Tarawa
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Tarawa Weather in May

In Tarawa, May brings high daytime temperatures around 30°C (86°F), with nights cooling to 27°C (81°F). Expect quite a bit of rainfall this month.

Rainfall in Tarawa in May

Historically, May sees about 20 days of rain, with a monthly average of 160 mm (6.3 in). Expect frequent rainfall this month, and not just light drizzle. When it rains, it tends to come down hard.

Temperature in Tarawa in May

Tarawa in May gets highs of 30°C (86°F) during the day and drops to 27°C (81°F) at night. The days can feel warmer than the evenings, so packing for both parts of the day is a good idea. At 27°C (81°F) overnight, the heat doesn't let up much after dark. If you're staying somewhere without air conditioning, a cold shower before bed and keeping the air moving can help.

Average water temperature in May

The water is 29°C (84°F), very warm by most standards. Comfortable to swim in, but not particularly refreshing if you're looking to cool off.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. February typically offers the best weather for Tarawa.

Tarawa Temperature in May

Min Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Max Temperature
30°C (86°F)
Water Temperature
29°C (84°F)
Chance of Rain
67%
Precipitation
160 mm (6.3 in)
Rainy days
20 days

Tarawa Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

48-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Tarawa typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 30°C (86°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 27°C (81°F).

Average temperatures in May

Historical weather records for Tarawa in May

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

Tarawa historical weather extremes in May

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

  • On May 1, 2026, temperatures climbed to 33°C (91°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
  • Tarawa experienced its chilliest May day on May 10, 2025, reaching only 27°C (81°F).
  • The coldest night in May in Tarawa was on May 9, 2016, with a minimum of 20°C (68°F).
  • The wettest day in May Tarawa was on May 20, 2015 with 99 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation.

Best Places in Kiribati in May

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

Warm but pleasant conditions in Tarawa 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 29°C (84°F), which is ideal for taking a refreshing dip. Bring swimwear and consider packing a towel for drying off.

What To Do in Tarawa in May

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

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

Tarawa 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Tarawa

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.