When you envision the Maldives, images of swaying coconut palms, pristine white sandy shores, and mesmerising azure waters typically come to mind. But would you believe that this tropical paradise also homes some of the best waves in the world?

Distinguished into three regions boasting world-class waves, the Maldivian archipelago comprises the Northern Atolls, Central Atolls, and Southern Atolls. Throughout the entire area, surf breaks are available year-round. Optimal conditions align with favorable winds and larger swells from April to June.

Here, waves break over predominantly flat and gentle sloping reef, as a result of the Maldives being some of the flattest islands in the world. Yet, it's the formidable currents running through the islands that demand careful attention. They can surge powerfully, so it’s important that you keep a vigilant eye on landmarks to stay safe in the water.

Offering a generous selection of over 50 breaks across the region, the Maldives caters to every surfer’s personal preference. Whether you seek hollow tubes or expansive open face shoulders, this surfing paradise has it all.

The Central Atolls are becoming more popular as people are looking to get away from the growing crowds in the north. The waves here don’t get as big as they do in the north or south, however they are still extremely consistent, and it is still tropical paradise.

The waves here generally work better with west winds and southeast to southwest swells.

First off, we have Kasabu or Mauroof located in Dhaalu. This wave is an epic place for beginners on the smaller swells, with a nice mellow shoulder section. However when the swell is bigger, it is also a sick barrel wave with an extension of rippable walls.

Towards the east are the isles of Meemu where there is a break called Muli. This is a long right-hander offering up long tubes, and is a good spot for intermediates who want to try get their barrel game on.

In Thaa lies Mikado Inside and Mikado Outside. Very different waves, Mikado Inside is a fun, perfect wrapping right-hand break that works best on a mid to high tide. Whilst Mikado Outside works on the same tides, it is a more advanced wave which is powerful, speedy, and home to an end section that doubles up over shallow reef - providing a very thrilling ride.

Another wave perfect for intermediate surfers is Finnimas. This is a break with a left and right wave, that is best surfed on the high tides as it is quite shallow compared to the rest. Unlike the other breaks listed here, Finnimas enjoys a northeast wind instead of west.

Towards the south, Laamu homes two more epic waves; Machine and Yin Yang. Machine is probably the best right in the Central Atolls, however it is also the most challenging in terms of paddle strength and endurance. There is no channel at Machine, and so it requires a lot of work to get out the back and to stay in position, however you will be rewarded with the best barrels on an incoming tide. Insanely consistent, this wave works well on all sizes of swells, however when it’s bigger, the rips are also stronger, so be mindful of this when you jump in the water.

And finally, Yin Yang is a powerful right-hander that starts off super mellow and chunky, and allows you to set up before it hits the edge of the reef and transforms into a speedy barrel. This wave has two sections that can work as one, or can even be two separate waves depending on the wind and conditions.

With about 15 different waves in this region of the Maldivian archipelago, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for, and it is very likely that you will score the waves of your life.

Written by Kayli Wouters

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