season to visit the Maldives. The weather is pleasant, without a chance of cloudy skies, making it the perfect time to bask in a Maldivian sunset and wake up to the warm glow of the rising sun. Peak season is also the most expensive season to fly to, get around, and stay in the Maldives. Hotels and resorts may have limited availability, but will offer plenty for visitors to do! 

Shoulder Season 

March to April is shoulder season in the Maldives, when you can get better deals on flights and accommodation across the island nation. In between peak and low season, shoulder season offers you the chance to explore the Maldives at your pace, sans the maddening crowds and influx of tourists. You can enjoy pleasant weather until April, after which summer kicks in. Enjoy surfing from March through October! 

Low or Off Season

Monsoon season in the Maldives, from May to August, is its low or off-season. Although the weather may be pleasant, the days are punctuated by spells of rain that may continue for hours on end. Hotels and resorts may shut down scuba diving, island hopping, and boating activities during the monsoon season. You can snag great deals on flight and resort prices, when there are fewer travellers. Even if it's rainy, the Maldives is still majestic! 

Best Month to Visit Maldives  

Find out more about the best time to go to the Maldives throughout the year, with our month by month guide. You'll find handy tips when you plan a trip to this gorgeous island nation in this article! The Maldives is the beach-lovers playground, offering everything from surfing, to boating, island hopping, to fine dining, and warm hospitality by the friendly locals. There's nothing like a once in a lifetime Maldives vacation. 

Maldives in January 

While it's winter across most of the world, it's always sunny in the Maldives! January is hot, sunny, and humid. Although you may occasionally witness rain - it's very fleeting and you'll be back to your scheduled sunshine in no time. This month is also part of the peak season when flights and accommodation may be booked or expensive, so be sure to plan ahead. 

• Average Temperature 

  • 27°C (80°F)

• Reason to visit in January 

  • Hot balmy weather 

  • Ideal for watersports 

  • Perfect time for scuba diving 

  • Explore the coral reefs 

• Know before you go

  • Pack loose, flowy clothes or resort wear, to flaunt at idyllic locations across your resort. 

  • Take large floppy hats to protect against the sun, along with sunblock. 

  • Expect fleeting rains, your hotel will provide an umbrella if you didn't pack one. 

  • Flights and accommodation are expensive and in high demand so book early! 

Maldives in February

Among one of the drier months in the Maldives, February is a perfect month to travel to this spectacular holiday destination. Expect up to 10 hours of sunshine each day, ideal for sunbathing, and indulging in water sports. Catch up on your dream of diving and snorkelling among the coral reefs and Maldives aquatic life this month, while the visibility is still great. 

• Temperature and Rainfall 

  • 30°C (86°F) 

  • Less than 70 mm of rainfall

• Reasons to visit in February 

  • Average temperatures of 30°C

• What to know before you travel

  • Don't forget travel insurance on your Maldives holiday! 

  • Pack loose, flowy clothes or resort wear, to flaunt at idyllic locations across your resort. 

  • Take large floppy hats to protect against the sun, along with sunblock. 

  • Expect fleeting rains, your hotel will provide an umbrella if you didn't pack one. 

  • Flights and accommodation are expensive and in high demand so book early! 

Maldives in March

March in the Maldives is spring but the days grow warmer, averaging 31°C. The weather is ideal for lazy and idyllic days on the beach, tanning or sunbathing with your favourite ice cold drink at hand. You may experience a rare shower of rain, which is welcome in the rising temperature. If you want to indulge in the iconic diving and snorkelling, now is the right time. March is perfect for these water activities, and marks the beginning of the surfing season in the Maldives.

• Temperature & Rainfall 

  • 31°C (87°F)

  • 0mm rainfall

• Why should you visit this month

  • 40% chance of a perfect sunny day

  • 60% chance of seeing a mixture of sunshine and clouds

• What to know before you travel

  • Don't forget travel insurance on your Maldives holiday! 

  • Pack loose, flowy clothes or resort wear, to flaunt at idyllic locations across your resort.

  • Take large floppy hats to protect against the sun, along with sunblock. 

  • Expect fleeting rains, your hotel will provide an umbrella if you didn't pack one. 

