Port of Spain in May

May weather, activities, events & insider tips

May Weather in Port of Spain

32°C (90°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

109 mm (4.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season transitioning to wet season means fewer tourists but still manageable weather - hotel rates drop 20-30% compared to peak Carnival season
Perfect temperature for exploring neighborhoods on foot - mornings are comfortable at 24°C (75°F) before heating up
Mango season peaks in May - street vendors sell Julie, Rose, and Doux-doux varieties for TT$5-10, best quality of the year
Cricket season at Bridgetown Oval with CPL preparation matches - tickets TT$50-150, atmosphere is electric without peak tourist crowds

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days between 2-5pm can disrupt outdoor plans - showers are intense but brief
High humidity at 70% makes midday walking uncomfortable - you'll need frequent air-conditioned breaks
Some mountain hiking trails become muddy and slippery after rain, particularly in Northern Range areas

Best Activities in May

Queen's Park Savannah Morning Walks and Street Food

May's comfortable morning temperatures make this perfect for the 2.2 km (1.4 mile) circuit around the Savannah. Local vendors set up by 6am selling doubles (TT$3-5), fresh coconut water, and seasonal fruits. The iconic Magnificent Seven colonial mansions are best photographed in morning light without harsh shadows.

Booking Tip: No booking required for walking, but guided heritage tours cost TT$100-200 per person. Best between 6-9am before heat builds up. See current heritage tour options in the booking section below.

Maracas Beach Day Trips

May's variable weather means fewer crowded weekends at Trinidad's most famous beach. The 40-minute drive through Northern Range offers cooler temperatures and occasional rain creates dramatic coastal views. Bake and shark vendors charge TT$25-35, best quality when tourist crowds are lighter.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but organized transport tours cost TT$200-400 per person including beach time and food stops. Book 3-5 days ahead for weekend trips. Check current transport options in booking section below.

Downtown Port of Spain Cultural Walking Tours

May's morning coolness is ideal for exploring Accra, Brian Lara Promenade, and historic Frederick Street. Afternoon rain often clears by evening, perfect for sunset views from this destination. Many colonial buildings offer air-conditioned respite during midday heat.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking is free, guided cultural tours typically TT$150-300 per person for 3-4 hours. Morning departures (8-9am) are most comfortable. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Northern Range Hiking and Bird Watching

May's increased rainfall brings lush vegetation and active bird life to Asa Wright Nature Centre area. Trails are manageable in morning before afternoon showers. This is prime time for seeing national bird Scarlet Ibis and various hummingbird species as flowers bloom.

Booking Tip: Guided nature tours cost TT$300-500 per person including transport from city. Book 7-10 days ahead as May is popular with bird watchers. Trails close during heavy afternoon rain. Check current nature tour availability in booking section below.

Local Food Market Tours and Cooking Classes

May brings peak season for local produce - mangoes, chennette, and seasonal vegetables are abundant at Central Market and Chaguanas market. Indoor cooking classes provide perfect afternoon shelter during rainy periods while learning to make roti, pelau, and curry dishes.

Booking Tip: Market tours cost TT$100-200 per person, cooking classes TT$250-450 including meal. Morning market tours (7-10am) offer best selection and cooler temperatures. Book 5-7 days ahead. See current food experience options in booking section below.

Evening Cultural Shows and Steel Pan Performances

May evenings are perfect for outdoor cultural performances as temperatures drop to comfortable 24°C (75°F). Many steel pan yards practice for summer festivals, offering real feels away from tourist-focused Carnival season shows.

Booking Tip: Community steel pan performances are often free or TT$20-50 donation. Organized cultural evening tours cost TT$200-400 per person. Shows typically start 7-8pm. Check current evening entertainment options in booking section below.

May Events & Festivals

May 30

Indian Arrival Day

May 30th public holiday commemorating Indian indentureship with cultural performances, Indian classical music, dance shows, and authentic food festivals across the city. Free events at National Academy for Performing Arts and this destination.

Throughout May

Mango Festival Season

Throughout May, informal mango festivals occur at various communities celebrating peak harvest season. Best varieties available at roadside stands - Julie mangoes are considered finest. No formal organization but widespread cultural celebration.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon storms are sudden and intense, lasting 20-45 minutes

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8, particularly strong during morning beach visits

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - streets become slippery when wet, especially around Savannah area

Light sweater for air-conditioned spaces - temperature differences between outdoors (32°C/90°F) and indoor spaces can be dramatic

Quick-dry clothing for beach trips - humidity means regular clothing takes hours to dry

Insect repellent with DEET - increased rainfall means more mosquitoes, especially near Northern Range trails

Waterproof phone case or bag - sudden downpours can damage electronics during outdoor exploration

Cash in small bills (TT$20, TT$50 notes) - many street vendors and local experiences don't accept cards

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in humid conditions, refill stations available at malls

Insider Knowledge

Shop for mangoes between 6-8am at roadside vendors for best selection and prices - TT$5 gets you 3-4 premium Julie mangoes that would cost TT$15+ in supermarkets

Use afternoon rain periods (typically 2-5pm) to visit air-conditioned attractions like National Museum or movie theaters - locals call this 'rain timing'

May is when many locals take beach trips to avoid later wet season - follow their lead and visit beaches on weekday mornings when prices are lower and crowds minimal

Street food vendors often close early when heavy rain threatens - eat your doubles and bake and shark before 2pm to avoid disappointment

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 2-5pm when afternoon thunderstorms are most likely - schedule indoor alternatives during these hours

Underestimating humidity impact - even at 24°C (75°F) mornings, high humidity makes temperatures feel warmer than expected

Buying tourist-priced mangoes at hotels when roadside vendors sell superior quality fruit at fraction of the cost throughout May