12 Best Places to Go in May Before the Summer Crowds

May is the travel industry’s best-kept secret. The weather has warmed up almost everywhere, schools aren’t out yet (so crowds are thin), and prices haven’t climbed to their summer peak.

It’s the sweet spot—that brief window when you can still find a table at a popular restaurant without a reservation, when national parks feel peaceful rather than packed, when you can actually hear the waves instead of other people’s conversations. After years of testing the calendar, I’ve learned that May travelers get the best version of almost everywhere. These 12 best places to go in may offer peak conditions with off-peak crowds.

1. The Greek Islands

By May, the Greek islands have shaken off winter’s chill. Average temperatures hit the mid-70s, the sea is swimmable (if still brisk), and the infamous Meltemi winds haven’t kicked into high gear. Most importantly, the cruise ships haven’t arrived in force yet.

Why May Works:

• Ferry schedules are fully operational
• Hotels and restaurants have opened for the season
• You can walk through Oia’s streets without playing bumper cars with strangers
• Prices are 30-40% lower than July and August

The Island Strategy:

Pick one or two islands maximum. Trying to island-hop multiple destinations in a week is exhausting and counterproductive.

• Crete: Big enough to absorb crowds even in peak season. In May, you’ll have beaches and archaeological sites nearly to yourself. The Samaria Gorge opens for hiking—do it early before the heat builds.
• Milos: The island for beach lovers. Sarakiniko’s white rock formations look lunar. Kleftiko caves accessible by boat tours (book ahead). May water temps allow snorkeling without a wetsuit.
• Naxos: Underrated gem with beautiful beaches, mountain villages, and a fraction of Mykonos/Santorini crowds. The Portara at sunset is magic.
• Paros: Great base with enough nightlife to feel alive but not overwhelming. Easy ferry connections.

Where to Stay:

• Crete: Blue Palace (luxury) or stay in Chania old town for charm
• Milos: Milos Breeze Boutique Hotel (mid-range with views)
• Naxos: Book a room in Naxos Town for walkability

The first two weeks of May are quieter than the last two. Memorial Day weekend (late May) sees an uptick in American tourists.

Insider Tip

A good pair of water shoes is essential for Greek beaches. These ones protect feet from rocky entries and dry quickly.

2. Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks

Utah’s national parks in summer are an exercise in endurance—triple-digit heat, crowded trails, and parking lots that fill by 8 AM. In May, they’re perfect. Temperatures range from 60s to 80s depending on elevation, the desert is still green from spring rains, and the crowds haven’t peaked.

The Parks:

• Zion: The most popular. The shuttle system runs (essential), but lines are manageable. Angels Landing permits required (lottery system)—apply early. The Narrows requires a wetsuit in May (water still snowmelt-cold), but doable.
• Bryce Canyon: Higher elevation means cooler temps, perfect for hiking among the hoodoos. Sunrise and sunset are spectacular. Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails are must-dos.
• Arches: Early morning or late afternoon visits beat heat and crowds. Delicate Arch hike is strenuous but iconic. Reserve timed entry tickets in advance (required peak months).
• Canyonlands: Island in the Sky district offers incredible vistas with less effort. Mesa Arch at sunrise is a photographer’s dream.
• Capitol Reef: The least visited, often skipped. Don’t skip it. The scenic drive, Grand Wash, and Hickman Bridge trail deliver without crowds.

The Logistics:

Fly into Las Vegas (for Zion/Bryce) or Salt Lake City (for everything). Rent a 4WD vehicle (some roads require high clearance). Book lodging in Moab (Arches/Canyonlands), Springdale (Zion), or Torrey (Capitol Reef) well in advance—May is popular with savvy travelers.

Where to Stay:

• Zion: Cable Mountain Lodge (walk to park entrance)
• Bryce: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon (closest lodging)
• Moab: Under Canvas (glamping) or Hoodoo Moab (hip hotel)

Start hikes by 7 AM. You’ll finish before heat builds and find parking easily. Afternoon thunderstorms possible—check forecasts daily.

