Lanzarote Weather May – The Start of Summer Bliss
May marks the transition into Lanzarote’s summer proper. It’s a fantastic month weather-wise: hotter days, virtually no rain, and the island still isn’t as crowded as peak summer.
Many British travellers love May in Lanzarote for the guaranteed sun without the intense heat of August. If you’re seeking a pre-summer holiday to get a head start on your tan or a family break during the May half-term, Lanzarote in May is hard to beat.
What to Expect in May
☀️ Daytime temperatures: Around 25°C – shorts and T-shirt weather!
🌙 Nighttime temperatures: Around 17°C – evenings are getting warmer, but a light jacket may still come in handy.
🌊 Sea temperature: 19°C – slightly warmer than April, making sea swims more tempting.
🌧️ Rainfall: Almost non-existent – usually 0 to 1 day of rain in the whole month.
🌞 Sunshine: 9 hours a day – perfect for lazy beach days.
Lanzarote Weather vs. UK Weather in May
While Lanzarote enjoys dry, sunny days with highs of 25°C, the UK is still experiencing its fair share of chilly spring days.
🇬🇧 UK: 15°C (if you’re lucky), rain showers, and the odd sunny spell.
🇪🇸 Lanzarote: 25°C, golden beaches, outdoor dining, and guaranteed sunshine.
Which one sounds better? Exactly.
What British Tourists Say About the Weather in Lanzarote in May:
Brits who visit in May often can’t stop gushing about how it’s “proper summer weather without the crowds.” You’ll hear how people got “two summers” by going to Lanzarote in May and then enjoying the UK summer later.
Many families take advantage of the May half-term – kids come back to school bragging about their beach adventures.
A typical comment: “The weather was faultless every day – hot sun, blue sky, and a lovely breeze.” Some might note that the midday sun felt really strong (yes, indeed), but jumping in the pool or sea frequently sorted that out.
Another plus often cited: evenings are warm enough to sit outside comfortably for dinner or drinks, giving that real holiday feel. As one TripAdvisor review put it, “In May we dined under the stars every night in short sleeves – it was glorious.”
Surfers and active tourists mention how conditions are great – you can do everything: beach, sports, sightseeing, without any weather hindrance.
Folks from the north of England or Scotland especially love coming in May because they say it kick-starts their summer mentally – a week of Lanzarote sun makes the UK spring feel less dreary.
If any complaint arises, it’s usually from those who overdid the sun exposure (i.e. “got a bit burnt on day one, oops”).
Overall, the consensus is that May offers peak enjoyment: one of the driest months, plenty warm but not the absolute hottest, and with that famous Lanzarote breeze to keep it comfortable.
Sunshine & Rain – Typical Weather in Lanzarote in May
Sunshine:
If you love sun, May delivers. We’re looking at 9 hours of sunshine a day on average, and often more. The days are long – sunrise before 7am and sunset approaching 8:30pm by late May. This gives you plenty of daylight for beach time and evening walks.
A typical May day might start a tad cloudy (this is a known pattern: “The morning often starts a little cloudy in May, but the cloud tends to burn off” by late morning). So don’t be surprised if you see some marine layer or fluffy clouds at 8am – by 11am they’re usually gone, replaced by blue skies. Once cleared, hot afternoons and bright evenings are the norm. It’s essentially sunny almost every day.
The chance of an overcast day in May is very low. This month sees the UV and sun at nearly summer strength, so that beautiful sunshine can be quite intense. But yes, May is mostly clear, bright, and sun-drenched.
Rain:
Practically zero. May is one of the driest months in Lanzarote. On average, there might be 0–1 days of negligible rain, and often it’s none at all. Average rainfall is listed as just ~2 mm for the whole month – meaning some Mays get a tiny drizzle once and that’s it.
For all intents and purposes, you can assume no rain during your May holiday. It would be very surprising to need an umbrella. The last vestiges of any spring showers are gone; the island enters a long dry spell that usually lasts until autumn.
