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Top Holidays

When is the best time to holiday in the Maldives?

  • Travel 101
  • By Rachel Lane
  • Published 08 June 2021
  • Revised 17 July 2023
  • Published 08 June 2021
  • Revised 17 July 2023

The Maldives has an excellent reputation as a luxurious sun-seeking holiday destination - and with good reason! Due to its proximity to the equator, the Maldives experiences a monsoon climate with year-round warm weather and an offering of around 8-hours of sunshine every day. Average temperatures hover between 25°C and 30°C throughout the whole year and this consistent warmth even sticks around in the evenings, with night-time temperatures only dropping by a few degrees at most.

Traditional calendar seasons are not so noticeable in the Maldives, instead the islands experience a split in the year with just two distinctive seasons. It is important to learn the best times of the year to visit the region if you wish to avoid heavy rainfall.

The dry season in the Maldives is between November and April, with January to April considered the best time to holiday in the region. During this period temperatures are very warm, and you can expect clear blue skies most days with little-to-no wind or rainfall. From May to October, the wet monsoon season arrives and with it a noticeable increase in humidity, cloudiness as well as more tropical spells of rainfall. During this time of the year, especially in the northern islands, visitors should expect heavier winds and rougher seas.

WINGED BOOTS WISDOM: Even though the Maldives has these two distinctive seasons, we still consider it a year-round destination for holidaymakers, as it depends on your wish list of activities and conditions. When the winds are higher in June and July for example the region is very popular with surfers because the conditions are perfect. If you are interested in diving while you are away, the dry season offers outstanding visibility in the water however, the wet season brings slightly cooler sea temperatures and along with it more diverse marine life…there is a time of year that is right for everyone! 
 

Maldives Weather Highlights

Average Breakdown
Hottest Month: April = highs of 32°C
Coldest Months: July to January = highs of 30°C
Highest Rainfall: October = 230mm 
Sunlight Hours: 8 hours
Indian Ocean Temperature: 29°C
Humidity: 80%

ANANTARA DHIGU MALDIVES RESORT

What is the weather like in the Maldives in January?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range: 25 – 29°C
Monthly Rainfall: 75mm
Humidity: 78%
Sunlight Hours: 8 hours
Indian Ocean Temperature: 28°C


It is peak season for holidays to the Maldives in January, here’s why…

It is dry season in the Maldives in January, this means there is low rainfall and plenty of sunshine, with any clouds or precipitation passing quickly. The average daily temperatures hover comfortably around 27°C. 

January is a very popular time to visit the Maldives, it is a great place to escape to for some winter sun. Visibility underwater is also amazing at this time of year making it great for snorkelling and diving experiences.

Discover a nirvana you will never forget at Anantara Dhigu.

COMO COCOA ISLAND

What is the weather like in the Maldives in February?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range: 26 - 28°C
Monthly Rainfall: 50mm
Humidity: 77%
Sunlight Hours: 9 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature: 28°C


It is peak season for holidays to the Maldives in February, here’s why…

If you want as little rainfall as possible, February is the driest month in the Maldives. The average daily temperatures stay around 27°C and drop very little overnight. The heat combined with the long hours of sunshine and little to no clouds, make February a perfect time to visit the region if you are looking for sun, sea and sand.

In February, visibility underwater is outstanding which means it is a great time to visit if you plan to enjoy lots of snorkelling or diving experiences. 

Spoil yourself at COMO Cocoa Island, a haven of serenity. Discover more

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CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND

What is the weather like in the Maldives in March?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range: 27 - 30°C
Monthly Rainfall: 73mm
Humidity: 77%
Sunlight Hours: 9 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature: 29°C


It is peak season for holidays to the Maldives in March, here’s why…

In March you can expect long days with up to nine-hours of sunshine. Temperatures rise slightly this month with average daily temperatures sitting around 29°C, but comfortably reaching 30-31°C most days. While it is possible to experience some rainfall during your stay, the showers tend to fall in short bursts of rain and offer relief from the combined hot temperatures and humidity. 

In March, visibility underwater for snorkelling and diving is fantastic and it also marks the beginning of surfing season in the Maldives.

With 12 dining experiences within the resort, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a very tempting option for a long stay in this idyllic destination. 

CONSTANCE MOOFUSHI

What is the weather like in the Maldives in April?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range:
27 - 31°C
Monthly Rainfall:
132mm
Humidity:
78%
Sunlight Hours:
8 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature:
30°C


It is peak season for holidays to the Maldives in April, here’s why…

April is often one of the most popular times to visit the Maldives. In this month the temperatures rise, with a daily average easily reaching 29°C. The ocean is also blissfully warm at this time of year making beach days and water sports a great choice. In April you will notice slightly higher humidity then previous months as well as more rainfall towards the end of the month as the Maldives climate begins to shift into the monsoon season.

Easter holidays often fall in April and it is a very popular time to visit the region. This month also marks the end of the official dry season in the Maldives as the climate begins to shift. 

Providing a combination of incredible beach villas and sublime water villas, the accommodation at Constance Moofushi is first class.  

SIX SENSES LAAMU

What is the weather like in the Maldives in May?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range: 26 - 30°C
Monthly Rainfall: 216mm
Humidity: 80%
Sunlight Hours: 7 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature: 30°C

It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in May, here’s why…

In May you can expect warm temperatures with an average of 28°C as well as long periods of uninterrupted sunshine. As the beginning of the monsoon season suggests however, you are also likely to experience more tropical storms that will bring short sharp bursts of heavy rainfall.

