Surfing in Maldives
Surfing guide to Maldives, Indian Ocean
Maldives has 4 main surf areas. There are 33 surf spots and 11 surf holidays. Go explore!
Overview of surfing in Maldives
A Tropical Surf Trip in the Maldives
Who does’t love a tropical surf trip? If your answer to this question is absolutely no one then the Maldives should be on your surf trip bucket list. This pristine archipelago, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, boasts an idyllic blend of flawless waves, stunning island scenery, and opulent barefoot luxury. Whether you’re an intermediate wave-rider looking to conquer new breaks or a seasoned pro seeking high-performance glory, the Maldives serves up a surf holiday like no other.
Best Surf Spots in The Maldives
Jailbreaks
Jailbreaks (named after the abandoned prison on the shore) is one of the top waves in the Maldives. It offers fast and often perfect right handers that deliver both performance sections and deep barrels. This is also one of the most affordable areas to stay in the Maldives. Learn more and see the forecast here!
Sultans
Sultans is a highly consistent wave that offers a user friendly take off and wall into a shallow inside section that always throws some shade for you to tuck into. This is one of the most consistent waves in the atolls and due to the multiple take off zones has a thin crowd. Learn more here!
Cokes
Cokes is one of the best spots in the Maldives and indeed the world. When you go to Cokes you better be ready for lots of barrels. The outside and middle section pitch hard, but the final inside section is the shallowest and longest, leading to some of the best barrels in the world. Take care and have fun! Check out the forecast here.
Pasta Point
Pasta Point is often called a machine for its consistency and shape which approach perfection quite often. This left hander is also more forgiving than many waves in the Maldives, although it holds size very well. Bigger days see the sections connecting up very well. Learn more here!
Accommodation: Luxury Resorts and Seafaring Charters
One option for top quality service and accommodations is staying at luxurious surf resorts. Wake up to breathtaking vistas of turquoise waters and pristine beaches right from your overwater bungalow or beachfront villa. These resorts may not revolve solely around surfing, but they offer access to nearby waves and unparalleled amenities. Indulge in world-class dining, relax with rejuvenating spa treatments, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Maldives.
For a unique surf adventure, opt for a live aboard surf boat charter. Picture yourself waking up to the sound of waves gently lapping against the hull, surrounded by nothing but the vastness of the ocean. Each day unveils a new surfing frontier as you cruise from one pristine wave to another. Live aboard charters allow you to explore remote and uncrowded surf spots, making your surf trip an unforgettable journey through the Maldives’ natural splendor.
Getting there
Surfing Regions: A Tale of Three Zones
The Maldives is divided into three main surf zones, each offering unique surfing experiences based on prevailing weather patterns and wave conditions. Understanding the differences between these regions is essential to plan your surf trip for the optimal time of year.
- Central Atolls: The central atolls, including the Laamu Atoll, offer some of the least crowded surf zones in the Maldives. Here, you’ll find a handful of quality waves, accessible through a select number of resorts and charter boats. The region is a haven for those seeking a more serene and exclusive surfing experience. The standout wave in Laamu is “Yin Yang,” renowned for its consistency and versatility. It starts as a mellow wall, perfect for intermediate surfers, before transforming into a hollow, powerful inside section that challenges the more experienced riders. Another noteworthy break is “Tsunamis,” protected from westerly and northerly winds, making it the most consistent east-facing break in the area.
- Southern Atolls: The southern atolls are a frontier in the surfing world, still being explored and predominantly visited by surf charter boats. Located farther south than the rest of the country, they pick up more swell even during the shoulder seasons. However, between May and August, the southeast winds blow strongest, leading to occasional wind issues. Despite this, the region boasts numerous spots facing different directions, ensuring there is almost always somewhere to surf. Notable waves in the southern atolls include “Beacons,” one of the heaviest waves in the Maldives, and “Tiger Stripes,” a user-friendly left-hander with a long, consistent wall.
- Male Atolls: The Male atolls represent the original surf zone in the Maldives and are home to some of the country’s most famous waves. “Cokes” is a right-hand reef break that handles size and can produce barrels, offering an exciting challenge for experienced surfers. “Chickens,” a long left-hand reef point located near Thulusdhoo Island, peels for up to 500 meters and is best in the head-high+ range. “Jailbreaks,” located adjacent to the former national prison, is a fast, hollow right-hander that offers thrilling rides.