Insider Tip

A good daypack with hydration bladder is essential. This Osprey model carries water, layers, and snacks comfortably.

3. The Amalfi Coast, Italy (Before the Crush)

The Amalfi Coast in July and August is a beautiful nightmare—gridlocked roads, shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, and prices that make your eyes water. In May, it’s what you came for.

Why May Works:

• Temperatures in the 70s, perfect for walking
• The famous Path of the Gods hiking trail is glorious without heat exhaustion
• Ferry services are running (essential for exploring coastal towns)
• You can actually get a table at restaurants in Positano
• Lemon trees are in bloom—the scent alone is worth the trip

The Strategy:

Base yourself in one town and use ferries to explore others. Driving the coastal road is stressful even in low season—avoid if possible.

• Positano: The iconic view. Stay here if you want the postcard experience. Book accommodations a year ahead, even for May.
• Ravello: Perched above the coast, quieter, with stunning gardens (Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone). Music festival starts late May/June.
• Amalfi: The main town, convenient ferry hub, good restaurants, less expensive than Positano.
• Sorrento: Not technically on the coast but a practical base with easy ferry access and more affordable hotels.

What to Do:

• Path of the Gods: Start in Bomerano, end in Nocelle, take bus down to Positano. 3-4 hours, stunning views, not technically difficult.
• Ferry day trip to Capri: Go early, avoid Anacapri crowds, take chairlift to Monte Solaro for best views.
• Pompeii: Combine with a day trip from Sorrento or Naples. Book a guide—the site is overwhelming without context.
• Lemon tour: Visit a Limoncello producer in Sorrento. Kids and adults both enjoy.

Where to Stay:

• Positano: Le Sirenuse (splurge) or Hotel Poseidon (mid-range)
• Ravello: Villa Cimbrone (unforgettable gardens) or Hotel Villa Maria (more affordable)
• Sorrento: Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria (historic luxury)

The first two weeks of May are quieter than the last two. By late May, European vacation season begins ramping up.

Insider Tip

Comfortable walking sandals are essential for Amalfi. These Ecco sandals handle cobblestones and look good enough for dinner.

4. The Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast in May is moody, dramatic, and spectacularly uncrowded. While everyone else heads to California or Florida, savvy travelers know that Oregon’s coastline delivers some of America’s most stunning scenery with a fraction of the people.

Why May Works:

• Spring storms have passed, but summer fog hasn’t arrived
• Wildflowers bloom along coastal bluffs
• Whale migration continues (gray whales through May)
• Beach fires allowed (with permits) at many locations
• Lodging prices are still reasonable

The Route:

Fly into Portland, drive west to the coast, and spend 4-5 days working your way south or north. The entire coastline is public—every few miles brings another stunning viewpoint.

Essential Stops (South to North):

• Brookings: Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Natural Bridges Cove is otherworldly. Short hikes lead to viewpoints over sea stacks.
• Gold Beach: Prehistoric Gardens (kitschy fun for kids) and jet boat tours up the Rogue River.
• Bandon: Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, Bandon Creamery for cheese, and the most photogenic sea stacks on the coast.
• Florence: Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area—rent an ATV or just marvel at the desert-meets-ocean landscape.
• Yachats: Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. Thor’s Well (spouting hole) and Devil’s Churn are must-sees. Check tide tables for best viewing.
• Newport: The historic bayfront, Oregon Coast Aquarium (excellent), and Yaquina Head Lighthouse.
• Depoe Bay: Whale watching central. Small boats take you close to migrating whales.
• Cannon Beach: The iconic Haystack Rock. Ecola State Park offers hiking with stunning views. The town is touristy but charming.
• Astoria: End at the Columbia River. The Goonies house, the Astoria Column (climb for views), and incredible history.

