Last updated: February 24, 2025
May in Gulf Shores, United States, ushers in a delightful spring warmth, with maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (85°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F), perfect for outdoor activities. However, it's wise to be prepared for the occasional shower, as the area experiences about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, contributing to a humidity level of 73% that keeps the air feeling fresh. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the charming coastal town, May offers a vibrant blend of sun and scenic beauty that captures the essence of Gulf Shores.
In May, Gulf Shores begins to embrace the warmth of the approaching summer, with temperatures soaring to an average of 24°C (76°F). This month witnesses a significant leap in daytime highs, reaching up to 30°C (85°F), paired with a comfortable minimum of 16°C (60°F) at night. As we transition from the cooler months of January through April, which hovered around the mid-teens, May marks a delightful shift towards sunnier beach days and balmy evenings. The gradual rise in temperatures not only enhances outdoor activities but also invites visitors to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. With this warming trend, Gulf Shores truly becomes a vibrant destination for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
In May, Gulf Shores experiences a blend of warmth and moisture, with precipitation totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over approximately 9 days. This moderate rainfall marks a transition towards the wetter summer months, as June sees a significant uptick to 228 mm (9.0 in) across 16 days. Notably, May’s precipitation is lower than April’s 123 mm (4.9 in), indicating a brief respite before the summer showers take hold. As the year progresses, the trend of increasing rainfall continues, with both August and September presenting some of the highest totals, suggesting that while May offers pleasant weather, it’s just the beginning of a much rainier season along the Gulf Coast.
May marks a shift in the humidity landscape of Gulf Shores, United States, as levels dip to 73%, offering a reprieve from the higher humidity seen in the earlier months. Starting from January's peak at 82%, humidity gradually decreases, reaching its lowest point in June at 71% before creeping back up in the summer months. This trend indicates a gradual transition towards a drier climate as spring gives way to summer, creating a more comfortable environment for outdoor activities. However, as the year progresses, humidity begins to rise again, especially in the fall, peaking once more in November at 83%. This cyclical pattern highlights the region's unique climate, balancing between moist winter and summer months and a more temperate spring.
In May, Gulf Shores experiences a notable spike in UV intensity, maintaining an extreme UV Index of 11, which signals that sun safety is more critical than ever. With a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes, outdoor enthusiasts should take precautions to protect their skin from potential damage. The trend seen from late winter to early summer underscores a steady increase in UV exposure, with the months from February to April showing a gradual rise from 8 to 11. As summer approaches, the region remains at this high level of risk, making it essential for visitors and residents alike to stay vigilant. For more information on UV trends throughout the year, check out the detailed guide on Gulf Shores UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As spring unfolds into May, Gulf Shores shines brightly, boasting an impressive 332 hours of sunshine, the highest of the year. This month marks a delightful transition, as the area emerges from the cooler winter months where sunshine was at a lower premium, notably peaking in April with 294 hours. Each passing month from January, with its mere 185 hours, steadily builds towards this golden climax of light, indicating a trend of increasing sunshine that continues through the summer. Following May, while June and July remain sunny, with 299 and 322 hours respectively, there’s a subtle dip, hinting that although the days may still be bright, the lengthening summer can bring about occasional cloud cover. Regardless, May stands out as a vibrant testament to the allure of Gulf Shores, promising sun-soaked days perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation by the beach.
In Gulf Shores, the likelihood of sunny weather in May stands at 46%, a slight dip from the preceding month's 52% but still offering a decent chance for sun-soaked days. This pattern reflects a general upward trend in sunshine from winter's gloom, as the sunniest months, such as November (68%) and October (47%), approach. Interestingly, the summer months show a downturn in sunny days, with June and July experiencing the lowest percentages at 29% and 26%, respectively. May serves as a transitional month, bridging the gap between the milder spring and the peak summer heat, making it a great time for outdoor activities under the pleasantly warm sun.
As May arrives in Gulf Shores, the days grow delightfully longer, boasting 13 hours of daylight. This upward trend marks a noticeable shift from the earlier months of the year, where January started with just 10 hours of sunlight and gradually increased. Following April's steady 12 hours, May embraces the warmth of spring with an extra hour, setting the stage for the vibrant summer months ahead. The transition continues into June, which peaks at 14 hours, before settling back to 13 hours in July and August. This rhythm of expanding daylight enhances outdoor activities and highlights the region's natural beauty, making Gulf Shores a perfect destination for sun-seekers in the month of May.
In Gulf Shores, May brings a gentle average wind speed of 5.5 m/s (12 mph), a slight dip from the breezier months of earlier spring. This transitional period leans toward milder winds, particularly when compared to the average speed of 6.1 m/s in February and 5.9 m/s in March. As summer approaches, the winds generally begin to soften, highlighted by July's low of 3.7 m/s (8 mph). While May may not boast the strongest gusts, its refreshing breezes provide a pleasant backdrop for outdoor activities, paving the way for a warm transition into the summer months.
