43+ Best Places to Travel in May for Beach Lovers in 2025

Are you dreaming of soft white sand between your toes, clear blue skies, and the soothing rhythm of waves lapping against the shore? May is one of the best times of the year to travel if you’re a beach lover looking to escape the everyday and dive into sun-drenched serenity. Best Places to Travel in May you’re planning a relaxing solo getaway, a romantic couple’s trip, or a fun-filled family vacation, May offers perfect beach weather, fewer crowds, and better travel deals in many top destinations around the world.

Best Places to Visit in May 2025 for Sun & Sand Lovers

Unlike the peak summer months when beaches are often overcrowded and prices soar May sits in the sweet spot between spring freshness and early summer warmth. In many places, it’s still considered shoulder season—meaning you can snag beachfront resorts, flights, and excursions at more affordable rates. Plus, temperatures are ideal for everything from sunbathing and swimming to surfing, snorkeling, and sunset strolls.

From the palm-lined coasts of the Caribbean and the exotic islands of Southeast Asia to the sunny shores of the U.S. and hidden gems in Europe, this list covers 43+ incredible beach destinations that are perfect to visit in May 2025. We’ve included something for every kind of traveler—whether you’re seeking tropical luxury, off-the-beaten-path adventures, or quick weekend getaways close to home.

1. Tropical Paradise Escapes Places to Travel in May

• Maldives: Overwater bungalows & coral reefs

• Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Iconic lagoons & luxury resorts

• Seychelles: Granite boulders & rare wildlife

• Mauritius: Sugar-white sands & cultural fusion

• Fiji: Friendly locals & untouched atolls

2. European Coastal Gems

• Santorini, Greece: Cliffside sunsets & volcanic beaches

• Algarve, Portugal: Golden cliffs & surfing hotspots

• Amalfi Coast, Italy: Lemon groves & pastel villages

• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Medieval walls & Adriatic waters

• Nice, France: Riviera glamour & pebble beaches

3. U.S. Beach Getaways to Travel in May

• Maui, Hawaii: Black sand beaches & waterfalls

• Outer Banks, NC: Wild horses & historic lighthouses

• Key West, Florida: Coral reefs & vibrant nightlife

• San Diego, California: Year-round sunshine & surf culture

• Cannon Beach, Oregon: Dramatic sea stacks & tide pools

4. Hidden Gem Beaches to Travel in May 

• Zanzibar, Tanzania: Spice markets & turquoise waters

• Palawan, Philippines: Underground rivers & lagoons

• Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: UNESCO marine park

• Aitutaki, Cook Islands: Secluded lagoons & stargazing

• Lord Howe Island, Australia: Pristine biodiversity

5. Budget-Friendly Beach Places to Enjoy in May 💰

• Bali, Indonesia: Affordable luxury & rice terraces

• Goa, India: Hippie vibes & seafood shacks

• Tulum, Mexico: Cenotes & Mayan ruins

• Hoi An, Vietnam: Lantern-lit shores & tailor shops

• Zakynthos, Greece: Shipwreck Beach & low-cost stays

6. Adventure-Packed Beaches to Travel in May

• Byron Bay, Australia: Surfing & whale watching

• Mo’orea, French Polynesia: Shark diving & hiking

• Costa Rica (Manuel Antonio): Jungle-meets-beach

• Azores, Portugal: Volcanic pools & cliff jumping

• Dahab, Egypt: Red Sea windsurfing & Bedouin culture

7. Romantic Beach Places to Travel in May

• Maldivian Private Islands: Overwater villas & sunset cruises

• St. Lucia: Pitons & sulfur springs

• Capri, Italy: Blue Grotto & luxury yachts

• The Bahamas: Pink sand beaches & swimming pigs

• Koh Lipe, Thailand: Bioluminescent plankton

8. Family-Friendly Beaches Places to Travel in May

• Oahu, Hawaii: Waikiki & Polynesian Cultural Center

• Cancún, Mexico: All-inclusive resorts & Xcaret Park

• Gold Coast, Australia: Theme parks & gentle waves

• Phuket, Thailand: Elephant sanctuaries & shallow bays

• Corfu, Greece: Venetian forts & calm coves

9. Off-the-Beaten-Path Beaches Places to Travel in May

• São Tomé and Príncipe: Chocolate plantations & empty shores

• Comoros Islands: Vanilla-scented beaches

• Albanian Riviera: Budget Mediterranean charm

• Islas Cíes, Spain: Limited-access paradise

• Koh Rong, Cambodia: Glowing plankton & jungle huts

Tips for May Beach Travel ✨

• Book early for shoulder-season deals

• Pack reef-safe sunscreen for eco-conscious travel

• Check visa requirements for international destinations

Whether you’re looking for tropical vibes, peaceful seclusion, or action-packed coastlines, these best places to travel in May for beach lovers will help you soak up the sun and create unforgettable memories in 2025.