If you spend Christmas in Malé, get ready for warm tropical weather instead of chilly winter air. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 29–30°C (84–86°F), while nights only dip slightly to about 26–27°C (79–81°F).
The heat feels steady, and the humidity gives the city that unmistakable tropical vibe.
Rain showers can still pop up in December, but they’re typically short and scattered. Most days bring a mix of sunshine and clouds, with about 7 hours of sun on average.
The sea stays warm and inviting, so swimming and snorkeling feel comfortable all through the holiday season.
You’ll swap snow and cold for beaches, palm trees, and calm waters, which really changes how you spend your holiday outdoors.
Typical Christmas Weather in Male
Expect steady warmth, high humidity, and light to moderate breezes during Christmas in Male. Rainfall drops compared to the wet season, but you might still get a few quick showers that clear up fast.
Temperature Ranges in Late December
Daytime temperatures in Male during late December usually stick close to 29–30°C (84–86°F). Nights cool down just a bit, averaging around 25–26°C (77–79°F).
You won’t notice much difference between day and night, honestly. The sea temperature holds steady at about 28–29°C (82–84°F), so swimming and snorkeling are always pleasant.
Male’s December weather doesn’t swing wildly like some tropical spots. You can pack light clothing year-round, since heavy layers aren’t really needed.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity stays high in Male through December, often between 75% and 80%. The air can feel warmer than the numbers suggest.
Afternoons might feel a bit sticky, especially if you’re outside for a while. Sea breezes help take the edge off, though.
Rainfall drops compared to the monsoon months, averaging about 70–75 mm for the month. Showers tend to be brief and usually show up late in the day, so most of the time stays dry and sunny.
Wind Conditions During Christmas
The northeast monsoon shapes Male’s winds around Christmas, bringing mostly light to moderate breezes at 7–15 km/h (4–9 mph).
These breezes are a relief from the humidity and help keep evenings comfortable. If you’re into sailing, diving, or other water activities, you’ll find the conditions pretty favorable.
Winds are steadier and less disruptive than in the wet season. Seas usually stay clear, with only mild surface chop, so Christmas is a good bet for outdoor excursions and water time.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
In Malé, December brings a mix of light to moderate rain and steady sunshine hours. You’ll get short showers that pass quickly, and the weather starts leaning toward the drier months.
Rainfall Amounts in December
December usually sees 150–200 mm of rain in Malé. That’s less than the peak wet months like May, but still more than February, the driest month.
Rain comes in bursts, not long downpours. Showers often roll in during the late afternoon or evening, leaving most of the day dry.
You can still get outside and enjoy things, since rain is spread out and doesn’t stick around. The tropical air stays humid, but rain and sun together help keep temperatures steady around 28–29°C.
Frequency and Duration of Showers
Rain falls on about 8–12 days in December, though it varies year to year. Showers are usually quick, often lasting less than an hour.
You rarely lose a full day to rain. More often, you’ll see a quick downpour followed by blue skies.
This pattern makes December a handy time for planning excursions, since rain is predictable and doesn’t usually drag on. Carrying a light rain jacket or umbrella is enough.
Transition Between Wet and Dry Seasons
December sits right at the turning point between the southwest monsoon (wet season) and the northeast monsoon (dry season). Rainfall drops compared to the heavier months of May through October, but you’ll still see some showers.
By late December, the drier pattern stands out more. You’ll notice more sunshine, and rainfall keeps dropping into January and February.
For travelers, this means fewer storm disruptions but still plenty of green scenery left over from earlier rains.
Sunshine and Cloud Cover
During Christmas in Malé, expect steady warmth with a balance of sunshine and passing clouds. The season falls during the drier months, so skies are clearer than during the earlier monsoon.
Average Daily Sunshine Hours
Malé typically gets about 7 to 8 hours of sunshine per day in December. That’s a bit less than the peak in March, which averages over 9 hours, but it’s still plenty for outdoor fun.
Days last about 12 hours, with sunrise around 6:15 AM and sunset near 6:15 PM. The tropics don’t have big swings in daylight, which keeps things predictable.
Compared to rainy season months, where sunshine can dip to 6.7 hours, Christmas gives you a better shot at bright skies. It’s a nice time for beach trips, snorkeling, and outdoor plans without constant interruptions.
Quick reference:
- December sunshine: 7–8 hrs/day
- March (sunniest): ~9.3 hrs/day
- June–Sept (cloudier): ~6.7 hrs/day
Typical Cloudiness at Christmas
Cloud cover in December is moderate, with clear skies mixed with the occasional passing shower. You might see some short-lived clouds, but they usually move on fast, leaving lots of sun.
December brings lighter cloud layers compared to the monsoon season, when heavy overcast is common. Rainfall averages about 75 mm, way lower than the 200+ mm seen mid-year.
You should still expect brief tropical showers, especially later in the day. They’re usually quick and often followed by clear skies.
