May Weather in Bethany Beach, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

May in Bethany Beach, United States, offers a delightful blend of warm temperatures and refreshing breezes, with a maximum reaching up to 28°C (83°F). The average temperature hovers around 16°C (62°F), providing a comfortable atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. However, visitors should be prepared for some rain, as the month sees about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to a humidity level of 78%. Whether you're seeking sun-soaked days or cool evenings by the shore, May presents an invigorating experience in this coastal gem.

May Temperature in Bethany Beach

May marks a significant transition in Bethany Beach, United States, as temperatures begin to rise, reflecting the approach of summer. With a minimum temperature of 5°C (41°F) and a comfortable average of 16°C (62°F), days gradually warm up, peaking at a delightful 28°C (83°F). This month showcases a remarkable climb from the cooler spring temperatures, notably from April's average of 12°C (53°F). The increase in warmth encourages both locals and visitors to indulge in outdoor activities, setting the perfect backdrop for beach outings and seaside festivities. As May unfolds, the shift from brisk early mornings to balmy afternoons becomes increasingly evident, inviting everyone to bask in the sun and savor the beautiful coastal charm Bethany Beach has to offer.

May Weather in Bethany Beach: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates May temperature patterns in Bethany Beach, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec404245536271787773655245
Data source: Temperature data for Bethany Beach 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 Bethany Beach

In May, Bethany Beach experiences a notable increase in precipitation, receiving 120 mm (4.7 inches) over 11 days of rain, making it one of the wettest months of the year. This uptick in rainfall follows a steady pattern from earlier months, where April recorded 87 mm (3.4 inches) over the same number of rainy days. The climate transitions into spring, creating a lush atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the drier spells of winter. With temperatures warming up, the increase in precipitation not only rejuvenates the local flora but also sets the stage for the impending summer season. Overall, May serves as a vibrant reminder of nature's renewal, with the rain contributing to the coastal beauty that attracts many visitors.

May Precipitation Trends in Bethany Beach

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Bethany Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8211410287121821141119713795116
Data source: Precipitation data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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May Humidity in Bethany Beach

May in Bethany Beach ushers in a delightful shift as humidity levels begin to decline, averaging 78%. This marks a welcoming change from the higher readings of earlier months, where January and February lingered around 84% and 83%, creating a more clammy atmosphere. As spring unfolds, the drop in moisture levels in May sets the stage for the upcoming summer, with June and July exhibiting even lower humidity levels at 79% and 74%, respectively. This gradual decrease not only enhances outdoor enjoyment but also signals the transition to those sun-soaked beach days, making May a promising precursor to the vibrant summer season ahead.

May Average Humidity in Bethany Beach

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Bethany Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%83%83%81%78%79%74%72%75%81%85%84%
Data source: Humidity data for May generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

May UV Index in Bethany Beach

As May arrives in Bethany Beach, the UV Index soars to a striking 10, marking it as a month of very high exposure where a mere 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure can lead to burning. This trend of increasing UV levels is palpable as spring transitions into summer, with May reflecting a notable surge from the previous months. After rising steadily from a moderate index of 3 in January to 9 in April, the spike signifies the importance of sun safety practices as outdoor activities become more common. This pattern continues into June and July, where the UV Index remains steady at 10, prompting residents and visitors alike to stay vigilant. For those planning to enjoy the sunshine, understanding the UV Index is crucial—stay informed and protect your skin! For detailed insights, visit the Bethany Beach UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Bethany Beach for May

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Bethany Beach 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101010108753
Data source: Bethany Beach 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 Bethany Beach

As spring gives way to summer, May emerges as a radiant highlight in Bethany Beach, boasting an impressive 319 hours of sunshine. This marks a significant leap from the 287 hours enjoyed in April, encapsulating the burgeoning warmth of the season. The trend continues upward as sunshine hours peak in July, reaching an impressive 365 hours, but May stands out as a vibrant transition month. Following May, the sun's embrace begins to gradually wane into the hotter summer months, with June offering an additional 24 hours of sunlight before the summer heat intensifies. This delightful increase in daylight not only enhances outdoor activities but also sets the stage for the beachgoers' joyful experiences, making May a cherished month for those looking to bask in the sun's glow along the picturesque shores of Bethany Beach.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Bethany Beach: May Highlighted

The May sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Bethany Beach 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec159h187h270h287h319h343h365h335h294h259h226h192h
Data source: Bethany Beach May Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Bethany Beach During May

May in Bethany Beach brings a 47% chance of sunny weather, slightly lower than the more promising earlier months like March and July, both boasting a 53% chance. This month stands as a transitional period, featuring weather patterns that often fluctuate. As spring gives way to summer, May can offer delightful sunny days amid occasional cloud cover. Notably, sun likelihood starts to wane slightly in the following months, hinting that early summer might not always guarantee clear skies. So while the odds in May may not be the highest, there's still a good opportunity to enjoy beautiful, sunny days along the beach.

