Swap your cuppa for coconut water and your trainers for flip-flops, because the Maldives are calling you to their boujee blue waters for a top-tier jolly.  


✨Destination Highlights

Why pick the Maldives for your next jolly? Easy – it’s got all the makings of paradise and then some:

  • World-famous beaches – white sands, turquoise lagoons, and backdrops that’ll make your Insta followers green with envy.

  • Romantic escapes – think overwater villas, sunset cruises, and couples’ spas – basically a rom-com set on water.

  • Relaxation central – hammocks, infinity pools, and cocktails that magically appear when you need them most.

  • Adventure-ready – snorkelling, diving, and jet-skiing for anyone who fancies their inner Bond villain moment.


🎉 3 Fun Facts About the Maldives

  • It’s got more islands than you’ve had hot dinners – The Maldives boasts over 1,190 islands! Yep, it’s basically the ultimate island-hopping paradise.

  • 🥞The Maldives is flatter than a pancake – With the highest point being a whopping 2.4 meters above sea level, you won’t find any hills to hike here.

  • 🍻A pint of beer typically costs between $6 to $10 USD (about £5 to £8), depending on where you are, but you won't get these views or this weather back home.


Looking to go All Inclusive? Take a look at our favourite All Inclusive Maldives holidays here!


📅 Best Time to go on your Maldives holidays 2025 / 2026

If you’re wondering when to swap your rainy commute for a sun lounger in the Maldives, here’s the lowdown on this long haul bad boy:

  • Dry season (November to April) - this is peak Maldives magic. Think clear skies, bathtub-warm water, and sunshine that’ll make your mates back home green with envy. It’s the perfect time for sunbathing, snorkelling with turtles, or sipping something tropical under a palm tree. Just expect higher prices - paradise comes at a price, darling!

  • Wet season (May to October) - don’t be put off by the word ‘wet’. Yes, you might get a tropical shower or two (great excuse for a spa day, if you ask us), but this is prime time for surfers and divers. Whale shark and manta ray sightings? Tick. Fewer tourists? Double tick.

Our top tip: For the best combo of sunshine and epic underwater life, aim for March or April. Just pack a brolly... and maybe an extra swimsuit for when the heavens open.


Where to Stay on your holidays to the Maldives

The Maldives are serving up dreamy island vibes with a side of luxury, whether you're after a romantic retreat, a family escape, or you've got a group holiday planned.

  • Malé & Hulhumalé – if you fancy a buzzing city break before your island escape, this is the spot. Think local markets, swanky rooftop bars, and easy access to your next stop: paradise.

  • North & South Malé Atoll – the go-to for first-timers, honeymooners, and anyone craving that iconic overwater villa experience. With world-class resorts, dreamy beaches, and top-tier diving spots, this one’s a no-brainer.

  • Ari Atoll – a whopper of a choice for divers and snorkellers, with mega marine life (whale sharks, anyone?) and some of the best luxury resorts around.

  • Baa Atoll – home to the Maldives' only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this one’s for nature lovers and those who want a swish, eco-friendly escape. Hanifaru Bay is a manta ray hotspot, and the resorts here are proper boujee.

  • Raa Atoll – a little more off-the-radar, offering untouched beaches and a calmer vibe, but still with plenty of high-end stays and dreamy overwater bungalows.

  • Lhaviyani Atoll – top pick for an all-inclusive getaway, with mega beaches, coral reefs, and luxurious stays where you can sip cocktails on your private deck all day long.

  • Vaavu Atoll – calling all adventure seekers – this atoll is famous for its snorkelling and diving, plus it’s home to the legendary glowing plankton at night. A proper bucket list experience.

  • Addu Atoll – fancy a slice of local culture with your tropical escape? This southern gem is home to charming island villages, cycle-friendly streets, and some lush diving spots.


🏖️  What are the best beaches to visit on your Maldives holidays?

