Male in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Male

30°C (86°F) High Temp

26°C (79°F) Low Temp

125mm (4.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect transition weather - dry northeast monsoon begins, reducing afternoon rain from 18 daily days in October to just 10 days, with clearer skies for photography and outdoor dining
Ideal sea conditions for diving and snorkeling - visibility improves to 15-20m (49-66 ft) as storms subside, making it prime time for underwater activities around nearby reefs
Local fishing season peaks - restaurants serve the freshest tuna, skipjack, and reef fish at 20-30% lower prices than imported seafood during other months
Comfortable evening temperatures of 26°C (79°F) make sunset walks and outdoor dining pleasant, while humidity drops to its lowest point since March

Considerations

Accommodation prices increase 35-50% as November marks the beginning of peak tourist season, with advance booking (6+ weeks) essential for better rates
Afternoon thunderstorms still occur 40% of days, typically lasting 45-60 minutes between 2-4pm, requiring indoor backup plans for midday activities
UV intensity remains high at index 8 - sunburn can occur in just 15 minutes during peak hours (11am-3pm), requiring frequent sunscreen reapplication

Best Activities in November

Artificial Beach Swimming and Water Sports

November's calmer seas and reduced rainfall make this the ideal time to enjoy Male's man-made beach area. Water temperatures are perfect at 28°C (82°F), and the artificial lagoon provides safe swimming conditions. Morning sessions (7-11am) offer the best experience before afternoon heat peaks.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Water sports equipment rental typically costs ฿500-800 per hour. No advance booking needed for beach access, but equipment rental during weekends requires early arrival.

Local Island Hopping Tours

November's improving weather conditions and calmer seas create perfect opportunities for visiting inhabited local islands within 30 minutes of Male. Experience authentic Maldivian village life, traditional boat building, and local fish markets without the resort crowds.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost ฿2,800-4,200 including transport and lunch. Book through licensed operators 3-5 days ahead. Morning departures (8am) offer better weather and authentic market experiences. See current options in booking section below.

Sunrise Fishing Expeditions

November marks peak fishing season for skipjack tuna and reef fish. Early morning expeditions (5:30-10am) take advantage of calm seas and active fish feeding times. Water clarity improves significantly this month, making it easier to spot fish schools.

Booking Tip: Traditional dhoni fishing trips cost ฿1,800-2,500 per person including equipment and breakfast. Book 5-7 days ahead as local fishermen prefer confirmed groups. Best results on days following light rain showers when fish are most active.

Historic Male Walking Tours

November's reduced humidity and comfortable morning temperatures make exploring Male's compact 2.2 km² (0.85 sq miles) area much more pleasant. Visit the 17th-century Old Friday Mosque, Sultan Park, and local markets during the coolest parts of the day.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free, guided tours cost ฿800-1,200 per person. Start before 9am or after 4pm to avoid midday heat. Most attractions are within 500m (0.3 miles) of each other, making walking tours highly practical.

Traditional Dhoni Sunset Cruises

November offers some of the year's most spectacular sunsets with clearer skies and less atmospheric haze. Traditional dhoni boats provide authentic sailing experiences around Male's harbor, with dolphins frequently spotted during late afternoon cruises.

Booking Tip: 90-minute cruises typically cost ฿1,500-2,200 per person. Book Easttimor day or one day ahead - departure depends on weather conditions. Best visibility occurs 2-3 days after rain showers when air is clearest.

Local Market and Street Food Tours

November's peak fishing season means Male's Local Market offers the freshest selection of the year. Morning market visits (6-8am) showcase traditional Maldivian ingredients, spices, and preparation methods while temperatures remain comfortable for walking.

Booking Tip: Self-guided market exploration is free, food tasting tours cost ฿900-1,400 per person. Bring small bills for vendors who rarely have change for large notes. Friday mornings offer the largest selection but avoid prayer times (12-2pm).

November Events & Festivals

November 11

National Day Celebrations

November 11th marks Maldives National Day with traditional music, dance performances, and cultural displays in Republic Square. Local schools and cultural groups perform traditional Boduberu drumming and folk dances throughout the afternoon and evening.

Mid November

Peak Tuna Season Festival

Local fishing community celebrates the year's best tuna harvest with traditional fish preparation demonstrations, cooking competitions, and fresh seafood markets. Visitors can observe traditional fish cutting techniques and sample seasonal preparations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers last 45-60 minutes and occur 40% of days, but locals don't let brief rain stop outdoor activities

SPF 50+ sunscreen (200ml/6.8oz minimum) - UV index 8 means sunburn in 15 minutes during peak hours, reapply every 90 minutes due to high humidity

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity, lightweight fabrics dry faster after unexpected showers

Water-resistant phone case or dry bag - essential for boat trips and sudden downpours, local shops charge 3x international prices for replacements

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - Male's streets can be slippery when wet, and you'll walk 2-4 km (1.2-2.5 miles) daily on compact coral stone

Light sweater for evening - temperatures drop to 26°C (79°F) after sunset, which feels cool after hot days, especially in air-conditioned restaurants

Quick-dry swimwear - you'll want multiple swim sessions and clothes dry slowly in November humidity, synthetic materials work better than cotton

Insect repellent with DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito activity, especially during early morning and evening outdoor activities

Electrolyte tablets or powder - dehydration happens quickly in humid conditions, local pharmacies stock limited international brands at high prices

Modest clothing for mosque visits - lightweight long pants and shirts with sleeves, required for Old Friday Mosque and other religious sites

Insider Knowledge

November fish market visits are spectacular from 6-7am when boats return with overnight catches - skipjack tuna and wahoo are at their peak quality and lowest prices, often 40% cheaper than resort purchases

Local workers take extended lunch breaks (12-2pm) during Friday prayers, so plan museum visits and shopping for morning or after 2:30pm to avoid finding attractions closed

The artificial beach's best swimming conditions occur 2-3 hours after high tide when water circulation is optimal - check tide times daily as they shift throughout November

November's improved visibility makes Male's harbor dolphin watching most reliable between 5:30-6:30pm, with 70% success rates compared to 40% during monsoon months

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation less than 6 weeks ahead - November starts peak season pricing and availability drops significantly, especially for mid-range guesthouses under ฿3,000 per night

Scheduling outdoor activities between 12-3pm when UV is strongest and afternoon storms most likely - locals avoid this period entirely, doing outdoor work before 11am or after 4pm

Expecting resort-style beaches in Male - the artificial beach is small and primarily for swimming, not sunbathing or beach sports, so adjust expectations accordingly