Last updated: February 6, 2025
May in San Sebastián, Spain offers a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing rainfall. With a maximum of 27°C (80°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), the weather is perfect for exploring the stunning coastline and vibrant city life. However, prepare for the possibility of showers, as the region experiences about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 17 days, contributing to the lush landscape. Humidity levels hover around 80%, adding a gentle warmth to the air. Overall, May presents an inviting atmosphere for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of San Sebastián while embracing its occasional drizzles.
In May, San Sebastián begins to blossom with warmer weather, transitioning from the crispness of spring to the embrace of early summer. Temperatures typically range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (80°F), showcasing a remarkable increase compared to the previous months. The average temperature hovers around 14°C (58°F), providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration of the city’s stunning landscapes. As the days lengthen and sunshine becomes more abundant, locals and tourists alike can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that characterizes this beautiful coastal city during May.
In May, San Sebastian experiences a moderate precipitation level of 120 mm (4.7 in), falling slightly below the previous month's total, but still contributing to the region's lush greenery. Marking the transition from spring to early summer, May also sees a notable 17 rainy days, which aligns with the trend of increased rainfall earlier in the year, peaking in November with 190 mm. This month’s weather patterns indicate a consistent precipitation trend that sustains the vibrant landscapes characteristic of this coastal gem. As the skies begin to clear into June, which averages 135 mm (5.3 in) over 15 days, the rainfall eases just in time for the summer festivities, showcasing San Sebastian's ability to flourish despite frequent showers.
In May, San Sebastián experiences a slight dip in humidity, averaging around 80%, which marks a continuation of the decreasing trend observed since the peak winter months. The transition from the cooler, more humid conditions of January through April sets the stage for a more pleasant spring atmosphere. As spring unfolds, the city welcomes warmer temperatures alongside a gradual decrease in humidity, culminating in the arrival of summer. Interestingly, the levels remain relatively stable, hovering around 80% for both July and June, indicating a consistent coastal influence but also hinting at a possible shift in the climate as the year progresses. This moderate humidity in May contributes to the region's lush landscapes and vibrant flora, making it an ideal time to explore the beauty of San Sebastián.
In May, San Sebastian experiences a significant jump in the UV Index, reaching 9, which falls into the very high exposure category. This marks a notable increase from the previous months, indicating that sun protection becomes crucial as the burn time drastically shortens to just 15 minutes. With the beautiful weather enticing outdoor activities, it's essential to be aware of the sun's intensity – even on seemingly mild days, the risk of overexposure rises sharply. As summer approaches, this trend continues with June and July maintaining the same high levels. To stay informed and plan your sun exposure effectively, check out the details at San Sebastian UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May in San Sebastián ushers in a delightful symphony of sunshine, boasting an impressive 369 hours of daylight. As spring unfolds, the city witnesses a steady increase in sunshine hours, with May showcasing a significant leap from 333 hours in April—a clear signal that summer is just around the corner. This trend continues through June and July, where the vibrant coastal atmosphere shines with over 400 hours of sunshine. The consistent rise from January's 170 hours to May's bright days illustrates the region's climatic transformation, inviting both locals and travelers to bask in the warmth and charm of this stunning Basque city.
In San Sebastian, Spain, the chance of enjoying sunny weather in May hovers around 29%, a modest figure that reflects a slight dip compared to the more promising months of March and April, which boast sunny probabilities of 43% and 38%, respectively. As spring matures, the likelihood of sunshine begins to adequately fluctuate, with May often serving as a transition before the sunny embrace of summer. Nonetheless, it remains a noteworthy month for beachgoers and outdoor lovers, as the weather gradually warms up from the cooler winter months, particularly January and February, which both languish at just 21%. As we look forward to the summer months, the average likelihood of sun increases again, peaking in July and August, but May still promises a delightful blend of springtime charm and emerging warmth.
As spring unfolds in San Sebastián, May emerges as a vibrant month with 14 hours of daylight, showcasing a delightful trend toward longer days. Following April's 13 hours, May continues the upward trajectory that began in the winter months, where daylight was limited to just 9 hours in January. This gradual increase not only enhances outdoor activities but also uplifts the local atmosphere, signaling the approach of summer, which peaks in June with 15 hours of daylight. As the seasons shift, daylight gradually decreases toward the autumn months, yet May stands out as a key moment when the length of the day reaches a beautifully balanced zenith, inviting locals and visitors alike to bask in the sun-soaked ambiance of this coastal gem.
As spring transitions to summer, May in San Sebastian presents a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 3.0 m/s (7 mph), marking a slight decline from the cooler spring months. This trend of decreasing wind speeds continues into June and July, where the winds become even more subdued, averaging 2.9 m/s (7 mph) and 2.8 m/s (6 mph), respectively. Unlike the brisk airflow typical in the winter months, particularly in January and February where speeds reach 4.0 m/s (9 mph) and 4.7 m/s (10 mph), May’s gentle winds invite locals and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities without the chill. This transition not only reflects the changing seasons but also sets the stage for the warm, tranquil days ahead along the picturesque Basque coastline.
