May in Mallorca: Don't Miss Out on What's Happening, Where to Go and What to Try!

According to local tradition, in Mallorca, may marks the beginning of the high summer holiday season. Although tourism in Mallorca typically begins earlier in the year, the locals see May as the official opening of the season. 

We offer comprehensive information to make a visit to Mallorca in May unforgettable. Knowing this can help travellers plan accordingly and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Additionally, understanding May's cultural significance in Mallorca can enhance one's appreciation and understanding of the local traditions and way of life.

Table of Content: 

1. Weather in Mallorca in May

2. Where to go in Mallorca in May

3. What's in bloom in Mallorca in May

4. What's happening in Mallorca in May

5. What to try in Mallorca in May

6. Hotel and rental prices in May

7. Buying property in Mallorca in May

May starts holiday season in Mallorca

The daylight hours in Mallorca in May are 9 hours of sunshine. The air warms up to 25 degrees Celsius and sometimes even higher. All tourist-oriented businesses are in full swing in May in Mallorca:

• Vehicle rentals

• Hotels

• Cafés, bars and restaurants

• Water and land excursions

• Yacht and boat hire

• Rental of bicycles, kayaks, paddle surfs and other activities

• Amusement parks and activity areas

• and more

The weather in May in Mallorca is already hot but not as warm as the later summer months. So many of the May activities in Mallorca seem more appealing:

• Hiking

• Cycling tourism

• Travelling around the island on a Vespa

• Mountaineering

• Beach holiday

• Tennis lessons

• Playing golf

• Diving

• Balloon rides

• Etc.

Weather in Mallorca in May

May is almost summer in Mallorca. For locals, it's still a bit chilly, but for tourists, it's paradise. Temperatures rise steadily above +20°C. The average daytime temperature in Mallorca in May is +22°C. The average night-time temperature is +13°C.

May in Mallorca is a pleasant time in terms of weather. However, it is worth noting that the weather in Mallorca in May is very different at the beginning of the month and at the end.

The weather at the beginning of May:

At the beginning of the month, Mallorca has cooler temperatures. The average temperature is +19°C during the day and +12°C. Also, Mallorca may still experience light rainfall at the beginning of May. However, the rains will hardly spoil your holiday because they pass quickly. The bright sunlight quickly dries the humidity out. Statistics show that Mallorca does not have more than 5 rainy days in early May.

What the weather is like at the end of May: Every day in May, the temperature rises in Mallorca. Towards the end of the month, there is no rain at all. The average daytime temperature reaches around +24°C. At night, the air warms to an average of 16°C.

The weather in Mallorca in May 2024 is expected to be very warm. This year spring has arrived earlier than usual, and already in March, temperatures have exceeded the 20°C mark. This may indicate that Mallorca will be warmer than normal in May 2024.

Can I swim in the sea in Majorca in May?

May is a great time to start swimming in the sea in Mallorca. Most locals do not swim in the sea at this time because the water temperature is not yet comfortable for them. For this reason, the beaches are accessible, and the water is calm and crystal clear.

Many tourists ask: Can I swim in Mallorca in May? A lot depends on what temperature you like the water to be. But just for the record, most tourists start swimming in the sea as early as the end of March or the beginning of April.

The average water temperature at the beginning of May in Mallorca is +17°C. And it rises to a very comfortable +20°C by the end of the month.

The end of May in Mallorca is considered one of the most favourable times for beach holidays on the island for the whole family. You can spend much time on the beach in the gentle sunshine. And if you wish, you can always take a calm, apparent dip in the seawater.

Can I swim in Mallorca in early May?

At the beginning of May, swimming in the sea in Mallorca is possible. However, you should know that the water is still quite cold at +17°C. The air temperature is indeed relatively high. So overheated tourists are happy to swim in the calmer spring sea. The ideal thing is to buy an inflatable mattress or rent a puddle surf to tan on the waves.

Can you sunbathe in Mallorca in May?

You can and should sunbathe in Mallorca in May. While some may have questions about water temperature, no one will disagree about relaxing on the beach. Mallorca's beaches are just getting started in May. At this time of year, they are spotless, and there is plenty of room to spare.

The sun is warming up, but the UV index is still not at its maximum. You can spend more time in the sun without increased risks to your skin. Although we do recommend using special sun protection regardless of how much time you plan to spend on the beach in Mallorca in May.

Where is it warmer in Mallorca in May?

Mallorca is situated in a temperate Mediterranean climate zone. The island covers an area of 3,600 km2. However, Mallorca offers a varied landscape ranging from high mountain ranges to plains. Logically, temperatures can vary slightly from place to place.

May is warmest in south Mallorca, southwest, southeast, north and central Mallorca.

May is slightly cooler in Mallorca on the west of the island where the Sierra de Tramontana, a UNESCO heritage site, is located. But there's not much temperature difference. May is around 1 to 2 degrees Celsius. So there's no way you could be spoilt by the gentle mountain breeze on your May holiday in Mallorca.

Where you can swim and sunbathe in Mallorca in May

Es Trenc Beach on a sunny day in Mallorca

The best beach holidays in May in Mallorca are those with a long, shallow entrance and fine sand. On these beaches, the water warms up more quickly, and the sand is already hot, even in early May.

