Maldives in December: Weather, Activities & Expert Travel Guide
December in the Maldives offers perfect weather conditions during the peak dry season
December marks the beginning of the peak season in the Maldives, with the northeast monsoon (Iruvai) firmly established, bringing perfect weather conditions. With minimal rainfall, low humidity, calm seas, and exceptional underwater visibility, December offers ideal tropical vacation conditions. As tourist numbers reach their annual peak, especially during the Christmas and New Year period, December combines the year's best weather with the most vibrant resort atmosphere, though at premium prices.
December in the Maldives at a Glance
Weather: Peak dry season with minimal rainfall and low humidity
Tourist Traffic: High (peak season begins, especially during holidays)
Pricing: Premium rates, especially during Christmas and New Year
Water Visibility: Excellent (25-30+ meters)
Marine Life: Abundant with exceptional visibility for spotting various species
Special Events: Christmas and New Year celebrations at resorts
Advance Booking: Essential, especially for holiday period
Video: Experience the Maldives during the peak dry season in December
December Weather in the Maldives
December brings the northeast monsoon (Iruvai) into full effect in the Maldives, delivering some of the year's best weather conditions. Rainfall is minimal, humidity levels are low, and sunshine is abundant and consistent. The occasional brief shower may occur, but these are typically short-lived and quickly give way to clear blue skies. With calm seas and gentle breezes, December offers picture-perfect tropical weather that matches the postcard images of the Maldives.
Temperature & Humidity
Average Daytime: 29-30°C (84-86°F)
Average Nighttime: 25°C (77°F)
Humidity: 65-70% (low for the Maldives)
Ocean Temperature: 28°C (82°F)
December temperatures remain consistently warm and pleasant, with the lower humidity levels of the dry season making outdoor activities particularly comfortable. The warm ocean temperature ensures perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and water activities throughout the month. The gentle northeast winds provide natural cooling, creating ideal conditions for beach relaxation.
Rainfall & Wind
Average Rainfall: 70-100mm
Rainy Days: 5-8 days
Sunshine Hours: 8-9 hours daily
Wind: Light to moderate, northeast direction
December sees minimal rainfall, with any precipitation typically occurring as brief showers rather than prolonged downpours. The northeast monsoon brings calm seas and consistent weather patterns, with abundant sunshine throughout the month. The northern and central atolls generally experience the driest conditions, while the southern atolls may occasionally see slightly more rainfall, though still minimal compared to wet season months.
Typical December Rain Pattern
December rainfall in the Maldives is minimal, with most days completely dry and only occasional brief showers. Here's a visualization of how rain might distribute across a typical week in December:
Monday Sunny No Rain
Tuesday Sunny No Rain
Wednesday Partly Cloudy Brief Shower
Thursday Sunny No Rain
Friday Sunny No Rain
Saturday Sunny No Rain
Sunday Partly Cloudy Brief Shower
This pattern is representative of typical December conditions, with predominantly sunny days and only occasional brief showers.
Regional Weather Variations
While the Maldives has relatively consistent weather throughout its atolls, some regional variations can occur in December:
Northern Atolls: Typically experience the driest conditions with almost no rainfall and consistent sunshine.
Central Atolls: Generally follow the average December pattern with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine.
Southern Atolls: May experience slightly more rainfall than the northern regions, though still minimal compared to wet season months.
These variations are relatively minor, and December generally brings excellent weather conditions throughout the Maldives. For more information about different regions, check our Maldives islands guide.
How December Compares to November and January
Understanding how December compares to the months immediately before and after can help you decide if it's the right time for your Maldives vacation:
November
Weather: Beginning of dry season, improving conditions
Crowds: Moderate (increasing)
Prices: 15-30% off peak season rates
Water Visibility: Excellent (20-30m)
November marks the beginning of the dry season with significantly improved weather conditions. It offers an excellent balance of favorable weather and pre-peak season value. For more details, check our guide on visiting the Maldives in November.
December
Weather: Peak dry season conditions
Crowds: High (peak season)
Prices: Peak season rates, premium for holidays
Water Visibility: Excellent (25-30m+)
December offers perfect weather conditions with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine. It marks the beginning of the peak tourist season, with high demand and premium pricing, especially during the Christmas and New Year period. Resorts are often fully booked well in advance, and special holiday events and celebrations create a festive atmosphere.
