If you can, avoid the wet season, which starts in May and ends in October in the Maldives, when there is considerably more rain in the islands and occasionally strong winds. The shoulder seasons of late October and late April are considered shoulder season; at this time, room rates at hotels across the Maldives and flight prices into the capital city of Male are lower, and travelers can score some serious savings and while enjoying beautiful days with an average temperature of 88°F.
What are the Maldives like during Christmas and New Year?
Winter is the peak tourist season in the Maldives, so even though you might see more people than usual, it’s absolutely a delightful time to visit, says van Well. “The weather is usually sunny with temperatures ranging from 77 to 90°F, making it a welcome escape from colder climates.” During the festive season, hotels across the country offer special experiences that get guests in the celebratory mood. At Six Senses, there’s often a calendar of special events, dinners, and entertainment options that meet the seasonal mood, says van Well.
Many of the other hotels and resorts in the Maldives also know how to throw a party, even with the islands’ quiet and low-key attitude: Gili Lankanfushi kicks off the season with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and The Nautilus hosts Santa hat-making classes for kids—and Santa himself drops off gifts for adults and kids at Joali. From Christmas movies on the beach to New Year’s celebrations under the stars, even those trying to escape all the duties that holiday season can still enjoy a bit of the festive season in the Maldives.
What’s summer like in the Maldives?
Summer in the Maldives lasts from May to October, and van Well says that the season is characterized by higher humidity and occasional rain showers, especially during the monsoon season from June to August. Outside of monsoon season, the rain can be unpredictable, but the showers are usually short-lived and typically followed by clear skies. “Despite the occasional rain, this period can still be a great time to visit for those seeking the quiet island life,” says van Well. “There are excellent diving and surfing conditions, low season rates, and the chance to witness turtle nests hatching.”
When is the cheapest time to visit the Maldives?
The cheapest time to visit the Maldives is during the low season, which is May to November. The low season sees hotel rates drop substantially, with free transfers, free nights, and room upgrades thrown in regularly. You risk some cloudy days and light showers, but temperatures remain in the mid-80s, so you’re still in for a treat of a trip. A few extra tips: Swap the seaplane for a speedboat to save yourself more than $250, and be on the lookout for new hotels, which offer introductory deals in the first few months of opening.
What’s scuba diving like in the Maldives?
Whether you’ve got your PADI or you just fancy a fun dive, dipping beneath the archipelago’s surface is a magical experience. From the native corals, colorful anemones, and sea turtles, swooping manta rays and curious (but harmless) whale sharks, the excellent visibility here makes the Maldives one of the best places to witness marine life in its natural habitat. Many resorts have in-house marine biologists who enable budding conservationists of every age to learn more about the environment and help make a positive impact on it.
