San Diego in May
Average Temperature: 20°C
Traveling to San Diego in May is a pretty pleasant experience, especially if you're looking to escape colder weather elsewhere. The city isn’t overly crowded yet, so you can enjoy popular spots like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the Gaslamp Quarter without feeling overwhelmed. The ocean breeze keeps things comfortable, and there’s a good mix of sunny days and some occasional marine layer mornings that burn off by midday. It’s a great time to explore the beaches, try out local seafood, or take a harbor cruise without the peak summer crowds.
That said, May in San Diego can sometimes feel a bit unpredictable weather-wise. You might find mornings a little chilly or foggy near the coast, so layering is definitely the way to go. The city’s vibe is relaxed, and you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking in Torrey Pines to visiting the USS Midway Museum. If you’re into events, there are usually some interesting local festivals and farmers markets happening. Overall, it’s a solid choice for a laid-back spring getaway where you can enjoy the outdoors without the heat or heavy tourist traffic.
Average Monthly Temperatures
Cost Index
San Diego is generally considered a moderately expensive city for travelers. Accommodation prices tend to be higher than average, especially in popular areas near the beach and downtown. Dining costs can also add up, with a range of mid to high-priced restaurants. Attractions and entertainment often come with moderate to high fees, though there are also plenty of free or low-cost activities like beaches and parks. Transportation costs are manageable but not cheap, with some dependence on car rentals or ride-sharing. Overall, the blend of relatively high lodging and dining costs with moderate transportation and activity expenses places San Diego in the $$$ cost index category.
Location
San Diego is located at coordinates 32.72° latitude, -117.16° longitude.
Weather Summary
May is not typically warm in San Diego, with average temperatures of 20°C.