May is one of the best times to visit Mallorca. Take advantage of the prices being lower and the beaches being less packed full of people than in peak summer.
On my trip to Mallorca in May, I was pleased to find that the weather was warm enough for a t-shirt and a quick dip in the sea, and it was easy to get around without a car.
After decades of travelling around Europe’s islands in the shoulder season, I found that May on Mallorca has mild days, affordable accommodation and less crowded experiences, before the summer overload.
In this guide to Mallorca in May, I’ll show you how to make the most of the month. You’ll find advice on what the weather’s like, what to do, and when the local festivals take place.
Discover how easy it is to experience Mallorca in May.
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Mallorca in May weather: what it’s really like
Es Trenc beach, Mallorca, in May
The weather in Mallorca gets progressively better during May. However, there can be rainfall, particularly during the first half of the month. Average rainfall is 29mm in May.
On my trip in early May there was a mixture of rain, heavy enough to require a rain jacket, and warm sunshine. So pack for both possibilities.
The likelihood of rain eases off as May progresses. So if you want to get the best of the May weather in Mallorca, go at the end of the month. Or you might want to consider a trip to Malta, another magnificent Mediterranean island, with lower average rainfall in May.
The average high temperature in May in Mallorca is around 24°C (75°F). The average low is 11°C (52°F). This is a great temperature for exploring Mallorca without melting.
The sunrises at around 6.30am and sets at around 8.45pm (getting later as May goes on). This gives you long days in the light to explore all the best places to visit in Mallorca.
As the weather in May can vary from really quite warm to cool and rainy, check the forecast before you go. The evenings were still chilly enough on my visit in early May to require a jacket or long sleeved top.
The weather can vary across the island. On my trip I left the south coast of the island in sunshine and was met with rain in the western mountains. So make sure to take a jacket or hoody for cooler evenings and pack your swim suit to make the most of the sun when it shines.
Can you swim in the sea in Mallorca in May?
Es Carbó sea, Mallorca, in May
Sea temperatures in Mallorca in May average around 18°C (64°F).
I found the sea water in Mallorca in early May to be very chilly. I was able to take a quick dip but I wasn’t keen to stay in for longer.
Of course, it all depends on your own tolerance. I’m from the UK so the sea still felt ok compared to the water in the UK and I was glad to be able to experience it, even if it was only briefly.
I did see some people spending much longer in the sea. They can clearly take the cold more than me.
Top things to do in Mallorca in May: beaches, culture and hiking
Sóller cathedral
May is a month of change in Mallorca. The sun comes out, the weather starts to warm up and shops, restaurants and bars are trading.
As a shoulder season month, there’s a great range of things to do in Mallorca in May. The biggest benefit of visiting Mallorca in May is that it’s not yet reached the high heat of summer, so you can get out and explore the island in comfortable temperatures.
Palma de Mallorca in May: culture without the crowds
Palma is a great base in May, it’s warm enough to wander comfortably but not so hot that sightseeing feels like a challenge.
Start with La Seu, Palma’s cathedral, with its honey-coloured stone and intricate Gothic detailing. Afterwards, stroll through the old town’s maze of streets and take a visit to Es Baluard, Palma’s contemporary art museum.
If you’d rather stay outdoors, May is also ideal for a relaxing lunch in the Plaça Major, followed by a walk along the Parc de la Mar with its palm trees and views of the sea.
If you enjoy exploring historic towns and cities, you might also like my day trip itinerary for Cambridge, UK.
Where to find Mallorca’s May markets
There are weekly markets in various towns in Mallorca. One of the best in the south east is at Santanyí. You’ll find all kinds of fresh local food on sale, along with arts and crafts.
Taking place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, it’s easy to get to by regular bus from Palma. Journey time is about an hour. Take the #501 to Campos and from there you’ll need to change to the #515, which goes all the way to Cala d’Or.
Other popular markets in Mallorca include Artá, Sineu and Sóller. Whilst you’re there, don’t forget to capture the magic of Spain with perfect Instagram captions.
Mallorca’s best beaches in May
Estanys beach in May, Mallorca
May is one of the best times to visit Mallorca’s beaches, before the summer heat sets in and the crowds take over.
The sea is just about warm enough for a quick swim if you’re feeling brave, but even if you don’t fancy a dip, the beaches are still worth visiting for a walk, a picnic or simply to enjoy the peace and space.
Es Trenc is one of Mallorca’s longest beaches, and in May, you can appreciate it without the hoards. It’s a wide, powdery strip of white sand backed by dunes, ideal for a long walk in the spring sunshine.
The shallow water is a gorgeous clear turquoise, giving Caribbean vibes, and you’ll likely be tempted to try it for yourself.
