The Maldives in May

Weather

The southwest monsoon usually arrives in the second week of May, and the wind turns to the west.

Warm, fairly dry weather lasts until the monsoon arrives; then the rainy season begins.

The sea is warm all year, around 28°C on average.

The season

The southwest monsoon, Hulhangu, starts this month and runs to November: the wet season.

Low season: one of the quietest months by visitor spending, so places are easier to book.

What's good in May

• Manta raysIn the southwest monsoon they move to the east side of the atolls, for example Lankan Manta Point in North Malé Atoll and Mahibadhoo Manta Point in South Ari Atoll.
• Hanifaru BayA protected bay in Baa Atoll where plankton draws large groups of feeding mantas in the southwest monsoon. Visits are with licensed guides.
• Whale sharksSouth Ari Atoll's marine protected area has whale sharks all year, mostly young males. Researchers found no season in how many visit.
• SurfingOne of the best stretches of the surf season, from March to May.
• Snorkelling and divingMonsoon currents bring the plankton that feeds mantas and whale sharks; on the plankton side the water is less clear.

Watch out for

• Stronger winds and rougher seas can make boat transfers bumpy and delay ferries and trips. Leave a spare day before your flight home.
• The monsoon's arrival date varies from year to year, so the first weeks of May can go either way.
• Seaplanes fly in daylight only, so a late arrival can mean a night near the airport.
• With mantas and whale sharks, keep at least 3 m away, don't touch and don't chase.