Coastal weather turns reliably warm and dry, ideal for beach activities and coastal drives. Tourist numbers rise but are still below July-August peaks.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Lebanon in May.
Beirut, Tripoli, Sidon, Tyre
May is when the coast tips decisively toward summer: air warms into the mid-to-high twenties Celsius and humidity starts to rise, though afternoons are tempered by a reliable sea breeze. Beaches and seaside restaurants open in earnest, and nightlife in Jounieh and Beirut revives; swimming becomes comfortable. Watch for occasional Saharan dust haze that can reduce visibility for a day or two - sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen are essential.
Faraya, Mzaar, The Cedars, Qornet al-Sawda
May is reliably green and cool in the range, with warm sun and chilly nights that keep mosquitoes low; wildflowers carpet valleys around the cedars and trails become firm. This is prime season for walking and canyoning in small, shaded gorges - pack layers for sudden cool winds. Mountain resorts are quiet and good for avoiding coastal heat; many restaurants and guesthouses reopen after the winter lull.
Zahle, Baalbek, Chtaura, wineries
May heats up noticeably; daytime highs are warm to hot and dry, while evenings remain comfortably cool - perfect for open-air vineyard visits and the first of the seasonal cultural events. Zahle’s riverside restaurants thrive and agricultural activity ramps up. Carry sunscreen and water when touring ruins or vineyards; afternoon shade and cooler mornings make exploration comfortable.
Tripoli, Batroun, Koura, Akkar hills
May delivers reliably warm and increasingly humid days along the coast, while Akkar hills stay comfortable and green - an appealing contrast for hikers. Coastal swimming becomes comfortable and weekend crowds pick up. If you plan hiking in the higher Akkar ridges, morning starts avoid midday heat; saltwater and mountain microclimates mean pack both sun and wind protection.
Jezzine, Nabatieh, Tyre’s wetlands, Sour
May increases toward hot, sunny Mediterranean conditions with the coast warming into the mid-to-high twenties Celsius and evenings still comfortable. Beaches and seaside restaurants fill up at the weekends; water-based activities are lively. This month is a great compromise for travel - warm enough for swimming but before the extreme heat of July and August - so reserve accommodation early if you want coastal rooms.
There are no major festivals or events in Lebanon during May to be aware of.
See how May compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.