The Maldives isn’t just serving beaches – it’s serving the beaches. We’re talking silky sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibes that range from romantic hideaways to snorkeller’s playgrounds. Here are some of the best beach spots to dip your toes in:

  • Bikini Beach, Rasdhoo Island – soft sands and turquoise water, perfect for budget-friendly travellers looking for that postcard Maldives vibe.

  • Veligandu Island Beaches – secluded stretches made for couples’ selfies, honeymoon strolls, and general “we’re never leaving” energy.

  • Reethi Beach, Fonimagoodhoo Island – a snorkelling hotspot with plenty of sunshine, ideal for active travellers chasing coral and cocktails.

  • Nalaguraidhoo Beach, Sun Island – bright blue waters and lush backdrops, perfect for nature lovers who want beauty with a side of adventure.

  • Cocoa Island Beaches – luxury meets laid-back. These sands are made for spa lovers, yoga fans, and anyone needing max chill.

  • Fulhadhoo Beach, Baa Atoll – quiet and unspoiled, this is the one for travellers chasing tranquillity away from the busier resort islands.

  • Dhigurah Beach, South Ari Atoll – one of the longest in the Maldives (3km!), loved by families and whale-shark spotters alike.


🏨 What are the best hotels for your Maldives holidays 2025 / 2026?

Dreaming of days filled with sunshine, sea views and a serious dose of swanky? We’ve rounded up our favourite Maldives hotels that tick all the boxes for a swoon-worthy escape. Whether you’re after laid-back luxury holiday, a surprise last minute jaunt, or you're looking ahead for your 2026 holidays, we've got just the right hotel to make your jolly an 11/10:

Best Maldives hotels for families

Best Maldives hotels for couples

Best luxury hotels in the Maldives

  • Adaaran Club Rannalhi – a tropical retreat with snorkelling, spa sessions, and the kind of overwater villas dreams are made of.

  • The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi – big, bold, and boujee – 14 restaurants, a world-class spa, and pure indulgence from check-in to checkout.


🌴 Your Maldives travel guide

Things to do for families in the Maldives

  • Snorkelling & dolphin cruises – warm, shallow lagoons are perfect for little paddlers, with dolphins stealing the show out at sea.

  • Whale Submarine ride – hop in a yellow sub and explore the reefs without even getting wet – kids will love it.

  • Resort kids’ clubs – mini clubs, babysitting and daily activities = happy little ones, happy parents.

  • Kayaks & paddleboards – calm waters make it easy to splash about together without any stress.

Things to do for couples in the Maldives

  • Sunset cruises – set sail with champagne in hand while the sky does its thing – romance, Maldives-style.

  • Private sandbank dinners – a table on your own patch of sand with the ocean as your backdrop.

  • Couples’ spa sessions – massages, facials and Jacuzzis designed for two – total holiday goals.

  • Stargazing on the beach – lay back, spot the Milky Way and listen to the waves roll in.

Things to do for adventure seekers in the Maldives

  • Jet skiing & parasailing – speed across lagoons or take to the skies for that Bond-worthy thrill.

  • Diving with whale sharks – South Ari Atoll is the spot for once-in-a-lifetime encounters with these gentle giants.

  • Night snorkelling – grab a torch and see the reef light up after dark – it’s surreal in the best way.

  • Surfing in the wet season – from May to October, the Maldives serves up waves that’ll get your heart racing.

Things to do for foodies in the Maldives

  • All inclusive buffets – pile your plate high with seafood, curries and international flavours – no one’s judging.

  • Private beach dining – lobster, candlelight and your toes in the sand – classic Maldives magic.

  • Fine dining restaurants – expect Michelin-level dishes and wine lists as impressive as the views.

  • Cooking classes – pick up Maldivian favourites like Mas Huni and impress your mates back home.


🚤 Getting around on your Maldives holidays

With over 1,000 islands to hop between, getting around in the Maldives isn’t just transport – it’s part of the adventure. Here’s how you’ll be zipping (or gliding) from one patch of paradise to the next:

  • Seaplanes – the boujee way to arrive. Think VIP vibes, aerial views straight out of a screensaver, and bragging rights for days.

