Jacksonville in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Jacksonville
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect beach weather - ocean temperatures hit 26°C (79°F) making it ideal for swimming and water sports without the summer crowd crush
- Spring training atmosphere lingers - baseball facilities still buzzing with energy, and you can catch minor league games at affordable prices ($8-15 tickets)
- Azalea and dogwood blooms peak in early May, transforming Cummer Museum gardens and riverside parks into spectacular displays
- Tourism shoulder season means 25-40% lower hotel rates compared to winter snowbird months, plus shorter wait times at popular restaurants
Considerations
- Afternoon thunderstorms arrive almost daily around 2-4pm, often intense but brief - plan indoor activities for mid-afternoon
- Humidity climbs above 75% by mid-month making outdoor activities feel significantly hotter than the actual temperature
- Love bug season peaks in early May - these harmless but annoying insects swarm around cars and outdoor dining areas
Best Activities in May
Jacksonville Beach Water Sports
May offers the sweet spot for ocean activities - water temperatures reach a comfortable 26°C (79°F) while avoiding summer's intense heat and crowds. Morning sessions (7-11am) provide the calmest conditions before afternoon storms roll in. Perfect for surfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.
St. Johns River Eco Tours
May is peak season for manatee sightings as they return to warmer river waters. Spring migration brings diverse bird species, and morning fog creates magical photography conditions. The pre-storm humidity actually enhances wildlife activity in early morning hours (6-9am).
Historic Riverside and Avondale Walking Tours
May's spring blooms make these historic neighborhoods absolutely impressive, with azaleas and dogwoods at peak color. Cooler morning temperatures (23-26°C/73-79°F) make walking comfortable before midday heat kicks in. Architecture photography is enhanced by the dramatic afternoon storm lighting.
Baseball Stadium Tours and Games
May captures the last of spring training energy with Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp home games in perfect weather. Evening games (7pm starts) avoid afternoon heat and storms. The minor league atmosphere offers intimate baseball experience at fraction of major league costs.
Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
May's moderate morning temperatures make this big cat sanctuary visit comfortable for both visitors and animals. The cats are most active during cooler morning hours (9-11am), and spring means baby animals may be visible. Covered areas provide storm shelter if needed.
Amelia Island Day Trips
May offers perfect conditions for exploring Amelia Island's beaches and historic Fernandina Beach - just 30 minutes north. Ocean breezes moderate the humidity, and you'll avoid summer's peak tourist season. Historic district tours pair perfectly with beach time.
May Events & Festivals
Jacksonville Jazz Festival
One of the largest free jazz festivals in the Southeast, featuring multiple stages along the St. Johns River. The outdoor riverside setting becomes magical in May's spring weather, though afternoon storms occasionally cause brief delays.
World Golf Hall of Fame PGA Tour Events
May typically features professional golf tournaments at nearby courses, taking advantage of Florida's perfect golf weather before summer heat arrives. Spectator tickets offer access to world-class golf in ideal conditions.