Maldives in December 2025: Weather, Best Places & Complete Travel Guide

The Maldives' weather in December stands out as exceptional. The northeast monsoon brings the driest conditions of the year. Therefore, it is the best time to visit the Maldives for outdoor adventures and water activities. According to the Maldives Meteorological Service, December records one of the lowest rainfall averages at just 75mm.

Pro Tip: For the most agreeable temperatures, schedule outside activities between 7-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.

December offers clear advantages over other travel periods, with 80% less rainfall than wet season months. 

• Dry Season (November-April): December is the driest month
• Wet Season (May-October): Higher rainfall and humidity
• Peak Season (December-March): Best weather but highest prices

1. Male Island: Capital City Explorer

Male serves as the gateway to your Maldives adventure. The pleasant December weather makes walking tours comfortable. This is among the best places to visit in the Maldives, with the National Museum, Islamic Centre and local fish markets. 

• Location: North Malé Atoll
• Best Time to Visit: Morning (8-11 AM)
• Activities: Visit Sultan Park, Male Friday Mosque

2. Maafushi Island: Budget-Friendly Paradise

This island provides unique, local experiences at reasonable pricing. The calm waters in December are an ideal time to take snorkelling tours to nearby reefs. This local island provides cultural immersion without luxury resort costs. It is a perfect place to go on dolphin watching trips and enjoy local cooking lessons. 

• Location: South Malé Atoll
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the day
• Activities: Snorkelling, dolphin watching tours, and local cooking classes

3. Hulhumalé Island: Modern Maldivian Experience

This artificial island mixes modern conveniences with natural beauty. December weather enhances beach walks along the 2km coastline.  The island provides simple airport access and different resorts in the Maldives. It is just a 10-minute drive from Velana International Airport. 

• Location: North Malé Atoll
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to Sunset
• Activities: Hulhumalé Grand Mosque, or explore the local parks and cafes

• Snorkelling and Scuba diving: Discover the Maldives diving and snorkelling sites with unbelievable 25-30 meters of visibility. The serene waters of December present ideal environments to see manta rays, whale sharks and colourful coral reefs.
• Water Sports Adventures: Experience jet skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding in ideal conditions. December's consistent weather patterns and calm waters make it perfect for all water activities.
• Traditional Dhoni Sunset Cruises: Enjoy magical evenings on Maldivian boats in December, with calm seas, sunset views, dolphin spotting, and traditional fishing.
• Spa and Wellness Treatments: One of the best things to do in the Maldives in December—luxury spa sessions by the beach. With dry, breezy weather, ocean-cooled massages and wellness rituals feel more refreshing than ever.
• House Reef Snorkelling: Snorkel directly from your resort with outstanding visibility reaching 30 meters. December's clear waters reveal the full beauty of coral gardens and marine life. 
• Island Hopping Cultural Tours: Island hopping in the Maldives in December is the best activity to experience authentic Maldivian culture. Learn traditional coconut processing, observe dhoni boat construction, and taste local delicacies like mas huni and garudhiya. 
• Premium Resort Islands: December is peak season for Maldives water villas, with calm seas and clear skies. The top water villas are Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Baros Maldives Resort and Angsana Velavaru. 

Tip: Book popular activities like manta ray excursions early. Prime diving sites in Baa Atoll often reach capacity during December's peak season.

The Maldives is in full season in December, and thus expect to pay high prices. On average, an overwater villa in the Maldives costs between $300 and 850 per night, with local guesthouses ranging between 50 and 150 per night, depending on location and facilities.

Flight to the Maldives peak during December 30-50% above low season rates. A seaplane transfer can cost $400-600 per person, and a speedboat transfer $50-200 per person, depending on distance.

Northern Atolls Weather 

The popular areas are North Malé, South Malé, and Baa Atoll. December conditions in the northern atolls are slightly less humid than southern regions.

Southern Atolls Weather

The popular areas are Addu, Huvadhu and Gaafu. Southern atolls experience marginally higher humidity levels, but less tourism development means quieter experiences.

• Book accommodations 4-6 months ahead
• Apply reef-friendly products to take care of coral reefs.
• PADI-certified divers often recommend December as the best month for spotting manta rays due to calm seas and clear visibility.
• Bring lightweight cotton or linen attire, fast-drying clothes and a waterproof phone case.
• Find a shady spot in the hot periods (11 AM -3 PM)
• Keep hydrated by taking 3-4 litres of water per day.
• Respect marine life during snorkelling and diving
• Book Maldives honeymoon packages for bundled savings

December is peak travel season in the Maldives. You get guaranteed excellent weather conditions in the Maldives in December. The dry season assures minimal rainfall disruption, while calm waters provide ideal conditions for all aquatic activities. However, you'll pay peak season prices, but the weather reliability justifies the investment. Plan and book early. Customise Maldives tour packages from Pickyourtrail for your dream tropical vacation without any hassle.