Last updated: August 21, 2025
Experience the allure of Punta Cana, Dominican Republic in May, where the tropical climate offers an inviting escape. With maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (87°F) and an average of 26°C (80°F), the weather is perfect for beach days and outdoor exploration. However, anticipate 82 mm (3.2 in) of rainfall spread over 18 days, making humidity levels hover around 72%. Despite occasional showers, the lush surroundings and warm breezes create an enchanting setting, ideal for soaking in the vibrant local culture and stunning natural beauty.
In May, Punta Cana ushers in the warmth of summer with temperatures that reflect a delightful transition. The month's minimum temperature hovers around 23°C (73°F), while the average settles at a comfortable 26°C (80°F), inviting visitors to bask in the sun. As temperatures peak at 30°C (87°F), it's clear that the tropical paradise is warming nicely, setting the stage for the hotter months ahead. This upward trend from previous months, where April saw a max of 29°C (85°F), emphasizes the growing allure of May, characterized by balmy breezes and sunny skies—perfect for those eager to enjoy Punta Cana's stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere.
May marks a significant uptick in precipitation in Punta Cana, with 82 mm (3.2 in) falling over 18 days. This increase from previous months highlights a transition towards the wetter season, as rainfall begins to ramp up in anticipation of the summer. Notably, May's precipitation is among the highest recorded so far, setting the stage for the incoming summer months where rainfall peaks further. Comparatively, April's rainfall was a modest 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 14 days, showcasing how May introduces a more humid, tropical climate that characterizes the region leading into the hotter months of July and August. As the landscapes flourish under this moisture, May serves as a vibrant prelude to the island's lush, tropical beauty.
In Punta Cana, May welcomes visitors with a comfortable humidity level of 72%, maintaining the trend of slightly elevated moisture that begins in early spring. As the year progresses, humidity begins to rise notably during the summer months, peaking in August and September at 80%. This gradual increase from the drier early months of the year—where levels dip to 71% in March—suggests a tropical climate that becomes more humid with the approach of summer. Travelers in May can expect pleasantly warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities before the more humid and warmer summer months set in.
In May, Punta Cana experiences a high UV Index of 13, classified in the extreme exposure category, with a burn time of just 10 minutes. This trend of consistently high UV levels continues from the preceding months of April and March, which also recorded an identical index. The UV Index during this time remains notably higher compared to early and late year months, such as January and November, where lower indices of 9 indicate a very high exposure category. As summer approaches, the UV levels not only stay elevated but can often lead to potential sunburns within a mere few minutes of exposure. Visitors are advised to be vigilant about sun safety and protection during this peak time. For more detailed insights on sun exposure, explore Punta Cana UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, brings an impressive 354 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful peak right before the summer months. This stunning month follows a gradual increase in daylight hours from January's modest 258 hours, showcasing a harmonious transition as the year unfolds. As spring blossoms into summer, April's 351 hours smoothly lead into May, illustrating the region’s trend of increasing sunlight that continues well into July, which boasts the highest sunshine at 359 hours. This sunny crescendo offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure, as visitors revel in the vibrant beauty of this Caribbean paradise. With a steady decline in sunlight towards the end of the year, May stands out as a pinnacle of warmth and brightness, inviting travelers to soak up the sun and revel in its glorious rays.
As May approaches in Punta Cana, the likelihood of enjoying sunny weather remains promising, with a 62% chance of sunshine gracing the skies. This positions May favorably between the sunnier months of February and April, both of which boast higher probabilities of clear days. Although June signals a notable dip to 33%, May offers a splendid opportunity to bask in the beauty of the Dominican Republic as spring transitions into summer. With a balanced mix of warm temperatures and decent sunshine, it's an ideal time for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst the Caribbean's vibrant landscape.
As the calendar turns to May, Punta Cana continues to bask in delightful 12 hours of daylight each day, a sweet continuation from April. Following a consistent 11-hour brightness in the earlier months, this period marks a transition into longer days that herald the summer season. June and July see the pinnacle of daylight with 13 hours, inviting sun-seekers to relish in extended beach adventures. As summer gives way to autumn, daylight hours gradually taper off, returning to 11 hours by November. This rhythm of daylight in Punta Cana not only enhances its allure as a tropical paradise but also establishes a beautiful cycle that lets visitors savor the sun in every season.
As May settles in Punta Cana, the average wind speed hovers around 4.1 m/s (9 mph), slightly dipping from April's 3.9 m/s (9 mph). This gentle breeze not only enhances the region's tropical atmosphere but also signals the transition towards warmer summer months. Notably, this month experiences one of the milder wind speeds, following a trend of increased breeziness from January’s 4.6 m/s (10 mph) to March’s peak of 4.9 m/s (11 mph). Looking ahead to June and July, the wind picks up again, offering a refreshing respite from the heat. Overall, May strikes a harmonious balance between comfort and the impending summer allure, making it a delightful time to enjoy the sun-kissed shores of the Dominican Republic.
Weather in Punta Cana varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Punta Cana, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between May and January, it becomes evident that May tends to be warmer and wetter. While January boasts a comfortable average temperature of 25°C (77°F) with a maximum of 28°C (83°F), May heats up slightly with an average of 26°C (80°F) and peaks at 30°C (87°F). In terms of precipitation, May experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days, compared to January's 39 mm (1.5 in) across 14 days. Humidity levels are similar, with May at 72% and January slightly higher at 74%. For more detailed information on January weather, you can check Punta Cana weather in January.