The landscape by May is dry and desert-like, which is part of Lanzarote’s stark beauty. So, you can confidently plan beach days, outdoor excursions, even alfresco wedding ceremonies without weather worries in May.
What is the Temperature in May in Lanzarote
Now we’re talking summer-like warmth. Average highs in May are around 25–27°C. Frequently, you’ll see days at 26°C, 27°C, even occasionally touching 28–29°C when the weather is settled and sunny (which it mostly is). It’s basically hot in the afternoons – not sweltering, but definitely hot enough to crave a dip in the pool. Early May might start in the mid-20s and by late May it’s consistently upper-20s on many days.
Nights are also warming up: expect night temperatures around 18–19°C by mid-to-late May. This means evenings are quite pleasant – you might find you only need a very light layer or even just short sleeves on some nights, especially in sheltered spots.
The typical pattern: mornings start mild (~18°C at breakfast), by noon it’s in the mid-20s, and late afternoon can peak near 28°C in the sun.
Women’s Guide – What to Pack and What to Wear
Full summer gear: In May, you’ll all but live in shorts, swimsuits, and short sleeves. Pack your summer dresses, shorts, tank tops, sun tops, linen shirts – all the airy, light clothing. Heavy fabrics can likely stay home. If you enjoy dressing up a bit in the evenings, bring your summer evening outfits (short-sleeve shirts, nice blouse, or light dress). You won’t need anything woolly or insulated. Maybe one light long trouser and one light jacket for the odd cooler evening, but you might not even use it.
Swim essentials: Bring multiple swimwear options because they’ll be in use daily. Towels, beach cover-ups, flip-flops, etc., are a given. If you love the ocean, maybe throw in a snorkel mask or even your own fins if that’s your thing – the water’s inviting. Water sports enthusiasts: consider packing rash guards or surf leggings if you’ll be on a board a lot to protect from sun and board rash.
Sun protection gear: Absolutely critical. High SPF suncream (and enough for reapplication, or plan to buy on island, though it can be pricier there), aloe vera gel for after sun, hats (broad-brimmed for the beach, maybe a stylish fedora or cap for walking around). Sunglasses (UV-protective) – perhaps even a spare pair in case one breaks, since you’ll use them constantly. If you have them, UV-protective shirts or kaftans can be great for when you’ve had enough sun but still want to be out.
Evening cover-ups: As noted, nights are milder but a light layer is wise. A thin cardigan, shawl, or long-sleeve shirt for women; a light sweater or linen blazer for men if you’re going somewhere a tad fancy. You may or may not end up needing it, but it’s good to have just in case of a breezy night. Generally, you can dine out in what you wore in the day (with maybe an extra layer handy) because it stays quite mild.
Footwear: Sandals and flip-flops for sure. Possibly water sandals if you plan rocky shore exploring. Good trainers or hiking sandals if you plan active outings – again, the volcanic terrain will chew up flimsy shoes, so wear proper footwear for Timanfaya or trekking in Lanzarote’s interior. But if you’re mostly beach/poolside, you might rarely put on closed shoes. Ladies, wedges or nice sandals are fine for evenings (no need for heavy heels unless you want – and even then, consider cobbles).
Miscellaneous: The sun is strong, so maybe pack a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated (you can fill from large water containers you buy cheaply instead of buying many small bottles). Also, a beach bag or tote for carrying water, suncream, books to the beach. Bring a hat clip or something to secure your hat to your bag when it gets windy so it doesn’t fly away! If you’re a light sleeper, an eye mask could help since sunrise is early and curtains might not fully block it – though many are fine. And don’t forget things like swim goggles if you like doing laps, because you’ll have a chance in that glorious weather.
Air Quality and Climate Comfort
The climate in May is generally dry and comfortable. Humidity is low (often 50-60%), so even on hot days it’s a dry heat, not sticky. That, combined with breezes, means you won’t feel the same level of discomfort at 28°C in Lanzarote as you might at 28°C in a humid place. Nights are pleasantly mild, great for sleeping (most accommodation won’t need AC yet, just open a window for the breeze or use a fan).