Percentage of Sunny Days in May in Bethany Beach

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Bethany Beach 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 Bethany Beach experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec49%28%53%49%47%43%53%37%57%46%55%39%
Data source: Bethany Beach May chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Bethany Beach in May

As spring blossoms into summer in Bethany Beach, the increasing daylight hours mark a welcoming transformation in the region's atmosphere. In May, residents and visitors can bask in approximately 14 hours of daylight, a noticeable rise from 13 hours in April. This trend of lengthening days continues into the early summer months, where both June and July maintain this peak duration. Following this seasonal crescendo, daylight gradually tapers off into the fall, slipping to 13 hours in August and continuing to decrease through the year. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only enriches the coastal charm of Bethany Beach but also invites outdoor activities and vibrant gatherings throughout the warmer months.

Average Daylight Hours in Bethany Beach for May

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Bethany Beach throughout the year, with May highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 48m10h 45m11h 58m13h 13m14h 16m14h 47m14h 30m13h 35m12h 23m11h 8m10h 3m9h 30m
Data source: Bethany Beach daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

May Winds in Bethany Beach

In Bethany Beach, May ushers in a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 4.8 m/s (11 mph), marking a notable shift from the bluster of earlier months. As spring progresses, the winds begin to mellow—April and March saw slightly higher gusts at 5.5 m/s (12 mph) and 5.8 m/s (13 mph), respectively. This trend continues into the summer, with June and July averaging 4.6 m/s (10 mph) and 4.4 m/s (10 mph), suggesting a serene atmosphere ideal for beach-goers. By August, the winds drop even further to 3.6 m/s (8 mph), creating a perfect backdrop for relaxing days under the sun. Overall, May signifies the transition to calmer winds, inviting a tranquil experience as residents and visitors alike enjoy the charm of Bethany Beach.

Average May Wind Speed in Bethany Beach

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Bethany Beach, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5.56.45.85.54.8 m/s4.64.43.65.15.66.05.1
Data source: Bethany Beach May wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How May Weather in Bethany Beach Compares to Other Months

The weather in Bethany Beach 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 Bethany Beach and find detailed weather information for every month.

May and January present starkly contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 5°C (41°F) at night to a warm 28°C (83°F) during the day, with an average of 16°C (62°F). This month also sees relatively high humidity at 78% and around 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days. In contrast, January is much colder, with temperatures dropping as low as -12°C (11°F) and only reaching a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging just 4°C (40°F). It experiences lower precipitation at 82 mm (3.2 in) over roughly 8 days, and a slightly higher humidity level at 84%. For a more detailed look at January weather, check out Bethany Beach weather in January.

When comparing the weather in May and February, it's clear that May offers significantly milder temperatures, with a range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 16°C (62°F). In contrast, February's temperatures are much colder, with a minimum of -10°C (14°F) and a maximum of only 17°C (62°F), resulting in an average of 6°C (42°F). Rainfall is similar in both months, with May receiving 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days and February slightly less at 114 mm (4.5 in) over 12 days. Additionally, February has a higher humidity level at 83% compared to May's 78%. For more details on weather conditions specific to February, check out Bethany Beach weather in February.

The weather in May is generally warmer and more pleasant compared to March. May sees temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, March experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), peaking at 21°C (71°F). Both months have similar precipitation levels, with May having 120 mm (4.7 inches) and March recording 102 mm (4.0 inches), both occurring over 11 days. Additionally, May's humidity is slightly lower at 78%, while March's humidity is higher at 83%. For more detailed insights, check out Bethany Beach weather in March.

