Surfing
Surfing is an important part of Maldivian culture, and many visitors look forward to grabbing a board and hitting the waves. Certain months are better than others for surfing, with April generally considered the start of the season and October considered the end. The biggest swells are expected between June and September, with surf reaching up to eight feet. For the best waves, visit Kuda Vilingili and Thanburudhoo, both located on the eastern reef of North Male Atoll.
Parades and festivals
The Maldives has a number of religious festivals and celebrations that are fascinating to witness at different times of the year. As an Islamic country, the Maldives observes Ramadan, which begins on May 16 and lasts until June. Meanwhile, July 26 is Independence Day, which commemorates the country's independence from British rule in 1965 and is marked by a number of parades and public celebrations throughout the islands. The Maldives then celebrates Republic Day on November 11, with the capital Male serving as the focal point of the festivities, with parades through its streets and parks.
Dolphin spotting
The Maldives is ranked as one of the top five places in the world to watch dolphins, with sunset viewings being one of the most popular excursions. There are dolphins all year in the Maldives, but they prefer the dry season from January to April, so these are the best months to see them. Many hotels now offer dolphin-watching trips to their guests at the end of the day when the animals are most playful, so grab your camera and appreciate their oceanic antics.