The weather in San Sebastian changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in San Sebastian and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average temperature of 14°C (58°F). This month experiences about 120 mm (4.7 inches) of precipitation over 17 days and maintains a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to 18°C (65°F), averaging 7°C (45°F). It sees slightly higher precipitation at 147 mm (5.8 inches) across 14 days, and a humidity level that is just a bit higher at 86%. For a more detailed look at January's climate, you can check out San Sebastian weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, notable differences emerge in temperature and humidity levels. May enjoys a milder temperature range, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at a comfortable 27°C (80°F). In contrast, February experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a maximum of 22°C (71°F). Precipitation levels are relatively similar, with May receiving 120 mm (4.7 in) over 17 days and February receiving slightly more at 130 mm (5.1 in) across 13 days. February also has a higher humidity level at 85% compared to May's 80%. For more detailed information about the February climate, you can visit San Sebastian weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, we see a notable shift as spring transitions towards summer. May boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C and an average of 14°C, reaching up to 27°C at its peak. In contrast, March experiences cooler conditions, starting from a minimum of -1°C and averaging 10°C, with a maximum of 22°C. Precipitation levels are quite similar, with March slightly surpassing May, accumulating 124 mm in comparison to May's 120 mm. Despite both months having around 17 days of rain, the humidity remains fairly constant, measuring 80% in May and 82% in March. For a detailed overview, you can check San Sebastian weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, it's clear that May tends to be warmer and slightly wetter. The minimum temperature in May is a bit higher at 4°C (39°F) compared to April's 1°C (34°F), while the average temperature also climbs to 14°C (58°F) in May versus April's 12°C (54°F). May experiences a maximum of 27°C (80°F), which is notable compared to April's peak of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation levels are also slightly higher in May, with 120 mm (4.7 in) over 17 days, compared to April's 108 mm (4.3 in) across 14 days. Interestingly, despite the increase in temperature, humidity remains quite similar, with May at 80% and April at 81%. For a closer look at April's conditions, visit San Sebastian weather in April.
May and June present a notable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average temperature of 14°C (58°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, with 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 17 days and humidity levels around 80%. In contrast, June sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). Although June has slightly higher precipitation at 135 mm (5.3 in) across 15 days, humidity remains comparable at 81%. For more detailed insights, you can check out San Sebastian weather in June.
In comparing the weather between May and July, it is evident that July offers warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 12°C (53°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F), compared to May's more moderate range of 4°C (39°F) to 27°C (80°F). The average temperature in July is about 19°C (67°F), significantly higher than May's average of 14°C (58°F). Additionally, July experiences less rainfall, with 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 14 days, compared to May's 120 mm (4.7 in) across 17 days, though both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 80%. For more detailed insights into the weather during this month, you can check San Sebastian weather in July.
In May, temperatures begin to warm up, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and an average of 14°C (58°F), peaking at 27°C (80°F). However, it’s also a wet month, experiencing about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 17 days and high humidity at 80%. By contrast, August offers a much warmer climate with minimum temperatures of 12°C (53°F), an average of 20°C (67°F), and maximums reaching 31°C (88°F). Rainfall decreases to 95 mm (3.7 in) across 15 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 76%. This shift in weather marks a transition from the springtime coolness of May to the warmth and dryness of August, making it a more pleasant time for outdoor activities. For more details, check out San Sebastian weather in August.
May and September exhibit distinctive weather patterns that reflect the transition of seasons. In May, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 27°C (80°F), with an average of 14°C (58°F). This month also experiences a higher level of precipitation, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) across 17 days, and the humidity is notably high at 80%. In contrast, September boasts milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). Additionally, rainfall decreases to 97 mm (3.8 in) over 12 days, and humidity lowers to 75%. For more details on September's climate, check out San Sebastian weather in September.
May and October exhibit similar temperature ranges, with May showing a slightly wider span from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), while October has a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F). Both months experience comparable humidity levels, hovering around 80% in May and increasing slightly to 81% in October. Precipitation is marginally higher in October, with 135 mm (5.3 in) over 14 days compared to 120 mm (4.7 in) over 17 days in May. For a more detailed overview, you can check San Sebastian weather in October.
May and November present contrasting weather patterns, with May generally being warmer and sunnier. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a maximum of 27°C (80°F), averaging 14°C (58°F), while November sees cooler temperatures with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging just 11°C (52°F). Additionally, November has higher precipitation levels, with 190 mm (7.5 in) over 18 days compared to May's 120 mm (4.7 in) across 17 days. Humidity also tends to be slightly higher in November at 85%, compared to 80% in May. For more specific details, you can check San Sebastian weather in November.
May and December exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 4°C (39°F) at night to a warm 27°C (80°F) during the day, with an average of 14°C (58°F). The month experiences around 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 17 days and maintains humidity levels of 80%. In contrast, December sees a drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F), an average of 9°C (49°F), and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). This month is wetter, accumulating 217 mm (8.5 in) of rain also over 17 days, but with higher humidity at 87%. For more specific details about December weather, you can refer to San Sebastian weather in December.
As May unfolds in San Sebastian, the region experiences a pleasant shift from the cooler months, with temperatures rising and the days becoming noticeably warmer. With an average temperature that comfortably hovers around 14°C, this month invites both locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. While rainfall persists, with about 17 days of precipitation, it tends to be lighter compared to the harsher winter months, allowing for more opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes. The 80% humidity may feel a bit sticky at times, but it’s a small price to pay for the vibrant beauty of spring in the Basque Country. For a deeper understanding of what to expect, visit our San Sebastian Climate page.