Indian Ocean, Maldives
A left-handed reef break in the Indian Ocean.
| Wave height | 0.2 ft (1-2 ft) |
| Swell period | 7 sec |
| Swell direction | 243° |
| Wind | WSW cross/onshore 8.8 kt |
| Tide | mid / optimal |
| Surf score | 10 / 100 |
Restaurants (Maldives) is a left-handed reef break on the coast of North Male Atoll, Maldives. On the right day, the ideal swell window runs from SSW–W (200–260°); groundswell with periods around 11–17s gives it the most shape; the wave is comfortably workable up to roughly 8 ft on the face. Best winds are NE or E, with NW or E still rideable. Tide influences the wave moderately, so timing the swing helps line up the better sets. The sweet spot in our data sits between roughly 0.4 m and 1.5 m of tide height. Consistency is moderate - good days come in pulses tied to incoming swells. Expect warm, boardshort-friendly water. Expect a moderate crowd, especially on the best days. Logistically, it is about 30 minutes from MLE airport; a boat transfer is required. It rewards strong, confident surfers and is not the right place for a first session of the trip - paddle fitness and wave-reading both matter. Board-wise, locals lean on performance shortboard.
The best window is typically Apr–Oct, when swells from SSW–W (200–260°) are most consistent.
In our data the spot is workable up to roughly 8 ft on the face on the right swell and wind, beyond which it usually becomes unmanageable or closes out.
Not really - it suits advanced surfers and is not the place to learn.