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Adelaide Weather in May

Adelaide in May averages 18°C (64°F) during the day and 11°C (52°F) at night. Some rainfall is typical for this time of year.

Rainfall in Adelaide in May

You can expect rain on roughly 8 days based on historical data, averaging 53 mm (2.1 in) for the month. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.

Temperature in Adelaide in May

Daytime highs in Adelaide in May reach 18°C (64°F), with nights around 11°C (52°F). Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. Nights cool down to 11°C (52°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Adelaide in May

The area enjoys a balanced 166 hours of sunlight, ensuring it's neither too overcast nor too sunny.

Wind Speed in Adelaide in May

Wind speeds average 4 m/s (8 knots) during May. At this speed, expect moderate winds that can raise dust and move small branches. Since this is an average, some days have gentle light winds while others experience stronger breezes that are quite noticeable.

Average water temperature in May

The water sits at 21°C (70°F), which is a nice temperature for swimming. Not too cold, not too warm, most visitors are happy to spend time in the water.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January, February, March, April, October, November and December 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.

Adelaide Temperature in May

Min Temperature
11°C (52°F)
Max Temperature
18°C (64°F)
Water Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Chance of Rain
25%
Precipitation
53 mm (2.1 in)
Rainy days
8 days
Humidity
55%
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots)
Sunshine
166 hours
Percentage Sunshine
69%

Adelaide Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Adelaide typically drop from around 20°C (68°F) at the start of May to approximately 17°C (63°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 11°C (52°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 Adelaide in May

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

Adelaide historical weather extremes in May

Based on weather observations in Adelaide between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.

  • The hottest May day on record in Adelaide reached 30°C (86°F) (May 1, 2026).
  • On May 27, 2000, Adelaide saw its coldest May day with temperatures maxing out at 11°C (52°F).
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to 2°C (36°F) on May 13, 1994, marking the coldest May night on record.

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 Adelaide in May

For Adelaide 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. With water temperatures around 21°C (70°F), swimming conditions are excellent. Pack your swimsuit, goggles, and maybe some water shoes. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in Adelaide in May

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

  • Swimming
    6/10
  • Cycling
    10/10
  • Walking
    10/10
  • Barbeque
    7/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Adelaide 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.