Where's Hot in May? Best Early Summer Sun Destinations for UK Travellers
May is one of the best months of the year to escape the unpredictable UK weather and enjoy some early summer sunshine abroad.
Unlike the colder months when travellers are limited to winter sun destinations, May opens up a much wider choice of warm weather holidays. Across the Mediterranean, temperatures are rising, resorts are fully open and the summer season is beginning but without the peak crowds and higher prices that arrive during July and August.
For UK travellers, May offers an excellent balance. Cyprus is already enjoying genuine summer conditions, Greece and Turkey become increasingly attractive for beach holidays and the Canary Islands continue to provide reliable sunshine. If guaranteed heat is your priority, Egypt remains hot and Dubai offers some of the highest temperatures available within easy reach of the UK.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape, a family holiday during the half term break, a couples getaway or an active trip exploring historic towns and beautiful landscapes, May provides some of the best travel conditions of the year.
We compared destinations using average daytime temperatures, sunshine hours, average rainfall, sea temperatures, flight times from the UK and overall suitability for a May holiday.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best places to visit in May based on weather, value for money and the type of holiday each destination offers.
If you’re still deciding when to travel rather than just where, see our Where’s Hot by Month guide to compare temperatures and the best sunshine destinations throughout the year.
Quick Answer: Where's Hot in May?
If you’re looking for the best all round destination in May, Cyprus is our top recommendation.
Average daytime temperatures reach around 27°C, sunshine is plentiful and the Mediterranean Sea becomes warm enough for comfortable swimming. Popular resorts including Paphos, Protaras, Ayia Napa and Limassol offer excellent beaches, restaurants and attractions before the busiest summer months arrive.
The Greek islands also become fantastic options in May, with destinations such as Rhodes and Crete enjoying warm temperatures, long sunny days and fewer visitors than during the peak season.
For travellers wanting guaranteed heat, Egypt reaches around 32°C with almost no rainfall, while Dubai climbs towards 37°C, offering some of the hottest weather available from the UK.
The Canary Islands remain dependable throughout May, with Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote all offering temperatures around 25°C and excellent conditions for beach holidays.
May Weather Comparison
| Destination | Avg Temp | Sunshine (hrs/day) | Rain Days | Sea Temp | Flight Time | Beach Weather? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyprus | 27°C | 10 | 2 | 21°C | 4h 30m | ✓ |
| Rhodes | 24°C | 10 | 3 | 20°C | 4h | ✓ |
| Crete | 24°C | 10 | 3 | 20°C | 4h | ✓ |
| Antalya (Turkey) | 25°C | 10 | 3 | 21°C | 4h 30m | ✓ |
| Tenerife | 25°C | 9 | 1 | 20°C | 4h 30m | ✓ |
| Gran Canaria | 25°C | 9 | 1 | 21°C | 4h 30m | ✓ |
| Lanzarote | 25°C | 9 | 1 | 20°C | 4h 30m | ✓ |
| Egypt | 32°C | 12 | 1 | 25°C | 5h | ✓ |
| Dubai | 37°C | 11 | 0 | 29°C | 7h | ✓ |
| Algarve | 23°C | 9 | 3 | 18°C | 3h | ✓ |
| Costa del Sol | 24°C | 9 | 3 | 18°C | 3h | ✓ |
| Malta | 24°C | 10 | 2 | 20°C | 3h 30m | ✓ |
Best Places That Are Hot in May
Cyprus – Best Overall
May is arguably one of the very best months to visit Cyprus.
The island enjoys the perfect combination of warm weather, comfortable evenings and increasingly warm seas. Average daytime temperatures reach around 27°C, while rainfall becomes extremely limited and sunshine is consistent throughout the month.
Popular resorts including Paphos, Protaras, Ayia Napa and Limassol are fully open by May, offering everything from sandy beaches and waterfront restaurants to historic sites and outdoor activities.
The biggest advantage of visiting Cyprus in May is that you get genuine summer conditions before the intense heat and higher prices of July and August. Days are hot enough for relaxing on the beach, swimming and enjoying outdoor dining, while sightseeing remains comfortable compared with the hottest months.
