Sea Temperature in Dubrovnik in May (2026) – Swimming Guide
Sea temperature in Dubrovnik in May averages 20.4°C (typical range 18.2°C–22.9°C). Swimming conditions, 10-day trends, and top beaches.
Typical Range: 18.2°C – 22.9°C
Standard swimwear is fine for quick dips. For toddlers and sensitive swimmers, a thin 2mm shorty wetsuit is recommended.
Povoljni termički uvjeti za cjelodnevni boravak uz more
5 rainy days · UV Index 7
Sea Temperature Progression in May by Decade
Multi-year oceanographic measurements across early, mid, and late month:
Annual Oceanographic Climatology for Dubrovnik
Multi-year historical records by the Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) & Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (IZOR)
| Month | Sea Temperature | Day Air | Night Air | Sun Hours | Rain Days | Swimming Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14.4°C (12.8° – 15.9°) | 13.1°C | 6.7°C | 5 h | 8 d | Crisp & cool |
| February | 13.6°C (12° – 15°) | 13.6°C | 7°C | 5.8 h | 7 d | Crisp & cool |
| March | 14.6°C (13° – 16.2°) | 16.2°C | 9.2°C | 7 h | 7 d | Crisp & cool |
| April | 16.8°C (15.2° – 19°) | 19.8°C | 12.3°C | 8.5 h | 7 d | Crisp & cool |
| May → | 20.4°C (18.2° – 22.9°) | 24.5°C | 16.6°C | 10 h | 5 d | Refreshing & invigorating |
| June → | 24.5°C (21.9° – 27.2°) | 28.8°C | 20.4°C | 11.5 h | 4 d | Very warm & ideal |
| July → | 26.8°C (24.9° – 29.2°) | 31.8°C | 23.2°C | 12.5 h | 2 d | Very warm & ideal |
| August → | 27.2°C (25.2° – 29.6°) | 31.7°C | 23°C | 11.8 h | 2 d | Very warm & ideal |
| September → | 24.9°C (22.6° – 27°) | 26.8°C | 18.8°C | 9.4 h | 4 d | Very warm & ideal |
| October → | 21.5°C (19.4° – 23.8°) | 21.9°C | 15°C | 7.2 h | 7 d | Comfortable & warm |
| November | 18.4°C (16.4° – 20.2°) | 17.1°C | 10.7°C | 5.2 h | 9 d | Refreshing & invigorating |
| December | 15.6°C (13.9° – 17.2°) | 13.7°C | 7.6°C | 4.4 h | 8 d | Crisp & cool |
Top Rated Beaches in Dubrovnik for this Season
Curated bathing spots featuring verified water cleanliness and supreme swimming comfort (39 verified locations):
Expert Swimming & Marine Tips
🌬️ Winds & Marine Currents
Summer afternoons regularly welcome the refreshing Maestral (NW) sea breeze. A strong Bura (NE) wind can temporarily drop surface water temperatures by 1–2°C, especially in shallow coastal coves.
☀️ Sun Protection & UV Exposure
In peak summer months, the UV index regularly surpasses 8. Limit unprotected sunbathing between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and always use high-factor water-resistant sunscreen.
🤿 Water Clarity & Sea Urchins
The Adriatic Sea here consistently scores excellent water quality under EU bathing water directives. Sea urchins on rocky shallows serve as nature’s bio-indicator of immaculate water purity.
Frequently Asked Questions – Sea Temperature in Dubrovnik
Is it warm enough to swim in Dubrovnik in May?
In May, average sea temperature in Dubrovnik is 20.4°C. Refreshing & invigorating / Best for active swimming. Standard swimwear is fine for quick dips. For toddlers and sensitive swimmers, a thin 2mm shorty wetsuit is recommended.
What is the air temperature and daily sunshine in May?
Average daytime air temperature reaches 24.5°C (16.6°C at night), featuring approximately 10 hours of bright sunshine daily and only 5 rainy days.
How does sea temperature evolve from early to late May?
During early May (1st–10th) water averages 19.6°C, mid-month (11th–20th) sits at 20.4°C, and late month (21st–31st) reaches 21.2°C.