What's the Weather like in Playa Del Carmen in May
Temperature
As Playa del Carmen, Mexico, heads towards summer things really start to heat up. The temperatures in May are extremely warm and the hours of daily sunshine increase thanks to the resort's location so close to the equator. The tropical climate means that there is a dry season and a rainy season but, whilst May falls on the cusp of the two, there is still barely any rain throughout the month. This is a great time of year to visit Playa del Carmen to make the most of the warm weather before the rains set in.
With average temperatures settling at around 28°C, Playa del Carmen is very hot at this time of year. But these temperatures can rise even more, with average high temperatures reaching a scorching 32°C during the hotter parts of the day. The tropical climate means that the evenings and nights are warm and muggy as well, with temperatures hardly ever falling below 25°C. This means you probably won't need to pack any warmer layers, though you might wish to do so just in case. T-shirts, shorts, and swimwear are perfect for during the day, and don't forget to pack lots of sun cream to protect yourself against the sun's strong rays at this time of year.
Rain
Though the rainy season is almost upon Playa del Carmen in May, there is still very little rainfall throughout the month. Only around 16mm falls across an average of 1 day, which means it is very unlikely that you'll get caught in any showers. Because of its tropical climate, when it does rain in the resort, it tends to be in short, sharp bursts which blow over pretty quickly, leaving behind glorious sunshine and typically warm weather.
Sunshine Hours
Playa del Carmen's placement so close to the equator means that there is very little variation in the amount of sunshine hours throughout the year. So, whilst May might almost be summer, you can still expect to see a similar amount of sunshine as the previous months. On average, there are about 11 hours of sunshine per day throughout May, leaving you plenty of time to get out and about and explore all that the resort has to offer.
Average Sea Temperature
It is likely that you'll visit the beach a lot if you visit Playa del Carmen at this time of year and, with sea temperatures sitting at a very pleasant 28°C, there is no chance of you feeling cold. The warm waters are characteristic of the Caribbean Sea and provide the perfect place to dabble in some watersports. With only a 21% chance of a windy day, it is unlikely you'll have to worry about rogue currents and stormy waves in May.
If you are looking to experience the warm weather of Playa del Carmen's summer without the rain, then May is a great time to visit.
Playa Del Carmen in May
For an all-inclusive stay check into the Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmerelda, which is situated right on the beachfront and is dotted with lush palm trees and woven-roofed huts, giving it a tropical, Caribbean ambience. The rooms are spacious, bright, and modern with colourful abstract art adorning the walls and muted, earthy colour palettes. Each room has floor-to-ceiling French windows which open out onto a private balcony with views overlooking the green jungle scenery beyond. There are no less than 16 bars and restaurants throughout the complex, from upmarket cocktail bars and dining spaces to laidback lounge bars with outdoor patios and views across the ocean. Guests can also enjoy the two lagoon-style pools with swim up bars, an in-house spa, and a selection of wellbeing activities including yoga and Pilates that take place every day.
The Aldea Thai Luxury Hotel combines nuances and décor from Thailand and Bali with the spirit and lifestyle of Mexico and the Caribbean, and boasts a modern design with splashes of Eastern style. Rooms and apartments are high-ceilinged and spacious with low-slung, contemporary furniture in muted tones, as well as their own kitchen, dining, and lounge areas. Each one has its own balcony or outdoor patio overlooking the stunning nearby scenery. Guests also have exclusive access to the hotel's pool, beach club, in-house spa facilities, and rooftop Jacuzzi.
The Hotel Rui Lupita is another all-inclusive option set right on the luxurious beachfront in Playa del Carmen. Surrounded by lush greenery and the wonderful nature of the region, the hotel has an intimate, secluded atmosphere perfect for those looking for a little peace and quiet. The rooms are simple and spacious with whitewashed walls and dark-wood furniture, and each one has its own private balcony overlooking the jungle landscape. Guests can enjoy the three restaurants, including a grill and steakhouse, as well as the two bars with great views over the beach. There are also three swimming pools, a spa, and a kids' play area.
Playa Del Carmen Beach for May
North Akumal Beach lies in between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, along a secluded stretch of shoreline that boasts soft white sand and shallow, clear waters. The North Beach is close to Yal-ku Lagoon, which is a great place to go and explore the natural beauty of the area whilst cooling off in the waters. Stretching around picturesque Half Moon Bay, this beach features serene waters thanks to its protection from a reef bay. This also means that it is a hotspot for divers and snorkelers who want to explore the underwater world.
Paamul beach is a long stretch of sand edged with the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea. It is nestled in a small bay near Puerto Aventuras and is a typical Mexican beach with palm trees and sun loungers evenly spread out over the sand. In addition, there is a beachfront swimming pool for visitors to enjoy, as well as numerous restaurants and bars and even a convenience store. Watersports enthusiasts will love it here, as there is an on-site dive shop and the chance to do some kayaking, snorkelling and diving around the nearby coral reef.
Bars and Restaurants
El Gallinero Chocolat is a chocolate lover's paradise. The cute and quirky café and shop is decorated in pastel shades of pink, providing a charming backdrop to the displays of sweet treats and artisanal goodies. The design and recipes fuse together the quaintness of France and the laidback lifestyle of Mexico, offering an eclectic mix of unique flavours. Visitors can grab a coffee and a seat and sample some of the chocolates on offer, including bonbons, traditional Spanish turron, sweet breads, waffles, and ice cream. Alternatively, you can simply pop in and takeaway whatever catches your eye.
If you are hankering after some pizza whilst in Playa del Carmen, then check out Don Chendo, an Italian restaurant in the heart of the resort. The laidback atmosphere and retro style is perfect for a quiet evening meal, plus Don's also delivers, so if you don't feel like going out then you can still enjoy their delicious pizzas. The menu boasts a selection of Chicago deep-dish style pizzas, as well as more traditional Italian meals like spaghetti and meatballs, pasta, chicken, shrimp, and a variety of salads.
PLANK is a slightly more upscale dining experience. The new gourmet grill and patio bar boasts a unique, stylish design with glass-bottomed floors, ambient lighting, and quirky fixtures and fittings. Despite its elegant décor, it prides itself on offering an unpretentious experience with a laidback atmosphere and top-notch service. The menu has a range of hearty, internationally inspired dishes, including Jumbo shrimp, duck breast, grilled kebabs and spare ribs. The expansive menu offers something for every taste just don't forget to order dessert. With sweet treats like bitter chocolate mousse, key lime pie, and homemade ice cream, it is the perfect way to end the meal.
Things to do in Playa Del Carmen in May
Art lovers should definitely visit the Riviera Art Gallery, which prides itself on showcasing the works of new, talented local artists as well as some of the better known names from the region. It has a series of regularly changing exhibitions as well as a permanent display, where visitors can admire the stunning works as well as learn more about Mexican culture and the art industry. The gallery sells numerous pieces, so if you are looking for a unique souvenir to take home with you, then this is the place to go.
If you are looking to do something adventurous, then consider diving with whale sharks. These beautiful, harmless creatures are found all around the coast of Mexico, languishing the clear, blue waters. With Sian Kaan Jeep, you can take a boat trip out to meet the whale sharks and, if you are feeling brave, put on some diving equipment and get up close and personal with these gentle giants.
History and culture lovers should take a trip to Temazcal Natura, a traditional Mayan village set up in the thick green jungle surrounding Playa del Carmen. Amongst the beautiful scenery, visitors can wander around preserved communities, learning and experiencing what life was like thousands of years ago, as well as enjoy the natural scenery surrounding the resort.
