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May is one of the best months to visit Mallorca. The island is warm without being too hot, the landscapes are at their greenest, beaches are calm, and prices are lower than in peak summer. It suits couples, walkers, food lovers and travellers who want to experience Mallorca without the peak crowds of July and August.
Beaches are quieter but still comfortable for sunbathing during the day. While the sea temperature can feel cool for some, it is still swimmable in May, especially on warmer afternoons.
Whether you are planning a beach holiday, a cycling trip, a food focused escape or a relaxed sightseeing break, May offers some of the best all round conditions of the year.
In this guide, we cover what Mallorca is like in May, including the weather, crowds, beaches, hiking, festivals, where to stay and practical tips to help you plan the perfect trip.
Contents
May sits perfectly between spring and summer in Mallorca. The island enjoys long sunny days and warm temperatures, but the large summer crowds have not yet arrived.
Popular resorts feel calm rather than busy, and historic towns are comfortable to explore without the heat or congestion of July and August.
This makes May ideal if you want a balanced holiday. Beaches are usable, restaurants feel relaxed, and attractions are easier to enjoy.
It is particularly good for couples, solo travellers and anyone who prefers a calmer atmosphere with reliable sunshine.
Mallorca’s weather in May is one of its biggest draws. Daytime temperatures typically sit between 22 and 26°C, with cooler evenings that are still comfortable for dining outside.
Rainfall is low, and sunshine hours increase noticeably compared to April.
Humidity is minimal, which makes walking, sightseeing and outdoor activities enjoyable throughout the day. The heat is warm rather than intense, so May suits travellers who want to be active without feeling drained by high summer temperatures.
May marks the beginning of mosquito season, so wear repllent in the mornings and evenings to avoid being bitten.
By May, Mallorca’s beaches begin to feel like summer. Sunbeds are back in place, beach bars are open, and the atmosphere is relaxed and social.
Popular beaches such as Cala Millor, Playa de Muro and Cala d’Or are busy enough to feel lively, but rarely crowded.
Smaller coves and calas are particularly enjoyable at this time of year. Access is easier, parking is less stressful, and you can enjoy the scenery without competing for space.
For many travellers, May offers the most pleasant beach experience of the year.
The sea around Mallorca warms steadily through May. Water temperatures usually sit between 18 and 20°C, which feels refreshing but manageable, especially on warm days. Many hotels also offer heated pools early in the season.
While the sea is not at peak summer warmth yet, it is perfectly suitable for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking. Calm conditions also make May a good month for boat trips and coastal excursions.
May is one of the best months for outdoor activities in Mallorca. The Serra de Tramuntana mountains are green, clear and comfortable for hiking, with excellent visibility and mild temperatures. Trails around Deià, Sóller and Valldemossa are particularly scenic at this time of year.
Cycling season is also in full swing, with professional and amateur cyclists taking advantage of quiet roads and ideal conditions.
Kayaking, climbing and scenic walking routes are all enjoyable in May, before summer heat limits activity.
Palma feels especially vibrant in May. The city’s cafes spill onto pavements, rooftop bars reopen for the season, and evening dining becomes a highlight rather than a late night activity.
Temperatures are ideal for exploring the old town during the day and enjoying relaxed dinners at night.
Markets, galleries and cultural sites are busy but accessible. May is a great month to experience Palma as a living city rather than a summer hotspot.
Outside Palma and the main beach resorts, Mallorca’s towns and villages retain a local feel in May. Places like Santanyí, Artà and Pollença are busy enough without being overwhelmed by tourism.
Local markets run regularly, cafes are open year round, and village life feels authentic. This is one of the best months to explore inland Mallorca and experience the island beyond its beaches.
May offers excellent value compared to peak summer months. Hotel prices are noticeably lower than June through September, yet most properties are fully operational. This includes boutique hotels, agroturismos and luxury resorts.
Availability is generally good, particularly if you avoid school holiday periods. May is a great time to visit if you want better accommodation options without paying peak season prices.
Driving in Mallorca in May is easy and enjoyable. Roads are quieter than in summer, parking is less competitive, and the weather is ideal for scenic routes. Coastal drives along the west coast and mountain roads through the Serra de Tramuntana are at their best.
A car allows you to visit hidden beaches, mountain villages and viewpoints that are harder to access later in the year. May is one of the most stress free months for exploring the island independently.
Some locations have limited parking and these areas can still become busy during the day so it is best to arrive early.
May marks the return of festivals and local celebrations across Mallorca. While events vary by year, the calendar often includes food festivals, spring flower celebrations, cycling events and traditional village fiestas. These gatherings offer a chance to experience Mallorca beyond its beaches and resorts.
