When you are asked to think of the Maldives, your mind may conjure up an image of a deserted beach being caressed by the gentle breaking of waves from the transparent Indian Ocean. While this is a fair representation of some parts of the country, you should also know that the Maldives is one of the world’s most popular surf destinations. Beyond the coral reef, there are waves – and BIG ones – that can be caught all year round.
Surfing experts consider some of the Maldives’ atolls to be among the world’s best surfing destinations. However, all surfers, particularly beginners, must exercise caution in this surfing paradise due to the strong marine currents.
Most surfers who visit the Maldives opt to stay in hotels or resorts on one of its various islands, as they are conveniently located for catching the best waves. However, you could also hire a cruise boat to get from one part of the archipelago to another in search of the best swell.
Best surf destinations in the Maldives
The North Malé atoll is one of the most popular surfing spots in the Maldives, with various surfing experts praising the quality of its waves. However, novices are recommended to practice with an instructor to make sure that they stay out of harm’s way.
The relatively small Chickens wave can be caught on this atoll, providing a good opportunity for inexperienced surfers to hone their skills. One of the best places to catch the Chickens wave is Villingilimathi Huraa, a desert island close to Malé that can only be reached by boat. The wave is reportedly named after a nearby poultry slaughterhouse.
Another of the Maldives’ most famous waves is known as Cokes. One of the biggest and most powerful waves in the archipelago, the Cokes wave can be caught off the North Malé island of Thulusdhoo. It is reportedly named after a local Coca-Cola factory.
The country’s most famous wave is unquestionably the Jailbreaks wave, which can be caught off the island of Himmafushi in the North Malé atolls. As its name might suggest, this famous wave breaks close to a local jail. While surfing was prohibited in these waters for many years, people are now free to catch this wave to their heart’s content.
Surf Resort Barceló
The Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives hotel enjoys a privileged location that allows surf lovers to catch waves at all times of the year.
Its guests are able to practice a wide range of water sports at its nearby beaches, allowing them to combine surfing with other activities such as diving and snorkelling, which are the second and third most popular water activities on the archipelago, respectively.
This incredible hotel, which boasts all the amenities and facilities that could be needed for a perfect surfing getaway, is located on the island of Bodufinolhu just off the South Ari atoll. Its strategic location makes it an ideal base for any surfing holiday.
Tips, times and precautions
The Maldives is considered an ideal surfing destination due to its year-round waves (brought about by its coral reefs and strong currents), pleasant temperatures and incredible landscapes above and below the water, which is home to unique marine fauna including dolphins and tortoises. When you weigh it all up, it’s not hard to work out why it’s such a popular destination for those looking to go on a surfing getaway.
However, there are a few tips you must follow to squeeze every last drop out of your time on the archipelago. For example, you should know that the largest swells are found in the period between May and October, which is the peak surfing season.
Since most of the waves break on coral and rock bottoms, you’ll be surfing on reef breaks most of the time. If you’re a novice or you’ve never surfed on reef breaks before, don’t worry. The seabed is flat, and the waters are relatively shallow.
If you’re still not confident, you might choose to take classes with an instructor for a couple of days until you get up to speed. Once you’re comfortable, you’ll be ready to catch some waves all by yourself.
Most surfers who have visited the Maldives on multiple occasions tend to bring their boards from home. While it is possible to rent equipment on all of the islands, it might not be of the same standard or quality as what you’re used to.
Surfing experts maintain that the best breaks are found in the northern atolls, where you can catch the Sultan, Coke and Chicken waves, among others.
