In this article we will discuss whether or not May is a good month to visit Aruba. In general, May is one of the best months to travel to Aruba, but quickly, here are some of the most important pros and cons to visiting Aruba in May:
- Sunny Weather – May is warm and sunny in Aruba, with very little rain. Only 3 days on average get rain in Aruba in the month of May. On average, May produces less than a total inch of rain. The average high temperature in May is 89 degrees Fahrenheit. But May can be quite humid, and is in the upper half of humid months in Aruba. Click here to jump ahead on the page to read more about Aruba’s May humidity levels.
- Wind – May is the fourth windiest month on average in Aruba. The average wind speed in May is 16 mph. This may disrupt certain outdoor activities, but many people also find the wind to be a blessing and help provide relief on hot, muggy days. Click here to jump ahead on the page to read more about Aruba’s wind in May.
- Cost and Crowds – May is just after peak season in Aruba (which is December through April). This means May’s prices and crowds are usually less than peak season. Sometimes May falls in that perfect window after spring break crowds but before summer crowds. If you time it right, you might be able to visit Aruba in a slow period for tourism. The slowest season is August through early November. Click here to jump ahead on the page to read more about costs and crowds.
- Daylight Hours – One huge advantage to visiting Aruba in May is May has the third most daylight hours out of all months in Aruba. On average May provides 12.7 daylight hours. This will give you more time to explore the island. Click here to jump ahead on the page to read more about the daylight hours in Aruba.
- Hurricane Season – No, May is not part of the Atlantic hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th. Still, make sure you are weather aware on your trip. Click here to jump ahead on the page to read more about hurricanes during May in Aruba.
- Sea Temperature – The sea temperatures are warm in May, which allows you to comfortably enjoy the ocean and beaches. The average water temperature in Aruba in May is 81.7 degrees Fahrenheit, which ranks May as the 6th warmest month for sea temps (based on Oranjestad, Aruba). Click here to jump ahead on the page to read more about sea temperature during May in Aruba.
Overall, May is a good month to visit Aruba. The weather is warm and sunny, the crowds are smaller (but not small), and the days are longer. You will want to be mindful of UV exposure, humidity, and periods of extreme wind.
In this article let’s dive into the data to get a better idea how Aruba in May stacks up compared to other months so you can decide whether or not a May trip makes sense for you.
Table of Contents
How is the weather in Aruba in May?
The weather in Aruba in May is usually warm and sunny, but humidity can be a problem at times. Aruba is also very windy in May (Aruba is windy year-round), and many people feel like the strong trade winds provide nice relief to the warm May temperatures.
Daytime temperatures typically range from the low 80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (27 to 34 degrees Celsius). Evenings are usually pleasant and comfortable.
The chance of rain is low during May in Aruba, and the island typically receives less than an inch of rain total for the month. It’s considered a good time to visit for those who want to enjoy the beach and outside activities.
To read more about other months, visit our article about the best time to visit Aruba for weather.
Is Aruba Sunny in May?
Yes, Aruba is sunny in May.
May in Aruba has only 3 days of rain on average. May also has the third most daylight hours out of all months in Aruba (June and July are the only months with more daylight hours).
The sun usually sets between 6-7pm in Aruba, which is earlier than some other beach getaways. May allows you to maximize those daylight hours.
Aruba Average Daylight by Month
| Month | Avg Daylight Hours |
| January | 11.5 |
| February | 11.7 |
| March | 12.1 |
| April | 12.4 |
| May | 12.7 |
| June | 12.9 |
| July | 12.8 |
| August | 12.5 |
| September | 12.2 |
| October | 11.8 |
| November | 11.5 |
| December | 11.4 |
SOURCE: Weather Spark
Is Aruba Hot and Humid in May?
Yes, Aruba is hot and humid in May.
However, because Aruba has strong trade winds, many people feel like those strong wind provide a nice relief from the hot, humid weather.
The average high temperature in Aruba in May is 89 degrees Fahrenheit (32C degrees). There are only two months in Aruba that have hotter averages than May (August and September).
That said, it is important to understand that the temperature in Aruba is very consistent year-round, so planning your trip solely off the temperature won’t provide a lot of differentiation. For example, January is the “coolest” month and it has an average high temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. But, yes, May is one of the warmest months in Aruba.
May is also very humid in Aruba. The humidity can be a problem in Aruba as it can in many Carribean islands.
However, although May is humid, there are actually five other months that are even worse for humidity in Aruba (so it could be worse). The muggiest months in Aruba are May through early December (source). July through October can be very muggy.
Aruba Average Temperature by Month
| Month | Avg High Temp |
| January | 85°F (29°C) |
| February | 86°F (30°C) |
| March | 87°F (31°C) |
| April | 88°F (31°C) |
| May | 89°F (32°C) |
| June | 89°F (32°C) |
| July | 89°F (32°C) |
| August | 90°F (32°C) |
| September | 90°F (32°C) |
| October | 89°F (31°C) |
| November | 88°F (31°C) |
| December | 86°F (30°C) |
SOURCE: Weather Spark
Is Aruba Rainy in May?
Aruba is not rainy in May.
