Best Vacations in May: Why This Month is Perfect for a Getaway
When you’re searching for the best vacations in May, timing is everything. Spring is in full bloom, but summer crowds haven’t yet arrived, making May the golden window for travel. With mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and vibrant natural beauty, May invites travelers to explore cities, coastlines, and mountain trails with ease.
From Europe’s blooming countrysides to North America’s rejuvenated parks and Asia’s late cherry blossoms, this month offers diverse adventures without peak-season prices. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, seeking solo inspiration, or craving outdoor thrills, now is the time to pack your bags. Here’s our curated guide to the best vacations in May, complete with insider tips and hidden gems to elevate your journey.
Puglia, Italy – Sun-Drenched Coastlines and Hidden Treasures
If you’re craving culture and coastal charm, Puglia tops the list of best vacations in May. This region in southern Italy remains blissfully below the radar, offering sunny beaches, historic towns, and fewer crowds than Rome or Venice.
Base yourself in Polignano a Mare or Monopoli for relaxed seaside vibes. Wander Alberobello’s whimsical trulli houses or explore Lecce’s Baroque splendor, often dubbed the “Florence of the South.” Culinary travelers will fall for fresh orecchiette pasta paired with spring greens and olive oil from local groves.
Insider Tip: Visit on May 1st for Labor Day festivities—expect parades, live music, and community feasts. Smaller towns provide a more authentic experience than the urban bustle.
Moab, Utah – Trails, Arches, and Starry Skies
Utah’s red-rock paradise ranks high among the best vacations in May thanks to cool temperatures and accessible trails. Moab, the launchpad for Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, is a magnet for adventurers without the blistering summer heat.
Begin with a sunrise hike to Delicate Arch or paddle through scenic bends on the Colorado River. Book a thrilling 4WD tour along the White Rim Road with an expert guide for off-the-beaten-path views. In the evening, stargaze from a glamping tent at Under Canvas Moab or camp at Sand Flats Recreation Area under a milky sky.
Good to Know: Secure accommodations and national park passes early through Recreation.gov for smoother planning and access to ranger-led programs.
Tohoku, Japan – Blossoms, Mountains, and Serenity
For travelers seeking tranquil beauty and cultural depth, Japan’s Tohoku region is one of the best vacations in May. While central Japan moves past cherry blossom season, Tohoku’s trees are still in full bloom.
Stroll Hirosaki Castle’s iconic moat, flanked by thousands of cherry trees. Wander the Kitakami River promenade amid food stalls and festivals. Hike emerging trails in Towada-Hachimantai National Park or the Zao Mountains, with sweeping vistas and alpine air.
Unwind at a forested onsen retreat like Aoni Onsen, lit only by lanterns for an unplugged experience.
Local Insight: The JR East Tohoku Rail Pass offers unlimited travel for foreigners, making it easy to explore the region’s mix of coastlines, peaks, and cultural sites.
Madeira, Portugal – A Blooming Atlantic Paradise
With its springtime Flower Festival and lush hiking paths, Madeira earns a top spot on our list of best vacations in May. Temperatures hover in the pleasant 60s and 70s°F (18–22°C), perfect for exploration without overheating.
Families love the levada walks—flat irrigation trails lined with wild flowers and waterfalls. Levada do Rei is a favorite for moderate hikers. For adrenaline junkies, canyoning in Ribeira das Cales or paragliding in Arco da Calheta delivers unforgettable thrills.
Hidden Gem: Visit the Laurisilva Forest near Santana for a fairytale walk through a UNESCO-listed wilderness brimming with rare plants and birds.
British Columbia, Canada – Alpine Escapes and Lakeside Relaxation
For outdoorsy travelers eyeing North America’s best vacations in May, British Columbia offers mountains, lakes, and quiet trails before the summer crowds arrive. Interior regions like the Okanagan and Columbia Valley are dry and scenic this time of year.
Revelstoke provides access to high-country beauty via the Meadows in the Sky Parkway, which opens progressively in May. Toward Penticton, the Naramata Bench brings wine lovers and families together with hillside vineyards and warm lake shores for picnic-styled bliss.
Pro Tip: May is be ideal for wildlife viewing. Spot moose, bears, and migrating birds, or brave the glacial waters of the Kicking Horse River with a thrilling whitewater rafting trip.
Andalusia, Spain – Festivals, Courtyards, and Whitewashed Villages
Andalusia bursts into bloom in May, making it a cultural highlight among the best vacations in May. Take part in the vibrant Feria de Abril in Seville or visit Córdoba during the Patio Festival, when locals open their flowery courtyards to the public.
Granada’s Alhambra is both dazzling and less crowded in May. Hike the Sierra Nevada foothills for picturesque scenery, or road trip through the white villages such as Ronda and Grazalema for a quieter slice of Andalusian charm.
Traveler’s Tip: Smaller villages may not accept cards—bring cash and rent a car to meander your way to charming inland hamlets like Setenil de las Bodegas.
Maui, Hawaii – Island Bliss Without the Busy Season
Considered one of the absolute best vacations in May, Maui delivers warm breezes, gorgeous beaches, and more affordable lodging before the summer rush.
Drive the Road to Hana for waterfalls and dramatic coastlines, or lounge on Wailea’s golden sands. Early risers should book a sunrise experience at Haleakalā National Park for panoramic volcanic views and celestial skies.
Family Favorite: Learn to surf in Lahaina or snorkel at Molokini Crater—calm waters in May make these experiences ideal for kids and beginners.
Plan Your Dream May Escape
From alpine meadows in Canada to sun-filled courtyards in Spain, the best vacations in May offer the perfect blend of comfort, beauty, and adventure. Lower prices, smaller crowds, and nature in full bloom make this an ideal month for travel.”
Whether you’re navigating cherry blossom paths in Japan or sipping wine near Okanagan Lake, one thing is clear: May offers mood-boosting experiences that rival even the busiest summer escapes. Book early, travel smart, and savor the shoulder-season magic.
