Worst Time To Visit The Maldives For Every Traveler + The Best!
While most people wonder when the best time to visit a destination is, you may also be wondering when the worst time to visit the Maldives is.
Factors like weather, crowds, and costs are important when deciding when you should take your beach vacation. Rather than just knowing the best time to visit, you’ll also want to know the best times to avoid.
In this guide, we’ll go over all of these factors and more to help you decide when you should plan your trip to the Maldives.
Worst Time To Visit The Maldives
When contemplating when to visit the Maldives, it’s important to consider a few factors, such as weather, cost, and peak tourist season. All of these considerations can come together to help you decide when the worst and best times of year to visit are.
Unfortunately, the Maldives is a difficult destination to decide when to visit since the off-season and monsoon seasons overlap.
The southwest monsoon season, from May to November, is the worst time to visit, characterized by unpredictable weather, lots of rain, and rough seas. June to August sees the most rainfall.
On the other hand, the northwest monsoon season is between January and March and has less rain and fewer storms. But, this also happens to be peak tourist season and the most expensive time of year.
Based on these factors, the overall worst time to visit is in August, when there is a high chance of storms, as well as the most rainfall all year.
Worst Time For Weather
Weather is an important consideration when it comes to visiting the Maldives, and you’ll want to think about rain, temperatures, and monsoon season.
There are two monsoon seasons, the northeast monsoon season, which runs from January to March, and the southwest monsoon season, from May to November. The worst of these two is the southwest monsoon season.
During the southwest monsoon season, you have a higher chance of experiencing high winds, lots of rain, and major storms, so it’s less desirable for tourists. This unpredictable weather can throw a wrench in outdoor plans and cause you to spend quite a bit of time indoors.
As for other weather, March is the hottest month, with a lot of humidity and temperatures reaching highs of 86° F. January is the coldest month of the year, with highs around 80° F.
August and September are the rainiest months, which also coincide with the southwest monsoon season, so you can expect to see storms and frequent rainfall.
Overall, the worst times for weather are the months of August, September, and March. This is because the chances of monsoons, rain, and hot temperatures can oftentimes ruin plans that tourists may have.
From canceling tours to ruining time spent in the ocean, the weather can turn a fun vacation into a disappointing one really fast.
What Is The Most Expensive Month In The Maldives?
While the Maldives is almost always an expensive destination to visit, there are a few times out of the year when you can find a trip for a smaller price tag.
The worst time to visit the Maldives in terms of cost typically falls within the peak tourist season, which runs from December to March. However, there are ways you can travel during this time on a budget.
During these months, the Maldives sees a lot of visitors since people are escaping cold weather in other places and avoiding the worst weather in the Maldives.
Being outside of the southwest monsoon season, most tourists flock to the islands in December, January, February, and March. Tourists don’t want their trips ruined by the weather, so this is when they plan their visit.
During peak season, accommodations and flights are at their highest, and you can expect to pay a pretty penny for them. On top of that, you might also find yourself shelling out more money for experiences and activities due to high demand.
The most cost-effective trips can be taken during the shoulder months of November or April, when costs are lower and the weather is decent.
Which Month Is Not Good To Visit The Maldives?
If we had to choose the worst month to visit the Maldives, it would have to be August for a few reasons.
August falls right in the middle of the southwest monsoon season, which means you’ll often experience heavy rain, strong winds, and large storms. It’s also one of the months most likely to have cyclones, flash floods, and monsoons.
Since August falls in the middle of the rainy season, it is also the rainiest month, with an average of 8 rainy days.
Because of the bad weather, outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and boat tours could be canceled, and you may be stuck at the hotel instead of enjoying the outdoors.
To avoid these disruptions on your trip, try to plan a visit in the shoulder season, in either November or April.
The Best Time To Visit The Maldives
The overall best time to visit the Maldives is between the months of November and April, but more specifically, in November or April. These two months are considered the shoulder season and bring the mildest weather, low humidity, the cheapest time of year to travel, and the fewest crowds to fight with.
The dry northeast monsoon season is between the months of January and March. This is when the islands see the least amount of rain, the warmest temperatures, and the most sunshine.
You’ll also see the smallest chance for storms and floods, so you can spend more time enjoying the beautiful Maldives weather.
The dry season overlaps with peak tourist season in the Maldives, from December to March. While this does mean more visitors and higher costs to visit, it also means that most of the resorts and tour operators are operating, so you’ll have the highest chance to participate in fun activities.
Speaking of fun water activities, the best times to see the famous manta rays and whale sharks are between January and March, so if that’s a must for you, be sure to take that into consideration.