January
Weather: Peak dry season continues
Crowds: High (peak season continues)
Prices: Peak season rates (slightly lower than December)
Water Visibility: Excellent (25-30m+)
January continues the excellent weather conditions of December, with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine. While still firmly in the peak tourist season, prices are typically slightly lower than during the December holiday period. Resorts remain busy, but the atmosphere is somewhat calmer after the festive season.
December Weather Compared to Other Months
Where December sits in the annual Maldives weather pattern:
December
Driest (January-February)Wettest (July-August)
December is among the driest months in the Maldives, second only to January and February in terms of minimal rainfall. The northeast monsoon is firmly established, bringing consistent sunshine, calm seas, and excellent visibility. These conditions create perfect opportunities for beach activities, water sports, and underwater exploration. For more information about weather patterns throughout the year, see our guide on the cheapest time to visit the Maldives.
Special Events in December
December includes several special events and celebrations in the Maldives:
Christmas Celebrations (December 24-25): While the Maldives is a Muslim country, resorts cater extensively to international guests with elaborate Christmas decorations, special meals, and festive events. Many resorts organize Christmas Eve gala dinners, visits from Santa Claus (often arriving by boat or seaplane), and special activities for children.
New Year's Eve (December 31): Resorts host spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations with gala dinners, live entertainment, fireworks displays over the lagoon, beach parties, and countdown events. These are often the most elaborate and expensive events of the year at Maldivian resorts.
Resort Special Events: Throughout December, resorts organize special themed events, visiting celebrity chefs, wellness retreats, and entertainment programs for the peak season guests.
For more information about events and celebrations in the Maldives, see our guide on Maldivian culture.
December Pricing Alert
December is the most expensive month to visit the Maldives, particularly during the Christmas and New Year period (December 20 - January 10). Resorts implement peak season pricing, with premium surcharges for the holiday period that can increase rates by 30-100% compared to shoulder season months. Many resorts also require minimum stays of 5-7 nights during this period and implement mandatory gala dinner charges for Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve (typically $150-500 per person). Early booking is essential for December visits, with popular resorts often fully booked 6-12 months in advance for the holiday period.
Best Activities in the Maldives in December
December's perfect weather conditions make it an ideal time for virtually all activities in the Maldives. Here are the top experiences to enjoy during your December visit:
Snorkeling & Diving
December offers exceptional conditions for snorkeling and diving in the Maldives. With water visibility reaching 25-30+ meters, underwater enthusiasts can enjoy crystal-clear views of the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. The calm seas of the northeast monsoon make water entry and exit effortless, creating ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced snorkelers and divers.
The eastern sides of the atolls typically offer the best visibility during this period as the northeast monsoon is fully established. Virtually all dive sites are accessible due to the excellent sea conditions, and the variety of marine life visible is exceptional. For more information about diving and snorkeling spots, see our Maldives snorkeling and diving guide.
December is an excellent month for marine life encounters in the Maldives. With the northeast monsoon fully established, plankton levels are low, leading to exceptional visibility that makes spotting larger marine species easier. While manta ray aggregations are less common than during the southwest monsoon, whale sharks continue to be spotted in South Ari Atoll year-round, and the excellent visibility makes sightings more likely.
The clear waters bring a diverse range of marine life to the reefs, including reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and a variety of colorful reef fish. The exceptional visibility makes December ideal for underwater photography of marine life. For more information about marine life, see our Maldives diving spots guide.
December's calm seas and consistent winds make it an excellent time for various water sports in the Maldives. Activities like jet skiing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and parasailing benefit from the perfect sea conditions. The northeast monsoon provides ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing on the eastern sides of the atolls.
With abundant sunshine and minimal rainfall, water sports activities are rarely interrupted by weather conditions. Resorts offer extensive water sports programs during this peak season period, with additional staff and equipment available to accommodate the high demand. For more information about water sports options, see our guide on things to do in the Maldives.
December's perfect weather conditions create ideal opportunities for beach activities in the Maldives. With abundant sunshine and minimal rainfall, beach days are virtually guaranteed. The soft white sands are perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, sandcastle building, and romantic beach walks.
