Sardinia weather in May

May in Sardinia averages daytime highs of 22.4°C and nights around 13.2°C, with about 12 hours of sunshine a day. The sea averages 18.9°C: fresh but swimmable on a sunny afternoon. This is one of the wetter months, with about 9 rainy days and around 72 mm of rain, so pack a layer for showers, and the sun is strong (average peak UV 7), so sunscreen is essential.

Daytime high

22.4°C

Nights around 13.2°C

Sea temperature

18.9°C

Typical max waves 0.7 m

Rain

9 days

About 72 mm over the month

Sunshine

12 hrs/day

Average bright sunshine

UV index

Average daily peak

Wind

19 km/h

Average daily maximum

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0). Figures are ten-year averages from the historical record.

What May feels like

May might be the connoisseur's month. The island is green, the days are long and warm, and two of Sardinia's great festivals arrive: Cagliari's Sant'Efisio procession on 1 May and Sassari's Cavalcata Sarda. Brave swimmers open their season in the shallower bays while walkers get the last comfortable big-mountain days before summer. Beaches are gloriously underpopulated.

What to do in Sardinia in May

Hit the trails

Mild temperatures are ideal walking weather, from coastal paths to proper mountain days. Views are sharp and the car parks are quiet.

Hikes Nature & Wildlife

Scenic drives and day trips

Comfortable driving weather with clear air: string together a coast road, a mountain pass and a long lunch.

Driving Routes & Scenic Roads Day Trips

Towns and villages

Wander stone villages and market towns at a temperature that lets you linger, without summer's crowds or heat.

Towns & Villages Local Markets & Food Producers

Go back 3,000 years

Sardinia's nuraghi, tombs and ancient sites are open-air attractions, and the shoulder seasons are the kindest time to explore them.

Archaeology & Nuraghi History

Food and wine

Cooler months are eating months: vineyard visits, agriturismo lunches and produce markets are all at their best.

Wine & Vineyards Food Trails & Culinary Routes

Sardinia in May: quick answers

How hot is Sardinia in May?

Daytime highs in Sardinia average 22.4°C in May, with nights around 13.2°C and roughly 12 hours of sunshine a day (ten-year average).

Is the sea warm enough to swim in May?

The sea around Sardinia averages 18.9°C in May: fresh but swimmable on a sunny afternoon.

Does it rain much in Sardinia in May?

Sardinia sees about 9 days with rain in May, totalling around 72 mm for the month.

May elsewhere on the island

Gallura Nurra & Alghero Sassari & Logudoro Barbagia & Nuorese Ogliastra Oristanese & Sinis Sulcis-Iglesiente Cagliari & Campidano

Planning a trip? Explore the island region by region or check today's live weather.