  • Take your beach slippers and flip flops.

Maldives in April

April's rare showers bring May flowers! This is the perfect month to visit the Maldives. The weather is pleasant, not too hot, nor rainy. You can enjoy beach activities and watersports during the day and cool off in the cosy evenings with walks on the beach as you catch the magnificent sunsets. Be sure to spend a couple of hours marvelling at the aquatic flora and fauna, a sight you won't be able to find anywhere else on Earth! Average temperature is around 30° C. Enjoy diving and snorkelling before the beginning of the monsoon season when visibility is compromised. 

• Temperature & Rainfall

  • 31°C (87°F)

  • 100mm rainfall 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Pleasant weather

  • End of official dry season

  • Light rain showers

  • Water visibility for diving and snorkelling is good

• What to know before you travel 

  • Pack loose, flowy clothes or resort wear, to flaunt at idyllic locations across your resort 

  • Take large floppy hats to protect against the sun, along with sunblock 

  • Expect fleeting rains, your hotel will provide an umbrella if you didn't pack one 

  • Take your beach slippers and flip flops

Maldives in May

The Maldives has a dry summer season and a wet monsoon season. May marks the beginning of the wet monsoon season, where you can expect frequent rains that may last hours during a stretch. While the islands are still shining in their Maldivian glory, high precipitation, and strong winds aren't conducive for enjoying watersports or beach activities. Opt for indoor activities including spa and massage sessions and wellness retreats that your hotel or resort may offer. 

• Temperature & Rainfall

  • 20°C (68°F) 

  • 211mm rainfall

• Why should you visit this month

  • Off-season, less tourist crowds and better deals on airfare and accommodation. 

• What to know before you travel

  • Pack light coats, an umbrella, raincoats and sandals. 

  • Bring sunscreen, don't let the pleasant weather in May fool you.

Maldives in June

June is the perfect time to visit Maldives, since it is off season, when the island nation has the lowest tourism activity. You'll find affordable flight and accommodation rates in this month, making it one of the cheapest months to visit the Maldives. Enjoy the "sunny side of life" with warm weather and fun in the sun activities without the maddening crowds. 

• Temperature & Rainfall

  • 28°C (82°F) 

  • 0mm rain 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Low off-season means less crowds and cheaper hotel rates and flight tickets. 

  • Enjoy activities without the crowd.  

• What to know before you travel

  • Pleasant weather and sunshine.

  • Pack your floppy hats, visors, loose pants, dresses, flowy skirts, sunscreen, flip flops or sandals, and waterproof your tech. 

Maldives in July

July is the perfect time for you to soak up Maldives culture with outdoor entertainment, activities, and dining! Right in summer and the off season, July in Maldives is less crowded. The days get longer, so expect around 7 hours of sun! At the same time, higher humidity means you'll also get rain, so be sure to take a raincoat or an umbrella. Enjoy waking up at sunrise to witness the sun spread its light across the waters and close off your day with a breathtaking Maldivian sunset! 

• Temperature & Rainfall

  • 28°C (82°F)

  • 0mm rain 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Off season 

  • Less crowds 

  • Better flight and accommodation rates 

  • Pleasant weather 

• What to know before you travel

  • Perfect time to travel with pleasant weather 

  • Expect rain 

  • Pack summer clothes and gear including your floppy hats, visors, loose pants, dresses, flowy skirts, sunscreen, flip flops or sandals, and waterproof your tech. 

  • If you're a watersports enthusiast, take it along or rent it. 

Maldives in August

August is a great time to visit the Maldives if you enjoy a leisurely holiday! This island nation has pleasant weather, punctuated by rains in August, in the middle of the monsoon season. Temperatures average 30°C and you can enjoy up to seven hours of sun every day. The monsoon rains are unique because they're tropical and fall in short sharp showers. 

• Temperature & Rainfall

  • 26°C (78°F) 

  • 150mm rain 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Pleasant weather

  • Low season 

  • Cheap airfare and hotel and resort prices 

  • Leisurely holiday 

• What to know before you travel

  • Pack loose, flowy clothes, hats, and sunscreen. 

  • Don't forget your umbrella and raincoat, although you can borrow from your hotel or resort. 