Resorts organize extensive beach activities during this peak season period, including beach barbecues, movie nights under the stars, beach yoga sessions, and special holiday-themed events. The comfortable temperatures and lower humidity make December ideal for extended periods on the beach without the discomfort of excessive heat or humidity. For more beach experiences, see our guide on best beaches in the Maldives.
December offers excellent fishing conditions in the Maldives with the northeast monsoon fully established. The calm seas make fishing excursions comfortable and enjoyable, and the clear waters enhance visibility for spotting fish. Traditional Maldivian sunset fishing is particularly rewarding during this period, with good chances of catching snappers, groupers, and jacks.
Big game fishing enthusiasts can target species like tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and sailfish, which are abundant in Maldivian waters during December. Many resorts offer special fishing excursions during this peak season period, with experienced guides and well-equipped boats. For more information about fishing experiences, check our Maldives fishing guide.
December offers unique opportunities to experience special holiday celebrations in the Maldives. While the Maldives is a Muslim country, resorts cater extensively to international guests with elaborate Christmas and New Year celebrations. These include gala dinners, special entertainment programs, festive decorations, and unique events like Santa arriving by boat or seaplane.
Many resorts bring in international entertainers, celebrity chefs, and special performers for the holiday period, creating a festive atmosphere unlike any other time of year. The New Year's Eve celebrations are particularly spectacular, with fireworks displays over the lagoon, beach parties, and countdown events. For more cultural insights, see our guide on Maldivian culture.
December offers perfect conditions throughout the Maldives, making it a great time to visit almost any resort. However, some properties stand out for their particular offerings during this peak season period. Here are our top recommendations for December visits:
One&Only Reethi Rah
December Special: From $3,200 per night (holiday period rates)
Located in North Male Atoll, One&Only Reethi Rah is renowned for its spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations, which are among the most exclusive in the Maldives. The resort's extensive facilities and activities program make it ideal for the perfect December weather conditions, and its spacious layout ensures it never feels crowded despite peak season occupancy.
New Year's Eve: Legendary celebration with international performers
Family-Friendly: Extensive KidsOnly program with special holiday activities
Water Sports: Comprehensive center with perfect December conditions
Dining: Multiple restaurants with celebrity chef appearances
December Special: From $3,000 per night (holiday period rates)
Located in Noonu Atoll, Soneva Jani offers a unique approach to holiday celebrations with its sustainable luxury concept. The resort's Christmas and New Year events focus on natural beauty, wellness, and gastronomy, with special appearances by Michelin-starred chefs. The perfect December weather showcases the resort's overwater villas and retractable roofs at their absolute best.
Unique Experience: Retractable roof villas perfect for December stargazing
Dining: Special holiday menus with visiting Michelin-starred chefs
Entertainment: Outdoor cinema paradiso with special holiday screenings
Extras: Complimentary ice cream and chocolate rooms
December Special: From $3,500 per night (holiday period rates)
Located in South Male Atoll, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi offers exceptional luxury with sophisticated holiday celebrations. The resort's culinary excellence is particularly showcased during the festive season, with special menus and dining experiences. Its proximity to Male makes it easily accessible during the busy holiday period, while its spacious villas provide ample privacy despite peak season occupancy.
Dining: 11 restaurants with special holiday menus
Wellness: Extensive spa with festive season treatments
Celebrations: Elegant Christmas and New Year events
Location: Just 45 minutes by yacht from Male International Airport
December Special: From $2,800 per night (holiday period rates)
Located in Baa Atoll, Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru combines luxury with marine conservation focus, offering unique holiday celebrations that incorporate educational elements. The resort's extensive facilities and spacious layout ensure a comfortable experience even during peak season. Its position in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve provides exceptional marine life encounters with the perfect December visibility.
