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California Weather in May

May in California brings high temperatures around 24°C (75°F) during the day, dropping to 13°C (55°F) at night, with quite a bit of rainfall expected, averaging around 116 mm (4.6 in) for the month.

Rainfall in California in May

On average, there are about 12 days with rain during this month, averaging 116 mm (4.6 in). When showers do arrive, they tend to be on the heavier side. Worth being prepared even if rain days are not that numerous.

Temperature in California in May

Daytime highs in California in May reach 24°C (75°F), with nights around 13°C (55°F). Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. Nights drop to around 13°C (55°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 California in May

Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 265 hours of sunshine. This makes it a pleasant time to visit California.

If you're a fan of comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, May is a great time to visit.

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For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our California's climate page.

California Temperature in May

Min TemperatureMin Temperature 13°C (55°F)  
Max TemperatureMax Temperature 24°C (75°F)  
Chance of RainChance of Rain 41%  
PrecipitationPrecipitation 116 mm (4.6 in)  
Rainy daysRainy days 12 days  
HumidityHumidity 70% *  
SunshineSunshine 265 hours *  
Percentage SunshinePercentage Sunshine 60% *  
* Data from: Columbia, the United States of America (41 KM, 25 Miles).

Best Places in the United States of America in May

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

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Legend 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 California in May

Pleasant temperatures in May mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in California in May

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

Swimming
9/10
Cycling
9/10
Walking
9/10
Camping
6/10
Outdoor sports
9/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our California's climate page.

More climate data for California