What to Expect from San Diego in May

May begins the drier part of the year, with sunshine and little rain.

More About: San Diego in the Spring

San Diego Weather in May

Average High Temperature: 68°F/20°C
Average Low Temperature: 59°F/15°C
Rain & Clouds Index: 0.23 inches (0.3 cm) rain, 59% sunshine

What to Pack, What to Wear in May

Pack a mid-weight jacket, especially for evenings near the water. Bring short-sleeved shirts and lightweight pants, with a sweater for layering.

You may want shorts on the warmest days.

San Diego May Events

• Cinco de Mayo (May 5): One of the biggest Cinco de Mayo festivals in the U.S., it celebrates Mexican independence day.
• Del Mar Horse Show: This three-week event is held April through May. It's one of the most popular equestrian events in Southern California.
• Carlsbad Flower Fields: A spring show that's also a business, at a flower bulb grower's site. Depending on weather, they bloom between early March and early May
• San Diego Rock'n'Roll Marathon: A running event so popular that it sells out months ahead of time.

Especially Fun in May

The Balboa Park Rose Garden is in full bloom in April and May.

March through August is time for a uniquely California event. During the annual grunion run, thousands of tiny, silvery fish mate by the light of the full moon (or the new one). See the schedule. The best San Diego beaches to see the show are La Jolla Shores, Pacific Beach between Tourmaline Park and Lifeguard Tower 20, Mission Beach between Lifeguard Towers 19 and 10, Ocean Beach between Mission Bay Channel and the Ocean Beach Pier and on Coronado between the Hotel del Coronado and Dog Beach.

Averages and Reality

The weather information we've given above is best used as a general idea of what things may be like. The only rain all summer could fall on your perfect picnic, or a winter day could be so warm you'll wish you packed your shorts.

Averages are helpful for planning ahead, but don't count on your trip being "average." Check the San Diego weather forecast before you leave home.

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