Antigua and Barbuda in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Antigua and Barbuda

25°C (77°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

End of dry season means minimal rainfall - only 51mm (2.0 inches) across 10 days, with brief afternoon showers that clear quickly for evening activities
Trade winds are strongest in May, providing natural cooling that makes 25°C (77°F) days feel comfortable for hiking and outdoor exploration
Tourist season winds down mid-May, meaning 30-40% fewer crowds at Antigua and Barbuda and Antigua and Barbuda while maintaining full service availability
Sea conditions are optimal - calm waters with 1-2m (3-6 ft) swells perfect for snorkeling at Cades Reef and sailing around the coastline

Considerations

Hurricane season officially begins June 1st, so booking flexibility becomes important - travel insurance costs increase 15-20% after May 15th
Afternoon humidity peaks at 85% between 2-4pm, making midday hiking at Mount Obama challenging without proper preparation
Some seasonal restaurants and beach bars begin closing for maintenance before hurricane season, reducing dining options in less touristy areas

Best Activities in May

Antigua Sailing and Catamaran Excursions

May offers the most consistent trade winds of the year (15-20 knots), making it ideal for sailing adventures around Antigua's 365 beaches. The seas are calm with minimal swells, perfect for first-time sailors. Water temperature holds steady at 26°C (79°F) - warm enough for swimming stops but with enough breeze to prevent overheating on deck.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators offering insurance and safety equipment. Full-day excursions typically range EC$200-350 (US$75-130). Look for boats with shade coverage and fresh water rinse stations. Morning departures (9am) capture the best winds.

Nelson's Dockyard Historical Walking Tours

May's lower humidity in early morning (60%) makes this UNESCO World Heritage site comfortable to explore on foot before 11am. The Georgian naval architecture and restored buildings tell Antigua's colonial story without the crushing heat of summer months. Post-tourist season means better photo opportunities without cruise ship crowds.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but guided tours (EC$40-60/US$15-22) provide crucial historical context. Visit between 8-10am when temperatures are coolest. The museum and shops operate full hours until mid-month. Check current tour availability in the booking section below.

Mount Obama (Boggy Peak) Hiking Adventures

At 402m (1,319 ft), Antigua's highest point offers panoramic views across the Caribbean. May's trade winds provide essential cooling at elevation, though afternoon humidity can reach 85%. The trail requires 2-3 hours round trip through tropical dry forest - unique ecosystem recovering from hurricane damage in recent years.

Booking Tip: Start hikes by 7am to avoid peak heat and humidity. No entry fees required, but guided eco-tours (EC$80-120/US$30-45) explain the reforestation efforts. Bring 2-3 liters of water per person. Trail conditions vary after rain showers - check current status through local operators listed in booking options below.

Devil's Bridge and Coastline Exploration

This natural limestone arch showcases Antigua's dramatic Atlantic coastline where powerful waves have carved unique formations over millennia. May's moderate swells create impressive spray without dangerous conditions. The area offers excellent photography opportunities and geological insights into the island's formation.

Booking Tip: Accessible by car or organized tours (EC$60-100/US$22-37 for half-day excursions). Visit during low tide for safer viewing and better photos. The limestone can be slippery when wet - avoid immediately after rain showers. Combine with visits to nearby Indian Town Point for full coastal experience.

Stingray City Antigua Marine Encounters

Shallow-water stingray encounters are perfect in May's calm conditions and warm 26°C (79°F) water temperatures. The protected marine environment allows safe interaction with southern stingrays in their natural habitat. Visibility underwater reaches 15-20m (50-65 ft) in May's settled conditions.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost EC$150-200 (US$55-75) including snorkel equipment and transfers. Book through certified marine operators with liability insurance. Tours run daily but weather-dependent - morning departures offer calmest conditions. See current operator options in the booking section below.

Antigua Rainforest Canopy Adventures

The tropical rainforest at Antigua and Barbuda maintains lush conditions from earlier wet season rains, while May's drier weather makes zip-lining and canopy walks more reliable. The ecosystem showcases Antigua's diverse flora including fig trees, mahogany, and exotic bird species in their most active period.

Booking Tip: Zip-line and canopy tours range EC$120-180 (US$45-67) for 2-3 hour experiences. Weight restrictions typically apply (maximum 120kg/265 lbs). Book 5-7 days ahead through insured operators. Morning tours offer better wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures before afternoon heat builds.

May Events & Festivals

Early to Mid May

Antigua Sailing Week Aftermath and Yacht Charter Season

While the main regatta occurs in late April, May sees an influx of sailing enthusiasts and charter yachts taking advantage of optimal wind conditions. Local marinas host informal gatherings and the sailing community remains active with excellent opportunities to join day sails or learn from experienced sailors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry hiking pants in light colors - May's 70% humidity means cotton stays damp, but synthetic fabrics dry within 30 minutes after brief rain showers

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ with zinc oxide - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off white sand beaches intensifies exposure by 15-20%

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers last 15-20 minutes but can be heavy, occurring on 10 days throughout the month

Sturdy water shoes with grip soles - limestone coastlines and coral areas require protection, plus wet rocks become extremely slippery

Insect repellent with 20% DEET minimum - May's humidity increases mosquito activity, especially near mangrove areas and after rain

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - trade winds can be gusty (15-20 knots) and sun exposure is intense without natural shade on beaches

Dry bags for electronics and documents - boat excursions and sudden rain showers can soak belongings in seconds

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts for sun protection - essential for sailing trips and hiking where shade is limited for 2-3 hours

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - uneven limestone terrain and historic cobblestones at Antigua and Barbuda require stable footwear

Extra phone battery pack or waterproof case - humidity can affect electronics and you'll want reliable communication during water activities

Insider Knowledge

Local 'bush tea' vendors sell natural remedies along Antigua and Barbuda in May - try soursop leaf or lemongrass tea, traditionally used to combat humidity-related fatigue and support hydration

Fishermen return to Jolly Harbour around 6am daily in May - buy fresh mahi-mahi, snapper, or lobster directly from boats at 30-40% below restaurant prices

Many locals schedule beach picnics for Sundays at Darkwood Beach in May - join the informal cricket games and sample homemade saltfish cakes and fungi (Antigua's national dish)

The abandoned sugar mill ruins scattered across the island are most accessible in May's drier conditions - locals know hidden trails to Betty's Hope and other historical sites before vegetation grows thick in rainy season

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 12-3pm when humidity peaks at 85% and heat index feels like 32°C (90°F) - locals take midday breaks and tourists should too

Booking only morning boat trips - May's afternoon trade winds (15-20 knots) actually provide better sailing conditions and cooler temperatures for sunset excursions

Packing heavy cotton clothing that stays damp in 70% humidity and takes hours to dry after brief rain showers or water activities