The best beaches to swim and sunbathe in Mallorca in May: 

• Playa de Muro in northern Mallorca

• Es Trenc in South Mallorca

• Playa de Palma - in the Balearic capital of Palma

• Playa de Paguera - in the southwest of the island

• Playa de Palmanova in south-west Mallorca

• Playa de Santa Ponsa in south-west Mallorca

• Playa S'Amarador in south-east Mallorca

• Cala Millor in East Mallorca

• Camp de Mar in southwest Mallorca

• Platja de Santanyí and Cala Llombards in southeast Mallorca

Where to go in Mallorca in May

There are plenty of great places to visit in Mallorca during May. As the temperatures are not yet too hot, this is the perfect time to explore this extraordinary island in the heart of Europe. Tourists are plentiful but less numerous than during the summer months. All the restaurants and entertainment venues are open. So, May is the perfect time to visit Mallorca.

Local Festivals in Mallorca in May 2024

Fira de les Flors en Costitx The Festival of Flowers is held every year on the 1st of May in Costitx, a small village in the centre of Mallorca.

Feria del vino y de queso en Estellencs (Wine and cheese fair) - May 1st. Held in Estellencs, a small village along the southwest coast of Mallorca. This is a famous fair with wine and cheese tastings held for a month when the weather is perfect and before the island becomes overrun with tourists.

Fira del Vi - May 3th-5th: Held in Binissalem, this wine fair celebrates the local wine-making culture with tastings, exhibitions, and entertainment.

Feria de Mayo - May 9th-13th: This fair takes place in Sóller and features traditional dancing, music, and food.

Fira de Sant Isidre - May 15th-19th: Held in Sa Cabaneta, this fair celebrates the patron saint of farmers with traditional agricultural displays, live music, and dancing.

Feria del caracol en Sant Jordi - May 21th: Held in Sant Jordi. This is a gastronomic festival dedicated to the snails grown in Mallorca, where you can try traditional snail dishes, as well as cheese, butter and other specialties from local farmers.

Fira del Llibre - May 28th-30th: Held in Palma, this fair book features author talks, book signings, and a wide range of books for sale.

Please note that festival dates and details may vary yearly, so checking local listings for the most up-to-date information is always a good idea.

Where is the most beautiful place in Mallorca in May?

Valldemossa is the highest city in the northwest of Mallorca

Mallorca is a fantastic place. Locals often say they leave the island to reassure themselves that there is no more beautiful place on earth. If you are visiting Majorca for the first time in May, the most famous and popular places to discover this Mediterranean jewel are an excellent place to start.

1. Formentor Lighthouse - was built in 1863 at the island's northernmost point. It is one of the island's landmarks. You can book a tour of the Formentor lighthouse at your hotel or rent a car to visit it. The beach at Playa de Formentor is also worth a visit. You'll feel like you're not in Europe but somewhere in Thailand.

2. Take a walk around Palma old Town - Palma old town is considered one of the oldest towns in the world. The first mention of the city was found in 123 BC. The classic narrow streets of the ancient European city. The architecture of buildings is woven from different eras. Beautiful squares. And modern cafés and restaurants. All this will not leave you indifferent and will make you take out your phone more than once to take pictures.

3. Majorca museums and cathedrals: Mallorca has many listed buildings. The cathedral in Palma, the Arabian Baths, the fortress of Capdepera, the monastery in Valldemossa where Chopin lived and much more. For more information on museums and the best places to visit in Mallorca, read our article: Best Places to Visit and Stay in Mallorca in 2024.

4. Drive to the west of the island. We recommend a drive along the Sierra de Tramontana mountain range. Start at the pueblo Andratx in the southwest of the island and pass through the mountain towns of Estellencs, Banyalbufar, Valldemossa, Deià, Fornalutx, Port Sóller and Sóller. These are authentic Mallorcan villages nestled deep in the mountains. A cup of coffee or a glass of local wine is good. Along the way, there are many viewpoints where you can take pictures.

5. You can have a memorable experience in May in Mallorca with the family at Fresopolis Mallorca. This is a finca in Mallorca where agro-tourism is organised. Here you can feed the farm animals, ride the tractor, pick strawberries and order lunch or dinner. Plenty of activities and events for children and adults on the Finca.

6. Another unique place is  Artestruz Mallorca. The Mallorca Ostrich Farm offers guided tours, and you can play with ostriches and make your own ostrich eggs.

7. Take a walk along the island's main promenade, El Paseo Maritimo. This long promenade is 6 km long. Very comfortable for walking, where you can take a quiet evening stroll in Mallorca and enjoy stunning views of the port, yachts and the capital Balearic.

What's blooming in Mallorca in May

Mallorca is an island of marvellous and blooming gardens. In May, Mallorca blooms with an abundance of unique flowers and plants, the sight of which makes the island a paradise.

HIERBA DE SANTA MARGALIDA - blooms from the beginning of May. It is found everywhere.

FLORES SILVESTRES - Wildflowers are found everywhere.

