May · Australia
Best time to visit Great Barrier Reef in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Great Barrier Reef in May
Average temperature 24°C, 99 mm of rain, about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 78% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
7.0/10
Ranked #6 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 24°C
- Rainfall
- 99 mm
- Humidity
- 78%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 29
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$ · Moderate Cost ($$)
May in Great Barrier Reef scores 7.0/10 for nature and wildlife travel - an above-average month (#6 of 12). Expect around 24°C, 99 mm of rain, and roughly 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
From June to October, dry southeasterly winds clear the reef's water to 30m visibility—prime snorkeling season.
May in Great Barrier Reef — reliably good (6th best month)
May averages 24°C (75°F) — warm for the outdoors: start trails early, use shaded routes at midday, and carry more water than you think you need.
Rainfall runs 99 mm, so plan one flexible day in three; you still get about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 11.3 hours of daylight.
It scores 7/10 here, 6th of 12 months, against 9/10 in the destination's best month.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection, a packable rain layer, footwear you can get muddy.
Figure on mid-season pricing, with crowds are moderate.
Flexible dates? August scores 2 points higher here — enough to change the trip.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Great Barrier Reef in May?
- In May, Great Barrier Reef averages 24°C, 99 mm of rain, and about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 7.0/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Great Barrier Reef?
- May earns a 7.0/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Great Barrier Reef in May?
- Expect about 99 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 78% and there are about 29 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Great Barrier Reef
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.