Last updated: August 31, 2025
In May, Hermanus, South Africa, presents a delightful blend of mild temperatures and scenic beauty. With maximum highs reaching 28°C (83°F) and lows dropping to a comfortable 11°C (53°F), the average temperature settles at a pleasant 16°C (61°F). This month experiences approximately 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 6 days, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. Humidity levels hover around 78%, adding to the fresh, crisp air that characterizes this coastal town, making May an ideal time for exploring the stunning natural surroundings and vibrant marine life.
In May, Hermanus, South Africa, experiences a gentle transition into cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). The average daily temperature settles at around 16°C (61°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer. As the month progresses, the warm days begin to give way to chillier nights, reflecting a consistent downward trend from April's pleasantly warm averages. While May maintains a comfortable climate for exploring the coastal town and enjoying its stunning scenery, it also signals the approach of winter, with temperatures continuing to dip into the subsequent months. Overall, visitors can expect a refreshing blend of mild warmth and crisp air, ideal for leisure and adventure alike.
In Hermanus, South Africa, May marks a significant increase in precipitation, with 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain falling over 6 days. This spike contrasts sharply with the relatively dry preceding months, such as April, where only 25 mm (1.0 in) was recorded. As autumn deepens, May serves as a transitional phase leading into the wetter winter months, with June and July seeing even higher rainfall of 84 mm (3.3 in) and 80 mm (3.1 in), respectively. This trend highlights a seasonal shift, as the region prepares for the cooler, more humid days ahead while also enriching the beautiful landscapes that characterize Hermanus. The increase in rainy days throughout these colder months underscores the importance of this time for replenishing local water sources and supporting the region's diverse ecosystems.
In May, Hermanus experiences a gentle dip in humidity, settling at 78%, a slight decrease from the higher levels of previous months. This consistent trend of elevated humidity from the beginning of the year—peaking in March at 81%—shows that although May marks a transition towards drier conditions, the coastal charm of Hermanus continues to hold onto a refreshing moisture. Following May, humidity levels remain relatively stable, hovering between 78% and 80% in the subsequent months. Overall, the data illustrates a harmonious balance of humidity, making Hermanus a delightful destination for those who enjoy a mild and well-hydrated coastal climate.
In May, Hermanus experiences a noticeable shift in its UV Index, registering at 5, categorized as moderate. This reduction from the extreme levels of earlier months like January through April, with indices ranging from 8 to 14, extends the safe burn time to 30 minutes. As spring settles in, this moderate index provides a more forgiving UV exposure, encouraging residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors while still practicing sun safety. This trend of decreasing UV levels continues into June and July, offering a respite from the intense summer sun. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, visit Hermanus UV Index.
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As winter approaches in Hermanus, South Africa, the days begin to shorten, and May showcases a noticeable decline in sunshine hours with just 291 hours. This figure, while lower than the vibrant summer months of January through April, still provides a fair taste of sunlight as the region transitions. Interestingly, the trend of decreasing sunshine continues into June, hitting 267 hours, yet it gradually picks up again with more hours in the subsequent months of July and August. Despite May's waning sunlight, the charm of Hermanus remains intact, inviting visitors to enjoy its breathtaking coastal vistas and abundant wildlife, making it a delightful destination even as the days grow cooler.
In Hermanus, South Africa, May offers a balanced chance of sunshine, clocking in at 50%. This marks a notable shift from the summer months of January and February, which boast higher probabilities of clear skies at 65% and 67%, respectively. As we transition into autumn, sunshine becomes less predictable, with March and April both at 49%. However, as winter approaches in June and July, the likelihood of sunny days increases again slightly to 58%. This pattern suggests that while May isn't guaranteed to bring sunny weather, it represents a pivotal moment in the seasonal transition, balancing both the fading warmth of summer and the impending chill of winter.
In Hermanus, South Africa, May marks the transition towards shorter days, with 10 hours of daylight that reflect the shifting seasons. As the year progresses, daylight duration gradually decreases from a peak of 14 hours in January to a low of 9 hours in June. Following May, daylight begins to stabilize at 10 hours in both July and August, showing a temporary balance before the return to longer days in spring. This rhythmic pattern highlights the natural ebb and flow of sunlight throughout the year, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoor beauty of this coastal town during its gentler May days.
In Hermanus, South Africa, the winds of May bring a gentle breeze, with an average speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), slightly upticked from April. This marks a transition period, where wind speeds begin to stabilize after the more dynamic shifts observed in the earlier months of the year. As one of the cooler months, May's wind provides a refreshing contrast to the warmer summer months that follow. Over the course of the year, wind speeds peak in December at 5.9 m/s (13 mph), showcasing a seasonal oscillation where summer months tend to experience stronger gusts. Meanwhile, the consistency of May's breeze culminates in a serene atmosphere, perfect for outdoor activities and coastal explorations as the ocean remains invitingly calm.
Weather in Hermanus varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Hermanus, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May and January, it's clear that both months offer relatively mild temperatures, but with some notable differences. May sees lower minimum temperatures averaging around 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F), accompanied by higher precipitation at 75 mm (2.9 in) over 6 days, resulting in a more humid environment at 78%. In contrast, January boasts slightly warmer minimum and average temperatures, with lows of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), while experiencing much less rainfall at 23 mm (0.9 in) over just 5 days, and a similarly comfortable humidity level of 77%. Overall, January is typically drier and warmer, making it a favorable month for outdoor activities. For more detailed information on the January weather, you can visit Hermanus weather in January.