  • Speedboats – fast, fun and straight to the point. Perfect if you fancy a James Bond moment before you’ve even unpacked.

  • Dhoni boats – the traditional choice. These wooden beauties run on island time – slow, scenic, and all about soaking up the views.


Just a heads up, the departure process for those travelling to the Maldives has changed, please see the FAQs below for more info.

Also, effective 12AM on 15/12/2024, the Maldives has implemented a comprehensive ban on vaping products. Therefore, you're prohibited from bringing e-cigarettes, vapes and vaping devices into the Maldives, these items will be confiscated at the airport and disposed of.

Popular Maldives hotels

More Maldives hotels

Weather in Maldives

JAN

30°C

FEB

31°C

MAR

31°C

APR

32°C

MAY

31°C

JUN

31°C

JUL

30°C

AUG

30°C

SEP

30°C

OCT

30°C

NOV

30°C

DEC

30°C

Alright, let's dive straight into what you're really here for: the Maldives weather lowdown!

From December to April, you're in for a treat. The weather in the Maldives is as close to perfect as it gets. You can expect temperatures happily lounging between 27°C and 29°C. It's that consistent glow-up that has everyone raving. Sun, sand, sea – it's like the Maldives rolled out its VIP list, and guess what? You're on it.

Now, from May to November, let’s keep it real; there's a bit of rain. But the Maldives, being the overachiever it is, makes a shiny pearl out of this rainy stint. Sure, there are showers, but they're brief. And between those rainy moments? Yup, the sunshine is back, claiming its spot like, "Surprise, bet you thought you'd seen the last of me."

So, the take-home message? The Maldives weather is, in a word, gawjuss. Whether you're up for snorkelling adventures or just chilling with a refreshing drink by the beach, the Maldives delivers. And remember, even when it's a tad wet, it's all part of the package. Pack those flip-flops, grab your sun hat, and get ready for your stun Maldives holidays.

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FAQs

What’s the average flight time from the UK/Ireland to the Maldives?

It takes 13 hours on average to fly between the UK/Ireland and the Maldives - long-haul flights mean plenty of time for inflight snacks, plenty of TV, quality time with a book, or just a good nights kip.

What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and the Maldives?

The Maldives is GMT +4, making it four hours ahead of the UK/Ireland - the jet lag might hit you a lil, but you'll be marvelling at all the beauty the Maldives has to offer we doubt you'll really notice.

What currency will I need for the Maldives?

The currency in the Maldives is the Madivian rufiyaa.

What languages are spoken in the Maldives?

Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives. English is also widely spoken in the
holiday resorts.

How does the transfer to my hotel work in the Maldives?

Transfers in the Maldives can sound a little confusing, but don't worry. All you need to know is that your flight from the UK will land at Male International Airport (otherwise known as Velana International Airport), and from here you'll be transferred to whichever island your hotel is on.

Transfers will be via either:

  • Domestic aircraft (with a 20kg hold luggage allowance and 5kg hand luggage allowance)

  • Seaplane (with a 20kg hold luggage allowance and 5kg hand luggage allowance)

  • Speedboat (no luggage restrictions)

You’ll be escorted to the departure point by airport staff, and your departure time will be confirmed the night before. Other flight arrivals or sudden changes in weather might mean you need to wait up to 3 hours before boarding the transfer.

If you’re travelling via seaplane, flights can only operate between 09:00 and 15:00. If you land in Male after 15:00, or if there are any sudden weather changes, you’ll need to stay overnight in an airport hotel. Don’t worry – if this is the case then we’ll be in touch to make the arrangements! It’s also worth noting that, like most holiday transfers, seaplanes will stop at multiple resorts on the way.

Do I need to fill out a Traveller Declaration form?

Yes, you'll need to complete a 'Traveller Declaration' form 96 hours before you arrive in the Maldives. However, you are no longer required to fill out this form when leaving the Maldives which makes the process that bit simpler.

HD

Hi, I'm Holly Day!
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