Last updated: February 24, 2025
In Santa Monica, May brings a delightful mix of warmth and mildness, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F) and an average hovering around 17°C (63°F). The month experiences a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and coastal adventures. Rainfall is minimal, with just 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over a single day, while the humidity lingers at a comfortable 70%, creating a pleasant atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Enjoy the perfect blend of sunny days and refreshing breezes this May in Santa Monica.
In May, Santa Monica experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures reflecting the arrival of late spring. The minimum temperature chills at around 10°C (50°F), while the average climbs to a comfortable 17°C (63°F), inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors. Daytime highs can reach up to 31°C (88°F), showcasing a blend of sunny skies and pleasant breezes perfect for beach outings and leisurely strolls. Compared to the previous months, May marks a noticeable rise in warmth, particularly in contrast to April's highs. As the season progresses, the increasing temperatures set the stage for the vibrant summer vibe Santa Monica is known for, making it an enticing time to bask in its coastal charm.
May in Santa Monica marks a significant shift in the weather pattern as the month typically brings a dramatic decline in rainfall, with an average precipitation of only 10 mm (0.4 in), landing on just one day. This minimal rainfall follows a slightly wetter April, which recorded 15 mm (0.6 in), creating a transition into the dry summer months. As we welcome June, the wet season continues to dwindle, with precipitation dropping to merely 1 mm (0.1 in). This trend reflects Santa Monica's characteristic Mediterranean climate, where May often heralds the onset of long, sun-drenched days, allowing residents and visitors to fully embrace the coastal charms of this vibrant city.
In Santa Monica, May marks a transitional period in humidity, settling at a comfortable 70%, consistent with the preceding month, April. This stability hints at the mild coastal climate, where humidity levels begin to show gradual shifts. Notably, as spring gives way to summer, the humidity slightly rises in June to 72% before peaking in July and August. However, May's moderate humidity contributes to the pleasant beach weather, making this month an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities without the oppressive stickiness often associated with higher humidity levels. Overall, the trend shows a gentle ebb and flow, with Santa Monica keeping its allure year-round through manageable humidity.
As May arrives in Santa Monica, the UV Index reaches a peak of 10, placing it firmly in the very high exposure category. This trend indicates an increasing intensity of sun exposure as spring transitions into summer. Compared to the previous months, where January's UV Index was a moderate 4 and even February jumped to 6, the rapid escalation to 10 in May signifies the importance of sun protection. With a burn time as low as 15 minutes, it's crucial for residents and visitors alike to be aware of the heightened risk of UV exposure. This pattern continues into June and July, where the UV Index escalates to 11, marking extreme conditions. For more detailed information about the UV Index throughout the year, check out Santa Monica UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
May brings a radiant charm to Santa Monica, as the sun graces the coastal city with an impressive 348 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful increase from the 314 hours enjoyed in April. This gradual climb in sunshine hours continues into June, where the city experiences its peak luminosity at 364 hours. The trend not only encapsulates the arrival of warmer weather but also hints at the vibrant summer ahead, with sunny days skyrocketing from 187 hours in January to 380 hours by July. As summer progresses, sunshine remains abundant, though slightly receding towards autumn. This pattern underscores Santa Monica’s charm as a year-round paradise, rewarding residents and visitors alike with countless sun-drenched moments.
May in Santa Monica marks a slight dip in sunny weather, with only 56% chance of sunshine, making it one of the cooler months in terms of clear skies. This minor decrease follows a notably sunny April, which saw a 57% chance of sun, and stands in contrast to the brighter months that precede and follow it, such as March at 73% and June at 67%. Overall, while May may not be the sunniest of months, it still holds its own in the context of a generally bright late spring and early summer, with the trend of increasing sunshine continuing through the summer months.
In Santa Monica, the arrival of May brings a delightful promise of sunshine, with the daylight duration holding steady at 13 hours. This month mirrors April's bright conditions, continuing the trend of increasing daylight that begins in March. As Spring unfolds, the city enjoys a gradual ascent in sunlight, peaking in June and July with an impressive 14 hours. The transition into these summer months not only brightens the days but also invites residents and visitors alike to indulge in the vibrant beach activities and outdoor adventures that Santa Monica has to offer. As the year progresses, daylight gradually begins to wane, yet the warmth and energy of May make it a standout in the seasonal cycle.
In Santa Monica, the wind begins to transition around May, with average speeds gently settling at 2.5 m/s (6 mph). This consistency in breezy conditions reflects a steady trend observed since winter, where winds were also moderate, hovering around 2.9-2.6 m/s. As the summer months approach, however, a subtle decline in wind speed is noted, with July and August both registering at 2.3 m/s. This gradual shift hints at a calmer seaside experience as locals and visitors alike embrace the onset of warmer weather. Overall, Santa Monica's May winds maintain a pleasant and refreshing atmosphere for outdoor activities, all while foreshadowing a laid-back summer ahead.
The weather in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present contrasting weather profiles that can significantly affect outdoor activities. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F) and only 10 mm (0.4 in) of precipitation over just one day, resulting in a relatively warm and dry climate. In contrast, January is cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (40°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). This month sees much higher precipitation, totaling 68 mm (2.7 in) across four rainy days, combined with slightly higher humidity at 74%. For more insights on January weather, you can visit Santa Monica weather in January.
