San Diego Weather in May
May in San Diego typically sees daytime highs of 21°C (70°F) and nighttime lows of 15°C (59°F). Minimal rainfall is typical for this month.
Rainfall in San Diego in May
Typically, you can expect about 2 days of rain this month, with 9 mm (0.4 in) on average. Rain is scarce this month and when it does fall, it tends to be light. Unlikely to disrupt plans significantly.
Temperature in San Diego in May
Weather in San Diego is at its perfect in May. Highs reach 21°C (70°F), while nights settle around 15°C (59°F). The difference between afternoon and evening temperatures is usually noticeable. At 15°C (59°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 San Diego in May
Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 260 hours of sun. These sunny conditions add to the overall experience.If you're a fan of comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, May is a great time to visit.
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 San Diego's climate page.
San Diego Temperature in May
Min Temperature
15°C (59°F)
Max Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Chance of Rain
7%
Precipitation
9 mm (0.4 in)
Rainy days
2 days
Humidity
71%
Sunshine
260 hours
Percentage Sunshine
58%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in San Diego typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 21°C (70°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 16°C (61°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 San Diego in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for San Diego spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
San Diego historical weather extremes in May
According to our 50 years of weather records for San Diego, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2026.
- On May 15, 2014, temperatures climbed to 36°C (97°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
- San Diego experienced its chilliest May day on May 7, 2017, reaching only 15°C (59°F).
- The coldest night in May in San Diego was on May 10, 2003, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F).
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
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in San Diego 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. With minimal rainfall expected, you can leave the rain gear at home. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.What To Do in San Diego 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 the United States of America, check out our San Diego's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full San Diego climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
