Weather

San Diego Weather in May

San Diego weather in May marks the transition to summer, offering warm days, cool evenings, and plenty of sunshine. With average highs of 76°F and lows of 67°F, and almost no rainfall, May is perfect for enjoying the city’s vibrant outdoor events and natural beauty.

by Mac Douglass

Updated March 01, 2025

What Is the Weather Like in San Diego in May?

May in San Diego features warm and sunny days with average highs of 76°F (24°C) and mild lows of 67°F (19°C). Rainfall is virtually nonexistent, averaging just 0.02 inches, and the city enjoys over 277 hours of sunshine throughout the month. These ideal weather conditions make May one of the best months to explore San Diego’s beaches, parks, and cultural festivals.

The Pacific Ocean begins to warm slightly, making coastal activities more enjoyable. May’s “May Gray” mornings are common but often give way to clear, sunny afternoons.

Average May Weather in San Diego

San Diego's May weather features warm highs around 76°F and mild lows near 67°F, with virtually no rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and seasonal events. Data from WeatherSpark.

Daytime Temperatures: Highs average around 76°F and remain consistent throughout the month.
Nighttime Temperatures: Lows hover at a comfortable 67°F, providing pleasant evenings.
Rainfall: May experiences negligible rainfall, with just 0.02 inches recorded.
Ocean Temperatures: Waters begin to warm slightly but remain cool enough for scenic enjoyment or wetsuit-required activities.

May San Diego Weather Compared to Other Months

Month	Average High (°F)	Average Low (°F)	Days with Precipitation	Hours of Sunshine	Average Precipitation (in)
January	65	48	6	217	1.53
February	76	65	1	255	0.15
March	73	61	3	234	0.57
April	69	54	4	236	1.01
May	76	67	0	277	0.02
June	75	65	0	293	0.03
July	71	62	1	253	0.07
August	69	59	2	261	0.12
September	67	56	5	242	0.78
October	66	53	7	262	1.81
November	65	51	7	212	2.27
December	65	49	7	216	1.98

San Diego’s weather in May is warmer compared to April, with highs climbing into the mid-70s°F and minimal rain.

Compared to the peak summer months like July, May offers slightly cooler and less humid conditions. The abundance of sunshine and dry weather makes it ideal for outdoor events and springtime exploration.

Things to Do in San Diego in May

May’s beautiful weather provides the perfect backdrop for San Diego’s diverse lineup of events and activities.

Cinco de Mayo (May 5): Celebrate with festivals, live mariachi music, folklorico dancing, authentic Cali-Baja cuisine, and more.
The Flower Fields (Now - May 15): Visit Carlsbad to see 50 acres of vibrant blooming ranunculus flowers before the season ends.
Gator by the Bay (May 9-12): Experience the largest Louisiana-themed food and music festival outside of the bayou.
Viva La Música (Now - May 19): Enjoy Latin music, cuisine, and culture at SeaWorld San Diego.
Vista Strawberry Festival (May 26): Celebrate strawberry season with food, activities, and entertainment for the whole family.

Why Visit San Diego in May?

San Diego’s May weather is an excellent balance of warmth and sunshine, paired with vibrant seasonal events and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Highlights include:

Perfect beach and outdoor conditions with nearly no rainfall.
Iconic festivals like Gator by the Bay and the Vista Strawberry Festival.
Comfortable evenings for dining al fresco or enjoying live music.

Plan Your Trip Around the May Weather in San Diego, California

May in San Diego offers unbeatable weather, vibrant festivals, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re exploring cultural events, strolling through flower fields, or relaxing by the beach, San Diego in May promises an unforgettable experience.