Air quality is good; dust is usually minimal now (calimas are rare in late spring, they’re more of a winter or late summer thing typically). By May, the chance of any volcanic ash or things like that is non-existent (some people ask due to past volcanic events on other Canary Islands – nothing to worry about in Lanzarote).
One thing you might notice: no mosquitoes still – by May, in some destinations, bugs start to appear, but Lanzarote’s dryness keeps them at bay. You might get the odd fly or two outdoors, but nothing major biting you. So you can enjoy evenings without swarms of insects – bliss!
Can You Sunbathe in May?
Oh yes! May is the perfect month for sunbathing – warm enough to get a tan, but without the extreme heat of mid-summer.
The UV index is high (between 7- 10), so sunscreen is essential.
The best time for tanning is between 10 am and 4 pm.
The occasional light breeze might make the sun feel less intense, so don’t forget SPF protection.
Is Lanzarote Windy in May?
The trade winds start to kick up a bit more in May. Average wind speeds are around 15–16 mph, and they tend to increase as the month goes on. In plain terms, it will often be breezy, especially in the afternoon. If you’re on the beach, you’ll likely welcome the breeze because it keeps you cool under the strong sun.
May isn’t as windy as June/July, but it’s noticeably more than winter. For example, you might need to weigh down beach towels, and ladies with long hair will want hair ties or hats to keep locks from whipping about. The wind direction is usually NE.
Playa Blanca and areas in the lee of mountains remain more sheltered. Surfers and windsurfers rejoice in May – conditions become consistently good for sails. If you’re sensitive to wind (say you dislike sand blowing), consider beaches like Playa Chica in Puerto del Carmen or the aforementioned Playa Dorada, which have some natural wind protection.
For evening dinners outdoors, a breeze may persist, but by then it’s a warm breeze – still, consider a light sweater just in case. A note: sometimes late May can have a few days of strong winds (near gale-force gusts) if pressure differences occur – nothing dangerous, just very windy. Locals take it in stride, but if you encounter that, you might do more poolside lounging than beach if sand gets blown about.
Can You Swim in Lanzarote in May?
🌊 Average sea temperature in May: 19,5°C
The ocean is warming up nicely by May. You’ll see sea temps around 20–21°C by the end of the month, which is quite comfortable. Early May might still be ~19–20°C, but as the sun beats down day after day, the top layer of water warms.
Swimming in the sea is absolutely on the menu – in fact, May is when even the more cold-sensitive folks start venturing in without hesitation. It’s still cooler than the Mediterranean summer, but for many it’s just fine.
Divers and snorkelers will enjoy slightly longer sessions in the water now, though wetsuits are still used for diving. Pools, if unheated, by May are typically around mid-20s°C by afternoon thanks to the sun – basically perfect pool temperature.
The sea condition is generally calm, barring windy afternoons which can create chop. If you love a calm morning swim in the ocean, do it early – mornings often have glassy seas before the wind picks up. Also, May’s warming water starts attracting more marine life closer to shore, so it’s a good time for snorkelling adventures.
Lanzarote Weather May – Pros and Cons
✅ Pros of May:
Practically guaranteed great weather – it’s hard to overstate how reliable May’s climate is. It’s hot enough for any beach activity, yet not as scorching or humid as true tropical destinations.
Another pro: before the UK half-term (which is usually end of May), the island is relatively quiet, so early-mid May you get great weather with low crowds. Even during half-term, while busier, it’s still not as full as summer holiday months. Prices are often lower than July/August as well. Also, the long daylight hours give you more time to explore or relax each day.
❌ Cons of May:
Honestly, there aren’t many downsides weather-wise. There’s essentially no rain to worry about. If anything, a potential con is that by the end of May, it can start to get quite hot in the sun — especially for those who aren’t fans of the heat. You’ll need to actively use sun protection and possibly seek shade during the peak midday hours.
The wind can occasionally pick up by late May — great news for windsurfers, but not always ideal for sunbathers, as very windy days can feel a bit uncomfortable on exposed beaches. That said, compared to the stronger winds of high summer, May’s breezes are usually much gentler.
