Facts about Surfing in the Maldives – Your Guide to a 'Swell' Holiday!

Given its strategic location in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives benefits from significant exposure to Southern swells meaning that you can expect the best of surfing conditions just outside the reefs of the remotest and (most often than not) untouched and uninhabited little islands. Principally, there are three main regions for surfing; the Male Atolls, the Central Atolls and lastly the Southern Atolls. Although the swell size and consistency remain more or less closely representative, the biggest difference lies in the crowds attracted by each. The swells in the Maldives are diverse and yet gentle and is, therefore, the perfect destination for intermediate to advanced surfers with there being no lack of surfing spots for beginners as well.

June and August feature the bigger swell with the potential for some of the biggest waves. With frequent tropical storms and offshore winds, September and October are known for the consistency. Despite the change of season, the drier November to February period remains still famous for plenty of other water activities on offer by hotels much the likes of Naladhu Private Island Maldives, which is a renowned Maldives luxury hotel! Activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and paddleboarding are amongst the most in-demand activities for the flat-water noons in Maldives. You will be in awe of all the varieties of swell you could possibly hope for; the hollow and fast waves or shallow, fun and friendly waves, not to forget the long rides and easy take-offs.

Each region of Maldives; the Southern, Middle, and North/South Male, has its own unique characteristics offering a variety of experiences to be enjoyed for surfers of all calibres. The Southern Atolls in its seasons (Early March/ April and late October/November) boasts phenomenal weather with light winds and clear skies. Since the region captures both the Southwest and Southeast swells you are always in for a sweet surprise of numerous and varied setups. The Central Atolls too are exposed to similar swells as the Southern Atoll and is often known for some thrilling breaks suitable for most surfers. Although the distance between waves could be a little too much at times, the best thing about this turf is the lack of crowds and the fun waves gurgling away for a ride. The scenic island backdrop is often rich with upmarket hotels and restaurants and you are more than welcome to 'break' with the comfort of a ludicrous luxury lounge. The North/South Male is the most famous from April to October and has some seriously quality setups budding off the Southeast swell.

The variety of waves you could be riding on your trip in the Maldives stretches thin from long and hollow to fun and forgiving waves. So you best be travelling with your most comfy board; needless for the bigger hoagies as you will often be riding a long-playful wave as opposed to the more aggressive breaks in Indonesia.

In all fairness, you are going to want to get some practice in before getting into it. Believe me, you, being accustomed to a brisk workout and reputable levels of fitness will do you so much good trying to glides them waves. More importantly, make sure to take it easy the first couple of days as being frazzled by heat stress and dehydration on your blissful Maldivian getaway would truly be a shame.