When to go?

Best Time to Visit

• November to April: This period is the dry season, offering the best weather with plenty of sunshine, clear skies, and calm seas. It's ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, diving, and surfing. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices for flights and accommodation.

Off-Peak Season

• May to October: The wet season, characterized by increased rainfall and the possibility of storms. However, there are still plenty of sunny days, and this period sees fewer tourists. This is the best time for budget travelers as prices for accommodation and flights are lower. Diving is still good, with the underwater visibility remaining decent. Surfing conditions can also be excellent due to bigger swells.

Specific Activities

• Surfing: The best waves are from February to October, particularly from June to August, when the swells are the largest.

• Diving and Snorkeling: While diving is possible year-round, the dry season (November to April) offers the best visibility and calmest sea conditions. For manta rays and whale sharks, head to Hanifaru Bay between June and November.

• Cultural Experiences: Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, might affect some services and operations, but it also provides a unique cultural experience. Dates vary each year based on the lunar calendar.

Special Considerations

• Festivals and Holidays: Be mindful of local festivals and holidays, such as Eid, which can affect the availability of services and transport.

• Climate Change and Tides: Rising sea levels and climate conditions may impact travel plans. Always check current weather conditions before your trip.

By choosing the right time to visit based on your preferences and activities, you can optimize your Maldives experience for both enjoyment and budget.