In comparing the weather between May and February, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation. February boasts slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F), reaching highs of 29°C (84°F). In contrast, May features cooler averages, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 28°C (83°F). February also enjoys significantly lower precipitation, receiving just 17 mm (0.7 in) over 5 days, while May sees an increase in rainfall to 75 mm (2.9 in) across 6 days. Additionally, humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with May at 78% and February slightly higher at 80%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Hermanus weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, we can observe a few notable differences. March typically has slightly higher minimum temperatures, averaging around 14°C (58°F), and a comfortable average of 19°C (67°F). In contrast, May starts off cooler with minimums of 11°C (53°F) and has a lower average temperature of 16°C (61°F). March also sees slightly less precipitation, with 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain over 6 days, compared to May's 75 mm (2.9 in) over the same number of days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with March at 81% and May at 78%. For more detailed information about March weather, you can visit Hermanus weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we see some notable differences. April tends to be slightly warmer, boasting an average temperature of 17°C (64°F) with maximums reaching 30°C (86°F). In contrast, May's average temperature is a bit cooler at 16°C (61°F), with maximums only reaching 28°C (83°F). Additionally, rainfall differs significantly, with April receiving just 25 mm (1.0 in) of precipitation compared to May's 75 mm (2.9 in), despite both months experiencing rain on six days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with April at 80% and May slightly lower at 78%. For more details on April's climate, you can visit Hermanus weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, May generally boasts warmer temperatures with minimums around 11°C (53°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (83°F), while June experiences slightly cooler temperatures, starting from a minimum of 9°C (49°F) and peaking at 23°C (74°F). Precipitation also increases in June, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 10 days compared to May's 75 mm (2.9 in) over just 6 days, resulting in a slightly wetter month. Humidity levels remain relatively stable, with May at 78% and June slightly higher at 79%. For more detailed information on the conditions in June, check out Hermanus weather in June.
In comparison to May, July experiences cooler average temperatures, with a maximum of 23°C (74°F) versus May's 28°C (83°F). While May has a higher average temperature of 16°C (61°F) compared to July's 14°C (57°F), both months show similar levels of precipitation, with July receiving 80 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days and May receiving 75 mm (2.9 in) over 6 days. Additionally, humidity remains relatively high in both months, with July slightly more humid at 80% compared to May's 78%. For a more detailed look at July weather, you can check Hermanus weather in July.
May and August present contrasting weather experiences, with May being generally warmer and more variable. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F) and relatively high humidity at 78%. Precipitation is moderate, occurring over about 6 days with a total of 75 mm (2.9 in).
In contrast, August features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). The month sees slightly more rainfall over 11 days, totaling 77 mm (3.0 in) but maintains a similar humidity level at 77%. For more detailed information, check Hermanus weather in August.
In comparing the weather between May and September, May generally offers slightly warmer temperatures, with averages around 16°C (61°F) compared to September's average of 15°C (59°F). Both months can reach a maximum of 28°C (83°F), but May tends to have higher minimum temperatures, starting at 11°C (53°F) versus September's 9°C (48°F). While May experiences more precipitation—75 mm (2.9 in) over 6 days—September sees less rain, totaling 46 mm (1.8 in) across 8 days. Humidity levels are similar, with May at 78% and September slightly lower at 76%. For more detailed information about September weather in Hermanus, you can visit Hermanus weather in September.
In comparing the weather between May and October, we find that both months share similar average temperatures, hovering around 16°C (61°F), with minimums of 11°C (53°F) in May and 11°C (52°F) in October, as well as maximums reaching 28°C (83°F) in both months. However, May tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 6 days, compared to October's 48 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days. Humidity remains relatively consistent, with May at 78% and October at 77%, indicating that both months maintain a similar level of moisture in the air. For a detailed look at October weather, visit Hermanus weather in October.
May and November exhibit mild temperatures but present different weather characteristics. In May, the average temperature ranges from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), accompanied by higher humidity at 78% and 75 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 6 days. In contrast, November sees slightly cooler maximum temperatures, peaking at 25°C (78°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while experiencing less precipitation totaling 41 mm (1.6 in) over 7 days, with humidity at a comparable 75%. For more detailed information about November weather specifically, you can visit Hermanus weather in November.
May and December exhibit mild temperatures, but there are notable differences in their weather patterns. In May, the temperature ranges from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F). This month also experiences higher precipitation, totaling 75 mm (2.9 in) over 6 days, coupled with a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, December sees slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). Precipitation drops significantly to 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 days, and humidity is comparable at 77%. Overall, while both months are moderate, December is generally warmer and drier. For more specific details, refer to Hermanus weather in December.
As May unfolds in Hermanus, the weather ushers in a gentle shift towards cooler temperatures, contrasting with the warmth of the preceding months. While the days can reach a delightful maximum of 28°C (83°F), the evenings bring a refreshing coolness, often dipping to around 11°C (53°F). This transition is accompanied by an increase in humidity, creating a lush environment as rainfall begins to grace the region, totaling about 75 mm (2.9 in) over an average of 6 days. Unlike the dry summer months, the heightened moisture and mild temperatures make May an enchanting time to experience Hermanus, where the captivating beauty of nature is accentuated, and the backdrop for whale watching begins to set the stage. For a deeper understanding of the climate in this picturesque town, explore Hermanus Climate.