May Weather in San Sebastian, Spain

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.

May Temperature in San Sebastian

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.

May Weather in San Sebastian: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in San Sebastian, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec454950535863666764595249
Data source: Temperature data for San Sebastian generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

May Precipitation in San Sebastian

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.

May Precipitation Trends in San Sebastian

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in San Sebastian, with values for each month alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how May's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec147130124108120135939597135190217
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in San Sebastian

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.

May Average Humidity in San Sebastian

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in San Sebastian, with May's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how May's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%85%83%81%80%81%80%76%75%81%85%87%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in San Sebastian

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.

Maximum UV Index Levels in San Sebastian for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for San Sebastian in May, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec24679101097532
Data source: San Sebastian May UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

May Sunshine in San Sebastian

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.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in San Sebastian: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours San Sebastian experiences direct sunlight during the month of May, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of May with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec170h240h305h333h369h380h403h385h335h293h230h212h
Data source: San Sebastian May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in San Sebastian During May

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.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in San Sebastian

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in San Sebastian throughout the year, with May highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often San Sebastian experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec21%21%43%38%29%28%34%37%28%38%17%34%
Data source: San Sebastian May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in San Sebastian in May

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.

Average Daylight Hours in San Sebastian for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in San Sebastian throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 22m10h 30m11h 57m13h 26m14h 41m15h 19m14h 59m13h 52m12h 27m10h 58m9h 41m9h 1m
Data source: San Sebastian daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in San Sebastian

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.

Average May Wind Speed in San Sebastian

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in San Sebastian, with values for each month shown alongside May's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how May's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.04.73.63.53.0 m/s2.92.82.62.73.23.74.7
Data source: San Sebastian May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in San Sebastian Compares to Other Months

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.

Compare San Sebastian's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in San Sebastian

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.