In comparing the weather of May to April, we find that May generally experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), compared to April's minimum of 2°C (35°F) and average of 12°C (53°F). The maximum temperature in May can reach up to 28°C (83°F), while April peaks at a more modest 24°C (76°F). Precipitation levels also increase in May, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days, compared to April's 87 mm (3.4 in) over the same number of days. Interestingly, both months have similar humidity levels, with April at 81% and May slightly lower at 78%. For those looking for detailed insights on April weather, you can check out Bethany Beach weather in April.

May and June exhibit distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition into summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly 5°C (41°F) to a warm 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). This month sees a considerable amount of precipitation at 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days, coupled with a humidity level of 78%. In contrast, June offers milder nights with a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F) and warmer daytime highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F), averaging 22°C (71°F). The month experiences less rainfall, totaling 82 mm (3.2 in) over the same number of days, with a slight increase in humidity to 79%. For more specific details on weather conditions, you can check Bethany Beach weather in June.

In comparing the weather between May and July, it's evident that July is significantly warmer, with average temperatures reaching 25°C (78°F) compared to May's average of 16°C (62°F). The minimum temperature in July is notably higher at 19°C (66°F), while May starts with a cooler minimum of 5°C (41°F). Both months experience similar precipitation levels, with May seeing 120 mm (4.7 in) and July slightly less at 114 mm (4.5 in), and each month has around 11 days of rainfall. Humidity is slightly lower in July at 74%, compared to May's 78%, making the warmer July days feel a bit more comfortable. For a detailed look at July's pleasant weather, check out Bethany Beach weather in July.

May and August present distinct weather patterns that reflect the transition from spring to summer. In May, temperatures range from a cool 5°C (41°F) to a pleasant 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) over 11 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 78%. In contrast, August offers warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures starting at 19°C (66°F) and peaking at 31°C (88°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). Although August sees slightly less precipitation at 111 mm (4.4 in) over 14 days, the humidity is somewhat lower at 72%. For more detailed insights, check out Bethany Beach weather in August.

May and September present contrasting yet pleasant weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). This month sees a decent amount of rainfall, totaling 120 mm (4.7 in) over about 11 days, accompanied by relatively high humidity at 78%. In contrast, September enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 31°C (87°F), averaging 23°C (73°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 97 mm (3.8 in) over about 10 days, and humidity lowers to 75%. For more on the specific conditions during this month, check out Bethany Beach weather in September.

May and October present a pleasing contrast in weather, with May experiencing a wider temperature range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 16°C (62°F). It sees approximately 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 11 rainy days and has a humidity level of 78%. In comparison, October has slightly milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 29°C (85°F), with an average of 18°C (65°F). It experiences a bit more rain, with about 137 mm (5.4 in) also spread over 11 days, and slightly higher humidity at 81%. For more details on what to expect, you can check out Bethany Beach weather in October.

May and November present contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F). The month is marked by relatively high humidity at 78% and about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days. In contrast, November's temperature variation is more restrained, with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 22°C (73°F), averaging 11°C (52°F). This month experiences slightly lower precipitation at 95 mm (3.8 in) over 8 days, but humidity is higher at 85%. For more specific details on November weather, you can check out Bethany Beach weather in November.

May and December exhibit strikingly different weather patterns at Bethany Beach. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), averaging around 16°C (62°F). The humidity stands at 78%, accompanied by about 120 mm (4.7 in) of precipitation spread over 11 days. In contrast, December’s chill brings colder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (21°F) and a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging just 7°C (45°F). The month sees a slight decrease in precipitation to 116 mm (4.6 in) over 10 days, coupled with higher humidity at 84%. For more specific details about December weather, you can check Bethany Beach weather in December.

Compare Bethany Beach's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From May Weather in Bethany Beach

As May arrives in Bethany Beach, it brings a refreshing shift in weather patterns compared to the earlier months of spring. With temperatures warming up, the days feel more inviting, offering pleasant highs that encourage outdoor activities. While occasional rain showers are not uncommon, with several days experiencing precipitation, this only adds to the lushness of the surroundings. The humidity starts to rise, creating a comfortable coastal ambiance that is distinct from the crisp air of winter and early spring. This transitional month sets the stage for the vibrant summer ahead, providing a perfect blend of warmth and the fresh scent of ocean breezes. For more detailed insights on what to expect throughout the year, explore Bethany Beach Climate.