May generally offers warmer and drier conditions compared to February. With temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C to a maximum of 31°C, May sees an average of 17°C and only about 10 mm of precipitation over just one day, accompanied by a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, February experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C and a maximum of 28°C, averaging 14°C. The month brings significantly more rainfall, totaling 53 mm across five days, and a slightly higher humidity of 79%. For more specifics on February weather, you can check Santa Monica weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, it is clear that May offers warmer and drier conditions. The minimum temperature in May is 10°C (50°F), while March starts cooler at 6°C (43°F). May's average temperature reaches 17°C (63°F), substantially warmer than March’s average of 14°C (58°F). The maximum temperatures also reflect this trend, going up to 31°C (88°F) in May compared to 27°C (80°F) in March. Additionally, May boasts significantly less rainfall, with only 10 mm (0.4 in) over a single day, whereas March experiences 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation across eight days, indicating a much wetter month. Humidity levels are relatively similar, but March's 75% slightly exceeds May's 70%. For a closer look at March weather specifics, check out Santa Monica weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, we see some notable differences. While both months have similar average temperatures at 17°C (63°F), April experiences slightly lower minimum temperatures at 9°C (49°F) compared to May's 10°C (50°F). April also reaches a higher maximum temperature of 33°C (92°F), while May peaks at 31°C (88°F). In terms of precipitation, April is wetter with 15 mm (0.6 in) across 2 days, whereas May has only 10 mm (0.4 in) over just 1 day. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 70%. For a more in-depth look at April weather, you can visit Santa Monica weather in April.
In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). The month sees light precipitation of about 10 mm (0.4 in) over just one day, and humidity sits around 70%. In contrast, June experiences slightly warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 13°C (56°F), average highs of 20°C (68°F), and a peak of 33°C (91°F). Notably, June is drier, recording only 1 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation over zero rainy days, while humidity increases slightly to 72%. For more details on the climate in June, you can check out Santa Monica weather in June.
May weather is generally milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), and an average of 17°C (63°F). It experiences slightly higher humidity at 70% and limited precipitation, averaging just 10 mm (0.4 in) over one day. In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures at 16°C (60°F), averages around 22°C (73°F), and soaring highs of 38°C (101°F). Humidity remains relatively consistent at 73%, but July boasts even less precipitation, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) recorded over the entire month. For more detailed information, you can check out Santa Monica weather in July.
In May, temperatures typically range from a cool minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F), along with relatively low precipitation of 10 mm (0.4 in) occurring on just one day. The humidity during this month hovers around 70%, contributing to a pleasant, spring-like atmosphere. In contrast, August experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum reaching 34°C (93°F), resulting in a higher average of 23°C (74°F). This month is characterized by almost no rainfall, with only 1 mm (0.0 in) and zero rainy days, while humidity remains slightly lower at 69%. For more detailed information, you can check Santa Monica weather in August.
May and September present distinct weather patterns, with May experiencing a more moderate temperature range, featuring a minimum of 10°C (50°F), an average of 17°C (63°F), and a maximum of 31°C (88°F). During this month, precipitation is infrequent, with only about 10 mm (0.4 in) falling over a single day, and humidity levels hover around 70%. In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F), an average of 22°C (72°F), and highs reaching up to 37°C (100°F). Precipitation is rare in September, recorded at just 2 mm (0.1 in) without any rainy days, while humidity slightly decreases to 68%. For more detailed information, check out Santa Monica weather in September.
May and October both present mild temperatures and low precipitation, but they differ in their overall warmth. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C to a maximum of 31°C, averaging around 17°C, while October sees slightly warmer weather with a minimum of 10°C and a maximum of 37°C, averaging 20°C. Both months experience minimal rainfall, with May recording 10 mm and October only slightly lower at 7 mm, and each month typically has just one wet day. Humidity is also comparable, with May at 70% and October at 67%. For more detailed weather information, you can check Santa Monica weather in October.
In May, temperatures range from a cool 10°C (50°F) to a warm 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F) and minimal precipitation of just 10 mm (0.4 in) over a single rainy day, and humidity at 70%. In contrast, November features slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), while the average remains the same at 17°C (63°F). The month sees increased rainfall of 17 mm (0.7 in) also occurring over just one day, accompanied by a slightly lower humidity of 68%. For more detailed information, check out Santa Monica weather in November.
May and December present notably different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a pleasant maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). This month sees relatively low precipitation, only about 10 mm (0.4 in) over just one day, alongside a humidity level of 70%. Conversely, December experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). The maximum temperature reaches 27°C (80°F), but this month is much wetter, receiving approximately 80 mm (3.1 in) of rainfall over five days, while humidity remains slightly higher at 71%. For more details, you can check Santa Monica weather in December.
As May unfolds in Santa Monica, visitors can expect a delightful shift in weather, marked by warmer temperatures and the embrace of abundant sunshine. With an average temperature of 17°C (63°F), it provides a pleasant transition from the cooler spring months. Unlike the wetter months of winter, May experiences minimal precipitation, making it a fantastic time for outdoor activities, with only one day of rain expected. The generally moderate humidity levels add to the comfort, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful coast and vibrant surroundings. For a deeper dive into the unique climate characteristics throughout the year, be sure to explore Santa Monica Climate.