Cloudiness rarely blocks out the sun all day, so you can plan most activities with confidence.
Sea Conditions and Swimming
Expect calm seas, warm water, and reliable swimming conditions in Male during late December. Stable weather patterns and less rain make this one of the best times to enjoy the ocean.
Sea Temperature in December
The sea around Male stays warm and steady in December. Average surface temperatures sit between 28°C and 29°C (82°F–84°F), honestly not far off bathwater.
Unlike some tropical places where ocean temperatures jump around, Male’s readings barely change all month. You won’t hit sudden cold patches, and the water works for both casual swimmers and those planning longer snorkeling or diving sessions.
December also kicks off the dry season. With less rain and calmer winds, the sea feels extra inviting. High air temperatures (25°C–31°C / 77°F–88°F) and warm water mean you can wander between beach and ocean without feeling chilly.
Families will notice the steady sea temperature makes it easier for kids to stay comfortable. If you’re into water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking, the warm water is a real bonus.
Water Clarity and Beach Conditions
By late December, the water near Male gets much clearer. Less rain means less sediment, so you’ll often get 10–20 meters of underwater visibility. The reefs around Male are excellent for snorkeling and diving.
Beaches hold up well during this time. Sand stays dry with all the sunshine, and tides are predictable. The shoreline stays calm, with only light swells that even beginner swimmers can handle.
Humidity drops compared to earlier months, and breezes keep the beach air comfortable. This mix of clear skies, calm seas, and lower moisture makes for a reliable setting for relaxing or water adventures.
Resorts and public beaches in Male usually set up safe swimming zones. These areas are marked and monitored, so you can swim with a bit more peace of mind.
Weather Impact on Holiday Activities
Warm temperatures and long hours of sunshine make outdoor plans in Malé during Christmas easy, but heavy showers can throw a wrench in your schedule. Rain comes in short bursts, so timing your activities really matters.
Best Times for Outdoor Activities
Daytime highs in December average around 29°C (84°F), with nights near 26°C (79°F). These steady temperatures mean you can plan beach trips, snorkeling, or walking tours without much worry.
Mornings and early afternoons are usually the best times to be out. Rain tends to show up later, often as quick, heavy showers. So you can swim, dive, or explore the city before clouds build.
Water temperature stays close to 29°C, which feels great and means you don’t need a wetsuit. Visibility for snorkeling is generally good, though heavy rain can stir up sand near the shore.
If you’re sightseeing or shopping in Malé, light cotton clothes and comfy shoes are your best bet. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen—the sun stays strong, even with some clouds.
Possible Weather-Related Disruptions
December brings about 203 mm of rain on average, spread across roughly 9 rainy days. That’s less than peak monsoon months, but you should still plan for some interruptions.
Sudden downpours can delay boat transfers or short flights between islands. Afternoon showers might close beach areas for a bit, though things usually clear up by evening.
Humidity averages 80%, making long walks or outdoor sports a bit tiring. Carrying water and taking it slow helps you manage the heat.
If you’re booking excursions, check with operators in the morning. Many tours adjust departure times to dodge the heaviest rain. Keeping a poncho or umbrella in your bag is a good idea.
How Christmas Weather in Male Compares to Other Months
Around Christmas, you’ll get steady warmth, high humidity, and moderate rainfall in Male. The weather isn’t extreme, but small changes in rainfall, cloud cover, and wind make December a bit different from nearby months.
Comparison With November and January
In December, average daytime highs sit near 86°F (30°C), with lows around 80°F (27°C). Rain falls on about 13 days, totaling roughly 5.4 inches. Skies stay partly cloudy, and humidity remains high.
November is wetter, averaging 5.9 inches of rain across about 14 days, making it the rainiest month. Winds ease a bit in December compared to November, so things feel calmer.
In January, rainfall drops further to about 2.1 inches across 6 days. Skies clear up, and you’re more likely to get a dry day. Temperatures stay almost the same, but January is drier and sunnier than December.
So, Christmas weather falls right between the heavier rains of November and the drier skies of January. You get warm temperatures all year, but December brings more chances of showers than the following month.
Year-Round Weather Overview
Male usually keeps a steady temperature, with highs hanging around 86–88°F (30–31°C) and lows settling near 80–82°F (27–28°C) all year. What really shifts is the rainfall, cloud cover, and wind.
The wettest period runs from May through November. September and November tend to get the most rain.
You’ll find the driest stretch from January to April. February barely gets 1 inch of rain on average.
Winds change with the seasons too. From May to October, southwest monsoon winds pick up, bringing more clouds and rougher seas.
Then, from November to April, calmer northeast winds take over, so early in the year feels drier and the skies clear up.
Humidity sticks around no matter the month. So, you’ll mostly notice changes in rain and clouds, not temperature.
Christmas in Male? It’s classic tropical weather—warm, but you might still get a shower or two.