WHAT KIND OF SURF COULD YOU EXPECT?

This region of the Maldives experiences a similar surf season to Indonesia. The best waves can be had from March to October, with the biggest swells likely to occur in June/July/August.  During these months the conditions are predominantly off-shore all day and the swell direction is mainly South South East (SSE). The surf generally ranges in size from 2-8 feet, however bigger days have been experienced.

A great variety of reef breaks exist ranging in intensity from quite mellow shreddable walls to gnarlier hollow pits. There is something for everyone.In the North Male’ atoll, between Male’ and Thulhusdhoo is an assortment of 7 breaks.

FAMOUS SPOTS

“Jailbreaks” is a classic right-hander that was previously off limits. A long down the line right-hander with 3 distinct sections including a mid barrel section. Rides of up to 300m can be had when it’s lining up.

“Honky’s” is located near HP reef just North of Himmafushi Island. It is a fast wrapping left at 4-6ft and needs the right swell direction. Worth checking if “Sultans” is crowded.

On the other side of the channel you have “Sultans”. An easy right-hand take off which leads you to an intense wrapping section at the end. Breaks 3-8ft. Please note: this wave is the most protected from the southerly winds in the North Male atoll and collect the most swell – so go there if it is small.

20 minutes further North you will find the right-hander known as “Ninjas” which breaks off Kani Resort. A mellower right-hander which can be quite fickle.

Directly opposite Kani Resort you have “Lohis”, a long wackable left-hander that breaks off Lohifushi Resort – very consistent wave and has hosted the WQS O’neil ‘Deep Blue Open’ for the past 3 years. See www.deepblueopen.com for some historic images.

25 minutes north of Lohifushi are 2 breaks opposite each other at a reef pass. The right-hander known as “Cokes (Colas)” breaks 3-10ft and is fairly protected from the southerly winds that may affect other breaks such as “Lohis”. This wave has been well photographed and is the hollowest in the North Male atoll. This will test your tube-riding ability.The left hander known as “Chickens” is probably the fastest wave in the North Male atoll. This wave holds swell size from 3ft to well over 10ft and provides rides up to 500m long.

IS IT CROWDED?

Over the months of Jun/Jul/August the North Male’ atoll surf breaks are getting busier due to the European Summer holidays. Many nationalities of surfers flock to the Maldives over this period. The surf at this time is VERY consistent and can accommodate a large number of surfers spread-out over the 7 breaks in the atoll. If you are after less crowded conditions Mar/Apr/May/Sep/Oct are recommended. The swell over this period may not be as consistent as Jun-Aug however good waves certainly still exist at this time.