Where to Stay:

• Cannon Beach: The Ocean Lodge (beachfront, cozy)
• Yachats: Overleaf Lodge (oceanfront rooms with soaking tubs)
• Newport: Embarcadero Resort (condos with kitchens, perfect for families)

Pack layers. The coast can be 50°F and foggy in the morning, 70°F and sunny by afternoon. Always have a sweatshirt handy.

Insider Tip

A good rain jacket is non-negotiable. This Patagonia Torrentshell packs small and keeps you dry through coastal showers.

5. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona in summer is a test of patience—pickpockets thrive in crowds, the heat can be oppressive, and Gaudí’s masterpieces require booking weeks ahead. In May, you get the same city with 30% fewer people and weather that actually lets you enjoy walking.

Why May Works:

• Highs in the mid-70s, perfect for exploring
• Beach weather arrives but without the July/August sardine-can conditions
• Outdoor dining is glorious
• Festivals begin: Primavera Sound music festival (late May) draws crowds but adds energy

Must-Dos:

• Sagrada Familia: Book tickets online weeks ahead, even in May. The morning light through stained glass is transcendent.
• Park Güell: Also reserve ahead. The monumental zone requires tickets; the free parts are lovely but crowded.
• Gothic Quarter: Get lost. Start at Plaça Reial, wander down Carrer del Bisbe, find hidden plazas. No map needed.
• Picasso Museum: Excellent collection in beautiful Gothic buildings. Book ahead.
• Montjuïc: Take the cable car up for city views. The castle, gardens, and Olympic stadium are worth exploring.
• Barceloneta Beach: May water is cool but swimmable. The boardwalk is lively but not overwhelming.

Day Trips:

• Montserrat: An hour by train. The mountain monastery is stunning, the boys’ choir performs at 1 PM (check schedule), and hiking trails offer incredible views.
• Girona: 40 minutes by high-speed train. The Jewish Quarter, cathedral (Game of Thrones fans recognize it), and colorful houses along the Onyar River.
• Costa Brava: Rent a car for a day and explore coves north of Barcelona. Tossa de Mar is the most beautiful.

Where to Stay:

• Eixample: Central, beautiful architecture, convenient. Hotel Casa Fuster is stunning.
• Gothic Quarter: Atmospheric but can be noisy. Hotel Neri is a hidden gem.
• El Born: Trendy, great restaurants, close to everything. Yurbban Passage Hotel has a rooftop with views.

Pickpocketing is real. Use a crossbody bag worn in front, keep phones out of back pockets, and stay aware in crowded areas.

Insider Tip

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America’s most visited national park sees 12+ million visitors annually—most of them between June and October. May offers the park at its peak beauty with a fraction of the crowds.

Why May Works:

• Wildflowers carpet the forest floor (peak usually mid-May)
• Waterfalls are roaring from spring rains
• Lower elevations are warm (70s), higher elevations cool (50s-60s)
• Elk are active in Cataloochee Valley
• Synchronous fireflies (late May/early June) if you time it right—requires lottery permit

What to Do:

• Cades Cove: The 11-mile loop road through a historic valley. Go early (before 9 AM) or late (after 4 PM) to avoid congestion. Wildlife (deer, bears, turkeys) common.
• Newfound Gap Road: Drive from Gatlinburg to Cherokee. Stunning views, pullouts, and trailheads. Clingmans Dome is highest point (closed until late April, open May).
• Hiking: Choose based on ability:
• Easy: Laurel Falls (2.6 miles paved, waterfall)
• Moderate: Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte (5 miles one way, stunning views)
• Challenging: Chimney Tops (4 miles round trip, steep, incredible payoff)
• Cataloochee Valley: Remote, requires driving gravel roads, but offers best elk viewing and solitude.
• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: One-way loop from Gatlinburg. Historic buildings, forest, streams. Avoid midday crowds.

Cell service is spotty to nonexistent in the park. Download offline maps before you go. Bring cash—some vendors and parking areas don’t take cards.