The Mediterranean Sea reaches around 21°C, making swimming much more enjoyable than earlier in spring. Families and couples can enjoy excellent beaches, while walkers and explorers benefit from the pleasant temperatures before the summer heat arrives.
Compared with the Canary Islands, Cyprus offers a warmer Mediterranean feel with hotter daytime temperatures and warmer evenings. Compared with Greece, it often provides more reliable sunshine earlier in the season.
Best for: Families, couples, beach holidays, first time visitors and travellers wanting the best all round May destination.
Egypt – Best for Guaranteed Heat
For travellers who want hot weather rather than simply warm sunshine, Egypt remains one of the strongest choices in May.
Resorts along the Red Sea, including Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam, enjoy average temperatures of around 32°C, almost guaranteed sunshine and sea temperatures reaching approximately 25°C.
May is an excellent time to visit before the extreme summer heat becomes uncomfortable. Days are hot and ideal for beach holidays, while the warm Red Sea provides perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
The region is particularly popular with all inclusive holidaymakers, offering excellent resort facilities, sandy beaches and a wide range of activities. Visitors can spend mornings relaxing by the pool, afternoons exploring coral reefs and evenings enjoying restaurants and entertainment.
Compared with Mediterranean destinations such as Cyprus or Greece, Egypt offers significantly hotter weather and warmer seas in May, making it one of the safest options for a guaranteed sunshine holiday.
Best for: Guaranteed heat, all inclusive holidays, couples, diving and travellers wanting true summer weather.
Rhodes – Best Greek Island
May is when Rhodes really begins to shine, offering some of the best conditions of the year for a Greek island holiday.
Average daytime temperatures reach around 24°C, sunshine is plentiful and the island enjoys long, warm days without the intense summer heat that arrives later in the season. The Mediterranean Sea reaches around 20°C, making swimming increasingly enjoyable, especially towards the end of the month.
Rhodes is particularly appealing in May because visitors can enjoy its beaches, historic attractions and outdoor activities before the busiest summer period begins. The medieval Old Town, ancient ruins and scenic coastal villages are far easier to explore when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller.
Popular resorts including Lindos, Faliraki, Ixia and Kolymbia offer a wide choice of accommodation, from family friendly hotels to romantic boutique stays.
Compared with Cyprus, Rhodes is slightly cooler but offers a more traditional Greek island experience with beautiful villages, excellent food and a relaxed atmosphere.
For travellers wanting sunshine, culture and beaches in equal measure, Rhodes is one of the strongest May destinations in Europe.
Best for: Greek island holidays, couples, culture, beaches and travellers wanting sunshine before peak season.
Crete – Best for Exploring
Crete is one of the best destinations for travellers who want more than just a beach holiday.
In May, the island enjoys average temperatures of around 24°C, plenty of sunshine and comfortable conditions for exploring its dramatic landscapes, historic sites and traditional villages.
The island’s size means there is something for every type of traveller. Visitors can relax on beautiful beaches, explore the old harbour of Chania, discover ancient history at the Palace of Knossos or take scenic drives through mountain villages and olive groves.
The sea temperature reaches around 20°C and many visitors begin swimming regularly during May, particularly later in the month.
Compared with smaller Greek islands, Crete offers greater variety, with lively resorts, quiet villages, hiking routes and some of Greece’s best food experiences.
May is believed to be one of the best times to visit because the island is warm enough for beaches but still comfortable enough for walking, sightseeing and exploring.
Best for: Road trips, food lovers, active holidays, couples and travellers wanting a mix of beaches and culture.
Antalya – Best Value Mediterranean Destination
Turkey’s Mediterranean coast becomes one of the best value sunshine destinations in May.
Antalya and surrounding resorts including Lara Beach, Belek, Side and Kemer enjoy average temperatures of around 25°C, with plenty of sunshine and increasingly warm seas.
