Best Beaches to Visit in May

This park features unique pillar-like formations in Hunan Province. It is part of the larger Wulingyuan Scenic Area. May is a peak time to visit before the summer humidity begins. The trails are accessible and the foliage is at its greenest. Expect significant crowds during the first week of May due to national holidays. Plan your visit for the middle or end of the month to avoid the largest groups.

This tidal island sits off the coast of Normandy. It is famous for its abbey and changing tides. May offers mild weather, which is helpful since much of the site is outdoors. You can walk across the sands at low tide if you have a guide. Access is managed by a shuttle from the parking area. The site is small and fills with day trippers quickly, so arrive early in the morning.

The Great Wall is a massive series of fortifications built across northern borders. The Ming dynasty sections are the most visited. May provides clear, dry weather. This makes walking along the steep, uneven stone steps safer than in the rainy summer months. Some sections are very steep and physically demanding. Bring sturdy footwear with good grip as the stones can be slippery even when dry.

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal. It sits in the Atlantic Ocean, west of Morocco. May is one of the best months for pleasant temperatures here. The island is known for its floral blooms during this time. Be aware that the island is very mountainous. Most transport between towns involves navigating narrow, winding roads.

The Colosseum is a large amphitheatre in the centre of Rome. It was completed in AD 80. May temperatures in Rome are comfortable for walking. This allows you to explore the surrounding Roman Forum without the intense heat of July or August. Tickets sell out weeks in advance. Do not assume you can buy a ticket at the entrance on the day you arrive.

The Atacama is a large desert in northern Chile. It sits between the Andes and the Chilean Coast Range. May brings cooler, stable weather. This is ideal for visiting, as the extreme heat of the summer has subsided. Water is scarce in this region. You must carry your own supplies if you are moving away from the main settlements.

The Grand Canyon is a steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River. It is managed by the National Park Service. May is a popular time before the summer school holidays begin. The rim remains cool, though the bottom of the canyon can become quite warm. Do not attempt to hike to the river and back in a single day. The elevation change is severe and heat exhaustion is common.

Antelope Canyon is a famous slot canyon in Arizona. It is located on Navajo land east of Lechee. May provides excellent light for photos. The sun hits the canyon walls in a way that highlights the rock patterns. You cannot enter the canyon without a professional guide. Tours are strictly timed and require advanced reservations.

Ha Long Bay is located in northeastern Vietnam. It features thousands of limestone karsts and islets. May is the end of the dry season here. It is one of the last chances to enjoy the water before the monsoon rains become frequent. Many visitors choose to stay on a boat for two days. Check the itinerary to ensure you have enough time to actually visit the caves or swim.

Iguazu Falls sits on the border of Argentina and Brazil. It is one of the largest waterfall systems globally. May is an ideal month for a visit. The heavy rains have usually subsided and the weather is mild for walking the trails. Expect to get wet near the falls. The spray is constant and will reach you even on the viewing platforms.