Maldives in September: weather, prices, entertainment

September marks the end of the rainy season. This is the time when the monsoons that raged in August decide to leave the Maldives. The skies are still overcast, bringing brief showers to the islands. Gradually the weather becomes pleasant for outdoor activities, snorkeling and water sports. And most importantly, to the shores of the fabulous Maldives come its most beautiful inhabitants - majestic manta rays and whale sharks.

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What is the weather in the Maldives in September?

The rainy season is on its way out, but it doesn't just give up. The weather is usually warm and humid, with alternating hours of sunshine and occasional showers. Sea temperatures remain warm, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Compared to summer, the heat subsides, but more plankton appear and ocean visibility improves slightly.

• In September, the average daytime temperature in the Maldives ranges from +25°C to +30°C. Evenings and nights tend to be a little cooler, up to +23°C.
• Occasionally a sudden downpour can occur and southwest monsoon winds dominate, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity to the atolls.
• Total rainfall in September is 243 mm. Heavy rains are expected for an average of 14 days during the month. But they pass quickly, leaving behind sparkling landscapes and bright rainbow colors. The closer to the end of the month, the brighter the skies.

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How much does it cost to vacation in the Maldives in September?

This is the time when fewer tourists come to the islands. Beaches, resorts and attractions are less crowded. This allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maldives and enjoy discounts at the same time.

On average, expect to pay $30-$ 250 per night at mid-range guesthouses and hotels, while luxury resorts can cost $400- $1300 per night. Also, consider the cost of transfers from Male to your resort island. Boat transfers usually cost from $65 per person, while seaplane transfers are at least$ 260-$ 300, depending on the distance to the resort.

A week-long trip to the Maldives in September, including airfare, accommodation and transfers, can cost from $2000 to$ 6500 per person. It's worth booking flights and accommodation in advance to take advantage of the best deals.

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Best places to vacation in the Maldives in September

• North and South Malé, Baa Atoll: these atolls offer the greatest choice of resorts, but note that in September there is an average of 9-10 rainy days. Despite this, the sunny periods are long enough for a comfortable vacation. Whale sharks and manta rays can be seen on the islands of Baa Atoll during this period.
• Addu Atoll (Siena): if your goal is to avoid the rains, Addu may be the best choice. Here, there are usually no more than 8 rainy days in September, and the wind remains low (average 4 m/s). It is suitable for water sports. Addu differs from other atolls with its history and culture, offering interesting excursions.
• Raa and Laviani atolls for a more secluded vacation. There may be a little less sunny days here than in the area of Male and Addu, and the wind is a little stronger (about 5.5 m/s). However, the air (+28-30 degrees Celsius) and water (+28-29 degrees Celsius) temperatures remain comfortable for swimming and beach vacations. These places are known for their luxury resorts and excellent diving opportunities.

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What to do in Maldives in September

Pamper yourself at the spa

Since you can expect heavy rains in the Maldives in September, the best way to pass the time during the bad weather is to enjoy a relaxing spa treatment.
If you are staying at a luxury resort, there is a good chance that there is a beautiful spa available where you can take advantage of various treatments. Some hotels include the treatments in their travel packages. A great opportunity to try a world-class spa at a discounted price!

Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa

Surf

Diving in the Maldives in September is not popular due to poor visibility underwater. A great alternative for an active vacation would be surfing.

September sees consistent waves with variable winds, making the archipelago ideal for surfing. As the Maldives is north of Indonesia, the waves are smaller than in Bali, but they are more organized and predictable.

There are many surf spots in the Maldives, and most of them are easily accessible from any of the islands. One of the best surf in the Maldives spots are the Malé Atolls, particularly North Malé, where some of the best waves on the islands are found.

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See the whale sharks

Ari Atoll is one of the most famous places in the Maldives to see whale sharks. These giants can reach up to 12 meters in length, but are completely harmless to humans - they feed on plankton. Although whale sharks can be seen all year round, September is particularly good as the rainy season brings more plankton, attracting the sharks closer to the surface.

Where to watch whale sharks:

• South Ari Atoll is the most popular area for whale shark diving and snorkeling.
• Maamigili Marine Protected Area is a protected area where shark sightings are particularly likely.

Things to do besides shark watching:

• Diving at the famous Broken Rock reef. It is known for its crevasse and rich underwater world.
• Shipwreck diving for underwater history buffs.
• Romantic dinners on the beach with the sunset as a backdrop.

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Swim with manta rays

Baa Atoll is a UNESCO protected biosphere reserve. It is home to one of the most unique snorkeling spots in the Maldives, Hanifaru Bay. September is the peak of the manta ray season. At this time hundreds of animals gather in the bay to feed - it's a spectacular sight!

Only snorkeling is allowed here, and diving is strictly prohibited. This is due to the protection of the fragile ecosystem of the region. This unique place can only be visited with a certified guide. Since many marine life often stay close to the surface of the water, a mask and snorkel are sufficient to observe them. This allows even beginners to enjoy encounters with majestic mantas and whale sharks. Those who want to dive deeper into the mysterious underwater world will be able to take impressive photos.

The following rules should be observed in Hanifaru Bay:

• Do not touch marine life, do not pick up coral or leave garbage.
• It is forbidden to use flashes when taking pictures without special permission, so as not to disturb the marine life.
• It is important to keep your distance - it is better to let the animals swim towards you on their own.
• In natural light, it is recommended to stay closer to the surface.

Due to the high popularity of the bay, a visit should be planned in advance - the number of permits is limited. Many hotels and dive centers offer specialized tours to see whale sharks and mantas. Alternatively, the reefs around the islands of Dharavandhoo and Dhonfanu are known for their rich manta populations. Here you can see coral gardens with many tropical fish and other marine creatures.

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What to wear in September in the Maldives

• Choose breathable fabrics: cotton and linen. They help keep you cool in the tropical heat.
• Take several sets of beachwear - for swimming and relaxing on the coast.
• Be sure to take a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the scorching sun.
• Bring a light sweater or shawl for oceanfront dinners under the stars. The islands are warm during the day, but it can get a little chilly in the evening.
• Take comfortable sandals or flip-flops.
• Put a light raincoat or umbrella in your suitcase in case of unexpected downpours.
• Be sure to take waterproof clothing if the rain catches you on an excursion.
• Sunscreen in the Maldives is always relevant, because even when there is no bright sun in September, you can still get sunburns.
• Don't forget repellents to protect yourself from bites, especially in the evening and at night.

The weather in the Maldives in September may not always be favorable because of the rains, but don't let them interfere with your vacation. The main thing is to choose a good hotel where you can spend your time with pleasure. Find the best option you can in our Maldives catalog.

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