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Brisbane Weather in May

May is one of the excellent months to visit Brisbane, with daytime temperatures of 24°C (75°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F) at night. Do note that quite a bit of rainfall is typical, averaging around 70 mm (2.8 in).

Rainfall in Brisbane in May

Historically, May sees about 11 days of rain, with a monthly average of 70 mm (2.8 in). Expect a fairly normal spread of rainfall this month, with no particular pattern of very heavy or very persistent showers.

Temperature in Brisbane in May

Brisbane has excellent weather in May, with days reaching 24°C (75°F) and nights cooling to 14°C (57°F). The days can feel warmer than the evenings, so packing for both parts of the day is a good idea. Nights drop to around 14°C (57°F), which is noticeably cooler than the daytime. A light jacket for the evening is a sensible addition, and the cool nights tend to make sleeping comfortable.

Sunshine in Brisbane in May

Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 199 hours of sun. These sunny conditions add to the overall experience.

Wind Speed in Brisbane in May

May has wind speeds averaging 3 m/s (6 knots). You can expect comfortable light winds that steadily move flags and feel mild throughout the day. Since this is an average, daily conditions vary from gentle winds to more active breezes.

Average water temperature in May

The water is 22°C (72°F) this month, warm enough that getting in requires no effort at all. Good conditions for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around.

If you're inclined towards comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, May is a good time to visit Brisbane.

Brisbane Temperature in May

Min Temperature
14°C (57°F)
Max Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Water Temperature
22°C (72°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
70 mm (2.8 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
48%
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots)
Sunshine
199 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Brisbane Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Brisbane - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Brisbane typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 24°C (75°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 16°C (61°F).

Average temperatures in May

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in May

Historical weather records for Brisbane in May

Browse day-by-day weather records for Brisbane spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Brisbane historical weather extremes in May

Based on 50 years of weather observations in Brisbane between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.

  • On May 20, 2003, temperatures climbed to 31°C (88°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
  • Brisbane experienced its chilliest May day on May 23, 2020, reaching only 15°C (59°F).
  • Brisbane registered its coldest May night on May 31, 2006, with temperatures dropping to 4°C (39°F).

Best Places in Australia in May

Find out more about the weather in Australia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Australia in May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Brisbane in May

For Brisbane in May, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. The water temperature sits at about 22°C (72°F), making it perfect for swimming and water activities. Don't forget to pack your favorite swimwear and perhaps some snorkel gear. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Brisbane in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    7/10
  • Cycling
    10/10
  • Walking
    10/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Brisbane 3-Day Forecast

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.