Getting There
Most surfers arrive in the Maldives via Velana International Airport in Male, the capital city. From there, domestic flights or boats whisk you away to various atolls, where surf resorts and charters await. Most of the resorts have transportation already set up for you so check in with them to see if you have to arrange transport from the airport or not.
Surf spot overview
The Surf: An Oceanic Tapestry of Waves
With over 1,200 coral islands spread across 26 atolls, the Maldives delivers a tapestry of surf breaks to suit every skill level. The surf potential in the Maldives was first discovered in the 1970s by surfing pioneer Tony Hussein Hinde, who stumbled upon the region’s amazing surf after being shipwrecked in the Maldives. Because the Maldives sit exposed to the full swell force of the Southern Ocean it receives swell often. Due to the nature of the atolls, there are nooks and crannies suitable for lower level surfers even when the swell is pumping at the more advanced spots. The Maldives has since become a mecca for surfers worldwide, with dozens of charter boats and surf resorts catering to thousands of satisfied wave riders each year.
Surf seasons and when to go
The best time of the year to surf in Maldives
Timing is key when planning your surf trip to the Maldives. The northeast monsoon from April to May blesses the southern atolls with favorable conditions, while the central and northern atolls revel in the southeast monsoon from May to October. South swells from March to October create consistently clean conditions, with the largest swells arriving between June and August. September and October also provide consistent swell and variable winds, making it an excellent time for wave riders to visit.
Ensure you align your travel dates with the ideal season for your preferred waves. Whichever time you choose, the Maldives promises to unveil its surf magic and leave you awe-inspired.
Maldives surf travel guide
Find trips that fit a flexible lifestyle
Activities other than Surf: Embrace Tropical Bliss
While surfing remains the primary allure of the Maldives, there’s a cornucopia of activities to indulge in when you’re not riding the waves. Snorkel with vibrant marine life in crystal-clear lagoons, partake in sunset cruises, explore local culture, or simply relax on powdery white beaches. Delight in the tranquility of yoga sessions overlooking the ocean or immerse yourself in rejuvenating spa treatments, bringing harmony to both mind and body.
Budgeting
Coming to the Maldives there will be two major expenses due to the way the surf industry is set up here. First of all flights will be expensive if you are coming from Europe or either of the Americas. Of course closer locations like Australia will enjoy a discount here. The second major expense is accommodation/surf access. I lump these together because if you are staying at a resort surf access is generally built in. If you plan on staying on a surf charter boat, well you’ll be sleeping on it too. For boats you’ll be looking at around $150 per person at the low end up to as much as you’d like to spend. Surf resorts can be cheaper, the lowest I have seen for shared rooms was $75 per person per night. Of course you can spend as much as you’d like in this sector as well. If you need to cut some corners or wallets are slim, check out our Budget Surf Trip Tips!
Language
Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives, but you’ll find that English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Most hotel and resort staff are fluent in English, making it easy for travelers to communicate and navigate their stay. This bilingual environment simplifies ordering at restaurants, booking excursions, and seeking assistance if needed. While you can get by with English, learning a few basic Dhivehi phrases can enhance your cultural experience and earn you a warm reception from the locals. The Maldivian people greatly appreciate it when visitors make an effort to learn their language, even if it’s just a greeting or a thank-you. So, don’t hesitate to pick up a few Dhivehi words to connect more deeply with the rich Maldivian culture during your surf adventure.
Cell Coverage and WiFi
The Maldives, with its picture-perfect overwater bungalows and stunning coral reefs, is a dream destination for many. However, when it comes to staying connected, the Maldives has its unique charm. While many resorts offer WiFi, the connectivity can be intermittent, especially in the more remote atolls. You’ll often find yourself torn between sharing envy-inducing photos of your water villa and simply immersing yourself in the breathtaking surroundings. Similarly, cellular coverage can be patchy on some islands. But here’s the silver lining: this digital limitation encourages you to unplug, unwind, and truly appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you. So, don’t be surprised if you spend more time gazing at the sunset than your smartphone screen. After all, the Maldives is all about creating memories, not just Instagram moments.
The Maldives are a destination in surfing and luxury for a reason. They offer the best of the best in both categories. Make sure to book up and start salivating over your next surf trip!