On average, Aruba has only 3 days of rain in May (source). The average total rainfall for Aruba in May is averages 0.79 inches. The entire month on average gets less than an inch of rain, which means you are likely to have clear skies on your trip.
Out of roughly 700 islands in the Caribbean, Aruba consistently ranks as having the least amount of rainfall (Aruba averages approximately 15 inches for the entire year).
If you want to take precaution against unexpected rain, the eastern and southern part of the island receives less rainfall than the northern and western parts. The capital city of Oranjestad and the popular tourist areas of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are located on the southern and eastern parts of the island and typically receive the least amount of rainfall.
The northern and western parts of the island, such as the Arikok National Park and the towns of San Nicolas and Savaneta, receive slightly more rainfall. However, as we discussed above, compared to other Caribbean islands, the overall rainfall in Aruba is low and does not greatly affect tourist activities.
Aruba Average Rainfall by Month
| Month | Avg Rain (Inches) |
| January | 2.36 |
| February | 1.57 |
| March | 0.39 |
| April | 0.39 |
| May | 0.79 |
| June | 0.39 |
| July | 0.79 |
| August | 0.39 |
| September | 1.97 |
| October | 3.15 |
| November | 3.54 |
| December | 3.15 |
SOURCE: Holiday Weather
Is UV Bad in Aruba in May?
Yes, the UV is extreme in May in Aruba. You will need to wear proper sun protection. The average UV index in May in Aruba is 13.7.
Aruba is located near the equator, which means that it receives a significant amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation all year round. The UV index, which measures the intensity of UV radiation, is generally high in Aruba year-round, and sun protection is recommended at all times.
The UV index can vary slightly by month, with the highest values typically occurring from February through October. During these months, the UV index can reach extreme levels, with a value of 11 or more, which means that sunburn can occur within minutes.
During the winter months of December through February, the UV index is lower, but it’s still important to use sun protection as the UV rays can still be intense. It’s always best to check the local UV index forecast before planning outdoor activities during your trip to Aruba.
Average UV Strength by Month
| Month | Avg UV Index |
| January | 10.2 |
| February | 12.1 |
| March | 14.1 |
| April | 14.5 |
| May | 13.7 |
| June | 12.9 |
| July | 12.9 |
| August | 13.3 |
| September | 13.2 |
| October | 11.9 |
| November | 10.2 |
| December | 9.5 |
SOURCE: Beach Weather
Is Aruba Windy in May?
Yes, Aruba is windy in May.
May is, on average, tied for the fourth windiest month in Aruba. The average wind speed is 16 mph for May. Trade winds can make it very windy in certain areas of the island, especially on the north and northwest coasts.
These winds can make outdoor activities such as sunbathing and swimming less pleasant. Some extreme winds can disrupt water visibility and make things like snorkeling a pain.
However, these winds are also the main reason why Aruba has such a pleasant climate all year round, as they help keep the island cool and dry, and provide a nice relief for humidity.
Here are some tips to help you deal with the wind in Aruba:
- Plan your activities for early morning or late afternoon when the wind is typically the calmest.
- Look for activities on the leeward side of the island, as the wind tends to be less strong on this side.
- Rent a car or scooter to explore the island, as this will give you the flexibility to avoid windy areas.
- Avoid kite surfing or windsurfing during the windiest days.
- If you plan to spend time on the beach, look for spots that are protected by natural barriers such as cliffs or tall vegetation, or by nearby structures like hotels.
If you don’t like wind, the late fall months may be a better time for you to visit Aruba.
Aruba Average Wind Speed by Month
| Month | Avg Wind Speed (mph) |
| January | 15 |
| February | 16 |
| March | 17 |
| April | 16 |
| May | 16 |
| June | 18 |
| July | 17 |
| August | 16 |
| September | 14 |
| October | 11 |
| November | 11 |
| December | 13 |
SOURCE: Beach Weather
Can Hurricanes Strike Aruba May?
No, hurricanes are not a serious risk in Aruba in May.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, with the peak of the season being in September and October (source). Therefore, your May vacation will fall outside of the Atlantic hurricane season.
Also, Aruba is positioned in the southern part of the Caribbean, and because the trade winds help dissipate storms before they reach the island, Aruba gets hit by very few hurricanes in comparison to other Caribbean islands.
Still, it’s best to be weather aware when on your trip.
How Warm is the Water in Aruba in May?
The average sea temperature in Aruba in May is 81.7 degrees Fahrenheit (based off of Oranjestad, Aruba).
The sea temperature in Aruba is warm year-round. May ranks as the 6th warmest month for average sea temperature.
This sea temperature is perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the ocean on Aruba’s beaches. The warmest sea temperatures in Aruba occur in the late Fall months.
Aruba Average Water Temperature by Month
| Month | Degrees (F) |
| January | 80.4 |
| February | 79 |
| March | 79.2 |
| April | 80.1 |
| May | 81.7 |
| June | 82.2 |
| July | 81.3 |
| August | 82.6 |
| September | 84 |
| October | 84.6 |
| November | 83.5 |
| December | 81.1 |
SOURCE: SeaTemperature.org
Aruba May Crowds & Expenses
Is Aruba Crowded in May?