For exploring actual Caribbean beaches, check out my article on the best beaches in Havana, Cuba.
Calo del Moro, near Cala Figuera, is the beach that’s all over social media and for good reason. It’s a small, secluded cove with vivid blue water and dramatic cliffs.
In peak summer, people queue just to get down to it. May offers a chance to experience it without the chaos. That said, it was still busy when I went, so don’t expect it to be deserted, but you’re more likely to get a proper look at what makes it so special.
For something quieter, head to Es Carbó beach. Reachable on foot from Colònia de Sant Jordi, and totally wild, it’s a much better place to plan to spend any significant time at the beach than busy Calo del Moro.
In May, you’ll share the sand at Es Carbó with just a handful of others. Bring plenty of water and food, as there are no facilities here. If the sun’s out, spread out a towel and enjoy a peaceful swim. If it’s not, you can still enjoy walking along this peaceful spot.
Take the iconic vintage train to Sóller
Vintage tram in Sóller
With the weather in May being much more pleasant than in July and August, take the vintage train from Palma to Sóller.
This is an iconic trip to do in Mallorca and should not be missed. The train can get hot, so May is an ideal time to be able to enjoy the ride without sweating. Note that in May this train still gets sold out, so book your tickets in advance.
Once you’re in Sóller, take the old-fashioned tram down to Port de Sóller for sea views and a drink in one of the seaside cafés. The journey itself is great fun. I enjoyed looking out of the open windows as the mountain views gave way to the sea.
If you’re interested in more tips on navigating European islands without a car, check out my guide on getting around Malta by public transport.
Sail to Cabrera
Take advantage of the longer, sunny days in Mallorca in May and get out on the water on a boat trip.
There are plenty to choose from. One of the more interesting is to head to Colònia de Sant Jordi and take the boat trip to Isla de Cabrera. You can go by bus from Palma to Colònia de Sant Jordi in just over an hour.
The boats leave from the harbour on the southeastern side of the town, near Hotel Honucai.
The Isla de Cabrera is a Maritime National Park and is actually an archipelago of 19 small islands.
The boat takes half an hour to get from the harbour to the islands. Depending on which tour you book, you can then be taken around the whole area, before landing on the island.
Tickets cost from €55 for a daytime trip.
Once at the island, you can go for a hike, have a picnic or just laze on one of the beaches until it’s time to come back.
Even if the weather is changeable and you get some rain, it won’t ruin the trip. The island has some great short walks that you can do, come rain or shine. There’s also a visitor centre, a lighthouse, botanical gardens and a museum. So there’s plenty to do at Cabrera.
Spring hikes in Mallorca
May is one of the best months for hiking in Mallorca. The temperatures are just right, warm enough for a t-shirt, cool enough to keep you moving, and the hills are still green.
If you’re not driving, it’s easy to reach the mountains using the TIB buses, which connect Palma to mountain towns like Valldemossa and Deià.
Valldemossa is a good place for hiking. From the town, there’s a walking trail that leads into the Tramuntana hills, with sweeping views of the coastline.
Before or after your walk, it’s worth visiting the Carthusian Monastery, once home to composer Frédéric Chopin.
Just along the coast, the walk between Deià and Sóller is also popular.
If you’d prefer to join an organised hike, there are local guides who offer small group walking tours. This is an ideal way to learn more about the history, plants and traditions of Mallorca as you hike.
Festivals and markets in May
May in Mallorca isn’t just about beaches, it’s also a chance to experience music and some local flavour. Here’s how to taste the spirit of Mallorca in May.
Es Firo, Sóller (Monday after the second Sunday in May)
Each year, Sóller hosts a multi-day festival, culminating in Es Firo. During this time there are thriving markets, processions and re-enactments of the battle it commemorates.
This festival is very popular so be prepared for crowds and lots of noise. There are fireworks and lots and lots of people.
Medieval Fair, Capdepera (mid-May)
Every spring, Capdera’s streets fill with medieval outfits, music and stalls. Let go and join in the dancing with the rest of the town.
Why May might be the best month to visit Mallorca
If you’re looking for a mix of spring freshness and some summer sun, May in Mallorca is a great time to go.
The sun has arrived, but the peak summer crowds haven’t. You’ll find quieter beaches, calmer public transport and sightseeing at a more relaxed pace.
May’s gentle warmth and quieter atmosphere make it ideal for couples visiting Mallorca. For more romantic European island getaways, Malta is also worth visiting for couples.
Do remember to book the train in advance for the popular route of Palma to Sóller.
Pack a few layers for cooler mornings and evenings, sun cream for the midday heat, your comfiest walking shoes, and a sense of adventure.
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