Weather in Maldives in December

How December compares

December is the 12th warmest month of the year in Maldives and ranks 24th of 134 destinations we compare for December - see where else is hot in December. Against London's average high of 7.7°C in December, Maldives is 19.6°C warmer by day and 23.1°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in December

The typical December day in Maldives peaks at 27.3°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 28.1°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C. Nights average 25.8°C; one night in ten drops to 25.0°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest December day here reached 29.0°C (2020-12-04) and the coldest night 24.3°C (1995-12-02).

Rain in December

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 19 days with 1 mm or more, 206 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest December was 2006 with 502 mm, the driest 2000 with 39 mm. Humidity averages 80%.

Sea temperature in December

The sea averages 28.4°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 27.8°C to 29.0°C. For the warmest sea here, come in April (29.9°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.1 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 11.8 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:05 and sets about 17:58 local time in mid-December. Average cloud cover is 65%.

Is December a good time to visit Maldives?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Maldives on our scoring are February, March, January; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Warm evenings, with humidity to consider

December is the Maldives' coolest month by average daytime temperature, but that is a relative distinction, not a warning to pack for cold weather. Highs average 27.3°C and nights stay around 25.8°C, so there is little cooling after sunset. Humidity of 80% can make the warmth feel close, particularly if you are active; loose, breathable clothing is more useful than heavy layers. Plan gentler periods around midday if humid heat bothers you. The sea averages 28.4°C, making water temperature a clear reason to choose December for swimming. Warm water does not guarantee suitable conditions every day, though, so let the weather guide when you get in.

Expect rain to shape your plans

Rain is the main compromise: about 19 days receive measurable rainfall, so a fully outdoor itinerary leaves little room for the weather. That does not mean every rainy day is a washout, but neither should you assume showers will always be brief or conveniently timed. Average sunshine is about 4.1 hours within 11.8 hours of daylight, which is a useful distinction if you are picturing long stretches of clear sky. Pack a light waterproof and choose a holiday setup where spending time under cover would not feel frustrating. December suits flexible travellers more than dedicated sunbathers; if sustained sunshine is your priority, consider changing the month rather than relying on luck.