ROMERO is a famous spice that has medicinal properties. It is found in the wild in Mallorca and in the mountains.

LIRIO DE MAR - A bulbous plant that blooms in May in Mallorca and blooms until autumn. Found along the roads

FILAGO PETRO-IANII, ENDÉMICA DE MALLORCA - Field plant, likes an arid climate. Occurs in the fields around Llucmajor.

HIPÉRICON BALEAR is one of the symbols of Mallorca. It is found in the mountains in the southwest.

This is just a small list of the fantastic plants that bloom in Mallorca in May. If you want to enjoy Mallorca in full bloom in May, then you can head to the Golf Club in Son Vida, and there are many unique plants to enjoy at your favourite game of the rich and famous. You can also visit the Mallorca Botanical Gardens, located on the grounds of the Lluc Monastery.

The Balearic Hipéricon, “Estepa Joana”, is one of the emblematic plants of the Balearic Islands; it is a beautiful endemic shrub relatively frequent in the Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca.

What happens in Mallorca in May?

Mallorca Live Festival is the most important international music festival in the Balearic Islands

May in Mallorca is full of events and cultural activities. You will be satisfied on a Mallorca holiday in May. Fairs, Street Markets, Historical Reproductions, World Class Music Festivals are waiting for visitors to Mallorca in May: 

The most popular events in Mallorca in May

• Firó de Sóller experiences a captivating historical reenactment of a battle in the charming town of Sóller.

In 2024, Firó de Sóller will be held from May 9th to 13th. Over three days, Sóller will come alive with the reenactment of the epic battle against Turkish and Algerian pirates who invaded the town in 1561. Witness the thrilling recreation of this historical event, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the battle.

But that's not all! The festivities include vibrant and colourful parades, where locals don traditional costumes and march through the town streets. Explore the Sa Fira fair, offering a delightful array of local specialities and souvenirs to enjoy and take home. And as the sun sets, join in the evening party, where the celebration continues in a lively atmosphere.

Don't miss the opportunity to be a part of Firó de Sóller. This truly unique and immersive experience brings history to life.

• The Mallorca Live Festival is the biggest open-air music festival held in the city of Magaluf, situated in the southwest of Mallorca. This annual event, which takes place in May, attracts tourists and local residents who come together to revel in live performances by renowned bands.

In 2024, the Live Festival will span three days, from May 13th to 15th, in Magaluf. The headline acts for the Mallorca Live Festival in 2024 will feature Pet Shop Boys, Blondie, and Underworld, alongside nearly fifty other musical groups. These artists will grace the stage with electrifying outdoor concerts, ensuring an unforgettable experience for fans throughout the festival.

Tickets for the three-day extravaganza start at 115 euros. The festival also offers a VIP zone and ticket packages that include accommodation in a hotel.

• The Medieval Market in Capdepera is a highly anticipated event of the year, offering locals and tourists a unique journey back in time. 

In 2024, the medieval festival in Capdepera will span three days, from May 17th to 19th. The city centre undergoes a remarkable transformation, becoming a medieval fortress with a bustling fair at its heart. The streets come alive with medieval trading shops, offering a wide array of goods and souvenirs and an opportunity to indulge in authentic medieval cuisine. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere as you encounter medieval knights, merchants, musicians, and jugglers throughout the fair. They captivate the audience with their performances and enact scenes from inhabitants' daily lives in a medieval city. 

Moreover, the delightful May weather and breathtaking views surrounding Capdepera are additional incentives to visit this remarkable fair.

The most popular markets in Mallorca in May are the Pollenca, Santa Maria and Valldemossa, which take place on Sundays from 09:00 to 14:00. For more information on which markets and fairs are open in Mallorca during May and other months, read our article: Best Markets in Mallorca: locations, opening hours, prices, and advice.

What to eat in Mallorca in May

Mallorca's traditional cuisine can be enjoyed at any time of year. But it is in May that Mallorca starts selling seasonal fruit and vegetables. The island, renowned for its farming past and present, offers succulent and ripe frijoles in May in Mallorca:

Plums, melons, watermelons, apricots, cherries, lemons, peaches, nectarines, medlars, avocados, garlic, courgettes, onions, spinach, green beans, lettuce, cucumbers, leeks, radishes, tomatoes and carrots, wild asparagus, and red pepper.

You should remember the fresh seafood and the best farm meats available in the restaurants on the Palma de Mallorca markets.

Hotel and rental prices in May

May is the month in Mallorca when hotel and rental prices rise exorbitantly. The resort is trendy. Affluent Europeans are enjoying their holidays on Spain's island paradise. In 2024, there will be a record number of tourists on the island because the hotels were sold out in February for the next 2 months. So, if you are planning your May holiday in Mallorca, it is worth hurrying to rent a property in Mallorca for your dates or to book a hotel.

Examples of prices in May in Mallorca:

• 1-bedroom apartment for rent 42m2 from 90 euros per night

• One night in a standard hotel in Mallorca in May from 100 euros per night

• 5-star hotel in Mallorca in May. 1 night from €250 per night

• Villa 200 m2 to rent in May in Mallorca. 1 night from 340 euros per night