Marine Center: Conservation programs with special holiday activities
Family-Friendly: Comprehensive kids program with festive themes
Celebrations: Sophisticated Christmas and New Year events
Wellness: Ayurvedic retreat with special holiday programs
Pros and Cons of Visiting the Maldives in December
Pros of Visiting in December
Perfect Weather: Peak dry season with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine
Excellent Water Visibility: 25-30+ meters visibility for diving and snorkeling
Calm Seas: Perfect conditions for water sports and transfers
Special Holiday Celebrations: Elaborate Christmas and New Year events at resorts
Vibrant Atmosphere: Resorts at full capacity with lively ambiance
Maximum Facilities: All resort facilities and services operating at full capacity
Reliable Transfers: Minimal weather-related delays for seaplanes and boat transfers
Perfect Beach Conditions: Ideal for sunbathing and beach activities
Special Entertainment: Visiting performers, celebrity chefs, and unique events
Cons of Visiting in December
Premium Pricing: Highest rates of the year, especially during holiday period
Crowded Resorts: Maximum occupancy at most properties
Limited Availability: Popular resorts booked months in advance
Mandatory Gala Dinners: Required charges for Christmas and New Year events
Minimum Stay Requirements: Many resorts impose 5-7 night minimums
Airport Congestion: Busier arrival and departure experience
Higher Demand for Activities: Need to book excursions well in advance
Less Privacy: More guests at beaches, restaurants, and common areas
Less Authentic Experience: Holiday celebrations cater to Western traditions
What to Pack for the Maldives in December
December's perfect weather conditions make packing relatively straightforward, focusing on lightweight clothing and sun protection. Here's a comprehensive packing list specifically tailored for a December visit:
Clothing
Lightweight, breathable clothing (natural fabrics like cotton and linen work well)
Multiple swimwear options for daily water activities
Rash guard or UV protection shirt for snorkeling and water activities
Light sweater or wrap for air-conditioned spaces
Comfortable sandals and water shoes
Formal or smart casual attire for Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations
Resort wear for dinners (check your resort's dress code)
Hat with wide brim for sun protection
Sunglasses with UV protection
Health & Protection
High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe/mineral-based recommended)
After-sun cooling gel or aloe vera
Insect repellent (though mosquitoes are less prevalent in December)
Basic first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relievers
Motion sickness medication (for boat transfers)
Personal medications with prescriptions
Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
Lip balm with SPF protection
Rehydration salts or electrolyte tablets (for hot days)
Equipment & Electronics
Underwater camera or GoPro for excellent visibility conditions
Waterproof phone case or pouch
Dry bag for boat trips and excursions
Power bank for charging devices during excursions
Universal power adapter
E-reader or books for beach reading
Portable Bluetooth speaker for your villa
Snorkeling equipment (though most resorts provide this)
Binoculars for marine life spotting from your villa
December Packing Tip
For December visits, be sure to pack at least one formal or smart casual outfit for Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations. Many resorts have dress codes for these special events, and you'll want to look your best for the festive occasions. The sun is particularly strong in the Maldives during December, so prioritize sun protection including high SPF sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing. For more general packing advice, see our comprehensive Maldives travel guide.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting the Maldives in December
Timing Your Visit
If possible, consider visiting in early December (before December 20) or late December (after January 5) to avoid the absolute peak of the holiday season pricing and crowds. The weather is equally excellent throughout the month, but the pricing and availability vary significantly.
If you're specifically interested in the festive celebrations, book well in advance (9-12 months) for the Christmas and New Year period, as popular resorts fill up quickly. Be prepared for mandatory gala dinner charges and minimum stay requirements during this period.
Resort Selection
Research the specific holiday celebrations at different resorts, as they vary significantly in style and scale. Some resorts focus on elaborate entertainment and parties, while others offer more relaxed, family-oriented celebrations or wellness-focused events.
Consider the resort's size and layout during this peak occupancy period. Larger resorts with more spacious layouts and multiple dining venues may feel less crowded than smaller, more intimate properties. For families, ensure the resort has a comprehensive children's program for the holiday period.
Transfer Considerations
Book international flights well in advance for December travel, as this is a peak global travel period with limited availability and high prices. Consider arriving a day early in Male if your international flight arrives late in the day, as seaplane transfers don't operate after sunset.
Allow extra time for airport procedures during this busy period, as Velana International Airport experiences its highest passenger volumes in December. For more information about transfers, see our Maldives transportation guide.
Managing Costs
Budget carefully for December visits, accounting for mandatory gala dinner charges (typically $150-500 per person for each of Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve). Consider booking meal plans in advance, as individual dining can be particularly expensive during this period.
Pre-book activities and excursions to secure availability and potentially better rates. During peak season, popular excursions often sell out, and last-minute bookings may incur premium pricing. For more tips on managing costs, see our guide on the cheapest time to visit the Maldives.