Another con: if you enjoy lush, green landscapes, Lanzarote in May can feel extremely dry and barren. The little greenery from winter is gone, and the island’s more rugged, volcanic character is in full swing. Not a problem for most — it’s part of the island’s charm — but worth noting that the landscape is more “sunny desert island” than “tropical getaway.”
Traveler Q&A – Lanzarote Weather in May
“Is Lanzarote hot in May?” – Yes, it’s hot but not sweltering. Expect mid-20s°C most days; lying in the sun will definitely feel hot enough for a proper sunbathing session.
“Do I need air conditioning in May?” – Most likely, you’ll be comfortable without A/C, especially earlier in May. Many accommodations in Lanzarote don’t even have air con, and usually in May that’s fine – open windows or a fan at night is enough. By late May, a south-facing apartment might get toasty, but nights are still not too hot to sleep.
“Are mosquitoes a problem in May?” – Lanzarote isn’t bad for mosquitoes due to the arid climate. By May, there’s very little standing water. You might get the odd mosquito in wetter years, but generally it’s not a big issue — unlike some Mediterranean destinations in summer, where humidity and stagnant water can attract far more.
“Can I surf or windsurf in May?” – Absolutely. May often has good surf on the east and northwest coasts, and the trade winds start picking up, so windsurf/kitesurf conditions are improving. The water is warming up, but surfers might still wear spring wetsuits for comfort.
Overall, May is a fantastic month weather-wise – you get nearly everything you’d want from summer weather with fewer downsides.
Day of the Canary Islands – on May 30 each year.
The Day of the Canary Islands, celebrated on 30 May, is a public holiday across the Canary Islands, including Lanzarote. It commemorates the first session of the autonomous Canary Islands Parliament held in 1983 and is a proud celebration of Canarian identity, culture, and history.
If you’re visiting Lanzarote from the UK during this time, expect a festive atmosphere, with locals taking part in traditional music, folk dancing, sports, and food fairs. You’ll often see people wearing traditional Canarian clothing, and many towns and villages host free cultural events and family-friendly celebrations in public squares.
Most shops, banks, and government offices will be closed for the day, though tourist areas, restaurants, and larger supermarkets may remain open with reduced hours. It’s a great opportunity to experience authentic local culture—check with your hotel or local tourist office to find out what’s happening nearby.
Final Thoughts – Is May a Good Time for Lanzarote Weather?
If you’re seeking warm, sunny days without the scorching heat of summer, Lanzarote weather in May is perfect. With temperatures reaching 25°C and fewer crowds, it’s an ideal time to sunbathe, swim, explore, or simply enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Experience Lanzarote at its best before the peak-season tourists arrive. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, sunhat, and a sense of adventure!
Curious about the current weather in Lanzarote’s most popular holiday spots? Check out our dedicated pages for the latest updates: Playa Blanca Weather, Costa Teguise Weather, and Puerto del Carmen Weather. Happy holiday planning! ☀️🏖️
Planning Another Month? Explore Lanzarote Weather All Year Round
Whether you’re planning an early spring escape or a mid-winter sun break, we’ve got you covered. Explore detailed weather guides for every month of the year:
Lanzarote Weather in January
Lanzarote Weather in February
Lanzarote Weather in March
Lanzarote Weather in April
Lanzarote Weather in May (you are here)
Lanzarote Weather in June
Lanzarote Weather in July
Lanzarote Weather in August
Lanzarote Weather in September
Lanzarote Weather in October
Lanzarote Weather in November
Lanzarote Weather in December
More to Explore in Lanzarote
Planning your trip and wondering how to make the most of it? These guides will help you turn your weather research into a perfect itinerary:
🌴 All Inclusive Lanzarote – Discover insider reviews of the best resorts and hotels to find your perfect stay.
✈️ Flights to Lanzarote – See who flies from your nearest UK airport and get tips on finding the best fares.
✨ Lanzarote Select – Explore Lanzarote’s hidden luxury side with curated restaurants, boutiques, and unique experiences.