At a glance
| At a glance | In July |
|---|---|
| Weather | Hot and humid; short, heavy showers; stronger winds |
| Sea | Warm and lively; visibility a little lower |
| Marine life | Mantas on the eastern sides and in Hanifaru Bay; turtle hatchlings |
| Surf | Among the biggest waves of the year |
| Visitors | Low season, with offers |
| Holidays | Independence Day, 26 July |
| Suits | Surfers, kitesurfers, divers, families, value |
Weather
July is the southwest monsoon in full: hot and humid, with long sunny periods broken by short, heavy downpours, and stronger winds. Showers rarely last long, and there are around seven hours of sunshine a day.
In the water
Plankton lowers the visibility a little and the open sea is lively, but sheltered lagoons stay calm for paddleboarding and snorkelling. The big draw is the mantas, which gather on the eastern sides of the atolls and in Hanifaru Bay, and the whale sharks.
More turtle hatchlings make their way to the sea around now.
Surf
July is one of the best months for surfers, with big swells, and the strong winds suit kitesurfing.
Visitors and prices
It is low season, with value offers at many resorts. Summer school holidays in many countries bring some families, but the islands stay quieter than in winter.
Independence Day
Independence Day, on 26 July, marks the country’s independence from Britain. Malé holds a flag-raising ceremony on the morning of the 26th, with parades over the following days, and some resorts mark the day with traditional performances, music and special menus. In 2027 the public holiday runs over 26 and 27 July.
Who it suits
July suits surfers and kitesurfers, divers who want mantas and whale sharks, and anyone looking for value. Families travelling in the summer holidays find lower rates, and calm lagoons for swimming.