Things to Do in Cascais in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Cascais
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- May brings genuine spring warmth without summer crowds - you'll actually get space on Guincho Beach and can book restaurants same-day. Hotel prices typically run 25-35% below July-August peak rates.
- The Atlantic is warming up to 16-17°C (61-63°F), making it tolerable for swimming if you're not too temperature-sensitive. Surfers find this ideal - warm enough for spring wetsuits, consistent swells, and empty lineups.
- Jacaranda trees bloom throughout town in purple explosions, particularly stunning along Avenida Marginal and in the historic center. The light stays golden until 8:30pm, perfect for extended evening walks along the promenade.
- Lisbon day-trippers haven't fully shifted to beach mode yet, so Cascais maintains its local character. You'll hear more Portuguese than English in cafés, and the weekend vibe feels authentically Portuguese rather than resort-touristy.
Considerations
- Those 10 rainy days are unpredictable - May sits in Portugal's transitional weather zone where Atlantic fronts can roll in without much warning. You might get three brilliant days followed by two grey, drizzly ones. Pack accordingly and build flexibility into your itinerary.
- The 70% humidity combined with variable conditions means layering is essential but annoying. Mornings start at 13°C (56°F) requiring a jacket, afternoons hit 20°C (69°F) and feel warmer in the sun, then evenings cool down again. You'll be carrying extra clothing everywhere.
- Water temperature of 16-17°C (61-63°F) is genuinely cold for most swimmers. If you're planning a beach holiday centered on swimming and sunbathing, you might be disappointed. June or September offer better swimming conditions with similar crowd levels.
Best Activities in May
Coastal Hiking Routes
May offers ideal hiking conditions along the dramatic coastline from Cascais to Cabo da Roca - Europe's westernmost point. Temperatures stay comfortable for the 16 km (10 mile) full route, typically taking 4-5 hours at a leisurely pace with photo stops. The trail passes Boca do Inferno, Praia da Adraga, and clifftop viewpoints where you'll spot seabirds nesting. The UV index of 8 means you need sun protection, but you're not dealing with July's scorching heat. Wildflowers bloom along the cliffsides in May, and the green hasn't yet turned to summer brown.
Sintra Palace and Garden Tours
Just 30 minutes inland, Sintra's microclimate means May mornings can be misty and atmospheric around Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira - exactly the Gothic fairytale vibe these estates deserve. You'll avoid summer's crushing crowds and 35°C (95°F) heat that makes climbing palace towers miserable. The gardens are at peak spring bloom with camellias, rhododendrons, and wisteria. May's variable weather actually enhances Sintra - when fog rolls through the forested hillsides, it feels properly mysterious.
Surfing Lessons and Board Rentals
May offers learning-friendly conditions at Praia do Guincho and Carcavelos - consistent 1-1.5 meter (3-5 foot) swells without summer's intimidating beach crowds. Water temperature requires a 3/2mm spring wetsuit, which schools provide. The wind patterns in May tend to be lighter in mornings before the afternoon nortada picks up, giving cleaner waves for beginners. Intermediate surfers find this month ideal - warm enough to surf multiple sessions daily without the physical drain of winter cold.
Cycling the Cascais-Estoril Promenade
The 7 km (4.3 mile) paved coastal path between Cascais and Estoril is purpose-built for cycling, running parallel to the beach with Atlantic views the entire way. May's temperatures are perfect for active cycling without overheating - you'll work up a light sweat but stay comfortable. The route passes Tamariz Beach, Casino Estoril, and multiple beach bars where you can stop for fresh seafood. Extend further to Carcavelos for a 12 km (7.5 mile) one-way ride. Sunset rides are spectacular with that late May golden hour lasting until 8:30pm.
Seafood Market and Cooking Experiences
May brings excellent fishing conditions, meaning the morning fish market near the marina overflows with fresh Atlantic catch - sea bass, bream, octopus, and the last of the barnacle season. The market operates Tuesday-Sunday from 7am-1pm with peak variety around 9-10am. Several cooking schools and food tour operators run market-to-table experiences where you select ingredients with a local chef then prepare traditional Portuguese seafood dishes. The indoor cooking component works perfectly for those variable weather days when you need a backup to beach plans.
Lisbon Day Trips by Train
The coastal train from Cascais to Lisbon runs every 20 minutes, taking just 40 minutes to reach Cais do Sodré station. May offers ideal Lisbon weather for walking neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Belém without summer's oppressive heat. You can comfortably walk 8-10 km (5-6 miles) daily exploring the city's hills. The 8:30pm sunset means extended evening exploration - perfect for watching fado performances or dining in outdoor tascas. Using Cascais as your base gives you seaside relaxation with easy city access.
May Events & Festivals
Cascais Street Art Festival
While not confirmed annually, Cascais has hosted spring street art initiatives in recent years where international muralists create large-scale works throughout the historic center and marina area. If scheduled for 2026, you'll find live painting sessions, artist talks, and new murals appearing on building facades. The town has embraced public art as part of its cultural identity, with permanent installations now spanning from the train station to Boca do Inferno.