As the Dominican Republic and Puerto Plata enter the last official month of spring, the weather continues to get warmer both on land and in the sea.
In May, the seawater temperatures jump a degree to an average of 27°C (81°F). At this point, the water is more like bathwater and certainly warm enough for anyone to enjoy a dip.
Air temperatures continue to get warmer as well with average afternoon highs of 31°C (88°F). With the tropical nature of the island, the relative humidity will stay high at approximately 80 percent throughout the month. Overnight low temperatures are also on an upward trend and visitors are now able to leave the light jacket at home and may only need a long sleeve shirt first thing in the morning when the lowest temperature is reached. On average, the overnight low for the month in Puerto Plata is 20°C (68°F). The average daily temperature for this time of the year is a wonderful 26°C (78°F).
Sunshine is not quite as plentiful in this time of year despite the average of 7 hours of sunlight per day as there is only a 35 percent chance of seeing a sunny day. This is because May is one of the wettest times of the year with an average of 167mm of rain over the month, similar to April. This rainfall is spread out over an average of 13 days making up almost half of the month. Overall, there is a 37 percent chance of seeing rain on any one day.
While this might be one of the wettest times of the year, the season is about to turn much drier in the months to come. When planning a vacation at this time of the year, it is important to check out the extended 14-day forecast in order to know exactly what to pack.
Located just down from Puerto Plata is Sousa Beach and the Victorian House. With a prime location just blocks away from nightlife, across the street from the Main Casino, and near the beach, this hotel has everything a visitor needs in May or any time of year. Other amenities include a restaurant, pool and spa, bar and lounge and much more. All rooms also come with a view of the water.
Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort is a fantastic choice for visitors who are looking to be pampered while on vacation. Located along 1.5 miles of Confresi Beach guests are treated like family and can enjoy unlimited drinks, beach and water sports, exciting nightly entertainment, bar, restaurants, pool and spa services. The Mediterranean- style resort features 212 Tropical Rooms and 70 Junior Suites located in a three-story building.
Rui Merengue All Inclusive Resort is a great resort for singles, couples and those with children. With three swimming pools and an additional children's pool, kid's club, sun deck, numerous themed restaurants, bars and activities, there is something for everyone. Visitors will have the choice of relaxing by the pool or beach or enjoying some of the many activities such as horseback riding, golf or water sports. The resort also offers daily entertainment both in the daytime and nighttime. Guests will not be bored during their visit to Rui Merengue.
While seaweed may occasionally be an issue, Punta Cana is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. With sea water temperatures averaging 27°C (81°F), this time of the year, it is a wonderful time to visit the area and experience the water as well as the white sand.
Located at Casa Colonial, the restaurant Lucia is the perfect date night eatery for an elegant, yet relaxed meal. The restaurant features French-Caribbean fusion cuisine such as crab on yucca cake tarts, majarete with cinnamon and scampi-style Caribbean lobster. This award-winning restaurant features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook a mangrove jungle as well as an extensive wine list.
Those looking for a great view to complement the meal will want to check out Escape Al Mar. With delicious sandwiches, cold drinks and impeccable service this restaurant also features fantastic views of the ocean. For an added touch, guests can also decide to dine directly on the beach.
For a great way to wrap up a day on the beach with a little music, be sure to check out the Lighthouse Lounge and Disco. Located inside Ocean World, this club features a 360-degree ocean view with music from all over the world with décor done entirely in white. Wednesdays feature karaoke and are one of the more popular days along with Thursdays through Saturdays being tropical nights.
Those looking for a daylong adventure may want to discover the Cayo Paraiso Deserted Island Tour. Take advantage of water temperatures being near 27°C (81°F) and be your own Robinson Crusoe for the day and explore one of the best snorkeling locations on the entire island. Speedboats take visitors to the coral island surrounded by a reef and a sand bank. After spending several hours exploring the underwater world, the boat leaves to visit the mangroves of a national park before stopping at a beachside restaurant. Guests are asked to bring towels, sunblock, cameras, swimwear and a little money.
