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Best Time to Visit Maldives

Team AckoOct 12, 2023

Although any time is a great time to visit the island nation, the netizens say that the best time to visit Maldives is between November and April. During this period, the weather is warm, nice, and cool, with average temperatures of around 29°C. This is the peak season, and the Maldives is bustling with tourists from all over the world. If you are planning to visit during this time, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as the resorts tend to get fully booked.

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Best time to visit Maldives from India - All about seasons

The Maldives experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Since the Maldives is so close to the equator, the country doesn't really have a winter season. When the wet season ends in November, the country returns to dry weather. However, if you're planning a trip, it might be helpful to know that we like categorising the months into peak, shoulder, and low seasons. Here's a breakdown of the seasons in the Maldives - hope it helps!

Peak Season (November to April)

Novemebr to April is summer in the Maldives and peak season. It's also the best season to visit 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 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)

March to April is shoulder season in the Maldives, when you can get better deals on flights and accommodation across the island nation, making it one of the best time to go to Maldives. 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 (May to August)

Monsoon season in the Maldives, from May to August, is its low or off-season. Despite the fact that the weather may be pleasant, there are times when it may rain 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 flights and resort prices when there are fewer travellers. Even if it's rainy, the Maldives is still majestic!

Best Months to Visit Maldives

Find out more about the best time to go to Maldives throughout the year with our month-by-month guide.

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 accommodations 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 one of Maldives best time to visit. 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 don't pack one.
Flights and accommodations are expensive and in high demand, so book early!

Events in February:

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

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. If you want to indulge in iconic diving and snorkelling, now is the right time. March is one of the best month to visit Maldives for these water activities and marks the beginning of the surfing season.

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 don't pack one.
Take your beach slippers and flip-flops.

Maldives in April

April's rare showers bring May flowers! This can be the Maldives best time to visit. The weather is pleasant—not too hot or 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 magnificent sunsets. Be sure to spend a couple of hours marvelling at the aquatic flora and fauna, a sight you won't find anywhere else on Earth! The 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 the 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 don't pack one
Take your beach slippers and flip-flops.

Events in April:

2023 Maldives Couples Getaway, April 28th

Maldives in May

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 to 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.

Events in May:

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

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 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 fewer 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 to soak up Maldives culture with outdoor entertainment, activities, and dining! Right in summer and the off season, July in the 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 your day with a breathtaking Maldivian sunset!

Temperature & Rainfall

28°C (82°F)
0mm rain

Why should you visit this month?

Off-season
Fewer 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.

Events in July:

Independence Day, July 26th

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 should you 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 for 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. 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 forgoing outdoor activities for the 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 make for fewer 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

Events in October:

Amilla Festival Of Life, October 24th onwards

Maldives in November

Autumn and the monsoon season in the Maldives come 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. On sunny days, head out to sea, scuba diving in the coral reefs, or go island hopping! Don't forget to take breathtaking holiday portrait pictures 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

Events in November:

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

Maldives in December

December is the best time to travel to 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 with stray clouds, and idyllic sunsets 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

Events in December:

Fishermans Day, December 20th

More About the Best Time to Visit Maldives

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 they will offer plenty for visitors to do! Don't forget to book an all-inclusive board, so you don't need to pay separately for breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner.

Best time to visit Maldives for a Honeymoon

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

Cosy 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!

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.

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.