Maldives in September

Monsoon season hits its peak in September, which is one of the wettest months in the Maldives. You can expect rainy spells accompanied by pleasant weather averaging 30°C, with sunny skies most of the day. Although this isn't an ideal time to indulge in diving due to poor visibility, you can spot harmless and beautiful whale sharks, manta rays, parrot fish, and varieties of coral if you venture out to sea. 

• Temperature & Rainfall 

  • 26°C (78°F) 

  • 211mm rain  

• Why you should travel this month

  • Off-season without the tourist crowds

  • Cheaper airfare 

  • Accommodation rates are also affordable, and usually have rooms available.

• What to know before you travel

  • Wettest month, along with October.

  • Pack umbrellas and raincoats, although your hotel or resort may provide it to you.

  • Diving may be difficult because of low visibility.

  • Enjoy sunshine up to 7 hours a day in between the rains.

Maldives in October

Smack in the middle of the monsoon season, October experiences the highest rainfall averages, along with high humidity and. It may rain the whole day, so be prepared to indulge in a spa day or relaxing massage by the sea, and finish off the day dining on sumptuous local and international fare. If you don't mind foregoing outdoor activities for exciting ones your resort provides, then October is the cheapest time to fly to and stay in the Maldives. October marks the end of the Maldives’ surfing season.  

• Temperature & Rainfall

  • 26°C (78°F) 

  • 0 mm rainfall 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Low season makes for less tourists and crowds 

  • Cheap rates on tickets and accommodation 

• What to know before you travel

  • Wettest month

  • Pack umbrellas and raincoats, although your hotel or resort may provide it to you

  • Diving may be difficult because of low visibility 

  • Enjoy sunshine up to 7 hours a day in between the rains

Maldives in November 

Autumn and the monsoon season in the Maldives comes to a close in November. This month, you can expect pleasant weather, with temperatures averaging 30°C. The official wet season is over, but you may experience the occasional rain shower that doesn't last too long. With sunny days, opt to head out to sea, scuba diving in the coral reefs, or island hopping! Don't forget to take breathtaking holiday portrait pictures set against the majestic Maldivian waters. 

• Temperature & Rainfall 

  • 30°C (82°F) 

  • 0mm rainfall 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Weather is still pleasant before summer

  • Peak season: higher rates on travel and accommodation 

• What to know before you travel

  • More crowds so plan accordingly 

  • Pack light and summery clothes as the weather warms down

Maldives in December

December is the best month to travel to the Maldives! Although this is one of the drier months in the Maldives, it's also the ideal time to enjoy watersports, outdoor activities, and island hopping. Because it's not the monsoon season, you can enjoy warm weather, clear and sunny skies dotted with stray clouds, and idyllic sunset and sunrises. 

• Temperature & Rainfall 

  • 30°C (82°F) 

  • 0mm rainfall 

• Why should you visit this month

  • Warm weather 

  • Tourist favourite month to travel 

• What to know before you travel

  • Pack light summery clothes 

Cheapest Time to Visit Maldives  

Autumn is the cheapest time to visit the Maldives! Book your flight and accommodation during the months of October or even September to indulge in pure Maldivian bliss on your island vacation. You can enjoy this island nation's beauty without the maddening crowds although it may be rainy. It's cheaper to fly to and stay in Maldivian resorts and hotels at this time. Don't forget to choose an all-inclusive board when you book a resort or hotel, so that you can enjoy all 3 meals without paying extra! 

Expensive Time to Visit Maldives  

The most expensive time to visit Maldives is during the summer, which runs from December to April. This is also peak season, when the weather is pleasant, without a chance of cloudy skies, making it the perfect time to bask in a Maldivian sunset and wake up to the warm glow of the rising sun at sunrise. Peak season is also the most expensive season to fly to, get around, and stay in the Maldives. Hotels and resorts may have limited availability, but will offer plenty for visitors to do! Book well in advance to get to Male, and then your island from there. Don't forget to book an all-inclusive board, so you don't need to pay separately for breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner. 

