Malaga Weather in May: Perfect Spring & What to Expect

May in Malaga is spring perfected.

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, and less crowded than the summer months ahead. For many visitors, May hits the sweet spot.

For a bigger picture of when to visit Malaga, check our seasonal guide. But if you're coming in May, here's exactly what to expect.

Is May Warm in Malaga?

Yes, properly warm.

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.

May marks the transition from spring to summer.

Early May still has that fresh spring feeling; late May can deliver days that feel like full summer. 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 temperature balance is one of May's great strengths.

What's the Temperature in Malaga in May?

Metric	May Average
Average high	24°C (75°F)
Average low	15°C (59°F)
Sea temperature	18°C (64°F)
Rainfall	20mm (2-3 rainy days)
Sunshine hours	10-11 per day
Daylight hours	14-15 hours
UV index	7-8 (high)

May delivers summer-like conditions without summer's extremes. The numbers show warm days, mild nights, and excellent sunshine.

Can You Swim in Malaga in May?

Yes, and it's increasingly pleasant.

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.

May marks the real start of beach season.

The water is warm enough to enjoy properly, the beaches are filling up, and water sports conditions are excellent. By late May, swimming feels genuinely pleasant rather than bracing.

Early May vs Late May

Early May (1st-15th)

• Warm but not hot (22-24°C)
• Sea still warming up (17-18°C)
• Spring atmosphere continues
• Fewer crowds than late month
• Occasional cooler days possible

Late May (16th-31st)

• Properly warm (25-27°C)
• Sea comfortable for swimming (19°C)
• Summer feeling arriving
• Beach season in full swing
• Longer, warmer evenings

The difference is noticeable.

Early May feels like perfect spring; late May feels like early summer. Both are excellent, but if beach swimming is a priority, late May delivers better conditions.

Does It Rain in Malaga in May?

May sees around 20mm of rain spread across just 2-3 days. This makes it one of the driest months, essentially the start of Malaga's long dry season.

Rain in May is rare and brief.

When it does occur, it's typically a quick shower that passes in an hour. You can essentially plan outdoor activities with confidence. The dry, sunny pattern that defines Malaga's summer is already established.

What's the UV Index in May?

High.

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.

What this means for you:

• Apply SPF 30+ before extended outdoor time
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially at the beach
• Sunglasses and a hat are advisable
• Seek shade during 12pm-3pm if sensitive to sun

May sun feels pleasant, not punishing like August, but the UV is strong. Take sun protection seriously from the start of your trip.

What Time Does the Sun Set in May?

The sun sets between 9:00pm and 9:30pm through May, with the latest sunsets at the end of the month. You have 14-15 hours of daylight.

These long days are one of May's great pleasures.

You can fit in morning sightseeing, afternoon beach time, and still have hours of light for evening exploration. Dinner at 9pm happens in daylight. The Mediterranean lifestyle makes perfect sense with these schedules.

What to Wear in Malaga in May

Pack for warm weather. May is summer clothing territory.

Daytime:

• Light clothing (shorts, dresses, t-shirts)
• Sandals for casual wear
• Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
• Swimwear for the beach
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen

Evenings:

• Light layers for cooler nights (early May especially)
• Smart casual for restaurants
• A cardigan or light jacket just in case

What you probably won't need:

• Heavy layers
• Rain gear (maybe a light jacket)
• Anything you'd wear in winter

May is straightforward to pack for.

Light, summery clothes for days; maybe a light layer for evenings. You won't need much else.

Events and Highlights in May

May brings outdoor life back to Malaga:

• 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.
• Outdoor dining: Terrace season is in full swing. Every restaurant, bar, and cafe spreads onto the streets. Evening paseos become a way of life.
• Beach season: The beaches fill up with locals and visitors. Chiringuitos are fully operational, and beach life returns.
• Day trips: May weather is perfect for excursions. Ronda, the white villages, Caminito del Rey, and the Axarquia are all at their best before summer heat.
• Local festivals: Various neighbourhoods hold spring festivals and celebrations. Check local listings for events during your visit.

Weather Along the Costa del Sol in May

If you're heading to other Costa del Sol towns, expect similar conditions:

Location	May High	May Low	Sea Temp
Malaga	24°C	15°C	18°C
Torremolinos	24°C	15°C	18°C
Benalmadena	24°C	15°C	18°C
Fuengirola	24°C	14°C	18°C
Marbella	23°C	14°C	18°C
Nerja	24°C	15°C	18°C

The whole coast enjoys the same excellent May conditions. Slight variations exist, but the pattern is consistent.

Is May a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

May is one of the best months. Here's the honest assessment:

May is ideal if you:

• Want warm weather without extreme heat
• Plan to swim and use the beaches
• Enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing
• Prefer fewer crowds than summer
• Want long, sunny days

May might not suit you if you:

• Want the hottest possible weather
• Prefer peak summer atmosphere
• Are looking for the lowest prices (shoulder season is cheaper)

The honest answer: May offers nearly everything summer does, minus the extreme heat and peak crowds.

The weather is warm and reliable, the beaches are ready, and the city is at its most pleasant. It's consistently ranked among the best months to visit for good reason.

The Bottom Line

May in Malaga is the sweet spot before summer.

The weather is warm and sunny, the beaches are ready for swimming, and the crowds haven't yet reached peak levels. You get summer conditions with spring pricing and atmosphere.

Come for the long sunny days and the warm evenings.

Come for the beaches filling up and the terraces buzzing. Come for Malaga at its most balanced: warm enough to feel like summer, pleasant enough to actually enjoy every moment.

Pack light, bring sun protection, and embrace the outdoor life. May in Malaga delivers exactly what you hope for from a Mediterranean spring.