Weather of Maldives in January - Things to Do

January is one of the best times to visit the Maldives. The month of January in Maldives is one of the most pleasant weather conditions, with sunny days, clear skies, and low rainfall. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C, with balmy evenings cooled by gentle ocean breezes. The sea remains warm at around 28°C, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. With 8-10 hours of sunshine daily, it’s an ideal time for beach lovers to relax on the white sandy shores and explore the rich marine life

Weather in January in Maldives

January also brings calmer seas and less humidity, making it perfect for water sports and boat trips to different atolls. On average, there are only five rainy days in January in Maldives. You can expect around 75 mm of rainfall in January, concentrated around the southern atolls of the Maldives. Due to the eastern direction of the winds in January, the ocean currents are predominantly eastern (except for a few days) before and after the full and new moon days, during which the currents shift between the east and the west due to tidal superposition. The main con is the higher cost of accommodation and flights due to the high season.

Places to Visit in Maldives in January

1. Malé city

This buzzing city is the capital of the Maldives, boasting great nightlife, busy local markets, exotic food, and exotic culture. Formerly called 'Mahal,' as it was the city of the royal family, it is now famous as the King's Island. January is a good time to visit this city as the weather is ideal, and the fish is the tastiest. Make sure you go to the local fish market there and see if you can catch the best catch!

Things to see: Malé fish market, National Museum, Tsunami Monument, Grand Friday Mosque

2. Artificial Beach

This beach, as its name proclaims, is completely artificial! Built on the North Malé Atoll, this beach is called 'Carnival Beach' because it regularly hosts carnivals, festivals, and events. Water sports like scuba diving, paragliding, and surfing are also super popular here!

Things to see: Manta Point, Shark Point, Kani Corner, Nassimo Thila

3. Banana Reef

Diving at Banana Reef in Maldives — Source

The very name of this reef makes you want to check it out. We don't blame you! This cheekily named reef is shaped like a banana and is located at North Malé Atoll. It has many water sports, underwater activities, and long, pristine beaches. The reef also boasts great food, mystical caves, and breathtaking views of the setting sun. The weather in January is ideal for visiting Banana Reef. The white sand beaches and the stark blue waters are bound to stay in your mind for quite some time!

Things to see: Maldive Victory, Alimatha Island, Manta Point, Biyadhoo Island, Huhumalé

4. Fihalhohi Island

Fihalhohi Beach in the Maldives — Source

This is the perfect romantic getaway for you and your partner if you are honeymooning in the Maldives. Beautiful sunsets, striking white beaches, clear, blue water, and miles and miles of sand - this is what Fihalhohi Island has to offer! Located in South Kaafu Atoll, January is one of the best times to visit this island, as the rain is minimal, and the sea is ideally warm. The privacy on the island is another great add-on to the fun!

Things to see: Rannalhi Beach, Rihiveli Beach

5. Utheemu Ganduvaru

This island offers a slice of the history of the Maldives, along with some scintillating views of the rising sun. Located on the northern side, Utheemu is the island where Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, one of the most praised and respected Kings of the Maldives, was born. He holds a special corner in the heart of every citizen, as he was instrumental in driving away intruders from the small country. Today, the island has a monument in its name. Your trip to the Maldives will not be complete without a visit to this wooden palace!

Things to see: New Mosque, Sultan's home, Ancient Cemetery, Beach North Shore

Things to Do in the Maldives in January

1. Fishing

The Maldives is big on fishing. Almost all atolls offer fishing programs and allow you to rent equipment. Main fishing hotspots include the Malé Atoll. You can catch yellowfin tuna, Maa Keyolhu, red bass, dogtooth, barracuda, and some crustaceans. The experience will surely be authentic, as a local head fisherman accompanies you. Be careful, though - most fishing services are of the catch-and-release type!

2. Snorkeling

Banana Reef, Kaafu Atoll, Malé Atoll, and others offer great snorkeling experiences. The exotic reefs, overhangs, rock formations, and caves are a must-visit, but the marine life is even more breathtaking! You can spot snappers, fusiliers, Oriental sweet lips, red-tooth triggerfish, and other marine beings on your snorkeling expeditions. The weather in Maldives in January is one of the best times to go snorkeling as the sea is not too choppy, and the water is warm and soothing.

3. Surfing

The Maldivian Surf Club offers some great surfing expeditions around Gan Island. You can reach up to ten surf breaks where you will find fewer people - so you can surf and play with the waves in peace. January is a great time for beginners as the waves are not intense, and you can practice quite well.

4. Diving

All the destinations mentioned above offer diving courses and expeditions in the Maldives, where you can spot different fish and corals. All equipment can be rented out as well. January is perfect for diving as the currents are not too strong, and the water is warm.

New Year in Maldives

New Year’s Eve in the Maldives offers a blend of festive celebration and tropical relaxation. Resorts host gala dinners, fireworks, and beach parties with DJs, while overwater villas provide stunning views of the night sky. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, many islands have in-house clubs and cruises for a party-filled night. Alternatively, local celebrations are more laid-back, with family dinners and traditional Boduberu dances. When planning, consider your budget, the type of activities like diving or snorkeling, and the ambiance you want—whether it's romantic, adventurous, or party-centric. Choose an island close to the airport if you wish to explore the capital.

Plan your perfect holiday and bring in the New Year with a fantastic vacation to the Maldives this January!

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