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May in Ibiza: What's on and weather
A taste of the summer on the White Isle
A delightful month, providing a sneaky taste of the impending summer season.
By the beginning of May, most of the island's beach bars and beach clubs are open, and Ibiza's beaches and ports are prepped for the season. The markets are back in full swing with plenty of new treasures to entice you, and sporting enthusiasts are out in force as it's as the island enjoys balmy but not too hot temperatures, perfect for exploring the beautiful trails and coastlines on foot or bike! Cultural events and fairs are also back from May offering lots of fun activities across the island.
Whether you want to experience the magic of the superclub openings or immerse yourself in the island’s traditions, May is the perfect time to make a trip over to the White Isle. With so many great activities on, we have given you a selection of the best things to do in Ibiza this month.
Worth knowing
There is plenty going for everyone in Ibiza in May. Don't forget to check out our accommodation options for the best deals on the island.
What's the weather like in Ibiza in May?
In May the Ibizan climate gets noticeably warmer, with just a few days of rain usually forecast across the month and temperatures ranging from lows of 15 to highs of 23 across the day and average temperatures of 19°C. You're likely to experience more perfect sunny days than cloudy ones, and you're unlikely to see much if any rain. May is a great time to be on the beach, as it's warm enough to lay out in the sun, but it's still quiet and peaceful, before the arrival of most tourists. It’s possible to swim in the sea at this time of year but it’s generally a little too cool for most. The average sea temperature is 19 C.
Sunrise is before 07.00, ideal for hikers or cyclists keen to explore the island before before lunch. The evening temperatures are warm enough to sit out for an al freso dinner with just a light jumper after sunset, which gets as late as 21:00 at this time of year.
What's on in Ibiza in May?
Medieval Festival in Dalt Vila:
No trip to the White Isle in May would be complete without experiencing the magic of the Ibiza Medieval Fair. The festival takes place every year over the second week of May and pays homage to Dalt Vila’s inclusion as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this historic site in the heart of the city, the streets come alive with a magical celebration of the city's history and its people. Food stalls and local craft markets take over the picturesque cobbled streets. An impressive program of activities is on offer including medieval performers, dance shows, theatre, illusionism, handicraft markets, jugglers and puppets. The event is always certain to attract huge crowds and it's a great experience for the whole family, with an endless stream of entertainment. The festival, takes place over four days and is a great way to feel part of the island and its people and culture.
Fiesta de Maig:
On the first Sunday of the month of May head to Santa Eulalia, which you'll find full of festivities to welcome the spring. Celebrations include decorating the town with flowers, street processions, traditional dances, fireworks and a motor fair all take place. It's one of the most colourful festivals around and you can expect a parade of horse-drawn locals in traditional costume, lots of flowers around the town, and plenty of fireworks. It's a fun-filled event for the whole family, not to be missed. Stay for a few days, as the town is a lovely place to visit even once the festivities subside. Based around a pretty promenade, there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes, plus a stunning white sandy beach.
Music festivals & events:
May sees many of Ibiza’s most loved venues reopen for the summer season, with keenly-awaited parties and events taking place throughout the month. Some of our favourite venues will open in May ready to show off their excellent musical offerings for the upcoming season. The annual International Music Summit is also held in late-April or May every year, a 3-day electronic dance music conference founded by Pete Tong and bringing the glamour and glitz back to Ibiza to kick off the summer season, featuring an amazing open-air party at the top of Dalt Vila. An event not to be missed!
Markets in May
In May you can expect to find many of the local markets back in full swing for the summer season and ready to welcome visitors with a range of exciting treasures to be found.
May sees the return of the beloved Benirras Hippy Market, where you can find everything from jewellery to arts and crafts at a host of inviting stalls. With live music and the island’s local community hypnotising their audience with the beat of their drums, the market is the perfect accompaniment to watch the sun go down. The market is held every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday until the end of October. Benirràs Beach is one of Ibiza’s most iconic settings, with breath-taking sunsets, awe-inspiring views across its surrounding landscapes, and regular music events held on the beach. A great place to explore further after you've visited the market.
Also open from May, the Cala Llonga market stalls line the promenade along the seafront every Thursday evening, with a small selection of stalls sells quality fashion, accessories, silver jewellery and other interesting souvenirs. There also is live music on most evenings during the season and plenty of opportunity to enjoy a drink afterwards in one of the many bars and restaurants lining the beach.
Yoga on the beach in May
With the warmer temperatures and longer days, May is an excellent time of year to unroll the yoga mat and head down to the beaches early to catch the sunrise, or at the end of a long day to enjoy the sunset. What better way to rewind and recharge after a night in the club than a spot of yoga followed by a healthy breakfast, enjoying the calming sounds and sights of the sea.
Go solo, or check out the popular and beautiful Amante Beach Club and the hippy-chic Aiyanna beach Club which are open again in May and run regular group morning yoga & brunch sessions on their beach terraces regularly throughout the week during the summer season.
Opening parties continue in May
Clubs
May sees many of Ibiza’s most loved clubs reopen for the summer season, with a host of highly anticipated opening parties scheduled throughout the month. Some of our favourite clubs including Café Mambo, the the award-winning super club Amnesia Ibiza and San Antonio’s favourite daytime pool party Ibiza Rocks reopen in May, along with the extraordinary Ushuaïa and Hï Ibiza.
Beach Bars & Restaurants
Lots of beach bars and restaurants around the island also re-open from May to indulge in some tropical fun, where you will find cocktails, music, a mouthwatering menu and a fun atmosphere. There's no better way to spend the day than with a mojito in hand and toes in the sand.
Beach Clubs
Of course for a more extravagant day out, then sipping cocktails poolside or enjoying lengthy luncheons at some of the best beach clubs is one of the most popular activities in Ibiza from May. Opening parties can be found in all corners of Ibiza throughout May, so you won't be hard-pressed to find yourself an excellent day out.
Running and trail running in May
May is an excellent time of year to explore the trails and terrain in Ibiza. The climate is perfect at this time of year for running throughout the day, with temperatures not too sweltering and reaching highs of 24. For this reason there are various sporting events that take place throughout April and May each year. And, of course, Ibiza also has some of the most beautiful coastlines, beaches, cliffs, and picturesque towns which you will encounter along the way.
The paradisiacal island of Formentera is one of the favourite spots in Ibiza to discover on foot, so get your running shoes on and take to the trails. There is a regular trail running race that takes the participants all around its coastline, a total of 60 kilometres. For the most adventurous you can sign-up to the full event (dates vary each year), or just take to it in your own time to try one of it's legs which range from 9km - 21km in distance.