Local life feels lively but not tourist driven, with communities celebrating seasonal traditions alongside everyday routines.
Visiting in May makes it easier to enjoy cultural events in a relaxed, authentic way, while still benefiting from quieter towns and comfortable warm weather.
Packing for Mallorca in May is fairly straightforward. Lightweight clothing, swimwear and comfortable walking shoes are essential. Evenings can be cooler, especially near the coast or in the mountains, so a light jacket or jumper is useful.
If you plan to hike or explore rural areas, bring trainers or hiking shoes. Sun protection is important, as UV levels rise quickly in May, even if temperatures feel cooler on some days.
What to Pack for Mallorca in May
Lightweight clothing (t-shirts, dresses, shorts)
Swimwear for beach days and hotel pools
Comfortable walking shoes for towns and sightseeing
Trainers or hiking shoes for rural walks and trails
Light jacket or jumper for cooler evenings
Sun hat and sunglasses
High factor sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Small day backpack for exploring
Reusable water bottle
Smart casual outfit for evenings and dining out
May combines the best elements of spring and summer travel. You get long days, warm temperatures and active resort life, without the intensity and crowds of peak season.
This balance makes May appealing for a wide range of travellers, from active explorers to beach focused holidaymakers. It is one of the most versatile months to visit Mallorca.
May is ideal for couples, solo travellers, active holidaymakers and anyone seeking a relaxed but sunny escape. It suits travellers who want to explore, dine well and enjoy the outdoors without the summer heat.
If you want guaranteed hot sea temperatures or a party focused atmosphere, July or August may suit you better. For quieter sightseeing and lower prices, April or October are also good alternatives.
Mallorca offers a mix of luxury resorts, boutique stays, and serene countryside hideaways. Whether you prefer beachfront comfort, a quiet rural escape, or city convenience, the island has the perfect base for couples, families, and solo travellers.
Belmond La Residencia
Location | Deià
Secluded hillside luxury with Mediterranean gardens, sea views, and elegant suites. Michelin-starred dining and a serene spa make it ideal for couples seeking romance, tranquillity, and sunny May days immersed in the natural beauty of the Tramuntana mountains.
Cap Rocat
Location | Cala Blava
Converted fortress with private villas, infinity pools, and exclusive service. Perfect for travellers wanting privacy, sophistication, and panoramic views, with easy access to Palma’s city life.
St Regis Mardavall
Location | Costa d’en Blanes
Luxurious resort with landscaped gardens, panoramic sea views, and refined spa facilities. Ideal for families or couples wanting comfort, elegance, and proximity to beaches and Palma in warm May weather.
Fontsanta Hotel Thermal Spa & Wellness
Location | Campos
Adults-only wellness retreat with thermal pools, spa treatments, and peaceful surroundings. Perfect for relaxation, rejuvenation, and enjoying Mallorca’s mild May climate in a calm and health-focused setting.
Hotel Can Simoneta
Location | Canyamel
Clifftop boutique hotel with dramatic Mediterranean views, elegant rooms, and fine dining. Suited for couples seeking a peaceful, scenic escape, and a sophisticated base to explore Mallorca in May.
Sa Casetta
Location | Central Mallorca
Charming and private, Sa Casetta is a boutique-style holiday home perfect for couples or small families seeking a peaceful stay. Set in a tranquil area, it offers stylish interiors, a private terrace, and easy access to local markets, beaches, and hiking trails.
This was our favourite place we stayed during our time on Mallorca, peaceful, beautiful rooftop views and refreshing pool on hot days, it was simply perfect.
Looking for something else? Then use our interactive map below to find your perfect stay.
Is May a good time to visit Mallorca?
Yes, May is ideal for warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Beaches are calm, landscapes are lush, and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are excellent.
How warm is the sea in May?
Sea temperatures are around 19–21°C. Cool for some, but generally suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports, especially in southern areas.
What areas are best for beaches?
Southern resorts like Palma Nova, Magaluf, and Cala d’Or have the sunniest and calmest beaches, while northern coves and eastern beaches are quieter and more natural.
Are hotels busy in May?
May is shoulder season, so hotels have good availability and lower prices compared to peak summer months. Bookings are easier outside long weekends and local holidays.
Can you hike in May?
Yes, mild temperatures and blooming landscapes make May one of the best months for hiking in the Tramuntana Mountains and coastal trails.
Is Mallorca family-friendly in May?
Absolutely. Resorts and attractions are less crowded, making family activities like beach days, cycling, and nature trips more enjoyable.
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