The Maldives is never a bad idea, but we’ve got the low-down on when exactly the best time to visit the dreamy destination is.
Some destinations are just gorgeous year-round, but when is the best time to go to the Maldives to make the most of the weather in this dream destination? Whether your goal is to relax with perfect sunshine, or you’d ideally like to skip peak season to avoid crowds, planning in advance is crucial ahead of a trip as significant as this.
Chances are, you want to visit the Maldives because you’ve seen how truly beautiful it is. Dotted like ink blots in the clear, tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is an archipelago made up of more than 1,000 islands, 200 of which are inhabited. Historically a popular honeymoon destination, the Maldives has shifted to accommodate solo travelers and multi-generational holidays. Between the consistently hot weather, unspoilt sandy beaches, high-design hotels, and award-winning restaurants, it’s hard to find fault with this small but mighty contender for winter sunshine.
However, there’s no denying that it’s a bucket list destination for many, so it’s understandable that you’d want to plan as much as possible to find the perfect time to go. Here’s what you need to know.
When is the Best Time to Go to the Maldives?
There’s no bad time to visit the Maldives, but few places offer such a perfect antidote to the UK’s long, dark winters. It truly has it all: upwards of eight hours of sun per day, average temperatures of around 28°C, an ocean teeming with wildlife, and some of the smartest hotels in the world.
For many, the best time to visit the Maldives is December to April; this is the dry season, characterized by little rain and low humidity. Visitors can expect bright blue skies, cloudless days, and still, balmy evenings. Wet season starts in May and ends in October, featuring considerably more rain and occasionally strong winds. For scuba divers and snorkellers, visibility is particularly good during the dry season, as a result of currents flowing from the northeast. The eastern atolls enjoy the best visibility, with whale sharks and manta rays most commonly spotted between August and November.
Moreover, November and April are considered ‘shoulder season’, when room rates and flight prices are lower, allowing travelers to make significant savings while enjoying average temperatures of 31°C.
Cheapest Time to Visit the Maldives
The cheapest time to visit the Maldives is during the low season, which spans from May to November. During this period, hotel rates drop substantially, and visitors may also find complimentary transfers, free nights, and room upgrades offered regularly. While you might encounter some cloudy days and light showers, temperatures typically remain in the high 20s, making it still a delightful time for a vacation. For additional tips on saving, consider swapping the seaplane for a speedboat to save over £200, and keep an eye out for new hotels that often offer introductory deals in the first few months of operation.
What’s Winter Like in the Maldives?
Whether you’ve got your PADI or you just fancy a fun dive, experiencing the archipelago’s underwater world is magical. From native corals, colorful anemones, and otherworldly nudibranchs to docile sea turtles, swooping manta rays, and curious (but harmless) whale sharks, the excellent visibility makes it one of the best places to witness marine life in its natural habitat. Many resorts employ marine biologists who enable budding conservationists of every age to learn more about environmental preservation and make a positive impact. Indulgent infinity pools and white sandy beaches descending into shallow, sparkling waters are perfect for a paddle; secluded picnic spots and private terraces enhance the dining experience; overwater villas elevate relaxation; wellness centers and bespoke spa services allow visitors to fully embrace the tranquil lifestyle.
Maldives During Christmas and New Year
During the festive season in the Maldives, the atmosphere becomes special. Despite the Maldives’ quiet, low-key attitude, many resorts know how to celebrate and often host festive activities. From Christmas tree lighting ceremonies to Santa hat-making classes for kids, the magic of the season is felt everywhere. Celebrations extend into New Year’s Eve with parties under the stars, making it difficult for even the most relaxed holiday-goers to resist getting into the festive spirit.
Rainy Season in the Maldives
The rainy season typically starts in April or May and lasts until October or November. The rain is caused by the Southwest monsoon, which may bring stormier conditions lasting for days. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that plenty of dry and sunny periods can occur during this time.
Best Time to Dive in the Maldives
Diving is a year-round activity in the Maldives. However, the best underwater visibility and weather are generally found from December to April. Here, divers can observe everything from manta rays to reef sharks in superb conditions.
Where to Stay in the Maldives
Finding accommodation in the Maldives can be effortless, as there are countless stunning resorts. Your choice will depend largely on your budget. Kudadoo, the country’s first solar-powered hotel and its first all-inclusive luxury resort, offers an excellent starting point. Arranged around a wooden walkway out at sea, its luxurious rooms evoke a sense of spaciousness and offer private pools leading directly into the ocean.
Gili Lankanfushi is set in one of the most breathtaking lagoons in the country, surrounded by broad white beaches, where all villas are stilted over the water, preserving the island’s natural beauty.
At the JW Marriott Maldives Resort and Spa, every detail is meticulously crafted, offering an ultra-sleek interpretation of a tropical paradise experience.
