May in Washington
WHat's going on in seattle?
Average temp is 55–75°F
Average rainfall is ~1.9 in
The Best May Activities
May in Washington State brings the first warm, sunny days—perfect for some of my favorite outdoor activities. The snow starts melting, making it the perfect month for whitewater activities. You’ll still experience some rainy and overcast days, but the flowers are in full bloom.
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The washington weather corner
Washington Weather in May
May is one of my favorite months of the year when it comes to the weather in Washington. The rainy days become few and further between, and when the rain comes it’s much different than the cold misty rain that is around all winter. The May rain is heavier, but accompanied by warmer weather and sunshine before and after rainy stints.
For visiting the outdoors, you’ll want to keep in mind that the weather is much different depending on where you are located. The area around Seattle and close to the Puget Sound is much warmer than high elevation places in the mountain ranges. The eastern portion of the state dry and hot, with many days reaching the mid to high 80s during May.
When it comes to apparel, I recommend being diligent about layering. You really don’t know if it’s going to be hot or cold if you’re coming to visit the state, so prepare for long sleeves, tank tops, and rain coats! No matter what you decide to pack, a good rain coat is a non-negotiable. There is still a lot of rain around this time of year, and as I mentioned above, the rain in the spring is heavy and will get you wet.
Kayaking and Canoeing in Washington
May is an ideal time for kayaking and canoeing, as the weather warms up and the waters remain serene. Paddle through the glassy lakes of the Cascade Mountains or venture into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Chelan. The calm of the early morning or evening hours offers a peaceful way to connect with nature. For a more coastal experience, head to the San Juan Islands, where you can glide through quiet coves, enjoy stunning coastal views, and catch sight of local wildlife like seals, otters, and a variety of birds. Although you won’t see the glowing bioluminescence of summer, the natural beauty of these locations will leave you in awe.
Rafting on the Wenatchee River
May is the perfect time for rafting on the Wenatchee River, where spring runoff creates exciting Class III rapids. The river, with its stunning Cascade backdrop, offers thrilling whitewater for experienced rafters and calmer stretches for those looking to relax. The section between Leavenworth and Monitor provides a mix of adventure and scenic beauty, making it a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re new to rafting or an expert, guided trips are available to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.
Tidepooling on the Olympic Coast
Spring is one of the best seasons for tidepooling, and Washington’s rugged Olympic Coast offers some of the best opportunities to explore this fascinating marine environment. As the tides recede, you’ll find an incredible diversity of sea life in the pools left behind. At spots like Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach, starfish cling to rocks, crabs scurry across the sand, and sea anemones gently sway in the water. With lower tides and calmer conditions, May offers a great opportunity to observe these colorful ecosystems in their full, vibrant glory. Just be sure to respect the tide and leave everything as you found it!
Whale Watching on the Washington Coast
May is the height of gray whale migration in Washington, making it an exciting time for whale watching. These magnificent creatures travel along the Pacific coast as they make their way to their feeding grounds in the Arctic. Head to the San Juan Islands, where you can take a guided tour or simply watch from the shore at Lime Kiln Point State Park. Other great spots for whale watching include Deception Pass, Point Wilson, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. In addition to the gray whales, you may also spot orcas, humpback whales, and porpoises. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture these unforgettable encounters with nature.
Looking For Something Else?
Looking for more reccommendations for visiting Washington state in May? I’d love to help! Send me a message with what you’re looking for and i’ll get back to you soon.