What's the Weather Like in Zante in May
May, in Zante, Greece is the unofficial opening of the tourist season. Many resorts, restaurants, galleries, and museums that have been shuttered for the winter, open for the vacation season. It is a good time to visit this Ionian Sea island since tourists have yet to arrive en mass but the atmosphere is still festive. Visitors are not yet congregating on the beaches, thus they are less crowded than the following months. Greek Labour Day and The Zante Feast of Flowers occur on May 1st.
Temperature
May weather in Zante, Greece, with its continuing Mediterranean climate, begins to show a dramatic improvement of the weather. The thermometer records increasing temperatures averaging 19ºC (66ºF) and an average high of 23ºC (73ºF) and average low of 14ºC (57ºF), a significant improvement from the winter months. Evenings, however, can be slightly chilly. The highest recorded May 1st temperature was 34ºC (93ºF) and the low, 7ºC (45ºF).
May days remain comfortable as the dew point, a better measure of comfort per person, increases from the previous month, so the air feels like 13ºC (56ºF) on average with a high of 19ºC (66ºF) and a low of 6ºC (43º) so there is no discomfort from heat and humidity.
Humidity
The average relative humidity is 76% with a high of 81% to a low of 72% and continuing to slightly decrease throughout the month.
Wind
The wind is minimal, averaging only about 4 mph but with an occasional gust of 20 mph, although one recent year there was an unexpected 46 mph gust. The winds increasingly come from north.
Average Sunshine Hours
There are approximately 10 daily sunshine hours and visible daylight jumps to an average of 14 hours.
Cloud Cover and Rainfalll
Some days may be slightly to partially cloudy, and rain is expected for 6 days in total during this month, with an average rainfall of 17mm.
Average Sea Temperature
The May average sea temperatures improve to 18º C (64ºF), so, perfect for swimming.
The month of May could be the ideal time to visit this jewel of the Ionian Sea. The weather is pleasant, it's not too crowded, and all accommodation and activities options are now available.
Zante Hotels in May
The Diana Hotel, located on a quiet pedestrian street in the town of Zakynthos, is a hidden gem which overlooks the main square and harbour. The roof-top pool and terrace area is definitely the main draw at this hotel, and there are a variety of suites and facilities which make the hotel ideal for both family holidays and romantic getaways.
The Contessina Hotel, a short walk from the beach in Tsilivi is a charming accommodation which offers considerable value for money. Each room is of its own kind but all come with TVs, refrigerators and ample wardrobe space. The poolside makes a great place to relax as the days become warmer and warmer. The breakfasts are renowned and there is a great variety of options to select from.
The Yria Hotel in Zakynthos town, is family-owned and ideally placed for all the town's sights and activities. Commanding stunning views over the sea and harbour, each of the hotel's rooms are spacious and modern and are kitted out with all of the conveniences you could ever need. Come and go as you please at this hotel, thanks to 24-hour reception service.
Zante Beach for May
Often overlooked is Spianza Beach, which is situated 10 miles away from Zakynthos Town. One of the longest beaches on the island, it's predominantly made up of sand although you'll find small pebbles too. The beach is flanked by lush greenery and there are several bars and tavernas lining its shores. Thanks to the calm waters, it's an ideal beach for children. There's plenty of parking onsite so it can be either reached by private transport or local buses.
Laganas definitely takes the prize for being one of the island's largest and most well-loved beaches. It's a long, sandy beach and there are lots of organised activities on offer, which can take place on the beach or in the water. With a plethora of dining and drinking options at hand, you won't run short of places to go to during the afternoons and evening here. The beach is a protected marine habitat and is also known for the iconic islet of Agios Sostis.
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Bars and Restaurants
Restaurant Panas and Grill, located on a side street in Laganas, doesn't seem like much on the outside, but once you're in, it's another story entirely. It's family-run taverna where the food is authentic, the wine affordable, and the service great. Try the chicken souvlaki, grilled octopus and sea bass, not to mention the juicy steaks.
Head to Zepos in Kalamaki for refined Greek dining in a gorgeous environment. A short walk from the beach, this friendly but elegant eatery brings the best of Greek and other Mediterranean dining to the table. There's a pleasing selection of wines which are expertly matched to the foods on offer.
Local Zante residents recommend the Aeras Restaurant on the road to Porto Vromi. Located on a breathtaking cliff overlooking a small cove, this easily ranks as one of the most picturesque dining spots on the whole island. Chicken, rabbit, goat, and lamb are featured, or try the Greek salad, Moussaka, and baked feta.
If you're looking for somewhere to relax in the evenings, try the Sugarbush Bar in Alykes. A big hit with holidaymakers and locals alike, the bar occupies a top spot on the beachfront and offers a variety of drinks from spirits, beers and wines to more elaborate cocktails. This place is known for its friendly bar staff so don't hesitate to strike up conversation with your server.
Things to do in Zante in May
Zante is rich in art, both traditional and modern. The continuing exhibition of the work of the artist Dionysios Giatras is on display at his Dionysios Art Gallery, located in the vintage schoolhouse in a complex of old buildings opposite the old church in Agalas. His colourful and contemporary creations includes paintings, posters, postcards, and even book marks. Hours are Monday-Sunday from 10 am to 2:30 pm, and 8 pm to 10 pm, or by appointment. Admission is free.
Enjoy the holistic fitness holiday retreat designed by Michele Wilburn, the author of the best selling Starbound book. The retreat is a back-to-nature, by-the-sea experience featuring daily Energyia Kinetics exercise sessions is designed to improve the yoga flow. Michele holds her workshops in St. Nicholas, Tsilivi, Port Koukla and Zante Town.
Take a turtle spotting boating excursion to view the famous Caretta-Caretta loggerhead sea turtle who use the island of Zante as their main nesting ground in the Mediterranean. Considered an endangered species, and protected by the Greek government, the turtles return to the same beach from where they hatched to lay their eggs. They are found mainly in the Gulf of Laganas. Boat trips leave from resorts at Keri, Kalamaki, Porto Koukla, Laganas, and Agios Sostis.
