Want to go to Tenerife in May?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, attractions and events.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Moving to Tenerife in May: quick answers
Is the weather good in Tenerife in May? Is this a good time to visit?
Tenerife is a beautiful destination all year round, and May is a good month to visit Tenerife. Temperatures are very pleasant, fluctuating between 20°C and 22°C, with around 9 to 11 hours of sunshine a day. The winter tourist season is over, offering peaceful conditions for exploring the island. The spring climate means you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer.
WHERE TO STAY IN Tenerife
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Tenerife
- Our favorite: Hotel Corales Beach
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Travelling to Tenerife in May: summary of conditions
Temperatures
Temperatures are mild and very pleasant in May. The thermometer reads an average of 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F) during the day. Nights are also comfortable, with temperatures around 17°C-19°C (63°F-66°F). We particularly appreciate this period when the heat remains moderate, which is ideal for outdoor activities.
Water temperatures
In May, the temperature of the Atlantic Ocean is around 20°C to 21°C (68°F to 70°F). We love these conditions for swimming. But some will still find it a little fresh. The Canary current maintains stable temperatures, making water sports activities comfortable, whether in natural pools or on sheltered beaches.
Crowds and prizes
May is a relatively quiet period in Tenerife, between the winter high season and the summer rush. We particularly appreciate this “tranquility”, which allows us to enjoy the sights with a little less crowding. Tenerife is popular all year round.
Prices are moderate, offering excellent value for money on accommodation and activities.
Opening conditions
Everything’s open in Tenerife in May: attractions, hotels, restaurants and shops all operate as normal.
Length of day
Daylight hours average 13:20 between sunrise and sunset. The sun rises around 7am and sets at around 8:40pm. This gives you long days to explore the whole island and enjoy outdoor activities.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Best attractions in Tenerife in May
In May, we particularly recommend
- Teide National Park, with ideal hiking conditions and spectacular views thanks to the clear spring sky
- Natural pools
- The impressive cliffs of Los Gigantes
- Visit the gardens of Puerto de la Cruz
- The Anaga laurel forest, magnificent at this time of year with its lush vegetation.
- Historic towns like La Laguna and authentic villages like Masca – see our list
- The island’s varied beaches, from the black sand of Puerto de la Cruz to the golden sand of Costa Adeje
- The botanical gardens, particularly in bloom at this time of year
- The island’s various theme parks
Read our full article on Tenerife’s top attractions.
And lots of activities like these:
HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE: activities
Climate in Tenerife in May – weather forecast
In May, Tenerife’s spring-like climate is still ideal. The weather is generally stable and pleasant, with interesting variations in different parts of the island. The microclimate created by Teide offers diverse conditions that enrich the visitor experience.
On the coast
Along the coast, conditions are particularly pleasant in May. We particularly like the south coast, especially Costa Adeje, which enjoys plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures. Rainfall is very rare at this time of year. The steady sea breeze naturally moderates the atmosphere, creating perfect conditions for seaside activities and coastal walks.
In the heights
At higher altitudes, especially around Mount Teide, temperatures remain cooler than by the sea. We see moderate temperature differences between day and night, less marked than in winter. The summits are generally clear, offering excellent visibility. However, it is advisable to bring warm clothing for mountain excursions, where temperatures can still be cool in the morning.
May temperatures in Tenerife
Temperature in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Average daytime temperatures: 23°C (73°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 18°C (64°F)
Temperature in Puerto de la Cruz
- Average daytime temperatures: 22°C (72°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 17°C (63°F)
Temperature in Los Gigantes
- Average daytime temperatures: 24°C (75°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 19°C (66°F)
Temperature in Costa Adeje
- Average daytime temperatures: 24°C (75°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 19°C (66°F)
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
Rain and Wind
In May, rainfall is very scarce on Tenerife. We particularly appreciate this dry period, which offers optimal conditions for outdoor activities. Showers, when they do occur, are generally brief and localized, mainly affecting mountainous areas and the north coast.
- Rainfall in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 10mm
(over 1 day on average) - Rainfall in Puerto de la Cruz: 15mm
(on average 2 days) - Los Gigantes rainfall: 5mm
(over 1 day on average) - Amount of rain in Costa Adeje: 5mm
(in less than 1 day on average)
The trade winds blow regularly in May, mainly from the northeast. These moderate winds pleasantly refresh the atmosphere. The south coast, in particular Costa Adeje and Los Gigantes, remains well protected by the island’s relief, allowing us to enjoy outdoor activities to the full.
Sunshine
In May, daylight hours reach around 13:40. The sun rises around 7am and sets at around 8:40pm.
Tenerife enjoys excellent sunshine in May, with an average of 9 to 11 hours of sunshine a day. The south of the island enjoys optimum sunshine, while the Teide region often offers perfectly clear skies above the sea of clouds.
Water temperature – swimming in Tenerife in May
May is an excellent time to enjoy beaches and swimming in Tenerife. With the arrival of fine weather, ocean temperatures are becoming increasingly pleasant. We particularly like the southern beaches where the water is slightly warmer. To discover the best spots, consult our guide to the most beautiful beaches.
- Water temperature in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 20°C (68°F)
- Water temperature in Puerto de la Cruz: 20°C (68°F)
- Water temperature at Los Gigantes: 21°C (70°F)
- Water temperature at Costa Adeje: 21°C (70°F)
Whale and dolphin watching
May offers good conditions for cetacean watching. We particularly recommend excursions from Los Gigantes or Costa Adeje, where the calm sea makes it easier to find your bearings. Dolphins and pilot whales are present all year round in the channel between Tenerife and La Gomera. In May, you may even catch a glimpse of passing whales in these nutrient-rich waters.
May events in Tenerife
- May Festival (Fiestas de Mayo)
Many towns celebrate the month of May with traditional festivities. In Santa Cruz, we particularly enjoy the colorful parades and street performances. - Feast of the Crosses (Día de la Cruz – May 3)
A unique celebration where streets and squares are decorated with flowering crosses. The town of Los Realejos boasts one of the island’s most beautiful decorations. - Traditional Romerías: Religious and popular festivals in several villages
- Vuelta al Teide (Teide Tour): cycling event – avoid the center of the island during this race! For further information
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May prices
In May, rates are more affordable than in high season. Accommodation ranges from youth hostels to 5-star hotels, with options to suit all budgets. In tourist areas such as Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos, prices remain reasonable, allowing you to enjoy your stay comfortably without breaking the bank.
Other months
When to go to Tenerife, other months…
- Tenerife in January
- Tenerife in February
- Tenerife in March
- Tenerife in April
- Tenerife in June
- Tenerife in July
- Tenerife in August
- Tenerife in September
- Tenerife in October
- Tenerife in November
- Tenerife in December
Or read our article on when to go to Tenerife.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
