Summer’s so close you can taste it. The northern hemisphere’s defrosted, and Europe’s now a contender for your next beachy break. If you’re child-free, May is one of the best times to get away before the schools break up to beat those peak-season price tags.
In terms of what’s hot, we’re looking at usual suspects like Barbados, St Lucia and Mauritius. If it’s the year for that bucket-list trip, Las Vegas gets a big shout out, too. Greece also made the cut if you’re after something more local, or for some pre-season sightseeing, this month’s wild card is all yours… Spoiler – it’s Malta.
Here’s your guide to the best places that are hot in May. Or if you’ve already got it all figured out, get it booked on our deals page.
Mauritius
This island in the Indian Ocean is a popular honeymoon pick, and it makes sense. Mauritius gets a big tick in the tropical box, with gorgeous beaches and rainforests packed with wildlife under its belt – and May is its time to shine. The thermometer’s sitting in the late 20s, it’s pretty quiet, and it’s still the dry season. You’ll be able to stay in the glitzier resorts in the north, like Grand Baie, without it being too spenny or crowded. Even Belle Mare – the big beach – feels super peaceful in May.
USA
Hottest pick – Las Vegas
This iconic city gives holiday goals all year round, but Las Vegas in May is a serious motive. The high season in the desert hasn’t quite kicked in yet, so it’s more comfortable now than later in the summer – though the average temp is already a steamy 32°C. It’s not too hot for a stroll down the main strip before all the neon comes on, and it’s also a good time of year to do a Grand Canyon daytrip.
On top of ticking off all the classic Las Vegas sites, you’ll be around to catch some fun events. Electric Daisy Carnival is a huge EDM festival, or if you prefer country music, the Wild-West-themed Las Vegas Days is on, too.
Greece
‘I’m bored of Greece’ – said no one ever. It’s the destination that keeps on giving, from its ancient cities and ruins to its line-up of dreamy islands. Things are well on their way to being warm in May, with Athens topping the list at an average of 25°C. It’s cool enough to embrace your inner history nerd at the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, but it won’t be anywhere near as busy as in peak summer.
Generally, the Greek Islands are all a degree or two colder because of the sea breeze. The Aegean Islands are hovering around a lovely 22°C – have your Mamma Mia! moment on Skiathos or Skopelos, or head south to influencer faves Santorini and Mykonos.
On the opposite side of the mainland, the lush Ionian Islands are averaging a slightly hotter 24°C in May – this is where you’ll find go-to picks like Kefalonia, Corfu and Zante. It’s a similar story all the way down in Crete, but it’s got that whole arid situation going on that makes it feel a lot toastier.
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Barbados
May is the month for you to live your best island life in Barbados. It’s very on brand for the Caribbean – temps are in the low 30s, the skies are rain-free and there’s a gentle breeze now the trade winds have calmed down. The peak season tapers off at the end of April, so you’ll be there in that golden window of fewer people and great weather. Beach days are so on.
Exploring the island’s a dream without all the crowds. Wander around the colourful capital – Bridgetown – and soak up the local Bajan culture at markets and street food stalls. The historic centre’s got UNESCO status, and it’s also home to a museum about the world’s first rum brand – Mount Gay. Learn all about the spirit’s history, how it’s made – and ofc you’ll get a little taster, too.
St Lucia
Another Caribbean babe, St Lucia’s looking very tempting in May, too. It’s a lot quieter after the Easter rush, and with it being dry season and firmly in the 30s, you get all the good weather minus the crowds. It’s still got all the buzz you’d expect from a Caribbean Island, though – locals will be getting lively for the St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival at the beginning of the month. It’s an event you won’t want to miss if you’re after a flavour of St Lucian life.
Other than that, it’s all about rainforest hikes and beach time. Weave your way past waterfalls and wildlife in the jungle, or speed it up with zip-lining through the canopy. Or if your dream day is being horizontal on a beach, Vieux Fort has a strong rep for its pristine sands backed by palms.
Plot twist…
Malta
Malta’s shining moment isn’t until later in the summer, but that makes May the perfect month to get ahead of everyone else. Fewer people means less sharing for you, anyway, and with so much to sightseeing to do, that’s a huge win. The island is covered in centuries-old sites like Medieval towns, prehistoric temples and catacombs. For some of the best sightseeing, head to Valletta – the cutest little capital city – and explore the walled city of Mdina.
With days hitting highs of 24°C, it’s definitely warm enough for a dip, too. Most towns along the coast have bathing platforms or jetties for jumping in the water, or if you only settle for sand, the one Blue Flag beach – Mellieha Bay – is all yours.
Got your eye on one of May’s hot picks? Check out our holidays to narrow down your perfect pick.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Author: Daisy Colley
Last updated: 19/07/2024
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