Insider Tip

Where to Stay:

• Inside park: LeConte Lodge (requires booking a year ahead, hike-in only)
• Gatlinburg: The Park Vista (great views, indoor pool) or cabin rentals through Airbnb
• Townsend: “The Quiet Side” of the park. Blackberry Farm if budget allows; otherwise, Creekwalk Inn (B&B charm)

7. The Azores, Portugal

Nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores are Europe’s best-kept secret. May brings spring flowers, green landscapes, and weather that’s perfect for hiking before the summer crowds (relative—crowds here mean 50 other people instead of 5).

Why May Works:

• Temperatures in the 60s-70s, ideal for outdoor activities
• Hydrangeas begin blooming (peak June-July)
• Whale watching prime season (many species pass through)
• Prices lower than summer
• You’ll have trails and viewpoints mostly to yourself

Which Island to Choose:

• São Miguel: The main island, easiest to reach, most infrastructure. Sete Cidades crater lakes, Furnas hot springs, Lagoa do Fogo. 4-5 days minimum.
• Pico: For hikers. Climb Portugal’s highest mountain (requires guide), explore vineyards (UNESCO), whale watch.
• Terceira: Angra do Heroísmo (UNESCO old town), lava tubes, fewer tourists.
• Flores: Most remote, most beautiful waterfalls. Requires extra travel time.

Must-Dos (São Miguel):

• Sete Cidades: Drive the rim road, stop at viewpoints, kayak the lakes if weather permits.
• Furnas: Walk the park, see boiling mud pots, try cozido (stew cooked underground). Book a thermal pool soak at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel (yellow-stained water, mineral-rich).
• Lagoa do Fogo: Hike to the rim or down to the lake. Views are breathtaking.
• Nordeste: The eastern region with waterfalls, hiking trails, and fewer visitors.
• Whale watching: Book with a responsible operator (many guarantee sightings). You’ll likely see dolphins too.

Where to Stay:

• São Miguel: Octant Ponta Delgada (modern, great pool) or White Exclusive Suites (adults-only luxury)
• Terceira: Angra Marina Hotel (harbor views)
• Pico: Alma do Pico (boutique, vineyard views)

A good waterproof hiking jacket is essential. This Arc’teryx shell handles Azores weather beautifully.

8. Charleston and Savannah (Before the Swelter)

Southern coastal cities are glorious in spring and unbearable in summer. May is the last month you can enjoy them before humidity turns walking into a cardio workout.

Why May Works:

• Highs in the 80s but low humidity (still pleasant)
• Gardens in full bloom (Magnolia Plantation, Boone Hall, Forsyth Park)
• Outdoor dining is perfect
• Fewer crowds than March/April (spring break crowds have dispersed)

What to Do (Charleston):

• Historic District walking: Rainbow Row, Battery Park, hidden alleyways. Start early before heat builds.
• Magnolia Plantation: Gardens are spectacular in May. Tram tour for overview, then wander.
• Fort Sumter: Ferry from Liberty Square. History comes alive, kids love boats.
• SheMansion: Actually, Boone Hall Plantation (used in The Notebook). Avenue of oaks is iconic.
• Beach time: Isle of Palms or Sullivan’s Island. Perfect May beach weather.

What to Do (Savannah):

• Forsyth Park: The fountain, walking paths, people-watching. Saturday farmers market.
• Historic squares: 22 squares, each unique. Find your favorite.
• Bonaventure Cemetery: Beautiful, haunting, featured in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
• River Street: Tourist central but fun. Candy kitchens, shops, boat tours.
• Tybee Island: 20 minutes away. Beach, lighthouse, casual seafood.

Book dinner reservations at least two weeks ahead, even in May. Popular spots like FIG (Charleston) and The Grey (Savannah) fill up.

