May is a sweet spot: excellent warm, dry weather, the last whales, far fewer crowds and better value than the winter peak. If you want great conditions without the high-season prices, May is hard to beat.
Weather in May
| Average high | 26°C |
| Average low | 21°C |
| Sea temperature | 24°C |
| Rainfall | Gentle breeze |
| Wind | ≈9 hrs |
| Daily sunshine | ≈9 hrs |
These figures reflect the eastern beach islands of Sal, Boa Vista and Maio, which are hottest and driest. The green, mountainous islands — Santo Antão, Fogo, São Nicolau and Brava — are a few degrees cooler and can be cloudier and wetter, especially at altitude.
What’s on in May
The tail of whale season; quiet island life between the big festivals.
Wildlife: Last of the humpback whales; turtle season not yet started.
Crowds & prices
Low season — thinner crowds and better prices. For the bigger picture across the year, see our guide to the best time to visit Cape Verde.
What to do in May
Whatever the month, you can pair a beach island such as Sal or Boa Vista with something more active — hiking on Santo Antão, the Pico do Fogo climb, or watersports on Sal. Not sure where to go? Compare islands in our guide to which island to choose.
Frequently asked questions
Is May a good time to visit Cape Verde?
Warm, dry, quiet and great value. May offers around 26°C by day and a 24°C sea, so it’s generally good for a beach trip. See the notes above on crowds and what’s on.
Can you swim in Cape Verde in May?
Yes — the sea sits around 24°C in May. Choose sheltered bays for swimming, as open beaches can have strong currents.
What is the weather like in Cape Verde in May?
Expect around 26°C by day and 21°C at night, a sea of about 24°C, gentle breeze rainfall and ≈9 hrs.