What's the weather like in Cape Town in May
May is one of the coolest and wettest months of the year in Cape Town, South Africa. The month begins as autumn, and as temperatures drop throughout the month ends as winter. Being located in the southern hemisphere, the following months of June, July and August will be the coldest of the year in Cape Town, and the weather of May is a preview of what is to come.
Visitors will certainly want to bring jackets and layers, as well as prepare for some precipitation. However, the natural beauty around Cape Town is no less stunning in the cooler months, and May can be a great time to visit when there are less tourists at the popular attractions like Table Mountain.
Temperature
If you visit Cape Town in May, you can expect an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). The days in May are cool and often overcast. The average high temperature reaches 21°C (70°F) with the warmest time of day being just after midday. Normally the temperature will drop again throughout the late afternoon and early evening. The overnight low temperature is a chilly average of 10°C (50°F).
Sea Temperature
The average sea temperature continues to drop throughout May. The warmer water experienced during the summer months of December and January has disappeared, and beachgoers will find the ocean chilly. The average sea temperature is 18°C (64°F). It is recommended that those wanting to surf wear a good wetsuit.
Rainfall
Remember to pack some waterproof clothing for a holiday in May, as Cape Town averages 12 rainy days during this month, compared to only 9 in April and a mere 6 rainy days throughout March. There is an average 70 mm of rain expected throughout the month. It is not uncommon for Cape Town to have many cloudy days throughout May.
Sunshine Hours
Likewise as the southern hemisphere moves from autumn to winter, the days continue to be shorter. Accompanied by more cloudy and rainy days May has fewer hours of daily sunlight than other months of the year. The month sees an average 6 hours of daily sunlight. Therefore, locals and visitors alike celebrate a bright, sunny day in May.
Cape Town Hotels in May
One look at the accommodation options in Cape Town and it is easy to see that the unique and charming boutique hotels and guesthouses reflect the overall vibe in this city. Filled with galleries, shops and interesting restaurants, the late autumn weather in May makes it a great time to explore the city, which is best done from a central location like that of Derwent House Boutique Hotel. This boutique hotel is on the doorstep of Cape Town's best restaurants and trendiest street, Kloof Street, and luckily for guests the owners are keen to provide recommendations and reservations for a fantastic day or night out.
Whether you are planning a romantic getaway or family vacation, consider the Inn on the Square. This comfortable hotel features a heated rooftop swimming pool, which overlooks the bustling Green Market Square, and is located close to the V&A Waterfront and colourful Long Street. This is also a great hotel for business travelers.
For the young, or young at heart, consider ONCE in Cape Town. This place is ultra-trendy, yet simply delightful for a stay in Cape Town. It is a hotel, hostel and backpackers all rolled into one, and guests are able to decide which option fits their vibe and budget. There is an onsite coffee shop that transforms into a bar and free walking tours are offered. Colorful, friendly and carefree, ONCE in Cape Town is a great place to discover your once in a lifetime experience in this city.
Bars and Restaurants
The contemporary space at La Perla is filled with light. The patio seating, which overlooks the ocean, is perfect for a day session or al fresco dinner on a nice autumn night, while the interior is lively when the weather turns colder. The menu is filled with classic Italian dishes that are accessible and familiar for the whole family or for couples looking for a special night out.
Marimba is a restaurant and cigar bar that serves indigenous African cuisine. Marimba is located between the central district of Cape Town and the V&A Waterfront, making it a convenient place for dinner after a long day exploring the city, sand and harbor. While the menu and music at Marimba is steeped in history, the clientele is some of the trendiest in Cape Town truly this is a place to see and be seen.
Every type of cuisine can be found in Cape Town. It has truly become an international city, with influences from around the world. When the craving for Mexican hits, visitors should head to Del Mar in Camps Bay. The menu is filled with modern Mexican cuisine that is sure to delight the entire family.
Things to do in Cape Town in May
A visit to Cape Town isn't complete without a ride on the Table Mountain Cableway. The trip to the top of the mountain provides you with stunning panoramic views of Cape Town and Table Bay. Savour the last autumn days during May by taking in this view. After the six-minute ride you'll be stood atop Table Mountain and can take in the magnificent scenery before stopping for a drink at the cocktail bar or buying a gift at the souvenir shop.
Riebeek Valley Olive Festival is held in a resort near Cape Town in May, when the Riebeek Valley is transformed into a place filled with olive and wine tasting, music, art and a selection of delicious food. Visitors are encouraged to walk through the South African Artists Walk, where the local artists display their paintings and sculptures.