Pro Tip

Where to Stay:

• Charleston: The Dewberry (splurge), French Quarter Inn (mid-range)
• Savannah: Perry Lane Hotel (rooftop pool), The Marshall House (historic)

9. The Canadian Rockies (Banff and Jasper)

Most people visit the Canadian Rockies in July and August, when the lakes are ice-free but the crowds are overwhelming. May offers a trade-off: some lakes still have ice, but you’ll have them nearly to yourself.

Why May Works:

• Lower elevation trails are snow-free
• Wildlife is active (bears emerging from hibernation—carry spray)
• Waterfalls are roaring with snowmelt
• Lodging prices are significantly lower
• The famous lakes (Lake Louise, Moraine Lake) may still have ice, but the turquoise color begins appearing

What to Know:

• Moraine Lake road opens when snow clears (often late May/early June). Check conditions.
• Lake Louise is accessible year-round; the lake may still be frozen early May.
• Columbia Icefield opens mid-May (Ice Explorer tours start).
• Some higher elevation trails remain snow-covered—check trail conditions.

What to Do:

• Lake Louise: Walk the lakeshore trail regardless of ice. The view is stunning. Canoe rentals start when ice clears.
• Moraine Lake: If road open, the rockpile trail offers iconic views. Arrive early (parking fills by 8 AM).
• Icefields Parkway: The drive between Banff and Jasper is one of world’s most beautiful. Allow a full day with stops.
• Peyto Lake: Accessible by short walk, turquoise water begins showing in May.
• Athabasca Falls: Powerful, accessible, quick stop.
• Banff Gondola: Ride up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views. Book ahead.
• Hot springs: Banff Upper Hot Springs soothe tired muscles.

Where to Stay:

• Banff: Fairmont Banff Springs (splurge, iconic), Elk + Avenue Hotel (mid-range)
• Lake Louise: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (book year ahead) or HI hostel (budget)
• Jasper: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (splurge) or Forest Park Hotel (mid-range)

Bear spray is essential for hiking. This Counter Assault spray comes with a holster. Know how to use it before you go.

10. The California Coast: Big Sur to Mendocino

The California coast in May is nature at its most generous. Wildflowers blanket the hillsides, whales migrate past, and the fog hasn’t yet settled in for summer.

Why May Works:

• Peak wildflower season (California poppies, lupine)
• Gray whale migration continues through May
• Clearer skies than summer (when coastal fog often obscures views)
• Cool but pleasant temperatures (60s)
• Shoulder season rates at coastal hotels

The Route:

Fly into San Francisco, drive north or south. Both directions offer magic.

South to Big Sur:

• Santa Cruz: Beach boardwalk (limited rides open May, weekends), surfing culture.
• Monterey: Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium (world-class, go early), 17-Mile Drive.
• Carmel-by-the-Sea: Fairy-tale cottages, dog-friendly everywhere, beautiful beach.
• Big Sur: The star. Stop at Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach (purple sand, keyhole rock), McWay Falls. Book lodging well ahead.
• Hearst Castle: San Simeon. Over-the-top opulence, fascinating tours. Book ahead.

North to Mendocino:

• Point Reyes National Seashore: Lighthouse, elephant seals, hiking. The earthquake trail shows fault line evidence.
• Bodega Bay: Hitchcock’s The Birds was filmed here. Sonoma Coast State Park beaches.
• Jenner: Where Russian River meets ocean. Look for harbor seals.
• Mendocino: The town itself is gorgeous—cliffside Victorian houses, art galleries, incredible food. Russian Gulch State Park has a waterfall and blowhole.
• Fort Bragg: Glass Beach (old dump site now covered in sea glass—collecting discouraged but viewing fascinating).

Highway 1 can close due to landslides. Check CalTrans conditions before driving. Allow extra time.

Pro Tip

Where to Stay:

• Big Sur: Post Ranch Inn (splurge of a lifetime) or Big Sur River Inn (more affordable)
• Mendocino: Brewery Gulch Inn (eco-luxury) or Stanford Inn (gorgeous gardens)

11. Washington, D.C. (Post-Cherry Blossom Peace)

Everyone visits D.C. in April for the cherry blossoms. May is when the city exhales—the crowds thin, the weather stays beautiful, and the city feels like it belongs to residents again.

