Where is it Hot in May: Top Warm Destinations

May is an excellent time to explore destinations that offer warm climates and a variety of activities. Below is a selection of popular tourist spots, detailing expected temperatures, notable attractions, and indicative pricing for all-inclusive packages per person.

1. Cancún, Mexico

Week-Long Holiday (7 nights): Approximately £800–£1,200 per person.
Weekend Break (3 nights): Approximately £500–£700 per person.

Cancún, located on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, is renowned for its white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife. In May, temperatures typically range from 24°C to 33°C, providing ideal conditions for beach activities.

Popular Activities:

Relaxing on the pristine beaches
Exploring the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichén Itzá
Snorkeling and diving in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Visiting the Isla Mujeres
Enjoying the vibrant nightlife in the Hotel Zone

2. Antalya, Turkey

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £600–£900 per person.
Weekend Break: Approximately £400–£600 per person.

Antalya, situated on Turkey's southwestern coast, is a gateway to the Turkish Riviera. In May, the city enjoys average temperatures between 14°C and 26°C, with sea temperatures around 20°C, making it pleasant for swimming.

Popular Activities:

Exploring the historic old town (Kaleiçi)
Visiting the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos
Relaxing on Konyaaltı and Lara beaches
Taking a boat tour along the Turquoise Coast
Experiencing the Düden and Kursunlu waterfalls

3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £900–£1,300 per person.
Weekend Break: Approximately £600–£800 per person.

Punta Cana is famed for its all-inclusive resorts and palm-lined beaches. May temperatures average around 27°C, with highs reaching up to 31°C, providing a tropical setting for visitors.

Popular Activities:

Lounging on Bávaro Beach
Snorkeling and scuba diving in clear Caribbean waters
Exploring Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park
Playing golf at world-class courses
Enjoying catamaran cruises and deep-sea fishing

4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £1,000–£1,500 per person.
Weekend Break: Approximately £700–£1,000 per person.

Dubai is known for its ultramodern architecture and luxury shopping. In May, temperatures can soar, with averages around 31°C and highs up to 36°C. It's advisable to plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.

Popular Activities:

Visiting the Burj Khalifa
Shopping in the Dubai Mall
Exploring the historic Al Fahidi district
Enjoying desert safaris and dune bashing
Relaxing on Jumeirah Beach

5. Marrakech, Morocco

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £500–£800 per person.
Weekend Break: Approximately £300–£500 per person.

Marrakech offers a blend of ancient traditions and modern culture. May temperatures average around 29°C during the day, cooling to 14°C at night, providing comfortable conditions for exploration.

Popular Activities:

Exploring the Medina and souks
Visiting the Jardin Majorelle
Experiencing the historic Saadian Tombs
Enjoying traditional hammams and spas
Taking day trips to the Atlas Mountains

6. Bali, Indonesia

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £1,000–£1,500 per person.
Weekend Break: Not typically recommended due to long travel times.

Bali is celebrated for its lush landscapes and rich culture. In May, the island experiences average temperatures of 28°C, with highs reaching 33°C, making it ideal for beach and outdoor activities.

Popular Activities:

Visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest
Exploring the temples of Tanah Lot and Uluwatu
Relaxing on Seminyak and Kuta beaches
Participating in yoga retreats
Hiking up Mount Batur for sunrise views

7. Barbados

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £1,200–£1,600 per person
Weekend Break: Approximately £800–£1,000 per person

Barbados is one of the Caribbean’s most charming islands, known for its white sandy beaches, vibrant culture, and colonial heritage. In May, you can expect temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C with gentle sea breezes—ideal for beach holidays and water sports.

Popular Activities:

Relaxing on Carlisle Bay or Crane Beach
Visiting Harrison’s Cave
Enjoying traditional rum distillery tours
Snorkelling with sea turtles
Exploring historic Bridgetown (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)

8. Crete, Greece

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £700–£1,000 per person
Weekend Break: Approximately £400–£600 per person

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, mountain landscapes, and ancient history. May temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C—perfect for sunbathing, sightseeing, and hiking.

Popular Activities:

Visiting the Palace of Knossos
Exploring the Samaria Gorge
Swimming at Elafonissi Beach
Tasting Cretan food in traditional tavernas
Touring local vineyards and olive oil farms

9. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £600–£900 per person
Weekend Break: Approximately £400–£600 per person

Located on the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh is known for its world-class diving, coral reefs, and desert adventures. In May, temperatures hover around 30°C to 35°C—hot but manageable, especially near the coast.

Popular Activities:

Diving or snorkelling at Ras Mohammed National Park
Quad biking in the Sinai Desert
Visiting St. Catherine’s Monastery
Enjoying beach resorts and all-inclusive hotel experiences
Taking a glass-bottom boat tour

10. Phuket, Thailand

Week-Long Holiday: Approximately £900–£1,400 per person
Weekend Break: Not recommended due to long travel time

Phuket is a tropical Thai island with palm-fringed beaches, clear waters, and lively nightlife. In May, it’s the start of the monsoon season, but you’ll still see plenty of sunshine, with temperatures around 28°C to 33°C.

Popular Activities:

Island-hopping to Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island
Relaxing on Patong, Karon or Kata beaches
Visiting Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple
Enjoying Thai cooking classes
Exploring night markets and street food stalls

Final Word

May is a brilliant time to travel—off-peak in many places, with warm weather and fewer crowds. Whether you want a short weekend break in Europe or a long-haul escape to a tropical beach, there are plenty of destinations offering sun, culture, and great value all-inclusive packages.

From the turquoise waters of Cancún to the ancient ruins of Antalya, the choice depends on your budget, travel time, and what kind of experience you’re after—adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.