Planning a trip to Florida in May? You’ve picked the perfect time!

With its dry climate and mild temperatures, May is one of the best months to explore the “Sunshine State”!

Hurricane season doesn’t start until June and the winter Snowbirds have already headed back home.

The weather is perfect for hitting the beach from the northern coasts down to The Keys.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or exciting nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Florida in May – and at an affordable cost too!

With this guide, we’ll help you discover all that Florida has to offer during your visit in May, and why May is one of the best times to visit!

Florida In May: Everything You Need To Know!

Below, we’re going to look at everything you need to know about visiting Florida in May.

Many people flock to Florida when school lets out in June. And, many people are leaving Florida as the temperatures throughout the state get higher.

To top it off – humidity hasn’t reached its peak and rainfalls are few and far between! 

Between unlimited beaches, festivals, and activities to choose from, let’s dive into all the information you’ll need for your May trip!

Visiting Florida In May 

If you want to enjoy everything the Sunshine State has to offer, then yes, May is a good time to visit Florida! 

For most people, May is the best time to visit. Similar to April, temperatures are still mild. This makes it an excellent time for theme parks, hiking, and outdoor activities.

As summer gets closer, it’s warm enough for beach trips (our favorite thing to do in Florida!). 

For visitors that enjoy being more active than us “beach bums”, you can hike and explore the natural beauty of the state.

That could mean golfing through famous courses or kayaking in natural mangroves.

Maybe it means spending your days walking through all the theme parks, like Universal or ICON Park. 

With great weather from North Florida to South Florida, you can take day trips from Orlando to Clearwater or Jacksonville to Miami!

Wherever you go, you’ll be able to enjoy everything Florida has to offer.

What Is Florida’s Weather Like In May?

In May, temperatures in Florida can range from a comfortable 80 degrees F to a hotter 90 degrees.

Depending on where you are in the state, the light ocean breezes will cool you off, even on the hottest days. 

It’s important to remember, specifically in the central parts of the state, that humidity on hotter days may feel more uncomfortable than you’re used to.

Is May Hurricane Season In Florida?

Nope!  Hurricane season in Florida begins in June and ends in November.

However, Florida’s rainy season will pick up towards the end of May.

Not to fret, though, passing summer showers will rarely cancel your May plans! 

Is May A Rainy Month For Florida?

No, May is not a rainy month for Florida.

The climate is generally dry and mild in May, with on average 2-5 inches of rain per month.

Rain will typically pick up at the end of the month as we get closer to hurricane season, but even then it tends to be more of an afternoon shower than an all-day downpour.  

You can make the most of your trip to Florida in May without having to worry about frequent or lasting rainfall.

But, to be prepared,  I always carry a rain jacket or umbrella with me if I’ll be out all day!

 

Is It Humid In Florida In May?

In May, Florida’s humidity levels average 70-75%.  Humidity is an important factor to consider when visiting Florida.

The May averages are considered comfortable for most travelers. My best advice is to make sure you pack light clothes and breathable fabrics! 

Is Florida Sunny In May?

In May, you’ll find clear skies and sunny days in Florida, making it our favorite time for a beach trip!

You can lounge in the sand without worrying about sweating from the humid temperatures later in the year.  

Plus, the mild temperatures that go with the sunny skies make it a great time for activities like kayaking, fishing, biking, and more. 

Is It Expensive To Visit Florida In May?

In terms of cost, May is a reasonable time to visit Florida.

Though Memorial Day creates a spike in ticket prices, flights, and hotel rooms usually remain relatively inexpensive compared to peak months.

Even popular attractions such as Disney World are less crowded in May, resulting in cheaper tickets.

Prices will start to go up later in the month as May draws closer to the summer, June through August, and then will start going down again in the fall. 

So visiting Florida in May is a great idea, as you’re not sacrificing the weather and the quality of your trip by saving money this time of year.

Beaches To Visit In May

No matter where you go, north of the state or south, you can be sure to find an incredible beach nearby.

May is the perfect time to kick back with some cold drinks, dig your feet in the sand, and cool off in crystal-clear waters. 

• Florida Keys
• Pensacola Beach
• Beaches on Marco Island
• Sarasota Beach
• Clearwater

Can You Swim In The Ocean In May? 