Why May Works:

• Tulips replace cherry blossoms (Equinox tulip display at Union Station)
• Perfect walking weather (70s, low humidity)
• Museums are less crowded
• Outdoor dining in full swing
• Memorial Day weekend events (Navy Week, concerts)

What to Do:

• The National Mall: Start at Capitol, walk to Lincoln Memorial. Stop at Smithsonian museums along the way.
• Newseum: If still open (check status) or International Spy Museum (relocated, excellent).
• Georgetown: Cobblestone streets, waterfront, shopping, dining. Walk the C&O Canal.
• National Arboretum: Less visited than Mall, stunning in spring. Bonsai collection, Capitol columns.
• Great Falls: 30 minutes from downtown. Potomac River waterfalls, hiking, kayaking.
• Eastern Market: Weekend food and crafts market. Great for people-watching.

Where to Stay:

• Georgetown: Rosewood (luxury) or Graham Hotel (boutique)
• Downtown: Hotel Hive (micro-rooms, affordable) or Willard InterContinental (historic)

12. The Scottish Highlands

May in Scotland is a revelation. The days stretch long (sunset after 9 PM), the midges haven’t emerged yet (crucial), and the weather is often surprisingly pleasant.

Why May Works:

• Average highs in 60s—genuinely pleasant
• No midges (biting insects that plague summer hikers)
• Longer daylight for exploring
• Wildflowers and lambs
• Lower prices than June-September

What to Do:

• Isle of Skye: The Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr, Quiraing. Book accommodations months ahead—Skye is popular even in May.
• Loch Lomond: Easy day trip from Glasgow. Cruise the loch, hike Conic Hill for views.
• Glencoe: Dramatic valley, hiking trails, visitor center with history of clan massacre.
• Fort William: Base for Ben Nevis (UK’s highest mountain). Climb if fit and prepared (guided recommended).
• Cairngorms National Park: Hiking, wildlife (reindeer herd!), scenic drives.
• Edinburgh: Start or end here. Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat hike.

Where to Stay:

• Skye: Skeabost House Hotel (historic) or book a cottage through Airbnb
• Fort William: Inverlochy Castle (splurge, incredible) or Alexandra Hotel (budget)
• Edinburgh: The Balmoral (iconic) or Hotel du Vin (boutique)

Book rental cars with manual transmission unless you specifically request automatic—and request it early. Automatics are limited.

Insider Tip

A good rain jacket is essential. This Rab downpour jacket is lightweight and packs small.

What to Pack for May Travel

The Universal Essentials:

• Layers. May is transitional everywhere. A system of t-shirt + fleece + rain jacket works for most destinations.
• Comfortable walking shoes. You’ll walk more than you expect.
• Reusable water bottle. Save money, stay hydrated.
• Sunscreen. Even cooler destinations have strong sun at elevation.
• Phone charger bank. Navigation and photos drain batteries.

Destination-Specific:

• Beach destinations: Swimsuit, cover-up, water shoes, rash guard
• Hiking destinations: Hiking boots, daypack, trekking poles (if you use them)
• City destinations: Nicer outfit for dinners out, crossbody bag for safety
• Rainy destinations: Quality rain jacket, waterproof shoes, umbrella

A universal power adapter with USB ports is essential for international travel. This one works in all 12 destinations.

The May Travel Mindset

May travelers are the smart ones. They’ve figured out that waiting for summer means waiting for crowds, higher prices, and heat that limits what you can actually do. They travel now—when the world is waking up, when flowers are blooming, when you can still hear yourself think at viewpoints.

These 12 best places to go in may span continents and climates, but they share one thing: they’re at their best this month. Not in spite of May, but because of it.

Book something. May is waiting.