For the cheapest time to visit the Maldives, warmest temperatures, least chance for storms, and fewest crowds, plan your visit for the shoulder season in either November or April.
Things To Do During Monsoon Season
While monsoon season is a tough time of year to visit the Maldives, there are still many activities to keep yourself busy. Here are a few options to add to your itinerary for when it’s raining or storming.
Go Snorkeling Close to the Shore
While you will definitely want to be cautious, you can usually still go snorkeling even if it’s raining while in the Maldives. The underwater world is still incredible, even when gloomy above the water.
Many of the resorts offer snorkeling from shore or from the balcony of your overwater bungalow. You can also check out some of the snorkeling excursions, which are often times cheaper in the off-season.
If you’re lucky, you may even have the chance to see the incredible manta rays and whale sharks that call the Maldives home. Taking a tour is the best way to see these creatures since they’ll take you out to the best sighting spots.
If you’re snorkeling without a tour, it’s best to stay close to shore when it’s raining just to be safe. Sometimes, the waves can become strong, and this can be dangerous. When in doubt, ask the front desk of your resort if they know the weather report for the day.
Explore Your Resort
If it ends up raining on one of your days in the Maldives, there are typically many things that you can find to go to at your resort.
Many of the resorts offer activities and excursions such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming. You can also partake in some of these activities on your own right from the shore or your overwater bungalow.
Some also have fitness centers or classes that you can take part in, some of which take place on the beach, so you can still enjoy those beautiful views. There are also swimming pools at most resorts to hang out in.
Even just relaxing in your bungalow can make for a great time when it’s raining. Many of them have patios over the water, so you can still enjoy some time out outside.
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Visit the Spa
One of the best things to do while staying in a Maldives resort is to check out the on-site spa. Most resorts have spas that offer services like massages, facials, body treatments, manicures, and pedicures, making it the perfect way to relax.
Whether you’re seeking a couples massage or you’d like some time away by yourself, there are plenty of options.
Pampering yourself while in such a magical destination comes naturally, so be sure to squeeze some self-care time into your trip.
Go Surfing
The Maldives are one of the best places to go surfing for intermediate to advanced surfers, and luckily, some of the best time to go surfing is in the southwest monsoon season.
May through September produce some of the best waves for surfing in the Indian Ocean. The southwest swells create an impressive surf break for all sorts of surfers.
Central Atolls has some smaller waves for beginners and intermediate surfers. And for more advanced surfers, head to Malé for larger and more challenging waves.
There are many places to go, as well as quite a few places that offer rental boards for travelers.
Take a Cooking Class
Whether you book a tour outside of your resort or one right within the resort, taking a cooking class in the Maldives is a great way to get to know the country’s culture.
You’ll be able to delve into the unique foods that are made in the Maldivian culture and get to try them for yourself. From the national dish of Gulha to other traditional dishes like Garudhiya or Mas Huni, a cooking class is the best way to taste the local foods.
Each of the cooking classes are taught by a chef who is familiar with the local cuisine and who will teach you about the cooking techniques and skills that are used in traditional Maldivian cooking.
Visit the Capital of Malé
Another thing to do during monsoon season in the Maldives is to visit the capital of Malé. It’s a small city, but a visit will allow you to experience more of the Maldivian culture.
One of the best things to do in the city is to explore the local markets and find some souvenirs to bring home from your travels. Many of the goods are handmade by local vendors, so you should find some fun goodies.
You can also check out local restaurants to try some traditional Maldivian food. Some of these restaurants are in the markets, so you can grab a meal as you wander around.
The National Museum is another must-see, where you can learn about the history of the island and the locals.
If you haven’t had enough time at some of the best beaches in the Maldives, you can also check out the beaches in Malé. Henveiru is an artificial beach right off the coast of the Indian Ocean that offers a nice place to swim when the waves are too big for the real beach.
Go on a Scuba Diving Excursion
The underwater world of the Maldives is something that must be seen to be believed. With a scuba diving excursion, you can explore and see the colorful coral and vibrant marine life with your own eyes.
Even when it’s raining above the surface, you can enjoy this unforgettable experience that is great for divers of all levels. Whether you’re a certified diver or it’s your first time, there’s a tour for you.
It’s not uncommon to see the famous manta rays and whale sharks that live in the waters surrounding the Maldives while scuba diving. So if seeing these magnificent creatures is on your list, this is a must.
Dine at an Underwater Restaurant
Perhaps one of the most unique things to do in the Maldives when it rains is to dine at one of the underwater restaurants.
The roofs of these restaurants are made of glass, so you can see through them and watch as the marine creatures swim around above you.
