Weather in Maldives in March

How March compares

March is the 4th warmest month of the year in Maldives and ranks 23rd of 134 destinations we compare for March - see where else is hot in March. Against London's average high of 10.5°C in March, Maldives is 17.7°C warmer by day and 23.6°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in March

The typical March day in Maldives peaks at 28.2°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 28.9°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C. Nights average 26.9°C; one night in ten drops to 25.8°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest March day here reached 29.8°C (1998-03-26) and the coldest night 24.4°C (2008-03-10).

Rain in March

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 9 days with 1 mm or more, 47 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest March was 2017 with 185 mm, the driest 2001 with 1 mm. Humidity averages 76%, which makes the heat feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

Sea temperature in March

The sea averages 29.2°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 28.9°C to 29.6°C. For the warmest sea here, come in April (29.9°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 6.5 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 12.0 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:12 and sets about 18:18 local time in mid-March. Average cloud cover is 45%.

Is March a good time to visit Maldives?

Yes - it is one of the better months: hot days, manageable rain. 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 swimming, with little relief from the heat

The heat is fairly steady rather than extreme, but humidity of 76% can make it feel more demanding than the temperature suggests. Loose, breathable clothing is a better choice than anything heavy, and air conditioning is worth prioritising if warm nights affect your sleep. Plan gentler activity around midday, with shade and drinking water close at hand. Evenings remain warm enough for light clothing rather than the layers you would need at home. The sea averages 29.2°C, so swimming should feel warm rather than bracing. That suits leisurely time in the water, though it may offer less cooling relief than you expect.

A good month, but leave room for rain

March sits among the better months to go, alongside February and January, but it is not a rain-free choice. Expect about 8 rainy days across the month and roughly 6.5 hours of sunshine within 12 hours of daylight. There is scope for outdoor time without assuming clear skies throughout each day. Keep weather-dependent plans flexible and pack a light waterproof that will not feel too heavy in humid conditions. Sun protection still belongs in your bag, even when the sky looks mixed. March suits travellers who can accept some wet weather in return for dependable warmth; it is less suitable if uninterrupted sunshine is the main reason for booking.