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Maldives

A vision of true natural beauty, the unique, low lying islands of the Maldives set the scene as one of the world’s most romantic and truly stunning holiday destinations.

Comprising 1,192 islands scattered across the velveteen waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is typified by luxury resorts located on individual islands, where silky soft sands are kissed by shimmering lagoons to create the quintessential tropical getaway.

Whether you’re seeking a quiet, private escape for a romantic holiday or honeymoon, a family friendly resort with copious facilities and restaurants, or a place to have fun in the sun or in the water, few destinations in the world offer all this in such a beautiful setting.

 

What you’ll love most about the Maldives

  • Go island hopping and explore the many picturesque islands that make up the Maldives
  • Snorkel or scuba dive in the clear blue waters to explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, including colourful fish, turtles, rays, and even sharks
  • Visit the Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and observe the manta rays and whale sharks that gather there
  • Go on a dolphin-watching tour and see pods of playful dolphins jumping and swimming in the waters around the islands
  • Visit the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and explore its unique ecosystem and cultural heritage

Where to Book

  • Beach on Kanuhura, Maldives

  • Tropical beach on an Maldives island

  • Fushifaru Water Villa bathroom

  • The Standard, Maldives

  • Beach bungalows on a Maldives Island

  • One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives

  • 3 Bedroom Island Residence at JA Manafaru, Maldives

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 30℃
  • 31℃
  • 31℃
  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 30℃
  • 29℃
  • 5
  • 5
  • 7
  • 10
  • 15
  • 14
  • 13
  • 14
  • 15
  • 16
  • 14
  • 13

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January is one of the best times to visit the Maldives. The weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to a peak of around 31°C. It’s ideal for enjoying the beaches, snorkelling, diving, and other water sports. The clear skies and calm seas offer excellent conditions for exploring the vibrant marine life and coral reefs. It’s a peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds, but the weather is perfect for a tropical getaway.

February

February continues the excellent weather conditions of January with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The sea is calm and clear, making it perfect for diving and snorkelling. It’s also a great month for romantic getaways and luxury resorts, with numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like island hopping and water sports.

March

March offers warm and sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to about 32°C. The Maldives is still experiencing the dry season, providing ideal conditions for beach activities and water sports. It’s a good time for diving, as visibility underwater is excellent. The island resorts are vibrant with various activities and events.

April

April is warm and generally dry, though the start of the southwest monsoon season means occasional rain showers. Temperatures remain comfortable, ranging from 27°C to 32°C or so. It’s a good month for enjoying the beaches, diving, and snorkelling before the onset of the rainy season. The occasional showers are usually brief and do not significantly disrupt outdoor activities.

May

May marks the beginning of the southwest monsoon season, with increased humidity and more frequent rain showers. Temperatures range from approximately 26°C to 31°C. While rain is more common, there are still plenty of dry periods for beach activities and water sports. The Maldives is quieter with fewer tourists, which can mean better deals on accommodations.

June

June continues with the rainy season, featuring high humidity and regular rain showers. Temperatures remain warm, ranging from 26°C to 31°C on some days. Despite the rain, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beaches and marine life. It’s a good time for those looking for a quieter experience with fewer crowds and lower prices.

July

July experiences similar weather conditions to June, with frequent rain and high humidity. The rain can impact outdoor activities, but there are still periods of sunshine. The Maldives remains less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience and potential savings on travel costs.

August

August is also part of the rainy season, with continued high humidity and occasional rain showers. Temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 26°C to 31°C. While the weather may be unpredictable, the Maldives still offers beautiful beaches and opportunities for water sports. The lower tourist numbers can provide a peaceful escape and more affordable options.

September

September is typically the wettest month in the Maldives, with frequent rain and high humidity. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, ranging from 26°C to 31°C. The weather can be unpredictable, but the low season means fewer tourists and better deals on accommodations. The Maldives’ natural beauty and marine life can still be enjoyed during dry spells.

October

October continues with the rainy season, with high humidity and frequent rain showers. Temperatures stay warm, ranging from around 26°C to 31°C. The rain can impact beach activities, but there are still opportunities to explore the underwater world and enjoy quieter resorts. The month marks the end of the wet season, so you might experience improving weather towards the end.

November

November sees a transition from the rainy season to the dry season, with decreasing rainfall and improving weather conditions. Temperatures range from 27°C to 32°C. It’s a great time to visit as the weather is pleasant and the sea is clear for diving and snorkelling. The island resorts begin to get busier, but it’s still less crowded compared to peak season.

