Mobile in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Mobile

29°C (84°F) High Temp

21°C (70°F) Low Temp

76 mm (3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Peak azalea blooming season - this destination and Historic Blakeley Park showcase busy azaleas and dogwoods that locals specifically plan around
Festival season begins with authentic Gulf Coast celebrations - May weather is ideal for outdoor events before summer heat arrives
Perfect temperature window for exploring historic districts on foot - mornings and late afternoons stay comfortable at 21-24°C (70-75°F)
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation rates drop 20-30% compared to March-April peak, while weather remains excellent

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms arrive 2-3 times per week, typically 3-5pm lasting 45-90 minutes - can disrupt outdoor touring plans
Rising humidity makes midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - locals avoid outdoor activities 11am-3pm by mid-May
Tourist season transitions create inconsistent attraction hours - some seasonal tours end while summer schedules haven't started

Best Activities in May

Historic Mobile Bay Area Exploration

May's mild mornings (21-24°C/70-75°F) are perfect for walking historic districts before afternoon storms. Azaleas peak in Oakleigh Garden District, and humidity hasn't reached summer levels. Local garden clubs specifically schedule tours for early May when flowers are optimal and heat is manageable.

Booking Tip: Book walking tours or mansion visits for morning slots (9am-11am) to avoid afternoon storms. Garden district tours typically cost $15-25, mansion tours $12-18. Many tours pause June-August due to heat, making May ideal timing. Check current available tours in booking section below.

Mobile Bay and Eastern Shore Tours

May offers calm bay conditions before summer storm season intensifies. Water temperature reaches comfortable 22°C (72°F), and afternoon storms are brief rather than all-day events. This is prime season for dolphin watching as calving season continues and visibility is excellent.

Booking Tip: Morning departures (8am-11am) typically avoid afternoon storms entirely. Bay tours range $35-55 per adult, dolphin tours $25-40. Book 5-7 days ahead as operators reduce schedules during summer storms. See current bay tour options in booking section below.

Gulf State Park and Baldwin County Nature Activities

Migration season brings 200+ bird species through this destination area. May weather allows comfortable hiking on 24 km (15 miles) of trails before summer heat. Morning temperatures of 21-23°C (70-73°F) are ideal for pier fishing and beach walking, with afternoon storms providing cooling relief.

Booking Tip: State park entry fees are $5-8 per vehicle. Guided birding tours run $20-35 and book quickly during migration peaks. Fishing pier access is $3-5. Plan outdoor activities for 7am-11am window. Current nature tour availability shown in booking section below.

Mobile River Delta and Causeway Boulevard Driving Tours

May offers excellent visibility across this destination before summer haze arrives. The 5.8 km (3.6 mile) Causeway Boulevard provides impressive bay views, and river delta tours showcase spring wildlife activity. Comfortable car temperatures mean windows-down driving is pleasant early and late in day.

Booking Tip: Self-driving tours cost only fuel - Causeway Boulevard and Scenic Route 98 are free. Guided delta tours range $30-50 and include wildlife spotting. Book afternoon slots (2pm-5pm) as brief storms actually enhance wildlife viewing. See current delta tour options in booking section below.

Downtown Mobile Food and Culture Walking Experiences

May evenings (6pm-9pm) offer perfect temperatures for food tours as afternoon storms clear out heat and humidity. Local restaurants extend patio seasons, and food festivals begin monthly schedules. This timing captures both winter comfort foods and early summer Gulf specialties on menus.

Booking Tip: Evening food tours cost $45-75 and fill quickly as weather becomes ideal. Book 10-14 days ahead for weekend slots. Many tours include 4-6 stops covering 1.6 km (1 mile) of downtown. Storm cancellation policies vary, so check terms. Current food tour options available in booking section below.

Fort Morgan and Gulf Shores Beach Activities

May offers the best beach weather window - sand temperatures comfortable for walking, water warming to 22-24°C (72-75°F), and afternoon storms brief rather than all-day washouts. Tourist crowds remain moderate, and parking at Gulf beaches stays manageable through May.

Booking Tip: Beach access parking ranges $5-10 per day. Fort Morgan entry is $7 adults, $4 children. Morning beach time (8am-noon) avoids both storms and peak heat. Beach equipment rentals typically $20-40 per day. Current beach activity bookings shown in booking section below.

May Events & Festivals

Early May

Historic Mobile Tours Spring Festival

Annual celebration featuring guided tours of normally private historic homes and gardens during peak azalea bloom. Local historical societies coordinate special access to antebellum mansions with expert guides sharing architectural and cultural insights unavailable year-round.

Mid to Late May

Mobile Bay Jubilee Season Beginning

While jubilees are unpredictable natural phenomena, May marks traditional start of jubilee season when specific weather conditions drive crabs, shrimp, and fish to shallow bay shores. Local fishing communities monitor conditions and social media alerts notify visitors of active jubilees.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms last 45-90 minutes and arrive with little warning

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes polyester uncomfortable, especially during midday

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index of 8 causes burns in 15-20 minutes on bay and beach tours

Comfortable walking shoes with good tread - historic brick sidewalks become slippery when wet from frequent storms

Light sweater for air-conditioned interiors - restaurants and attractions keep indoor temperatures at 18-20°C (65-68°F)

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes emerge after afternoon rains, especially near bay areas and parks

Waterproof phone case or bag - protect electronics during unexpected downpours while touring

Layered clothing for temperature changes - mornings start cool at 21°C (70°F) but reach 29°C (84°F) by afternoon

Cash for parking meters - many historic district meters don't accept cards, and rates are $1-2 per hour

Insider Knowledge

Locals plan outdoor activities for 7am-11am window, then retreat indoors during midday heat and afternoon storms - follow this pattern for comfort and real feels

this destination jubilees typically begin in May when specific barometric pressure and wind conditions align - download local fishing apps for real-time jubilee alerts

Historic district parking fills quickly on weekends during May festivals - use Government Street parking garage ($5/day) and walk rather than circling for street parking

Many restaurants transition to summer menus in early May, offering both winter comfort foods and fresh Gulf seafood - ask servers about seasonal specials not listed on regular menus

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities during 11am-4pm period - locals avoid this timing due to heat and storm probability

Assuming all attractions maintain winter hours through May - many historical sites reduce schedules or close for maintenance before summer tourist season

Packing only summer clothes - evening temperatures can drop to 21°C (70°F) and air conditioning runs aggressively, requiring light layers