May in Aruba is not as crowded as other months.
The busiest months to visit Aruba are typically December through April, which is considered to be the island’s peak tourist season. This is when the weather is generally warm and dry, and many visitors flock to the island to escape the colder temperatures in other parts of the world.
Additionally, many visitors also come to Aruba during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, as well as during the spring break period. During these months, the island can be quite crowded with tourists, and it’s essential to book accommodation, transportation, and activities in advance to ensure availability.
| December – April | More Crowds |
| May-July | Moderate Crowds |
| August – November | Less Crowds |
May is often considered part of the shoulder season in Aruba.
A shoulder season, also known as the “shoulder months,” refers to the period of time between a destination’s peak tourist season and its low or off-season. This means May is not peak tourism season for Aruba, but it also is not the offseason. Think of May in Aruba as a transition month between peak season and the offseason.
Still, because May in Aruba is part of the shoulder season, it has smaller crowds than the busy season. But because Aruba has consistent weather year-round (with very little rain), Aruba remains relatively busy all year (so don’t expect a small crowd in May).
Worth Noting: Aruba’s tourism did take a bit of a hit during the pandemic, but has seen a predictable bounce back. Aruba’s tourism had a growth of 119 percent in the first year after the pandemic (source). However, the most recent tourism numbers have still not recovered to where they were pre-pandemic.
Is Aruba Expensive to Visit in May?
It can be expensive to visit Aruba in May. Aruba is one of the more expensive places to visit in the Caribbean, and therefore, even off-season prices can be a bit high.
Remember, although May is not considered part of the busiest season, May still attracts large crowds. Because of this, prices can be high in Aruba in May for hotels and travel.
The cheapest time of year to visit Aruba is usually in the fall months (August through November). Although May is outside of what is considered peak season in Aruba, there are some months that offer lower prices.
What to Pack for a May Trip to Aruba
Here is a list of a few things you will want to make sure you pack if you are visiting Aruba in May:
- Sunscreen: The sun in Aruba is strong, so be sure to bring sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.
- Swimwear: Aruba is known for its beautiful beaches, so pack your swimsuits and beachwear.
- Light and airy clothing: The weather can be hot and humid, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton and linen.
- Comfortable shoes: Good shoes are essential for exploring the island, whether you’re hiking, walking on the beach, or just strolling around town.
- Hats or sunglasses: to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bug spray: to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.
May Attractions in Aruba
Here are some places to visit in Aruba in May:
- Eagle Beach: Known for its wide stretch of white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, Eagle Beach is one of the most popular spots on the island for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Snorkeling in May is a great idea because water temperature is ideal and seas are usually calm.
- Arikok National Park: A protected area that covers about 20% of the island, Arikok National Park features rugged landscapes, cacti, and wildlife, as well as several hiking trails and viewpoints. May weather is perfect for exploring this park.
- Oranjestad: The capital of Aruba, Oranjestad is a charming town known for its colorful architecture, street markets, and shopping. Because May receives very little rain and has long daylight hours, this gives you a perfect opportunity to explore the capital
- Casibari & Ayo Rock Formations: The unique rock formations offer a glimpse into the island’s geological history and offer great hiking and photo opportunities. Because weather is clear, this makes May a great month to explore the outdoors in Aruba.
- Aloe vera plantation: Aruba is known for its Aloe vera products, and visitors can take a tour of a working aloe vera plantation, where they can learn about the history and uses of this versatile plant.
- Butterfly farm: A popular attraction for visitors of all ages, the butterfly farm is home to hundreds of live butterflies from around the world. This farm is located right next to popular Palm Beach.
What is an event that is unique to May in Aruba?
May is known for the “Aruba Hi-Winds” a windsurfing and kiteboarding event that is held on the island.
The Aruba Hi-Winds is an annual windsurfing and kiteboarding event that typically runs for about a week in May (the date can vary so always confirm). The event attracts some of the world’s top windsurfers and kiteboarders, as well as many amateur competitors and spectators.
The event typically takes place at Fisherman’s Huts in the island, which is considered one of the best spots for windsurfing and kiteboarding in the Caribbean, with steady trade winds and warm, clear water.
Should You Visit Aruba in May?
Yes, May is a good time to visit Aruba.
May weather in Aruba is warm and sunny. On average, only three days in May in Aruba have rain. Total average rainfall in May is less than an inch.
But the weather isn’t always perfect. May is a humid month in Aruba and May is one of the windiest months in Aruba. Sometimes the wind can be a blessing and help tame the humidity during May.
You will also want to be mindful of UV exposure in May, which can be extreme. One benefit of visiting in May instead of the summer months is May is outside of the Atlantic hurricane season (but Aruba’s hurricane risk is always quite low compared to other Caribbean islands).
Because May isn’t part of peak season, crowds and prices can be a bit more reasonable. Sometimes May falls in that perfect window after the April spring break crowds but before summer crowds. If you time it right, you might be able to visit Aruba in a slow period for tourism.
Overall, May provides warm and clear weather for you to explore Aruba during a time of the year that isn’t quite as busy as peak season.