December

December offers warm and dry weather, ideal for beach activities and water sports. Temperatures range from 27°C to 31°C. It’s the start of the peak tourist season, with festive events and celebrations during the holiday season. The Maldives is lively with various activities and offers excellent conditions for exploring the marine environment and enjoying luxury resort amenities.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Encounters Travel is a UK based adventure tour operator with a wide selection of cultural and adventurous tours around the world, all designed to help you get the most out of the country you’re visiting. They range from small group tours to shoestring, overland, family, escorted and tailor-made holidays.

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eShores specialises in tailor-made multi-centre holidays, seamlessly blending multiple destinations into one trip. Explore the beauty of Thailand, island-hop the Greek islands, or embark on an epic American road trip – anything is possible. With consultants averaging 15 years’ experience, your dream holiday is in expert hands, so you can relax and enjoy the adventure!

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Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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Flight Centre are long-haul, tailor-made holiday specialists offering amazing travel experiences. Our wonderful Travel Consultants are passionate, well-travelled, and with 32,768 collective years’ experience in travel they are all about getting to know you and your holiday style.

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Riviera Travel is the UK’s leading luxury river cruise & tour company with over 38 years’ experience in crafting worldwide tours, luxury river cruises, rail holidays and UK tours. Their commitment to quality & thoughtfulness has earned them a coveted Which? recommendation.

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With over 40 years of making travel simple. Travelbag are ATOL protected so you are covered. Book with confidence. Find great prices on tailor made luxury holidays, flights, hotels and tours worldwide! Secure payments. Expert advice. UK based shops. Worldwide destinations.

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Tropical Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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Have you considered...

Magical Ajman is a tranquil haven of blissful luxury and rich culture waiting to be explored on the sun-drenched shores of the Arabian Gulf. A perfect destination for anyone craving rest and relaxation, UAE’s smallest emirate also has plenty to offer when it comes to fun-packed activities and attractions.

Hotels

  • Best of the Best
  • Life of Luxury
  • Unique & Fabulous
  • Creature Comforts
  • Basics covered

4* Komandoo Island Resort & Spa

There are few things more idyllic than a Maldivian resort on its own private island. That’s exactly what Komandoo provides; a ring of silvery white sand, surrounded by miles and miles of divine turquoise water.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

Visit website for more info

5* Amilla Maldives Resort & Residences

Amilla Maldives is set on a Naturally Lush Private Island in Baa Atoll. Just 59 villas means there is the luxury of Space to Play. Sustainability and Wellness are at our core and these contribute to the luxury of the guest experience.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

Visit site for more info

5* JA Manafaru, Maldives

JA Manafaru is an idyllic 5-star luxury island resort fringed with exquisite powder beaches in pristine, lagoon-ringed Haa Alifu Atoll, at the northern tip of the Maldives. Accessed by private seaplane, the chic tropical hideaway features 84 luxurious beachfront and over-water villas and bungalows, each with their own private plunge pool.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

For more information visit Emirates Holidays

5* LUX* South Ari Atoll

If you’ve always dreamt of living a lavish Robinson Crusoe life on a faraway tropical island, then LUX* South Ari Atoll is just the spot for you. Swim alongside whale sharks, hang out in your bungalow on stilts, ride your bicycle along the jetty, dine at speciality restaurants, dance the night away, partake in marine conservation… whatever you love, you’ll find it at LUX* South Ari Atoll.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

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5* One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives

Reethi Rah offers a superb all villa resort with unprecedented privacy and transcendent luxury. With spectacular water villas offering a split-level deck with your own private pool and hammocks suspended over-water. Experience the best of Maldivian and international cuisine with 8 stunning restaurants.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

Visit Emirates Holidays for more info

5* Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

Authentic Maldivian barefoot luxury on a sustainably conserved and untouched pristine island. A unique location near to the Equator presents an array of natural world adventures. With an eco-friendly ethos and encircled by a wonderfully preserved house reef, enjoy privacy, peaceful tranquillity and once-in-a-lifetime dive and snorkelling experiences just 50m from the powder-white sand shores.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

Visit site for more info

Top Holiday Offers

We’ve hand-picked a range of enticing offers to incredible destinations. If you want value for money on your next trip, start by reviewing our dedicated Top Holiday Offers page.

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