May marks the official beginning of the wet season in the Maldives. At this time of year underwater visibility becomes slightly reduced due to the increase in plankton in the ocean. This is a great thing for divers who are hoping to sight creatures like the manta ray or whale shark.


Six Senses Laamu is located on a spectacular private island, and although secluded boasts six superb restaurants and a jungle cinema.

MALDIVES RESORT FOUR SEASONS LANDAA GIRAAVARU

What is the weather like in the Maldives in June?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range: 26 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall: 172mm
Humidity: 80%
Sunlight Hours: 6.5 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature: 29°C

It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in June, here’s why…

June temperatures sit comfortably around 28°C, although often still reach 30°C during the day. Daylight hours are at their shortest at this time of year and you can only expect around six hours of sunlight. Humidity levels however remain very high throughout June, which means there is a large chance of rainfall throughout the month. In the northern atolls you can expect stronger winds and rougher seas, making them a fantastic location for those wishing to spend time surfing, kiteboarding, or sailing. 

Although underwater visibility is lower in June than at other times of the year, the increase in plankton brings more diverse sea life to the region including manta rays and whale sharks.

Enjoy total escapism at Maldives Resort Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, complete with picture perfect white sands and dazzling scenery.

JOALI MALDIVES

What is the weather like in the Maldives in July?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range:
26 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall:
147mm
Humidity:
79%
Sunlight Hours:
7.5 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature:
29°C


It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in July, here’s why…

In July, daylight hours are around seven hours. The days are hot and humid, with temperatures hovering around 28°C. Due to the high humidity you can predict a large chance of rainfall throughout the month. In the northern atolls there are stronger winds and rougher seas, making them a great location for those wishing to go surfing.

Underwater visibility is low during the wet season however divers can enjoy the increased variety of sea life the increased plankton brings to the area, including manta rays and whale sharks.

Anything from ordinary, Joali Maldives offers a thoroughly luxurious island experience, complete with modern interiors and four fine-dining restaurants.

SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI

What is the weather like in the Maldives in August?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range:
26 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall:
188mm
Humidity:
80%
Sunlight Hours:
7 hours
Indian Ocean Temperature:
29°C

 

It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in August, here’s why…

August offers on average seven hours of sunshine each day. Average temperatures comfortably rest around 28°C. The only relief from the high humidity is the short tropical downpours that can be expected throughout the month.

Underwater visibility is lowered in August due to the increased plankton, however, this brings a more exciting array sea life to the region – divers take note.

With white sandy beaches and a crystal-clear turquoise lagoon, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is the very epitome of an island paradise.

LUX SOUTH ARI ATOLL RESORT VILLAS

What is the weather like in the Maldives in September?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range:
25 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall:
243mm
Humidity:
81%
Sunlight Hours:
6.5 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature:
29°C


It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in September, here’s why…

September is one of the wettest months in the Maldives, with the monthly rainfall averaging more than 240mm. Throughout the month you can expect maximum temperatures of around 30°C and enjoy on average 6.5-hours of daylight hours.

September tends to be an unpopular time to visit the Maldives, due to the high rainfall however, you are more likely to find lower prices for traveling around this time of year.

Discover a spectacular underwater world from Lux South Ari Atoll Resort Villas’ very own diving centre. With an array of fascinating dive sites to explore and tropical marine life to witness you are sure to be mesmerised. 

OBLU BY ATMOSPHERE AT HELENGELI MALDIVES

What is the weather like in the Maldives in October?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range:
25 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall:
230mm
Humidity:
82%
Sunlight Hours:
7.5 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature:
28°C


It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in October, here’s why…

You can expect the highest humidity in the region during the month of October, and with that the prediction for a large amount of rainfall. Average daily temperatures are around 27°C and sunlight hours are on average 7.5-hours. 

October marks the last month of the wet season. It provides the best opportunity for sighting whale sharks and manta rays. Due to the high chance of rainfall, it isn’t a popular time to visit the region, although this does mean you can find some excellent prices.

Looking for an all-inclusive resort with awe-inspiring sunsets? Look no further than Oblu By Atmosphere At Helengeli Maldives.

ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH

What is the weather like in the Maldives in November?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range: 24 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall: 201mm
Humidity: 82%
Sunlight Hours: 7.5 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature: 29°C


It is low season for holidays to the Maldives in November, here’s why…

November daily temperatures are on average 27°C. Humidity and rainfall remain high during this month, although showers generally pass quickly to reveal blue skies.  

November marks the beginning of the dry season in the Maldives and is a good time to visit especially if you don’t want to miss the visiting manta rays.

Located on its own private island with 6km of private beach, One&Only Reethi Rah really does set the bar with this heavenly Indian Ocean resort. 

PARK HYATT MALDIVES HADAHAA

What is the weather like in the Maldives in December?

Average Breakdown
Temperature Range:
25 - 29°C
Monthly Rainfall: 232mm
Humidity: 81%
Sunlight Hours: 7 hours 
Indian Ocean Temperature: 28°C


It is peak season for holidays to the Maldives in December, here’s why…

Although December is officially the dry season, you should still expect tropical rain spells, especially towards the first half of the month. The temperatures in December are comfortable with an average daily warmth of 27°C. And you can expect long days of up to seven-hours of sunlight.

The Maldives holiday in December is an excellent choice for some winter sun. 

Discover a luxurious sanctuary of your own at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. The resort offers sweeping ocean views, three world-class restaurants and a relaxing spa.

We can help guide and plan your holiday with some incredible specialist tips on where to stay, what to do and where to eat to make your next holiday the best yet. Fill out an enquiry form here or call 0203 816 0985 to get a free quote and begin creating a tailor-made escape that is perfect for you.

Tagged: Maldives
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