May in Madeira is a sunny, comfortable month with little rain and long days. In Funchal, daytime highs are typically around 21 °C and nights around 15 °C, with the sea at about 19 °C.
| Month | Day | Night | Sea | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 90 mm |
| February | 19 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 75 mm |
| March | 20 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 70 mm |
| April | 20 °C | 14 °C | 18 °C | 40 mm |
| May | 21 °C | 15 °C | 19 °C | 20 mm |
| June | 23 °C | 17 °C | 20 °C | 10 mm |
| July | 25 °C | 18 °C | 22 °C | 2 mm |
| August | 26 °C | 19 °C | 23 °C | 5 mm |
| September | 26 °C | 19 °C | 23 °C | 30 mm |
| October | 24 °C | 18 °C | 22 °C | 80 mm |
| November | 22 °C | 16 °C | 21 °C | 95 mm |
| December | 20 °C | 14 °C | 19 °C | 100 mm |
These are typical averages for Funchal on the south coast. The north coast is usually cloudier and wetter, and at Pico do Arieiro temperatures are around 10 °C lower. Average rainfall in Funchal is about 20 mm in May. Rain is rare on the south coast.
For live conditions, check the forecast of the Portuguese weather institute (IPMA) and mountain webcams before a sunrise trip. See the full-year overview in Madeira weather.
One of the best months for hiking, jeep tours and all-day trips. Porto Moniz and the lidos start to be pleasant for swimming on warm days, and boat trips run on calm seas.
Find guided options in our tours and guided hikes pages.
The Flower Festival may fall in early May.
See the full calendar in festivals and events.
Yes, it is one of the best months overall: dry, mild and before the summer crowds.
Around 19 °C on average.
Light clothes for the coast, a warm layer and a rain jacket for the mountains, and shoes with grip for walking.
For independent walkers who like to set their own pace without a guide. There is enough time to complete both levada walks, 25 Fontes and Risco.
from €43 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
For early risers who want a sunrise above the clouds plus about 5 hours of walking on PR1 and PR3, without a guide. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Dolphin and whale watching on a classic catamaran with a cap of 18 couples. The 9 am trip in July and August lasts 2.5 hours without swimming; later departures include a 20-minute break.
from €40 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A half-day 4x4 outing for those who like small groups and wide views from an open-roof jeep. Stops include Cabo Girão and Jardim da Serra.
from €44 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A 13 km self-guided walk (PR9) from the Queimadas forest park in Santana, through Laurissilva forest and rock tunnels to a waterfall pool. Suits independent walkers.
from €28 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
One-way scenic ride up to Monte, with pickup in the Funchal area or at the cruise port. Then try the toboggans or visit the Tropical Garden on your own. Photo stops on request.
from €25 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Suits walkers who want levada channels, the Risco waterfall and endemic plants in about 4.5 hours. The route ends at the 25 Fontes lagoon, and the way back uses an 800 m tunnel.
from €45 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A relaxed sunrise at the viewpoints for travellers who want no strenuous activity. Small group, with a start timed to arrive before the crowds. Trails such as PR1 are not included.
from €35 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
