THE MALDIVES
Turquoise Water, Palm Fringed Islands & Perfect Waves
Warm water, perfect islands and some of the Indian Ocean's best waves
The Maldives is hard to beat if you want to combine quality surfing with beautiful surroundings and a high level of comfort. With over 1100 islands through the chain, there is a perfect wave for every surfer.
The islands sit directly in the path of southern Indian Ocean swells, with reef breaks spread throughout the atolls. North Malé Atoll is the most accessible surf region, while the central and southern atolls offer more remote options.
The surf ranges from user-friendly waves through to fast, hollow reef breaks that demand experience.
Here you have a choice of 5-star resorts to luxury yachts to enjoy and explore these islands. The Maldives is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxury surf trip with family, group of friends and couples.
When to go
The main surf season runs roughly from mid-February through November, with March to May and September to late November generally offering some of the best conditions.
In the far southern atolls, February through April provides surfers with clean consistent mid sized swells. From May till October, the wind direction can make it difficult to get clean waves because of the direction the reef passes face in this region. It is still possible to get clean days during this time however always a gamble.
April till November is ideal for the North Male, South Male and Central Atolls. July and August usually see’s the biggest swells and the prominent west to southwest wind pattern provides shelter and world class waves from 2-6ft.
As always, timing depends on exactly where you're staying and the type of waves you're looking for.
Who is the Maldives suited to?
Best for:
All levels of surfers
Couples looking for a surf and resort holiday
Families where surfing is only one part of the trip
Surfers who enjoy warm water and reef breaks
Travellers looking for a high level of comfort without giving up the surfing
The Maldives is particularly good for someone who wants a luxury surfing holiday with the family or a group of friends. Choose from luxury resorts close to the waves or join me on a yacht to explore the island chain.
You can surf in the morning, have lunch overlooking the lagoon, spend the afternoon diving or relaxing and be back in the water later in the day.
Where I’d Stay
There are many different ways to experience a luxury surf trip throughout the Maldives from resorts to private yachts. A yacht gives you the ability to move between breaks rather than being tied to one island. Imagine waking up to a new surf break out your window every morning.
Families really enjoy this option because there is surfing, diving/snorkelling, island visits and fishing. For experienced surfers travelling with a small group, this can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore the Maldives. I really like the bespoke surfing experience onboard Sail Shantaram. A 45ft Lagoon catamaran with 3 twin cabins with air conditioning and amazing food. This is an intimate experience for a small group. I have access to many other bigger yachts that can sleep up to 12 guests also. Please contact me for more information and will curate the perfect luxury surf trip for you.
Couples and families with non-surfers really like the resort option also. I like to call this a “guilt free surf trip”. When the surfer of the group is out surfing, the others can enjoy the spa, diving, water sports, cooking classes or just relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand. Luxury resorts have something for everyone.
Contact me for more information regarding what sort of resort you would like to know more about.
My advice
The Maldives can look very similar in photographs, but the surfing experience can be completely different from one atoll to another. With over 1100 islands throughout the archipelago, knowing where to be when is very important.
I'd choose surfing first and accommodation second. I will assist you with determining which region is perfect for your group.
If you're travelling with a partner or family who don't surf, though, that equation changes. In that case, I'll usually look for a destination where the non-surfing experience is just as good as the waves.
I have over 20 years of hands on experience surfing throughout the Maldives from luxury resorts to yachts. Depending on your ability and your expectations, we will work together to tailor the ideal luxury surfing for you.
