Malaga in May: Weather, Things to Do & Is It Worth Visiting?

If you're considering May for your Malaga trip, you've made an excellent choice.

This is what I consider the best month of the year.

The temperatures have climbed into comfortable warmth, the sea is finally inviting, and the days stretch long and sunny. It's warm enough to live outdoors, cool enough to explore actively!

Plus, you get all the benefits of summer without the extreme heat and peak crowds. What's not to love?

For a review of every month, take a look at my best time to visit Malaga guide.

What to Expect from the Weather in May

Daytime temperatures typically reach 23-26°C (73-79°F), which feels genuinely hot in the sun.

This is t-shirt and shorts weather, terrace weather, beach weather. You can spend entire days outdoors comfortably. The warmth is consistent but not yet oppressive, unlike the intense heat of July and August.

Evenings remain mild at around 14-16°C (57-61°F). You might want a light layer for outdoor dining late at night, but many evenings are warm enough to go without.

The Mediterranean reaches 18-19°C (64-66°F) by May, which feels refreshing rather than cold. Most swimmers find this comfortable for extended time in the water, especially on warmer days.

The UV index in May sits at 7-8, which means the sun has serious strength. Unprotected skin can burn in 20-25 minutes during midday hours. Take sun protection seriously from day one!

Okay, and that's the weather. Now for reasons May is such a fantastic time to visit!

What's On in May

You can skip ahead to my calendar where I try to keep track of everything free happening in Malaga if you prefer!

No matter the month, there are always a few staples that are always worth catching if you're in the city.

Most museums are free on Sundays, as are the Gibralfaro Castle and the Alcazaba. P.S. The Roman Theatre is ALWAYS free.

La Merced market is on the first Sunday of each month, and the Botanical Gardens are free on Sundays too.

The highlight in May is Dia de la Cruz (May 3rd). The Day of the Cross sees neighbourhoods decorating crosses with flowers. It's a charming tradition with small celebrations and displays throughout the city.

Beach season officially kicks off! The beaches fill up with locals and visitors, chiringuitos are fully operational, and beach life returns in full swing.

What are the best things to do in May?

May is when Malaga fully embraces outdoor life.

The evening paseo along the port, drinks on a terrace, dinner outside until late are all possible now without feeling chilly.

You'll find all of the best beaches here, but if you're brave, venture a little further out and try Crows Rock. You can cycle, bus, or even walk to it if you're fit, and you won't regret it!

Once you've mastered the beaches, try some amazing tapas in Malaga Old Town, and maybe a museum to escape the heat for a while.

Day trips are perfect - Ronda, the white villages, Caminito del Rey, and the Axarquia are all at their best before summer heat.

Afternoons are ideal for exploring the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro with the sun setting over the ocean, or enjoying a cocktail on one of Malaga's 30 rooftop bars.

Where to Stay in Malaga

From boutique hotels in the historic centre to beachfront resorts along La Malagueta, Málaga offers accommodations for every budget.

The best area to stay is the Centro Histórico for sightseeing, or the eastern beaches for a relaxed vibe.

GREAT LOCATION

Room Mate Valeria

8.8

Centro Histórico

Stylish design hotel with rooftop pool and bar, steps from the Picasso Museum and cathedral.

From $120/night

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Molina Lario

8.7

Centro Histórico

Elegant 4-star hotel facing the cathedral with rooftop terrace and excellent service.

From $150/night

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BEST VALUE

Soho Boutique Bahía Málaga

8.5

La Malagueta

Modern beachfront hotel with sea views, close to the port and city centre. Great value.

From $90/night

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See our accommodation guide →

What Time Does the Sun Set in May?

The sun sets between 9:00 pm and 9:30 pm through May, with the latest sunsets at the end of the month.

You have 14-15 hours of daylight.

You can fit in morning sightseeing, afternoon beach time, and still have hours of light for evening exploration.

Dinner at 9 pm happens in daylight!

Tours in Malaga

I'm a tour person myself, but there are good tours, and there are bad tours. Here's what I recommend.

Browse all tours →

Is May a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

May is one of the absolute best months to visit Malaga.

You get nearly everything summer does, minus the extreme heat and peak crowds. The weather is warm and reliable, the beaches are ready for swimming, and the crowds haven't yet reached peak levels.

The only reason to skip May is if you want the absolute hottest weather or peak summer atmosphere. But for perfect balance, May is amazing.

Ready for Sun, Sand and Tinto de Verano?

If May's not quite perfect, maybe take a look at April and June.

If you need any help with deciding, you can always send me an email or contact me on any of my socials. I love helping.

I totally get that picking a month can be difficult; they all have something amazing to see, do and experience in them.

If you're ready to book that trip, take a look at my where to stay in Malaga guide for my recommendations. If you make a booking through here, I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, and it helps support my blog.

Thank you for reading, and if you make it to Malaga, please send your photos!