The region is particularly popular for all inclusive holidays, with large beachfront resorts offering excellent facilities for families, couples and groups. Visiting in May allows travellers to enjoy these resorts before the peak summer season, when prices and temperatures are significantly higher.
Beyond the beaches, Antalya offers plenty to explore. Visitors can discover ancient Roman ruins, waterfalls, traditional markets and the historic old town, while the nearby Taurus Mountains provide spectacular scenery.
Compared with Cyprus, Antalya is slightly cooler but often offers better value, particularly for travellers looking for high quality accommodation at affordable prices.
For UK holidaymakers wanting a Mediterranean beach break without peak season prices, Antalya is one of the strongest choices in May.
Best for: All inclusive holidays, families, couples, value for money and beach resorts.
Tenerife – Best Canary Island
Tenerife remains one of the safest choices for reliable sunshine throughout May.
Average temperatures reach around 25°C, rainfall is extremely limited and southern resorts benefit from almost guaranteed sunny conditions. Areas including Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas provide excellent beaches, restaurants and accommodation options.
One of Tenerife’s biggest advantages is consistency. While Mediterranean destinations can occasionally experience cooler days in early May, Tenerife’s climate remains dependable throughout the month.
May is also a fantastic time to explore the island. Temperatures are ideal for visiting Mount Teide, hiking volcanic landscapes, taking boat trips and exploring traditional villages.
Compared with Cyprus and Greece, Tenerife has slightly cooler evenings but offers one of Europe’s most reliable climates, making it especially appealing for families and travellers who prefer predictable weather.
Best for: Families, first time visitors, outdoor activities and reliable sunshine.
Gran Canaria – Best Family Holiday
Gran Canaria is another excellent Canary Island choice for May, particularly for families.
Temperatures average around 25°C, while the island enjoys around nine hours of sunshine per day and almost no rainfall. Southern resorts including Maspalomas, Meloneras, Puerto Rico and Playa del Ingles provide everything needed for a relaxed family holiday.
The island offers a wide range of activities, including waterparks, boat trips, beaches, wildlife experiences and scenic mountain villages. The pleasant May temperatures also make exploring the island far more comfortable than during the hottest summer months.
Gran Canaria’s variety is one of its biggest strengths. Families can choose lively resorts with plenty of entertainment or quieter areas with beautiful beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Compared with Tenerife, Gran Canaria often appeals more to families because of its resort layout and wide choice of accommodation.
Best for: Families, beach breaks and travellers wanting plenty of activities.
Lanzarote – Best Relaxing Escape
Lanzarote offers a quieter alternative to some of the larger Canary Islands while still providing excellent May weather.
Average temperatures reach around 25°C, sunshine is reliable and rainfall is extremely rare. Resorts such as Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise are ideal for travellers looking for a relaxed spring to summer escape.
The island’s unique volcanic scenery makes it one of the most distinctive destinations in Europe. Visitors can explore Timanfaya National Park, the vineyards of La Geria, dramatic coastlines and some of the Canary Islands’ most beautiful beaches.
May is an excellent month to visit because the weather is warm enough for beach days while still comfortable for sightseeing and walking.
Compared with Tenerife and Gran Canaria, Lanzarote has a quieter atmosphere and appeals strongly to couples and travellers who prefer a slower pace.
Best for: Couples, relaxing holidays, scenic landscapes and travellers wanting dependable sunshine.
Dubai – Best Luxury Sunshine
Dubai remains one of the hottest destinations available to UK travellers in May, although temperatures begin rising significantly as summer approaches.
Average daytime temperatures reach around 37°C, with virtually no rainfall and sea temperatures approaching 29°C. For many visitors, this creates perfect conditions for luxury resorts, pools and beach holidays.
The heat does mean outdoor sightseeing can be challenging during the middle of the day, but mornings and evenings remain ideal for enjoying Dubai’s attractions, restaurants and entertainment.
Visitors can experience luxury hotels, desert safaris, world class shopping, waterparks and some of the world’s most impressive landmarks.
Compared with Egypt, Dubai offers a more developed luxury experience with a combination of city attractions and beach resorts. However, travellers who prefer cooler temperatures may find Egypt more comfortable during May.
