Palm Springs
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Palm Springs Weather in May

Palm Springs in May sees very high temperatures, with highs around 34°C (93°F) and overnight lows of 18°C (64°F). With just 0.4 mm (0.02 in) of rainfall on average, rain is rarely an issue.

Rainfall in Palm Springs in May

You can typically expect 0 days of rain this month, averaging around 0.4 mm (0.02 in). Any rain that does arrive is likely to be light drizzle rather than a proper shower.

Temperature in Palm Springs in May

May in Palm Springs brings typical temperatures with highs around 34°C (93°F) and lows of 18°C (64°F). For most visitors, the main thing to prepare for is the heat during the day. With overnight lows of 18°C (64°F), evenings can feel noticeably cooler than the daytime. An extra layer is a good idea, though the cool air makes for a good night's sleep.

Average water temperature in May

The water is 17°C (63°F) this month, cool enough to feel refreshing on a warm day, but cold enough that most people won't stay in for long without a wetsuit.

May in Palm Springs has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.

Palm Springs Temperature in May

Min Temperature
18°C (64°F)
Max Temperature
34°C (93°F)
Water Temperature
17°C (63°F)
Chance of Rain
0%
Precipitation
0.4 mm (0.02 in)
Rainy days
0 days

Palm Springs Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Palm Springs typically rise from around 31°C (88°F) at the start of May to approximately 35°C (95°F) by the end. Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 19°C (66°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 Palm Springs in May

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

Palm Springs historical weather extremes in May

Based on 50 years of weather observations in Palm Springs between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.

  • On May 28, 2003, temperatures climbed to 46°C (115°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
  • The lowest overnight temperature recorded in May was 5°C (41°F) (May 24, 1980).

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 →

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 Palm Springs in May

Get ready for hot weather in May! Lightweight, breathable fabrics are your best friend during this month. Cotton and linen shirts, shorts, sundresses, and sandals will keep you comfortable. Light colors help reflect the heat, avoid wearing black. With water temperatures around 17°C (63°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough.

What To Do in Palm Springs in May

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

  • Cycling
    8/10
  • Walking
    8/10
  • Camping
    10/10
  • Outdoor sports
    8/10

Palm Springs 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Palm Springs

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.