Cannes Weather in May
May in Cannes averages 21°C (70°F) during the day and 14°C (57°F) at night. The perfect conditions and moderate rainfall make it a solid month to visit.
Rainfall in Cannes in May
Historically, May sees about 9 days of rain, with a monthly average of 57 mm (2.2 in). Expect a fairly normal spread of rainfall this month, with no particular pattern of very heavy or very persistent showers.
Temperature in Cannes in May
The temperature in Cannes in May is perfect. Daytime highs reach 21°C (70°F), with nights dropping to 14°C (57°F). Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. At 14°C (57°F) overnight, it can feel quite a bit cooler after dark. Worth packing something warmer for evenings, but the cooler temperatures are ideal for sleeping.
Sunshine in Cannes in May
Enjoy a sunny month with about 251 hours of sunshine, the clear skies make Cannes even more beautiful.
Wind Speed in Cannes in May
Wind speeds average 3 m/s (6 knots) during May. At this speed, light breezes keep leaves and small twigs in gentle motion while the wind also provides natural cooling. Since this is an average, some days are more tranquil while others have more persistent light winds that are more noticeable.
Average water temperature in May
With water at 18°C (64°F), swimming is comfortable for most people. It feels refreshing rather than cold, though it depends a bit on personal preference.If you're inclined towards comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, May is a good time to visit Cannes.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit France, check out our Cannes's climate page.
Cannes Temperature in May
Min Temperature
14°C (57°F)
Max Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Water Temperature
18°C (64°F) *
Chance of Rain
28%
Precipitation
57 mm (2.2 in)
Rainy days
9 days
Humidity
78% *
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots) *
Sunshine
251 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
62% *
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cannes typically rise from around 20°C (68°F) at the start of May to approximately 23°C (73°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 15°C (59°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 for Cannes in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Cannes spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Cannes historical weather extremes in May
Based on 50 years of weather observations (1976-2026), these are the most extreme conditions recorded in Cannes.
- On May 31, 1982, temperatures climbed to 32°C (90°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
- The coldest May day was on May 2, 1991, with a maximum of 13°C (55°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to 5°C (41°F) on May 6, 1991, marking the coldest May night on record.
Best Places in France in May
Find out more about the weather in France and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of France in May →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
What to Wear in Cannes in May
Comfortable temperatures call for an easy wardrobe in May. Pack summer basics like t-shirts and shorts, but include a light jacket for cooler moments. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. With water temperatures around 18°C (64°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.What To Do in Cannes in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit France, check out our Cannes's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full Cannes climate overview or explore weather in France.