Events in the Maldives 

February 

Maldives Luxe 2023 in Malé, February 1st-6th

April 

2023 Maldives Couples Getaway, April 28th

May 

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Music In Paradise, May 13th

July 

Independence Day, July 26th

October 

Amilla Festival Of Life, October 24th onwards  

November 

W Maldives “What She Shakes” Series, November 20th

December 

Fishermans Day, December 20th

Explore the Maldives 

Malé City

Everyone has to touch down at Malé, so if you have a couple of hours, or if you're staying in town, be sure to visit these iconic places:

• Visit the Grand Friday Mosque

• Discover historical treasures at the National Museum

• Visit the Tsunami Museum.

• Go for a walk at lush Asrani Bageecha

• Shop for souvenirs at Majeedhee Magu

• Buy maldives fish, a dried and desiccated way to enjoy fish all year round

Above Water Bungalows 

A Maldives holiday isn't complete without a stay at one of the fabled above water bungalows right on the Maldivian waters! If you're lucky, your bungalow or water villa will have a glass bottom floor so you can enjoy sea views throughout the day. Most of these accommodations come with a private deck where you can sunbathe in peace and dive off of, into the great Maldivian waters. 

Island Hopping 

Even if you're vacationing at a plush resort with sweeping views of the waters, you can opt to go island hopping. Visit islands around your resort, try local foods, and marvel at the marine life along the way. 

Glass-bottom Boat

Have you ever gone on a glass-bottomed boat? Hire one, available at most resorts, to witness boating like never before. You can enjoy an endless view of the spectacular ocean so you don't miss stingrays, a variety of fish, and even coral while boating! 

Bioluminescent Beach

Vaadhoo Island is 8 km away from Male. You can take a speedboat to get here. This is a small island known for its bioluminescent phenomena which happens between mid-summer through winter if you're lucky. 

Coral Reefs 

The Maldives are home to some of the most beautiful and protected coral reefs. The coral reefs you'll find here are the hard corals, which are an integral part of the Maldives' coral reef ecosystem. These corals grow in colonies and every single individual is a tiny animal called a polyp, which grows to create layers of calcium carbonate under their bodies. 

Scuba Diving 

If you enjoy watersports, you'll love scuba diving in the Maldives, where you get crystal clear waters and every variety of aquatic and tropical marine life. Expect to see parrot fish, harmless whale sharks, manta rays, angelfish and so many more. 

More About the Best Time to Visit Maldives 

Best Time for Honeymoon 

The best time to visit Maldives for a honeymoon is in winter. A Maldivian winter is romantic, and tops most newlyweds list of honeymoon destinations. 

• Cosy up on the pristine sparkling beaches in the evening for a sumptuous candlelit dinner under the stars. 

• Wake up in the morning to a spectacular sunrise at the edge of crystal clear waters from the comfort of your overwater bungalow

• Enjoy lazy beach days, hand-in-hand with your partner in the most exotic destination on Earth 

• Indulge in a couples spa day, rounding off the night with a delicious dinner by the bay!

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

What month is the Maldives hottest?

The Maldives is tropical with pleasant weather year round and a monsoon season. The hottest months are March and April with maximum temperatures around 32°C.

What is the rainy season in Maldives?

The rainy season, also known as the monsoon, is between April and October. Bring your umbrellas and raincoats along during this off-season! 

Best time to visit Maldives with family? 

The Maldives is a fun and beautiful beach vacation destination for families! From fun in the sun, to child-themed activities, families can enjoy nature, explore tide pools, and wonder at the majestic scenery at any beach resort across the Maldives. 

Best time to visit Maldives from India? 

If you're travelling from India to the Maldives vacation, you may want to travel during December. However, if you enjoy travelling at a leisurely pace, plan your itinerary during the shoulder season!

Is it a good time to go to the Maldives in December?

December is peak tourist season and summer in this island nation! The perfect time to visit, December is also the most expensive time as many people fly south to the Maldives for the winter. Book in advance to avoid disappointment during this busy season. 

Best time to visit Malé, Maldives? 

You can visit Malé year-round, as it is Maldives capital, and has several tourist attractions and hotels! Avoid the monsoon season, and you're good to go, relaxing at the beaches, sipping on coconut water, and dining on treats from the sea.

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.