The weather in Gulf Shores 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 Gulf Shores and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a mild 16°C (60°F) at night to a warm 30°C (85°F) during the day, with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences around 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 73%. Conversely, January offers much cooler temperatures, with nighttime lows dipping to -1°C (30°F) and daytime highs reaching 23°C (74°F), averaging at 14°C (57°F). This month has slightly less precipitation at 92 mm (3.6 in) over 8 days, but with higher humidity at 82%. For a closer look at January's climate, you can check out Gulf Shores weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May to that in February, the differences are quite pronounced. May typically enjoys warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), whereas February starts much cooler, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F). Additionally, May experiences a relative drop in precipitation at 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, compared to February’s 115 mm (4.5 in) over 10 days. Humidity is also slightly lower in May at 73%, compared to February’s 80%, making May feel more comfortable for outdoor activities. For more detailed insights into February weather, you can check Gulf Shores weather in February.
When comparing the weather in March and May, it's clear that May brings significantly warmer temperatures, with averages reaching up to 24°C (76°F) compared to March's 18°C (64°F). The maximum temperatures in March peak at 25°C (77°F), while May enjoys higher maximums of 30°C (85°F). Despite March being cooler, it has a slightly higher average humidity at 80%, whereas May's humidity sits around 73%. Precipitation in May also increases to 97 mm (3.8 in) over 9 days, compared to March's 67 mm (2.7 in) over 8 days. For more details, you can check Gulf Shores weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, we see a noticeable increase in temperature. May boasts a minimum temperature of 16°C (60°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F), reaching a maximum of 30°C (85°F). In contrast, April's temperatures are milder, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 20°C (69°F). Although May experiences slightly less precipitation, with 97 mm (3.8 in) falling over 9 days, April sees a bit more rain at 123 mm (4.9 in) during the same number of days. The humidity levels are also comparable, with May at 73% and April slightly higher at 78%. For a detailed look at the weather in Gulf Shores during April, check out Gulf Shores weather in April.
In May, the weather features a minimum temperature of 16°C (60°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum reaching 30°C (85°F). The month experiences around 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days and maintains a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, June sees warmer temperatures with a minimum of 22°C (72°F), an average of 27°C (81°F), and a maximum of 32°C (89°F). However, June is also significantly wetter, with precipitation totaling 228 mm (9.0 in) over 16 days, while the humidity remains slightly lower at 71%. For more detailed information, you can check Gulf Shores weather in June.
May and July exhibit noticeable differences in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). The month sees moderate precipitation, totaling 97 mm (3.8 in) over about 9 days, and boasts a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, July experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (76°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), averaging at 28°C (82°F). Additionally, July is wetter, receiving 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain over 18 days, accompanied by slightly higher humidity at 79%. For more detailed weather insights, check out Gulf Shores weather in July.
In May, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days and has a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, August sees warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 24°C (75°F) and an average of 28°C (83°F), peaking at 31°C (89°F). However, it is also considerably wetter, with 230 mm (9.0 in) of rain falling over 20 days and humidity rising to 78%. These variations create two distinct weather experiences, with May offering a more temperate climate compared to the hotter and more humid conditions of August. For a detailed overview of August weather, you can explore Gulf Shores weather in August.
May and September present contrasting yet pleasant weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month sees around 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, with humidity levels at 73%. In comparison, September brings slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 27°C (81°F). However, it also experiences higher precipitation at 223 mm (8.8 in) spread over about 13 days, along with a rise in humidity to 80%. For more details on the September weather, check out Gulf Shores weather in September.
In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), with an average temperature of 24°C (76°F). The month sees about 97 mm (3.8 in) of precipitation over 9 days, with humidity levels averaging around 73%. In contrast, October presents a cooler climate, with a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) while maintaining the same average and maximum temperatures of 24°C (76°F) and 30°C (87°F), respectively. October experiences slightly higher precipitation at 130 mm (5.1 in) spread over 11 days and marginally increased humidity at 76%. For more specifics on October weather, you can check out Gulf Shores weather in October.
May and November present quite different weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a mild 16°C (60°F) at night to a warm 30°C (85°F) during the day, with an average of 24°C (76°F). This month sees higher precipitation, with about 97 mm (3.8 inches) falling over approximately 9 days and humidity levels around 73%. In contrast, November boasts cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). Rainfall decreases to 50 mm (2.0 inches) over 6 days, while humidity rises slightly to 83%. For more specifics on November weather, check out Gulf Shores weather in November.
May and December present quite different weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a pleasant minimum of 16°C (60°F) to a maximum of 30°C (85°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). The month typically sees about 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain over 9 days and features a humidity level of 73%. In contrast, December offers cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and a maximum of 22°C (73°F). Precipitation is higher, totaling 141 mm (5.5 in) across 12 days, and humidity levels rise to 87%. These contrasting conditions highlight the shift from the warm, humid days of spring to the cooler, wetter atmosphere of winter. For more details on the December climate, you can check Gulf Shores weather in December.
As May unfolds in Gulf Shores, the weather transitions into a warm embrace, marked by pleasant temperatures and a notable increase in humidity. This month typically experiences a shift from the cooler spring days to a more tropical feel, offering an inviting atmosphere for outdoor activities. While May does see an uptick in precipitation, with a few rainy days scattered throughout, the overall climate remains enjoyable. This blend of warmth and moisture differentiates May from the preceding months, setting the stage for the summer ahead. For a deeper dive into the yearly patterns of weather in Gulf Shores, check out Gulf Shores Climate.