Best Time to Visit the Maldives: Month-by-Month Guide

The Maldives has a dry northeast monsoon from November to April and a wet southwest monsoon from May to October. Temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius year-round, so it is rain and sea conditions that change.

These are the sunniest, calmest months, with clear water and great visibility for snorkelling. They are also the most expensive; book villas six to nine months ahead.

Christmas and New Year carry compulsory gala dinners and higher minimum stays.

Shoulder months offer good weather and lower prices. April can be hot and humid, with occasional showers; November is variable but often excellent for honeymooners on a budget.

Expect showers, but also dramatic skies and 20 to 50 percent lower rates. Manta rays congregate at Hanifaru Bay from June to November, and surfers head for the central atolls.

Most rainfall is brief; many days still have several hours of sun.

For guaranteed beach weather choose January to March. For value choose May or November. For wildlife choose July to September.

Tell us your budget and dates and our team (in a live version of this demo) would shortlist resorts accordingly.