In comparing the weather of May and February, we see that May tends to be slightly warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), while February offers a more moderate range of 21°C (70°F) to 28°C (83°F). Both months experience a similar number of rainy days, with May receiving 82 mm of precipitation compared to February's 49 mm. Despite the differences in rainfall, humidity levels remain comparable, hovering around 72% in May and 73% in February. For a more detailed look at February's weather, you can check out Punta Cana weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, March exhibits slightly cooler temperatures with an average of 25°C (77°F) compared to May's warmer 26°C (80°F). The maximum temperatures are also lower in March, peaking at 29°C (84°F) versus May's 30°C (87°F). Precipitation in March is less frequent and less intense, with 67 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall over 17 days, while May experiences 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days. Humidity levels are somewhat similar, with March at 71% and May slightly higher at 72%. For more detailed insights, you can check Punta Cana weather in March.
In comparing the weather between May and April, we see that both months feature similar minimum temperatures, with April slightly cooler at 22°C (73°F) compared to May's minimum of 23°C (73°F). The average temperatures remain quite close, with April at 26°C (78°F) and May at 26°C (80°F). However, May experiences slightly warmer maximum temperatures, reaching up to 30°C (87°F), while April tops out at 29°C (85°F). Furthermore, May receives significantly more precipitation, with 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days, compared to April's 50 mm (2.0 in) over 14 days, although both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 72%. For those interested in the details of April's weather, more information can be found at Punta Cana weather in April.
In comparing the weather between May and June, both months exhibit warm temperatures, with May averaging 26°C (80°F) and June slightly warmer at 27°C (81°F). Minimum temperatures remain consistent at 23°C (73°F), while June sees a marginal increase in maximum temperatures, reaching 31°C (87°F) compared to May's peak of 30°C (87°F). Precipitation levels decrease in June to 70 mm (2.8 in) over 21 days, compared to 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days in May, indicating a slightly drier month. Additionally, humidity levels are quite similar, with May at 72% and June at 73%, allowing for a comfortable, tropical climate. For more details on June’s weather, check out Punta Cana weather in June.
In May, temperatures in Punta Cana typically range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average temperature of 26°C (80°F). This month sees about 82 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation spread across 18 days, coupled with a humidity level of 72%. In contrast, July boasts a slightly warmer and more humid climate, with minimum temperatures at 24°C (76°F) and an average of 27°C (82°F). Precipitation increases to 105 mm (4.2 in) over 23 days, elevating the humidity to 78%. For more detailed information, you can explore Punta Cana weather in July.
In comparing the weather of May and August, both months experience warm temperatures, but August tends to be slightly hotter. In May, average temperatures range from a minimum of 23°C (73°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F), with an average of 26°C (80°F) and a relatively lower humidity of 72%. In contrast, August sees temperatures with a minimum of 24°C (76°F), an average of 28°C (82°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), coupled with higher humidity levels at 80%. Precipitation also increases in August, with 120 mm (4.7 in) recorded over 23 days, compared to May's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days. For a more detailed look, you can check out the Punta Cana weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, both months deliver warm temperatures, but September tends to be slightly hotter, featuring an average of 28°C (82°F) compared to May's 26°C (80°F). The maximum temperatures in September also edge out at 31°C (89°F), while May peaks at 30°C (87°F). However, September experiences significantly more rainfall, with 131 mm (5.1 in) over 21 days, compared to May's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days. Additionally, humidity rises in September to 80%, compared to 72% in May, contributing to a more muggy atmosphere. For more detailed insights into the weather, check out Punta Cana weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, both months showcase warm temperatures, with May averaging around 26°C (80°F) and October slightly warmer at 27°C (81°F). October typically experiences higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 31°C (88°F), compared to May's maximum of 30°C (87°F). Additionally, October sees more rainfall, with approximately 131 mm (5.2 in) over 22 days, in contrast to May's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days. Humidity levels are also higher in October at 79%, compared to 72% in May. For a detailed analysis, you can explore Punta Cana weather in October.
In comparing the weather of May and November, both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with averages around 26°C (80°F), and maximums close to 30°C (85-87°F). However, November tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 127 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 19 days compared to May's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 18 days. Additionally, humidity levels are higher in November at 79%, versus 72% in May, making the latter month feel a bit more comfortable despite the warm temperatures. For more details on the weather patterns, you can visit Punta Cana weather in November.
In comparing the weather of May and December, both months share a similar temperature range, with minimums around 23°C (73°F) and average highs of 26°C (79°F). However, May tends to be slightly warmer, reaching maximum temperatures of 30°C (87°F), compared to December’s 29°C (85°F). May also experiences higher precipitation levels, with an average of 82 mm (3.2 inches) falling over 18 days, while December sees less rain at 61 mm (2.4 inches) over 19 days. Additionally, December's humidity is a bit higher at 77%, compared to 72% in May. For more details on December weather, you can explore Punta Cana weather in December.
In May, Punta Cana experiences a notable transition in weather, characterized by warmer temperatures compared to previous months, with highs reaching around 30°C (87°F). This increase in warmth is accompanied by higher humidity levels, often hovering around 72%, creating a lush, tropical atmosphere. However, May also sees more precipitation than earlier in the year, with rainfall occurring on approximately 18 days and totaling around 82 mm (3.2 in), which hints at the beginning of the rainy season. Despite occasional rain, the pleasant evenings, average temperatures of 26°C (80°F), and vibrant landscapes make May a unique and appealing time to visit. For a detailed look at how the May weather aligns with Punta Cana's overall climate, check out Punta Cana Climate.