India, Asia
Goa in May
Hot and humid, and many beach shacks close in preparation for the monsoon.
The straight answer
May is a month of real tradeoffs in Goa. Hot and humid, and many beach shacks close in preparation for the monsoon.
- Weather
- Very humid, highs near 92F (33C), pre-monsoon storms late
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What May is like in Goa
May is the hottest, most humid month of the year, with highs near 92F (33C) and pre-monsoon storms building late in the month. Tourists are few and prices are at their lowest of the dry season. Many beach shacks and huts close during May as owners prepare for the monsoon, so the beaches feel half shut down by the end.
It is a mixed month that suits heat-tolerant budget travelers and people who want an almost empty Goa. Families and first-timers should come between November and February instead. If May is your only window, go early in the month, before shacks close and storms start.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Goa this month.
Mango and cashew season
Local markets are full of mangoes, and this is the time of year feni is made from cashew fruit.
Heritage without the crowds
Fontainhas in Panaji and the Old Goa churches are quiet. Go in the early morning before the heat builds.
Rock-bottom rates
Resorts with pools and air conditioning are at their cheapest, which is the best way to handle the heat.
What to pack for May
- Loose, breathable clothes
- A compact umbrella for late-month storms
- Electrolyte packets and a refillable bottle
- Strong insect repellent
Our timing tip
Book for the first half of May, since many beach shacks close as the month goes on and late-month storms can end swimming days.
Book Goa for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in GoaOpens a hotel search for Goa in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in GoaWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in GoaTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Goa for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Goa
Old Goa churches
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, with the relics of St Francis Xavier, and the Se Cathedral. Go early before the day-trip buses arrive.
Fontainhas, Panaji
The old Latin quarter, with colorful houses and small cafes. Best explored on foot in the morning.
South Goa beaches
Palolem, Agonda, Patnem, and Cola are calmer than the north. Beach hut camps operate from about November to April.
Anjuna Flea Market
A Wednesday market that runs in the dry season, roughly November to April.
Dudhsagar Falls
A huge four-tiered waterfall on the Karnataka border. It is fullest in the monsoon, but jeep access is usually suspended then; visit from October.
Spice plantations near Ponda
Tours with a Goan lunch. Especially lush after the monsoon.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid December 20 to January 2. Rates spike, and the beaches and roads are packed with holiday traffic.
- Stay in south Goa (Agonda, Patnem, Palolem) for calmer beaches, and visit north Goa on day trips.
- Visit Old Goa churches early in the morning on a weekday, when day-trip tour buses are fewer.
- Early November and late February are the smart months: full dry-season weather with a fraction of the peak crowds.
Know before you go
- Licensed beach shacks operate roughly from October or November to May. They are dismantled during the monsoon and many beach huts and small hotels close.
- During the monsoon (June to September), swimming is dangerous; lifeguards post red flags and swimming is often banned.
- Jeep safaris to Dudhsagar Falls are usually suspended during the monsoon for safety.
- Markets like the Anjuna Flea Market and the Saturday night markets operate in the dry season only.
Goa in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Goa?
May is a month of real tradeoffs in Goa. Hot and humid, and many beach shacks close in preparation for the monsoon.
What is the weather like in Goa in May?
Very humid, highs near 92F (33C), pre-monsoon storms late.
Is Goa crowded in May?
May is one of the quieter months in Goa; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Goa.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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