March remains warm with low rainfall and excellent sea conditions in many atolls, though humidity begins to rise toward April. It's still a busy travel period with sustained demand.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 26-31°C (79-88°F)Crowds HighPrices High
High seasonShoulderLow season
Weather by City in March
CityLow / highRain
Malé
Hot
27°31° 64 mm
Fuvahmulah
Hot
26°31° 144 mm
Hithadhoo
Hot
26°31° 151 mm
Kulhudhuffushi
Hot
26°31° 35 mm
Thinadhoo City
Hot
27°32° 130 mm
Naifaru
Hot
27°31° 48 mm
Hulhumalé
Hot
27°32° 63 mm
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Maldives in March.
Where to Go in Maldives in March
Malé & Kaafu Atoll
capital, nearby resort and local islands
Warm, dry days continue into March with the northeast monsoon still in charge; skies in Malé are mostly cloud-free and sea conditions calm for speedboat and seaplane transfers. This is one of the best months for diving visibility in the central atolls and for strolling the compact streets of Malé without monsoon rain; crowds remain high so expect limited last-minute availability. Lightweight clothing, a hat and strong sunscreen are essential, and evening mosquito annoyance is low compared with the wet season.
Northern Atolls
Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, Shaviyani, Noonu
March often offers the last flushes of pristine conditions before the monsoon flip: long sunlit days and calm seas, ideal for exploring Qaanaaq-like deserted sandbanks and small local-island guesthouses. Reef visibility is usually at its best, so this is prime time for underwater photographers exploring the northern channels. Crowds are modest compared with Malé; pack a light long-sleeve for sun protection on long boat rides and insect repellent for dusk.
Central Atolls & Baa
Baa Atoll including Hanifaru Bay; Lhaviyani
March keeps the water conditions calm and visibility high across the central atolls; dive operators run full schedules and day trips to islands like Dharavandhoo or Kanifushi are reliable. The late-morning light highlights the pale sandbanks and makes helicopter and seaplane photos spectacular, so photographers love this month. Expect premium rates at resorts; bring both tropical swimwear and a thin layer for air-conditioned lounges.
Ari Atoll & South-Central Atolls
Alifu and South Ari
March continues as a top month for diving and calm seas in Ari Atoll; daylight hours are bright and the clarity makes nocturnals and channels especially rewarding. Whale-shark encounters on operator-run safaris remain frequent in season and snorkeling with experienced guides is straightforward. Expect high occupancy at resorts and guesthouses, so plan internal transfers and keep a hat and spare swimwear at hand for multiple daily dives.
Southern Atolls
Vaavu, Laamu, Gaafu, Addu and Fuvahmulah
March keeps the northeast trades in place: bright skies, warm water and dependable travel windows between southern islands. Diving visibility tends to be favorable and the region’s more exposed reefs deliver strong encounters for experienced divers. Expect fewer tourists than in central atolls, and bring sturdy footwear for rocky shores and reef flats found on islands like Fuvahmulah.
Events & Festivals in March
End-of-season offers appear late March
Some resorts start to advertise shoulder-season rates as the dry season winds down.
Planning a trip to Maldives?
See how March compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
