If we’re to rate months in Croatia, May would be at the top of the list. We love May, love its smells, the look of nature, the singing of the birds, the temperature, almost everything. It’s a great month to visit Croatia. If you are interested in whether can you swim in Croatia in May, this rather short article will give you some useful insights about what to expect when it comes to enjoying the Adriatic Sea during this period.
May is the most intense month of the spring. What started in April, multiplies in May. The temperatures of both air and the sea rise and swimming in the sea becomes a bit more pleasant. May is also one of the best months for enjoying outdoor activities in Croatia. And although the sea is not as warm as in June or July and August, you’ll see that it can still provide a great swimming experience.
So can you swim in Croatia in May? Here’s what to expect.
Sea Temperature in May
Sea temperatures slowly begin to rise with the warmer weather that is characteristic of May. Days become longer and the sun shines stronger. All this means that the sea is slowly warming up. If you are to visit Croatia in this period, you’ll see that you can almost wear shorts and T-shirts all day long. If you stay in the sun for more than 15 minutes, it can even start to become hot and you’ll want to jump in the sea. Here are the temperatures if you choose to do so:
- Adriatic Sea Temperature: Ranges between 17°C to 20°C (63°F to 68°F), depending on the location. Southern Croatia usually has warmer sea temperatures.
- Southern Dalmatia (Dubrovnik, Hvar): Warmer waters, closer to 20°C (68°F).
- Northern Adriatic (Istria, Rijeka): Cooler, around 17°C (63°F).
- Best Time of Day to Swim in Croatia in May: Midday to late afternoon when the sun has warmed the water.
Air temperature in May recorded on our weather station on Makarska Riviera
Is It Comfortable to Swim?
We open our swimming season in Croatia usually in March with a few shorter dips throughout the month. Our swims become longer and longer with each passing month. We already swim at least twice a week in May. If you get used to it, it can be very comfortable. The hardest part of swimming in a bit colder sea is entering it. Once you submerge your body in it, try to relax and it will become comfortable soon enough.
Here’s how the things are usually like when swimming in Croatia in May:
- For Warm-Water Swimmers: The water may still feel a bit chilly, especially if you’re used to tropical climates.
- For Adventurous Swimmers: Many locals and tourists start swimming in May, especially in the southern regions of Croatia.
- For People Coming From Northern Regions: We believe that swimming in Croatia in May will feel warm to you.
- Wetsuit Option: A short wetsuit can make the experience way more comfortable, especially when swimming in the mornings.
Best Places to Swim in Croatia in May
While the whole of Croatia is simply beautiful in May, here are our favorite locations for swimming in Croatia in May:
- Dubrovnik: Warmer waters and beautiful coastal locations like Banje Beach or nearby Pasjača Beach.
- Hvar Island: Known for early-season warmth and crystal-clear waters. You’ll notice how the sea on the islands is much clearer than along the Croatian coast (although there are many locations with such sea on the coast as well).
- Makarska Riviera: Our home and part of Croatia with the most beautiful beaches and slightly warmer sea temperatures.
- Zlatni Rat Beach (Brač): One of the most famous beaches in Croatia, perfect for sunbathing and taking quick dips.
- Vis Island: Characterized by secluded beaches with crystal clear waters. Stiniva is the most famous beach on Vis Island.
Shallow sea of Neretva River Delta – perfect place with vast sandy beaches
Beach Conditions in May
Enough with the sea and its temperature, let’s discuss what the beaches look like in May in Croatia. Well, almost empty, great if you want to get the ‘Alone in the World’ feeling. We always suggest finding secluded beaches if you want to swim in Croatia in May, and we’re almost sure you’ll be the only person on the beach if you do so.
Beaches in Croatia in May are:
- Less Crowded: May brings a unique opportunity to enjoy peaceful beaches before the summer rush.
- Clean and Clear Water: Excellent water clarity for snorkeling.
- Sunny Weather: Average air temperatures range between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and contribute to a pleasant beach experience.
Makarska Riviera Beaches are empty in May – Vira beach near Drvenik on Makarska Riviera
Tips for Swimming in May
Swimming in May is much more comfortable than swimming in April in Croatia. Both the temperatures of the air and the sea start rising up. Here are a few of the final tips for swimming in May:
- Acclimate Slowly: Take time to adjust to the cooler water by entering slowly, one step at a time.
- Sun Protection: The spring sun can be strong, although you might not feel it on your skin. Use sunscreen and wear a hat for the best experience.
- Stay Hydrated: Even if it’s not peak summer, dehydration can occur so make sure you always have plenty of water by your side.
- Water Shoes: Most of the beaches in Croatia have pebbles. Bringing water shoes can enhance comfort.
- Wet Suit: Great option if you want to stay in the sea for longer periods. There’s no shame in enjoying the swim in a wet suit. We do it occasionally as well.
Other Water Activities to Enjoy in May
If swimming feels too cold for you, there are still numerous ways to enjoy being close to the water or even on it, and all that while staying dry. Here are the best activities in Croatia in May that include sea:
- Kayaking: Paddle along the stunning coastline and explore secluded beaches. Kayaking is one of the best activities you can do in Croatia and there are many kayak tours you can book to have a great time.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Another relaxing way to enjoy the sea. We are more of a kayak type, but we don’t have anything against SUP as an activity.
- Boat Tours: Great way to discover hidden bays and islands without getting wet. Croatia is full of islands and we suggest you book at least one boat day trip to explore them during your stay in Croatia.
Kayaking in Croatia – one of the best activities for exploration of Croatian Coast
Before You Venture to Swim in Croatia in May
We hope this article was informative and you got to know more about whether can you swim in Croatia in May or not. It’s a month with great and stable weather and we start swimming more frequently at this time of the year. Although the sea can feel cold as you dip your feet in it, trust us, if you manage to go all the way in, it will become much better.
Enjoy the May in Croatia!