Barbados weather
Our guide to the weather in Barbados during May
Barbados is warm and sunny year-round. We've looked at the most up-to-date weather data for Barbados, covering the last 12 years up to 2024, plus we've asked our team of travel bloggers for their first-hand experiences in order to answer the most frequently asked questions about Barbados weather in May.
What do I pack for a Barbados holiday in May?
Barbados is never cold, so typical beach holiday wear is recommended all year round. Flip-flops for the beach, comfortable shoes for exploring. Shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, sun hats, swimwear... You get the idea! Casual clothing is acceptable in most restaurants, although lightweight smart clothing is great for evening cocktails.
Answered by Paul
How warm is it in Barbados during May?
The temperature is extremely stable in May with average highs of 28℃ and lows just 1℃ lower at 27℃. Of course, the high humidity will make it feel even hotter. The UV index will be high at this time of year, so protection against skin and eye damage is needed. Try to limit exposure between 10am and 4pm. Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every few hours, even if it's cloudy, or more frequently after sweating or swimming, and wear UV-blocking sunglasses too, and bear in mind that bright surfaces, such as sand and water increase UV exposure.
Does it rain in Barbados during May?
On average, there will be 4 rainy days during the month, amounting to 101.7mm in total. That's a significant amount of rain. For comparison, the wettest months in the UK typically sees between 80mm and 100mm, depending on where you are. Due to the high temperature and humidity, you might expect lots of thunderstorms, however they're actually fairly infrequent at this time of year. On average, May will see just 1 days that produce a storm.
Is it windy in Barbados during May?
Expect moderate breeze becoming stronger at times during May, with occasional gusts up to 22mph. The high humidity and warm temperature will make the breeze feel warm, so any cooling effect will be limted.
How warm is the sea in Barbados during May?
The water around Barbados reaches a very pleasant 28℃ during May. This is very warm, and will feel bath-like. People who normally feel the cold will find this temperature perfectly acceptable. The hot air temperature and relatively high humidity will mean that you will feel comfortably warm when coming out of the water.
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