Maldives weather in August
While rain is expected, that doesn’t mean it’ll bucket down all day, every day. Like other equatorial countries, rain in the Maldives tends to fall in fierce short bursts. Visitors often enjoy clear blue skies and warm tropical sunshine before and after the rain showers, although it is possible that rain can also last for several days. The northern islands generally receive less rainfall during August as they’re spared the brunt of the southwest monsoon.
On average, the Maldives gets seven hours of sunshine daily in August—plenty of time to swim, snorkel and sunbathe. Diving is possible during August, but poor visibility due to higher average wind speeds means it’s not ideal. Plan a diving trip for the dry season if you can. The Maldives is also a popular surfing destination and August is a prime time for experienced riders due to larger-than-average waves.
As for the average temperatures? Expect maximum highs of 31°C (88°F), similar to the rest of the year. Night-time temperatures usually hover around 25°C (77°F), so no need to pack a jacket.
For a comprehensive insight into the weather, read our guide on the best time to visit the Maldives.
Weather in Maldives in August - Rainfall and Temperatures
| JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 29 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 30 | 31 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 84 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 86 | 88 | 84 | 84 | 82 | 84 | 84 | 84 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 81 | 81 | 81 | 82 | 82 | 81 | 81 | 81 | 81 | 79 | 79 | 79 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 10 | 10 | 10 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 30 | 20 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 20 |
Why Visit the Maldives in August
Here are a few reasons why you should visit the Maldives in August:
- Warm weather: The climate in the Maldives in August is always hot; rest assured you won’t shiver. This warmth makes it appealing for holidaymakers escaping winter in the southern hemisphere.
- Sunshine: Even though it is in the middle of the rainy season, you still get an average of seven hours of sunshine daily. That’s plenty of UV to work on your tan.
- Discounted prices: The low season means less demand for airfares and hotels, which leads to lower prices across the board. Bargain hunters love a low-cost vacation to the Maldives in August.
- Fewer tourists: As fewer people visit in the rainy season, the resorts and beaches won’t feel as busy. August is a nice time to visit for those yearning to escape the crowd.
- Good surf: With heavy swells in August, seasoned surfers can ride challenging waves in the Maldives’ northern or central atolls.
Where to Go & What to Do
A Maldives snorkeling tour is a good option for August, especially around the more sheltered islands and atolls. August is the peak season for mantas in Hanifaru Bay (Baa Atoll). Over in Ari Atoll, you can spot whale sharks on Maamigili Island, while Maaya Thila hosts many curious marine species.
Surfers should head towards North Malé Atoll to ride consistently large barrels at Pasta Point. Nearby, Hulhumalé is a beautiful artificial island with gorgeous beaches and few tourists. Stronger winds also make August in the Maldives an excellent time for kitesurfing.
Travelers who are more interested in traditional culture than glitzy resorts could check out South Malé Atoll on a Maldives cultural tour. Guraidhoo and Maafushi have authentic budget homestays and beautiful beaches brimming with traditional fishing vessels. Some take travelers out into the Indian Ocean on thrilling deep-sea fishing tours.
Wellness is a popular activity among tourists in the Maldives and a good indoor escape during a heavy August downpour. Virtually all luxury resorts have a wellness center, though some are fancier (and have better facilities) than others.
What to Bring
We recommend packing the following to stay comfortable in hot, humid weather:
- A lightweight raincoat or umbrella for those inevitable downpours.
- Loose-fitting clothing made from light, quick-dry materials.
- Travel insurance to protect against storm-related cancellations.
- Mosquito repellent as the wet season has an uptick in unwanted insects.
Planning a trip to the Maldives in August?
Although you should expect above-average rainfall in August, the Maldives isn’t a complete washout during its southwest monsoon. Most days see a strong but short burst of rain then clear blue skies. However, be aware that dreary, days-long downpours can happen. Want to minimize the risk? The northern atolls tend to remain drier than their southern neighbors.
If you want help organizing a customized Maldives itinerary, contact our travel experts today. Or you can head to our Maldives travel guide to learn more. Not sure how long to plan your stay? Read our guide on how long to stay in the Maldives before you plan your trip!
More information:
Maldives in July
Maldives in September
