narrow scenic street of oia village on santorini island at sunset greece

Your Complete Guide to Santorini in May

Santorini in May: Weather, Temps & Places to Visit

Santorini weather in May brings warm, sunny days and rising sea temperatures, making it one of the best months for caldera hikes, sunset views and early beach season without peak-summer crowds.

Santorini in May offers warm spring temperatures averaging 70–77°F (21–25°C), lower rainfall and increasingly beach-friendly conditions. May marks the transition from shoulder season to early summer, bringing longer daylight hours, comfortable sea temperatures and lively but manageable crowds.

Evenings remain mild around 60°F (16°C) and the island feels fully open for the season. Restaurants, wineries and excursion operators run at full capacity, but the intense heat and congestion of July and August have not yet arrived.

Santorini in May is one of the best months to visit for travelers who want warm weather, scenic exploration and early beach season without peak-summer intensity.

Santorini Weather in May

Santorini weather in May is warm, sunny and increasingly dry. Daytime highs typically range from 70–77°F (21–25°C) and rainfall is limited compared to winter months. Sea temperatures begin warming, making swimming more comfortable than in April.

Fira & Caldera Weather

In May, Fira weather averages daytime temperatures of 75°F (24°C) and evening lows around 60°F (16°C). These warmer spring conditions make the caldera walk especially appealing before peak summer heat sets in.

The island’s volcanic cliffs appear vibrant under consistent sunshine and outdoor terraces fill with visitors enjoying extended daylight hours.

Best for:

Caldera hiking
Sunset dining
Cliffside photography
Outdoor cafes

Oia Weather

Oia weather in May sees average highs of 73–75°F (23–24°C) and cooler evenings near 60°F (16°C). The warmer weather enhances sunset viewing and evening strolls without the heavy congestion of midsummer.

May offers some of the most balanced lighting conditions of the year, with clear skies and vibrant Aegean views.

Best for:

Sunset viewing
Village exploration
Boutique shopping
Photography

Beach Weather (Perissa, Kamari)

Perissa and Kamari weather averages around 75°F (24°C) in May, with sea temperatures rising to approximately 66°F (19°C). While still refreshing, the water becomes more comfortable for swimming compared to April.

Beach clubs and seafront restaurants operate fully, and afternoons are warm enough for extended time along the black-sand shoreline.

Best for:

Swimming
Beach lounging
Seafront dining
Early-summer relaxation

Santorini Temperatures in May (Quick Overview)

Daytime highs: 70–77°F (21–25°C)
Evening lows: around 59–61°F (15–16°C)
Sea temperature: approximately 66°F (19°C)
Rainfall is minimal

May delivers warm but comfortable weather across the island.

Santorini Events in May

May in Santorini often includes spring cultural festivals, religious celebrations and increased tourism activity. Outdoor dining, sunset gatherings and wine tastings become central to the island’s atmosphere.

The island feels energetic but not yet overwhelmed, making May one of the most balanced months for events and exploration.

Best Places To Visit in Santorini in May

The best places to visit in Santorini in May include the caldera trail for warm but manageable hiking weather, Oia for sunset views, Perissa Beach for swimming and Royal Beach Club Santorini for a curated beach and island experience.

Fira to Oia Caldera Walk

The caldera trail is the best place to visit in Santorini in May because temperatures around 75°F (24°C) create ideal hiking conditions before summer heat peaks. Clear skies enhance views of the volcanic islands and daylight hours extend well into the evening.

Top experiences: cliffside hiking, scenic cafes, panoramic photography.

Oia Village

Oia is the best place to visit in Santorini in May because warmer evenings support relaxed sunset viewing without the dense crowds of July and August. The village feels lively but navigable.

Top experiences: sunset terraces, caldera viewpoints, boutique browsing.

Perissa & Kamari Beaches

Perissa Beach is the best place to visit in Santorini in May because sea temperatures around 66°F (19°C) make swimming more appealing than earlier spring months. Sunny afternoons allow for extended beach time along the island’s volcanic coastline.

Top experiences: swimming, black-sand beach relaxation, waterfront dining.

Royal Beach Club Santorini (Open as of April, 2026)

Royal Beach Club Santorini is the best place to visit in Santorini in May because warm spring temperatures around 75°F (24°C) create ideal beach conditions without peak-summer congestion. Opening on April 27, 2026, it's Europe’s first Royal Beach Club and part of the Ultimate Santorini Day experience.

Located along a secluded stretch of volcanic black sand beach, Royal Beach Club Santorini offers shaded loungers, Mediterranean dining, included transportation between island highlights and sweeping Aegean views. In May, the balance of warm air, rising sea temperatures and lighter crowds makes it one of the most appealing beach experiences on the island.

Top experiences: beach lounging, Mediterranean buffet dining, island sightseeing combined with beach relaxation.

Shore Excursions in Santorini in May

May shore excursions combine scenic exploration with increasingly beach-friendly weather.

Ultimate Santorini Day With Royal Beach ClubWarm May temperatures enhance sightseeing in Oia and Fira before relaxing at the beach club.
Caldera & Volcanic Islands CruiseSunny skies and mild seas make volcanic island cruising especially comfortable.
Wine Tasting ExperiencesSpring vineyards and clear weather support outdoor tastings.
Akrotiri & Red Beach ExplorationWarmer but not oppressive temperatures make archaeological touring enjoyable.

FAQs About Santorini in May:

1. Is May a good time to visit Santorini?

Yes, May is one of the best months to visit Santorini. Santorini in May offers warm temperatures averaging 70–77°F (21–25°C), minimal rainfall and fewer crowds than peak summer. It's warm enough for beach time while still comfortable for walking the caldera and exploring Oia. For travelers who want strong weather without July and August congestion, May is an ideal balance.

2. What is the weather like in Santorini in May?

Santorini weather in May is warm, sunny and mostly dry. Daytime temperatures typically range from 70–77°F (21–25°C), with mild evenings around 60°F (16°C). Rainfall is limited compared to winter months and humidity remains comfortable. Overall, May weather supports both sightseeing and beach activities.

3. Can you swim in Santorini in May?

Yes, you can swim in Santorini in May. Sea temperatures average around 66°F (19°C), which is noticeably warmer than April and comfortable for many visitors. Beaches like Perissa and Kamari begin seeing regular swimming activity, especially during sunny afternoons. May marks the start of reliable beach season on the island.

4. Is Santorini crowded in May?

Santorini in May is moderately busy but not peak season. Visitor numbers increase compared to April, especially later in the month, but crowds remain lighter than June through August. Popular sunset spots in Oia are lively yet manageable. Early May generally offers the most breathing room.

5. Is May good for Royal Beach Club Santorini?

Yes. May is an excellent time to visit Royal Beach Club Santorini because warm spring temperatures support beach relaxation without peak-summer congestion. The beach club, opening on April 27, 2026, combines sightseeing with a curated volcanic beach experience.