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Weather in Maldives
Overwater bungalows and crystal lagoons
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About Maldives
The Maldives is the travel world's ultimate fantasy made physical — 1,200 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, each one a sliver of white sand fringed by water in impossible shades of turquoise and aquamarine. Stay in an overwater bungalow and step directly into a lagoon full of parrotfish and rays.
Best months to visit
January, February
Things to do in Maldives
Snorkelling
Diving
Overwater bungalows
Dolphin watching
Surfing
Spa retreats
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
Recommended
January
28C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
Recommended
February
28C
Warm and pleasant, with occasional showers.
March
29C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
April
29C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
May
29C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
June
29C
Warm and pleasant, with some rainy days.
July
29C
Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.
August
28C
Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.
September
28C
Warm and pleasant, with regular rainfall.
October
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
November
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
December
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
The Maldives operates on a different plane of reality — water so clear it reads more as liquid glass than sea, overwater bungalows that float above house reefs teeming with turtles and rays, and skies that shift from electric blue to blazing coral at sunset. This is unapologetically a luxury destination, but it rewards every penny spent. The snorkelling alone is worth the journey; everything else is a bonus.
Best areas to stay in Maldives
North Malé Atoll
The most accessible atoll from the airport, home to many iconic luxury resorts and renowned dive sites including Banana Reef.
South Malé Atoll
Offers excellent diving and a range of resort styles from budget guesthouses on local islands to ultra-luxury private retreats.
Baa Atoll
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for Hanifaru Bay, where massive aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks gather seasonally.
Malé
The compact, colourful capital — worth a half-day to explore the fish market, grand mosque, and local cafés before heading to your resort.
Getting to Maldives
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Flights
Fly to Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé; several airlines operate routes from the UK via hubs including Dubai, Doha, and Colombo.
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From London
~10–12 hours total journey time from London
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Getting around
Seaplanes and domestic flights serve outer atolls; speedboats handle transfers to nearby resort islands — all typically arranged by your resort.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Maldives?
November to April is the dry season, offering calm seas and clear skies — ideal for snorkelling and diving. May to October brings the south-west monsoon with occasional heavy rain, though resorts remain open and prices drop significantly.
Is the Maldives only for honeymooners?
While it's a classic honeymoon destination, the Maldives is equally wonderful for families, divers, and anyone seeking a genuine beach escape. Many resorts have excellent kids' clubs and family villa options.
How do I get to my resort from Malé airport?
Transfer options include speedboats (for nearby atolls, 20–90 minutes), domestic flights (for remote atolls, around 40 minutes), or seaplanes — the most spectacular and common method for mid-range and luxury resorts.
Can I visit the Maldives on a budget?
Guesthouses on local islands like Maafushi offer a far more affordable experience than resort islands, with easy access to beaches and water activities. You'll sacrifice the private-island feel but save considerably.
What should I pack for the Maldives?
Lightweight, casual clothing is all you need — resort dress codes are relaxed. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a good underwater camera, and seasickness tablets if you're prone to motion sickness on speedboats.
Traveler reviews
★★★★★
Our overwater villa was the most extraordinary place I've ever slept — you could literally watch reef sharks from the deck at sunrise. The house reef snorkelling was better than any guided trip we've done elsewhere.
Rachel & Tom P. · February 2024
★★★★★
We went for our 10th anniversary and it surpassed every expectation. The seaplane transfer alone was worth it — landing on a turquoise lagoon in the middle of nowhere is an experience I'll never forget.
Mark S. · November 2023
★★★★☆
Absolutely stunning but be prepared for the cost of food and drinks at resort islands — it adds up quickly. That said, the marine life was spectacular and seeing a whale shark on our second day was priceless.
Laura C. · January 2024
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