May is the perfect time to go swimming in the oceans of Florida.  Up and down the coast, water temperatures average 75 to 80 degrees.

The ocean is warm all month!  Day or night, you can enjoy a lovely dip in the Gulf of Mexico or the Atlantic Ocean. 

Things To Do In Florida In May

1. Snorkeling In Florida In May

With some of the most beautiful beaches in the country along with the healthy coral reefs, snorkeling is a favorite activity in Florida.

And, with the warm water temperatures, May is the perfect time to do it!

Interested in snorkeling in May?  Take a look at these snorkeling tours in Key West! 

2. Kayaking

Kayaking in Florida can be a truly incredible experience for visitors that love the water, but prefer not to jump in!

From navigating through the clear waters of Rainbow Springs and Ginnie Springs to floating through the protected mangroves of Florida’s State Parks, there is no shortage of marine and wildlife to explore.  

3. Walt Disney World And Universal Studios

It’s no secret that Florida is home to the most popular theme park of our time – Walt Disney World!

May is an amazing time to visit Disney Parks, as it’s your last chance to visit before the summer heat hits.

And nearby, don’t forget to visit Harry Potter and your favorite Marvel characters at Universal Studios. 

4. Epcot International Flower And Garden Festival

May is a special time of year at Epcot.  The International Flower and Garden Festival runs from March to July.

The marvelous topiaries and garden exhibits will be in full swing in May.

In addition to the grand garden creations, you can also enjoy a variety of food vendors, live music, and more.

5. Visit Sarasota 

Sarasota is the perfect place for a relaxing beach trip in May.

The waters are calm this time of year, and with the warm weather, it’s the perfect time to take a dolphin tour!

If you don’t like boat rides, spend the day shopping in Sarasota’s boutiques and shops or even take a day trip to Siesta Key or Anna Maria Island. 

This beach town offers plenty of opportunities for a fun vacation. 

Packing: What To Bring To Florida In May

Light clothing and breathable fabrics will be your best friend when packing for your May trip!

And of course, be prepared for light, but potentially frequent, afternoon showers! 

• Umbrella or rain jacket for afternoon showers
• Light clothing – t-shirts, shorts, dresses 
• Sweaters or light jackets for chilly evenings
• Beach towels 
• Sunscreen
• Snorkel gear

FAQs About Visiting Florida In May

Is May A Good Month To Go To Florida?

May is a great time of year to go to Florida; it could even be argued that it’s the best time to visit.

Throughout the state, the average temperatures are perfect; high even for the beach and cool enough to walk around theme parks during the day. 

Top this off with fewer people visiting along with a drop in prices in preparation for hurricane season, and you can’t beat a trip to Florida in May!  

Is It Better To Go To Florida In April Or May?

When deciding whether to go to Florida in April or May, the most important factor is deciding what you want to do.

The temperatures are milder in April.  So, if you want to visit theme parks or hike around State Parks, April may be the better choice.

But, if you want a beach vacation where you can enjoy laying in the sand or snorkeling through the waters, you’ll be better off visiting Florida in May. 

Is Florida Really Hot In May?

Florida’s temperatures in May are very comfortable for most people.
Personally, it’s one of my favorite times of the year.

The warm weather makes it perfect for hitting the beach. But, if I want to hang out outside, go for a walk, or play golf, it’s not uncomfortably hot yet.

On the other hand, if you’re not used to 80-degree weather, you might find Florida to be too hot for you in May! 

What Is The Rainiest Month In Florida?

On average, June and August see the most rainfall in Florida.

It depends on your location, but some areas of Florida can see up to 8 inches of rainfall in the months of June and August.

This is a big jump from the dryer, winter months that only receive 1-2 inches of rain. 

Conclusion Of Florida In May: Everything You Need To Know!

Visiting Florida in May is the perfect choice for anyone looking to take advantage of the weather for every activity.

An additional bonus is that tourist season is not at its peak yet! 

You can’t beat the warm temperatures paired with ocean breezes and light afternoon showers.

Whether you’re planning to lay at the beach or explore the diverse outdoor activity options, there will be plenty of options in May. 

So, pack your bags and start searching for all the hidden gems Florida has to offer!