Sit back and enjoy some of the local cuisine as you admire the beautiful underwater world. You’ll have the chance to spot marine life, such as fish, coral reefs, whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles.
A few of the most popular ones are Ithaa Undersea Restaurant and 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, which is home to the world’s largest all-glass underwater restaurant.
Learn About Local Marine Life
Another must while visiting the Maldives is to learn about the local marine life that lives in the surrounding waters. Many of the resorts offer marine biologist talks, where you can learn all about the sea creatures.
From manta rays to whale sharks, dolphins, and coral reef fish, there’s a whole lot to learn.
Most of the marine biologists will also teach you about ocean conservation, so you can learn how you can help the oceans during your everyday life.
You can also learn about these creatures by taking a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion.
Where To Stay In The Maldives
Choosing a place to stay in the Maldives is a big choice since there are so many options. Here are a few great places with overwater bungalows to make that choice easy.
📍Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa
This stunning resort features luxurious overwater bungalows, access to the crystal clear waters of the Maldives, and a wide range of activities to participate in.
For guests seeking relaxation or adventure, the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers a full spa, an outdoor pool, sunset cruises, and fun experiences such as diving and snorkeling.
📍Jumeirah Resort
Nestled among a tropical paradise, Jumeirah Resort offers a relaxing retreat for couples with private overwater villas. Or, families can enjoy the beachside villas, which all have similar luxurious amenities.
Each has its own private pool, access to the turquoise water, a rooftop balcony, opportunities to participate in fun experiences, and so much more.
📍Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
If you’re looking for a private, luxurious place to stay in the Maldives, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island is perfect. This private, all-inclusive island resort brings everything to the table.
Enjoy service from a private butler, unlimited spa visits, endless water sports, delicious food, and beautiful overwater bungalows to stay in. This is the luxury Maldives experience that you’ve been dreaming of.
Visiting Maldives: FAQs
Planning a trip to the Maldives can be overwhelming, so here are some more frequently asked questions to help you decide when the worst time to visit the Maldives is.
When Is the Maldives Monsoon Season?
The Maldives has two distinct monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon season runs from May to October and is characterized by strong winds, storms, lots of rain, and rough seas. This is the Maldives wet season.
The dry season is known as the northeast monsoon season and is from November to April. This is when most visitors travel here since there is minimal rain and sunny days.
Are Mosquitoes Bad in the Maldives?
Yes, the mosquitoes can be bad in the Maldives, but you typically don’t have to worry about them since most resorts use fog machines to clear them out. However, it’s best to try to avoid bites by using bug repellent and long sleeves after dark.
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Should I Avoid the Maldives in July?
There isn’t a reason to avoid the Maldives in July, but do be aware that this is the wet season, and the chances of rain and storms are higher. To avoid those storms, plan to visit the Maldives from November to April.
Is the Weather in the Maldives Unpredictable?
Yes, the weather in the Maldives can be unpredictable, but if you visit during the right times, it’s easier to predict it.
During the northeast monsoon season, you can expect less rain and fewer storms, while during the southwest monsoon season, it’s more likely to storm and rain.
What is Storm Season in the Maldives?
The rainy and storm season in the Maldives is between May and November, which is the southwest monsoon season. During this time, you might experience strong winds, lots of rainfall, and rough seas with lots of waves.
What is the Rainiest Month in the Maldives?
The rainy season in the Maldives is from May to November, with the month seeing the most rain being August. In August, there are, on average, eight rainy days, with many of those days having downpours.
Are the Seas Rough in the Maldives?
The seas can be rough in the Maldives, particularly in the southwest monsoon season.
During this season, strong winds and heavy rainfall can cause rough seas that may impact your travel.
The Wrap-Up: Worst Time To Visit The Maldives
If you’re planning a visit to the Maldives, you might be trying to determine when you should actually visit. Most people think of the best time to visit the Maldives, but it’s also good to know when the worst time to visit the Maldives is.
Ultimately, the worst time to visit the Maldives is a subjective matter, and what may be less than ideal for some can be an adventure filled with opportunities for others. It’s all about understanding your preferences, weighing the pros and cons, and planning accordingly.
While the Maldives is undeniably a paradise on Earth, there are times when even the most breathtaking destinations can reveal a less enchanting side.
We’ve explored the reasons why the rainy season, with its unpredictable weather and potential inconveniences, may not be the best time to visit this tropical haven.
However, it’s crucial to remember that each season has its unique allure, and the Maldives can still be enjoyed during the off-peak periods if you’re well-prepared and flexible with your plans.
So, no matter when you choose to embrace the beauty of the Maldives in its different shades, your trip will undoubtedly be a memorable one.
