Maldives in autumn: weather, prices, entertainment, holidays

When summer in Europe ends and the streets cool down, it’s time to think of the “islands of eternal summer”- the Maldives. While most tourists visit during the high season, true tropical enthusiasts head to the Maldives in autumn. Why? This season offers luxury vacations at lower prices, unique natural beauty, and a more secluded atmosphere.

We’ve gathered everything you need to know about autumn in the Maldives: from weather patterns to the best activities and water sports.

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Weather in the Maldives in Autumn

The Maldives in the summer-autumn period is primarily the rainy season. But if you’re picturing dull, gray days, rest assured it’s not like that. Tropical rain here is like a flash: it starts suddenly but ends just as quickly. After a downpour, the sky clears, and the sun shines brightly again. Alongside sudden showers, this period features stronger winds and higher humidity.

Temperatures remain stable: around 29-30°C during the day and 25-28°C at night. The ocean water is perfect for swimming at 28-29°C. Even in the rainy season, you can enjoy 6-8 hours of sunshine daily - plenty for a perfect tropical tan.

Each atoll has its own microclimate, which is especially important during the off-season. For example, September is one of the rainiest months, with more rain on Raa, Lhaviyani, and Malé atolls, but the Addu Atoll enjoys milder, drier weather. October still sees frequent rains, but they don’t lower the temperature. November marks the end of the wet season: rains decrease, the sea calms, and the sky clears.

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Vacations in the Maldives in Autumn: Time for Great Deals

Autumn in the Maldives is a golden opportunity for those dreaming of idyllic islands without overpaying. Lower tourist numbers mean attractive perks: from accommodation discounts to promotions at restaurants and spas.

The Maldives offers endless vacation options in any season: from cozy guesthouses on local islands to major international brands and secluded villas at private resorts. Autumn is discount season, so plan and book your stay at a popular hotel in advance due to demand.

When choosing a hotel, consider not just your budget but also your interests: do you need kids’ clubs, proximity to dive sites, a spa, or romantic seclusion? Autumn offers pleasant prices. For example:

• A double room at the cozy Bliss Dhigurah 3* guesthouse on Dhigurah costs about $460 for 3 nights with breakfast. Beyond a restaurant, it offers a private beach, fitness center, and sun terrace.
• A spacious beachfront double room at Kurumba Maldives 5* resort costs around $800.
• A double room with a garden view at Malahini Kuda Bandos 5* is about $890.
• A beach villa for two at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives 5* costs $1,080.

Prices for resort island accommodations are for 3 nights and include breakfast.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives

What to Do in the Maldives in Autumn

Contrary to myths about the rainy season, autumn in the Maldives offers plenty of opportunities for active and exciting activities.

Snorkeling

Autumn is when the underwater world comes alive. The water fills with plankton, slightly reducing visibility but attracting mantas and whale sharks.

The most iconic spot for autumn snorkeling is Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dozens, sometimes hundreds, of mantas gather here, putting on a spectacular show. You may also spot gray reef sharks and whale sharks.

Want to see a hammerhead shark? Head early in the morning to the Ari, Fuvahmulah, or Huvadhu atolls - your chances increase in autumn.

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Surfing

For wave conquerors, autumn in the Maldives is fruitful. Waves are stable and powerful enough to thrill even seasoned surfers.

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Excursions and Tours

Resorts offer a variety of tours: from private sunset cruises and picnics on uninhabited islands to fishing and cultural excursions to local islands. Some resorts and agencies can tailor routes to your interests and budget. Just share your preferences, and they’ll craft the perfect itinerary.

Spa Services

A rainy day is a perfect excuse for a massage or aromatherapy. The Maldives boasts an impressive array of spas, from classic ocean-view pavilions to unique concepts like Dusit Thani’s Deverana Wellness, nestled in palm tree canopies, or the world’s first underwater spa at Huvafen Fushi.

Huvafen Fushi

Shopping

In rainy weather, head to the Maldives’ capital, Malé. The Malé Local Market is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and buy Maldivian souvenirs. You’ll find fruits, sweets, handmade crafts, fish, and more.

For a more structured shopping experience, visit Malé’s largest mall, STO, offering groceries, electronics, crafts, and imported goods.

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Holidays and Events

The Maldives is a Muslim country, and autumn hosts several significant holidays:

• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid): Features crowded processions, with stories of Muhammad’s life shared in mosques and public gatherings.
• Day of Adopting Islam: A key holiday marking the Maldives’ conversion from Buddhism to Islam in 1153.
• National Tourism Day (October 3): A new holiday since 2021, celebrating the tourism industry’s vital role in the economy.
• Victory Day (November 3): Commemorates the failed coup attempt in 1988, with flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and lively festivities in Malé.
• Maldives Republic Day (November 11): Marks the end of the sultanate and the establishment of the republic in 1968, with military and school parades, orchestra processions, and public celebrations involving locals and tourists.

Autumn may also feature festivals like Manta Fest or the Whale Shark Festival.

Pros and Cons of Autumn Vacations in the Maldives

Autumn in the Maldives is a compromise. Drawbacks include variable rainy weather and reduced underwater visibility due to plankton. However, the advantages are clear:

• Lower prices for accommodation and services;
• Excellent snorkeling opportunities;
• Great surfing conditions.

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