Rabaul
Weather by month
Current –

Rabaul Weather in May

During May, Rabaul experiences high daytime temperatures of 29°C (84°F) and cooler nights around 26°C (79°F). May sits within the rainy season, so expect regular and often heavy rainfall.

Rainfall in Rabaul in May

Rabaul is in the rainy season in May, with rain on around 21 days and an average of 207 mm (8.1 in). Rainfall this month is frequent and tends to be fairly heavy when it does fall. Packing waterproofs is a good idea.

Temperature in Rabaul in May

In May, Rabaul gets high temperatures, with highs of 29°C (84°F). Nights cool to around 26°C (79°F). This gives the month a fairly typical daily rhythm, with warmer afternoons and more comfortable nights. Nights stay warm at around 26°C (79°F), so light bedding and good ventilation are worth thinking about.

Sunshine in Rabaul in May

Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 198 hours of sun. Showers typically arrive in the late afternoon or evening, keeping mornings and early afternoons sunny. Even during the wet season, there's plenty of sunshine for sightseeing.

Wind Speed in Rabaul in May

Average wind conditions reach 2 m/s (4 knots) in May. This creates comfortable weather with light winds that gently move vegetation. Keep in mind this is an average. Daily conditions range from near-calm to more noticeable wind.

Average water temperature in May

With water at 28°C (82°F), you can expect warm, pleasant conditions for any water activity. There's no adjustment period, it feels comfortable straight away.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, June, August, September and October typically offer the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Rabaul Temperature in May

Min Temperature
26°C (79°F)
Max Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Water Temperature
28°C (82°F)
Chance of Rain
71%
Precipitation
207 mm (8.1 in)
Rainy days
21 days
Humidity
75%
Windspeed
2 m/s (4 knots)
Sunshine
198 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Rabaul Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

30-year average (1986-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Rabaul typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 29°C (84°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 26°C (79°F).

Average temperatures in May

Historical weather records for Rabaul in May

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

Rabaul historical weather extremes in May

Based on 20 years of weather observations (2006-2026), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Rabaul.

  • On May 10, 2023, temperatures climbed to 32°C (90°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
  • The lowest daytime temperature in May was 27°C (81°F), recorded on May 19, 2015.
  • Rabaul registered its coldest May night on May 24, 2008, with temperatures dropping to 24°C (75°F).
  • The wettest May day on record brought 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation to Rabaul (May 24, 2023).

Best Places in Papua New Guinea in May

Find out more about the weather in Papua New Guinea and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Papua New Guinea 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 Rabaul in May

Warm but pleasant conditions in Rabaul in May. Focus on lightweight, maybe with natural fabrics, cotton blend shirts, comfortable shorts, and breathable footwear. A light cover-up for sun protection is smart too. It's going to pour! Pack a good poncho and prepare for very wet conditions. Expect water temperatures of around 28°C (82°F), which is ideal for taking a refreshing dip. Bring swimwear and consider packing a towel for drying off. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Rabaul in May

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

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

Rabaul 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.