Best for: Luxury holidays, couples, short breaks and travellers wanting guaranteed sunshine.
Warm European Destinations in May
By May, much of Southern Europe has moved into its early summer season. While these destinations may not be as hot as Cyprus or Egypt, they offer excellent weather for beach holidays, sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Costa del Sol
Spain’s Costa del Sol becomes increasingly attractive during May.
Destinations including Marbella, Nerja, Estepona, Benalmadena and Torremolinos enjoy temperatures around 24°C, long sunny days and comfortable evenings.
The Mediterranean Sea is still relatively cool, but beaches, beach clubs and coastal restaurants are fully open. May is also one of the best months for exploring attractions such as Malaga, hiking coastal trails and visiting traditional Andalusian villages.
Compared with July and August, the region is much quieter and more affordable.
Algarve
Portugal’s Algarve is a fantastic choice for travellers wanting warm weather without extreme heat.
Temperatures reach around 23°C, making May ideal for exploring dramatic coastlines, walking routes, golf courses and charming towns.
Popular destinations including Lagos, Albufeira, Tavira and Carvoeiro offer beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants and scenic coastal views.
Although the Atlantic Ocean remains cooler than the Mediterranean, May provides some of the best conditions of the year for exploring the region.
Malta
Malta is another excellent May destination, combining sunshine with history and culture.
Temperatures average around 24°C, while long sunny days make it perfect for exploring Valletta, Mdina, ancient temples and coastal viewpoints.
The Mediterranean Sea reaches around 20°C, meaning swimming becomes increasingly appealing as the month progresses.
Compared with beach focused destinations, Malta offers a stronger mix of sightseeing, history and local culture.
Balearic Islands
May is one of the best times to visit the Balearic Islands before the peak summer crowds arrive.
Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza enjoy warm temperatures, improving sea conditions and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Mallorca is particularly appealing for families and couples, offering beautiful beaches, mountain scenery and charming towns.
Ibiza in May is much quieter than during the famous summer party season, making it ideal for visitors interested in beaches, restaurants and scenery.
Is May a Good Time to Travel?
For many UK travellers, May is one of the best months of the year to book a sunshine holiday.
It sits perfectly between the cooler spring months and the peak summer season, offering warm temperatures, long sunny days and excellent conditions for both relaxing on the beach and exploring new destinations.
Across the Mediterranean, May marks the beginning of the summer holiday season. Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and southern Spain all enjoy increasingly warm weather, while the Canary Islands continue to provide reliable sunshine. At the same time, destinations such as Egypt remain hot without reaching the extreme temperatures experienced during the height of summer.
One of the biggest advantages of travelling in May is the balance between weather and value. Resorts are fully open, restaurants and attractions are operating normally, but prices are often lower than during July and August.
May is also a particularly good month for families, with the half term holiday providing an opportunity to enjoy warm weather without the intense summer heat.
Reasons to travel in May
- Warm Mediterranean weather before peak summer
- Excellent beach conditions across Cyprus, Greece and Turkey
- Canary Islands remain reliably sunny
- Egypt offers guaranteed heat
- Longer daylight hours for sightseeing and exploring
- Fewer crowds than July and August
- Lower prices compared with peak summer holidays
- Comfortable temperatures for walking, hiking and outdoor activities
- Wide choice of package holidays from UK airports
Things to consider
- School half term holidays can increase prices.
- Some destinations become much hotter later in the month.
- Sea temperatures vary depending on location.
- Dubai can feel extremely hot during the daytime.
- Popular resorts begin becoming busier towards the end of May.
Our Top May Picks
If you’re still deciding where to go, here are our recommendations based on different types of holidays.
| Holiday Type | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Best overall | Cyprus |
| Best value | Antalya |
| Best beaches | Egypt |
| Hottest destination | Dubai |
| Best luxury holiday | Dubai |
| Best family destination | Gran Canaria |
| Best Greek destination | Rhodes |
| Best for exploring | Crete |
| Best Canary Island | Tenerife |
For most UK travellers, Cyprus remains the strongest all round choice in May, offering the ideal combination of warm weather, beautiful beaches, good value and a relatively short flight.