Activity Planning
Take advantage of December's excellent visibility by prioritizing snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography. Book specialized marine excursions well in advance, as these are particularly popular during the peak season.
Plan some activities away from the main resort areas during peak times of day to find more secluded experiences. Early morning snorkeling sessions or sunset cruises can offer more peaceful experiences even during this busy period.
Photography Tips
December's perfect weather and exceptional visibility create ideal conditions for both underwater and landscape photography. The water clarity allows for exceptional underwater shots, while the clear skies create spectacular sunset images.
Capture the special holiday decorations and events, which offer unique photo opportunities not available at other times of the year. For professional assistance, consider booking a private photographer during your stay.
December offers perfect weather conditions in the Maldives, with the northeast monsoon (Iruvai) firmly established, bringing minimal rainfall, low humidity, and abundant sunshine. These ideal tropical conditions create picture-perfect settings for beach activities, water sports, and underwater exploration. While December delivers the best weather of the year, it also brings peak season crowds and premium pricing, particularly during the Christmas and New Year period.
December is an excellent time to visit the Maldives if:
You're seeking perfect weather conditions with virtually guaranteed sunshine
You value exceptional underwater visibility for snorkeling and diving experiences
You're interested in special holiday celebrations at resorts
You prefer a vibrant resort atmosphere with maximum occupancy
You want to experience the Maldives at its absolute best in terms of weather
You enjoy socializing and meeting other travelers
You want all resort facilities and services operating at full capacity
You're planning a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary
You're traveling during your holiday break and have limited flexibility with dates
December may not be ideal if:
You're seeking the lowest possible prices (May-October offers deeper discounts)
You prefer a quieter, more secluded experience with fewer guests
You're booking last-minute as availability is extremely limited
You're on a tight budget and concerned about additional holiday charges
You're specifically interested in manta ray aggregations (more common during southwest monsoon)
You prefer an authentic cultural experience rather than Western-style holiday celebrations
You dislike minimum stay requirements and mandatory gala dinner charges
You're seeking a completely private experience at resort facilities
For most travelers with flexible budgets who prioritize perfect weather, December represents the ideal time to experience the Maldives at its absolute best. The combination of ideal weather conditions, special holiday celebrations, and vibrant resort atmosphere creates a truly memorable experience, albeit at premium prices. For those with budget constraints or preferences for quieter environments, shoulder season months like November or May offer excellent alternatives with very good weather at more moderate prices.
Planning Your Visit
If you're considering a December visit to the Maldives, it's worth comparing with other months to find the perfect timing for your preferences. Check our guides on visiting in November and visiting in January to compare conditions across different periods of the year.
For comprehensive information about the best times to visit throughout the year, see our complete guide on the cheapest time to visit the Maldives, which provides a month-by-month breakdown of weather, prices, and crowd levels.
Readers Comments
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James W.
★★★★★
December 28, 2023
We spent Christmas at Soneva Jani and it was absolutely magical. The weather was perfect - not a single drop of rain during our entire 10-day stay. The water visibility was incredible for snorkeling and diving, and we saw so many different species of marine life. Yes, it was expensive (especially the mandatory Christmas Eve gala dinner), but the experience was worth every penny. The resort was at full capacity, but the villas are so private that it never felt crowded. December is definitely the perfect time to visit if you can afford it!
Emma L.
★★★★☆
December 15, 2023
We visited in early December (1-12) and it was the perfect decision. We got the amazing weather of December but at slightly lower prices than the holiday period. Our resort (Constance Moofushi) was about 80% full, so there was a great atmosphere without being too crowded. The weather was flawless - blue skies every day and the water visibility for diving was the best I've ever experienced. We saw whale sharks, manta rays, and countless reef sharks. My only advice would be to book activities in advance, as even in early December, the popular excursions filled up quickly.
Robert K.
★★★★☆
January 3, 2024
We spent New Year's Eve at One&Only Reethi Rah, and while the weather and setting were absolutely perfect, be prepared for the cost if you're visiting during this period. The mandatory New Year's Eve gala dinner was $850 per person, and everything from activities to drinks carried premium pricing. That said, the celebration was spectacular with international performers, fireworks, and an incredible atmosphere. The weather was perfect throughout our stay - consistent sunshine, low humidity, and calm seas. If budget isn't a concern and you want to experience the Maldives at its absolute best, December is unbeatable.
