Santorini in May

Greece › Santorini › May Weather
Updated: July 9, 2025
By Santorini Dave

See Also
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Best Restaurants in Santorini
• Best Activities in Santorini
• Best Wine Tours in Santorini
• Best Boat Tours in Santorini
• Best Beaches in Santorini

The back alleyways of Oia, Santorini on an afternoon in May.

May is a fantastic month to visit Santorini. As a “shoulder season” month, it offers the beauty of late spring – with pleasant weather and blooming landscapes – before the full heat and crowds of summer arrive. Just don’t be surprised if the sea is a little too chilly for swimming, especially in early May.

Overview:
• Weather: The weather in May is typically bright, sunny, and pleasantly warm, though not intensely hot. The island is at its most beautiful, still green and dotted with wildflowers from the winter rains.
• Temperature: Expect comfortable daytime temperatures in the low 20s Celsius (70-74°F). It can get warmer towards the end of the month, but it rarely feels overwhelmingly hot. Evenings can still be cool, so packing a light jacket or sweater is essential.
• Sunshine: You’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine and clear blue skies, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. May is one of Santorini’s drier months, with low overall rainfall; light showers are possible on occasion.
• Swimming Conditions: This is the biggest variable. The sea is still on the cooler side as it continues to warm up after the winter. Average sea temperatures are around 19°C (66°F). While many people find this perfect for a brisk, invigorating swim (especially on a hot day), others will find it too chilly for long periods in the water. Hotel pools that are not heated will also be cool.
• Activities: By May, all seasonal businesses are open and in full swing, ready for the approaching high season.
• Boat Tours: All boat and catamaran tours are running. It’s a great time to be on the water, as the sun isn’t as intense as in mid-summer. On sunset tours, the breeze on the water can feel cool, so bringing a windbreaker is a good idea.

Venetsanos Winery on a May afternoon.

• Winery Tours: This is an excellent month for wine tasting. You can enjoy Santorini’s famous Assyrtiko on sun-drenched terraces without the sweltering heat. The green, pre-harvest vineyards make for a beautiful backdrop.
• Nightlife: The nightlife scene in Santorini during May is just waking up for the summer, offering a fun and relaxed atmosphere without the intense crowds of July. Fira is the center of the action, with most of its cliffside bars and clubs open and lively, especially in the latter half of the month. The famous beach clubs along Perivolos and Perissa are also beginning to host parties, but the overall vibe is more about enjoying cocktails with a great view than the all-night clubbing of peak season.
• Beaches: The beaches are beautiful and uncrowded in May, making it a perfect time to enjoy the dramatic scenery of the black and red sand coastlines in peace. The sea, however, is still quite brisk from the winter, and only the hardiest of swimmers will find it comfortable for more than a quick dip. Most beach bars are open, but the vibe is very relaxed.
• Fira-Oia Caldera Hike: This is the best month for the hike. The weather is perfectly warm but not yet hot, allowing you to walk comfortably at almost any time of day. The island is at its greenest from the winter rains, and the path is lined with wildflowers, making the already spectacular caldera views even more beautiful.

Metaxi Mas, one of my favorite restaurants in Santorini, on a May evening.

• Crowds: The island is lively and has a great buzz, but it is not yet crowded. You can explore the villages of Oia and Fira with relative ease, and restaurant reservations are easier to secure. You will experience the beauty of the island without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds of July or August.
• Prices: Prices for flights and accommodation are lower than in the peak summer season. You can find excellent value, especially if you book in advance. It’s a great month to snag a deal on a hotel with a caldera view that might be prohibitively expensive later in the year.
• For Families: May is a great choice for families, especially those with younger children. The cooler temperatures are more comfortable for kids when sightseeing. The lower crowd levels make navigating narrow streets with strollers or young children far less stressful. The only downside is that the ocean and unheated pools might be too cold for some children.
• For Couples: May is an incredibly romantic time to visit. The pleasant weather, blooming scenery, and more relaxed atmosphere create a perfect setting. It’s ideal for active couples who want to hike and explore, followed by intimate dinners with stunning views.