If your priority is guaranteed heat, Egypt is difficult to beat, while Dubai offers the hottest temperatures and a more luxurious city and beach experience.
For travellers who prefer Europe, Rhodes, Crete, Antalya and the Canary Islands all provide excellent conditions before the busiest summer months arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
The hottest destinations commonly visited by UK travellers in May are Dubai and Egypt.
Dubai reaches average daytime temperatures of around 37°C, while Egypt’s Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh average around 32°C.
For a hot but slightly more comfortable Mediterranean holiday, Cyprus is one of the best choices at around 27°C.
Yes. Cyprus is one of the best destinations to visit in May.
Temperatures average around 27°C, rainfall is minimal and the Mediterranean Sea reaches around 21°C, making it suitable for swimming and beach holidays.
May is often considered one of the best months to visit before the intense summer heat arrives.
Yes, especially in warmer destinations.
The sea is warm enough for swimming in:
- Egypt
- Dubai
- Cyprus
- Turkey
- Greece later in the month
The Canary Islands and Portugal are also popular for swimming, although the Atlantic Ocean remains cooler.
Yes. Greece becomes increasingly warm during May, with islands such as Rhodes and Crete reaching around 24°C.
It is an excellent time to visit because the weather is warm, attractions are less crowded and prices are generally lower than during the peak summer months.
Yes. Turkey’s Mediterranean coast enjoys excellent weather in May.
Antalya and surrounding resorts average around 25°C, with plenty of sunshine and improving sea temperatures.
It is particularly popular for affordable all inclusive holidays.
Yes. Tenerife remains one of Europe’s most reliable sunshine destinations in May.
Average temperatures reach around 25°C, rainfall is extremely limited and southern resorts enjoy excellent beach conditions.
Some of the warmest European destinations in May include:
- Cyprus
- Rhodes
- Crete
- Turkey’s Mediterranean coast
- Canary Islands
- Malta
- Costa del Sol
- Algarve
- Balearic Islands
Cyprus is usually one of the warmest Mediterranean options, while the Canary Islands offer the most consistent weather.
Yes. May is one of the best months for a beach holiday.
Unlike early spring, many destinations now have warm weather, open resorts and improving sea temperatures. It also avoids the hottest temperatures and busiest crowds of the summer holidays.
Turkey, the Canary Islands and parts of southern Europe often offer excellent value in May.
Antalya is particularly popular with travellers looking for affordable all inclusive holidays, while the Canary Islands provide reliable sunshine without long haul flight prices.
Conclusion
May is one of the best value months for a sunshine holiday from the UK.
The weather is warm across Europe, beaches are becoming increasingly enjoyable and travellers can experience many popular destinations before the peak summer crowds arrive.
For most holidaymakers, Cyprus is the best overall choice, offering reliable sunshine, warm seas, excellent beaches and a wide range of accommodation options.
If guaranteed heat is the priority, Egypt and Dubai deliver some of the hottest conditions available, while Rhodes, Crete, Antalya and the Canary Islands provide excellent alternatives for travellers wanting a European sunshine escape.
Whether you want a relaxing beach break, a family holiday or an active trip exploring new places, May offers one of the best combinations of weather, value and choice throughout the year.
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Dawn - Travel Expert
Dawn Morwood, who is based in Belfast, is our top deal finder! She has a passion for helping people see the world without overspending. At Cheap Deals Away UK, she shares great value holiday deals, travel tips and articles about affordable destinations.
She has been widely featured in the UK press. You can find articles published in The Sun, Express, Daily Mail, Mirror UK, Belfast Live, Liverpool Echo, Wales Online, Daily Record and many more publications.
Dawn's current favourite holiday destinations are Cascais, near Lisbon and Prague. Cascais for its charming old town streets with great quality Portuguese restaurants and Prague for its medieval castles and churches and of course the beer!
