What's the weather like in Side in May
Temperature
Spring time in Side is officially here in the month of May! Experience a warmer month as this small town draws closer to summer. The average temperature for May is now 20°C, which is about four degrees warmer than the previous month. The coldest temperature in May is 15°C, which happens to also be the hottest temperature in January. The warmest temperature this month is 25°C, which occurs at noon.
Average Sea Temperature
May is a great time to hit the beach with an average sea temperature of 20°C. This temperature is still a tad on the cold side, but it is suitable for longer swims, as long as you are active in the water to not feel uncomfortable with the cold. An extended swim is not recommended.
Rain
The average rainfall for the month is quite low at just 28mm of rain. There are about seven days of rain to be expected during this month. There will not be thunderstorms or heavy rains, but light drizzles every now and then can be expected. With an average rainfall like this, there is no need to bring an umbrella for tours.
Average Sunshine Hours
The average amount of daily sunshine is up to 13 hours per day, which is an increase of two more hours when compared to the previous month. This is the first month of the year that will have a longer daytime than night time, which means there is more time for you to go out on tours, enjoy beach activities, and barter at the market. It can get very hot and humid during the summer because Side is located in a coastal area, but May is just about perfect weather, not too hot and humid and not too cold.
Wind
The Etesian winds are northern winds that start to prevail this month along the coastlines of Turkey, which gives the Mediterranean Sea a cooler surface. The wind is dry and usually starts as a steady blow around 4 PM and ends by sunset. Across May, the weather forecast is perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities. The gentle breeze and low humidity are perfect for strolls on the beach, site seeing in ruins, or generally any outdoor activity.
Side Hotels in May
An affordable place to stay for a summer retreat is the Safak Beach Motel. This hidden gem is a perfect budget hotel for those who are planning to have an extended stay. If you plan to stay for two weeks or more, this hotel will not punch a hole in your wallet. The Barut Andiz and Conny's Hotel are also great choices for affordable places to stay in Side.
For five-star luxury hotels, you can never go wrong with the Crystal Sunrise Queen Luxury Resort & SPA. In addition to the luxurious facilities, the staff is very friendly and accommodating. Every room has centralized air-conditioning, a safe, and Wi-Fi. The suites are about 42 square metres, have all the basic amenities of any room, plus your own private balcony and sun bed.
Side Beach for May
If you get a chance to visit the beach of Side during springtime, you will be pleasantly surprised as it will likely not be crowded with tourists. It is the perfect time to enjoy a more serene time on the beach right before the beach season starts. The average see temperature this month is 20 which is warm enough for a swim and other water sports.
The Turquoise Resort Hotel and Spa is a one of the best hotels near the beach which offers all sorts of beach activities. The calm waters of the Mediterranean are the best feature of this resort at this time of the year. During May, the water is warm enough for midday and afternoon swims and the beach is not that crowded as compared to the summer season. With 13 hours of sun, you can do all sorts of beach activities like Frisbee, beach volleyball, or strolls on the sand.
For those interested in getting a tan, there are lounge chairs with umbrellas in the beach area. Although it is not yet summer, it is still great to go out for a tan on the beach thanks to the warmer temperatures. In addition to this, the cold wind from the north is blocked by the Taurus Mountains, making your outdoor time even less chilly. Instead of cold wind, you will feel the pleasing breeze from the sea.
Bars and Restaurants
Outdoor dining is perfect for the month of May and most hotels and restaurants have outdoor tables available. Less rain and lower humidity levels that May sees is the perfect combination for outdoor dining. Restaurants near the harbor, like the Marina Baron Restaurant, let you enjoy the Mediterranean Sea breeze to cool off after a hot day.
In addition to Turkish cuisine, there are also international food options to be found in Side. Enjoying affordable Chinese and Indian cuisine in Turkey is possible by going to China Court Restaurant. They are closed during winter but open this month onwards. The Alaaddin Bistro Steak House Restaurant is the best place for Mexican food and steak.
For those who want to enjoy the nightlife, the Lighthouse Side is a great place to party, and the Surf Café Bar is better for more laid back evenings.
Things to do in Side in May
Market prices during spring time are cheaper when compared to the colder months of the year, but make sure you bring your bargaining skills with you when shopping, as bartering is encouraged. When buying local produce, cheaper prices can be found in the bigger markets of Manavgat, 15 minutes from Side. Markets near tourist areas are also the perfect place to buy souvenirs and local produce, but you cannot do much bartering here.
If you are visiting Side with children, the perfect spot for you to go to is the Manavgat Dolphin Park. The park opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM. While waiting for the dolphin, fish, and seal show to start at 11:00 AM, you can swim at the Aqualand and Aquapark which features long, spiral slides and big pools. The park also offers dolphin therapy for disabled children. Studies show that the therapy helps children learn faster than at the normal rate. Actual results will be seen in about six months to a year of therapy.
The waters of Side are such an attraction and what better way to enjoy the water and the sites but through a boat ride. A Green Canyon tour is great for families or couples who would want to spend a whole day swimming, boating, dining, and enjoying the sites.
On a perfect sunny May day, you should visit and experience the history of this small picturesque town by going to the Greek Amphitheater, the Side Museum, and the Temple of Apollo.
