Chickens

The Maldives' fastest left — 500m barrel rides off a chicken farm

Chickens is the northernmost break in North Male Atoll, named after the poultry farm that once occupied the island it breaks off. It is arguably the fastest and longest left in the Maldives, capable of producing rides up to 500m with 10-second-plus barrel sections when conditions align. The wave is made up of three to six bowl sections depending on swell size and direction, all of which can throw heavy lips. It holds swell from 3ft to well over 10ft, favouring clean southeast groundswell, and performs best on incoming mid to high tide with light or no wind. The May to October southwest monsoon season delivers the goods, with July and August being most consistent. Sharp coral reef and strong currents are the main hazards.

Best months to surf Chickens

Wave consistency

Consistent

Things to do nearby

• Snorkel pristine house reefs with manta rays
• Sunset dolphin cruise in the atoll
• Dive world-class sites in North Male Atoll
• Explore Male city markets and mosques