Esperance Weather in May

Average Temperatures in Esperance in May

The maximum daytime highs in Esperance in May are around 19 °C (66 °F), while early morning and evening lows tend to be near 14 °C (56 °F). 

Average Sea Temperatures in Esperance in May

The average sea temperature in Esperance in May is 18.7 °C (65.6 °F), which is not suitable for comfortable swimming. 

Is it safe to swim in Esperance?

The biggest concerns when swimming in Esperance are strong currents and riptides. The region doesn’t typically get stingers or sharks, although they can be occasionally sighted when ocean waves carry them away from their original habitats. It’s essential to check current conditions and follow local advice before heading to the beach.

Average Sunshine Hours per Day in Esperance in May

Esperance has an average of 5 hours of sunshine per day and 14 sunny days in May. The sun rises between 4:34 am and 4:43 am and sets between 6:48 pm and 7:06 pm, providing around 14 hours of daylight. 

UV levels in Esperance in May

May is the month with the lowest average UV index in Esperance, which remains around 4 throughout the month. This UV index indicates a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. It is recommended to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors.

Average Rainfall in Esperance in May

The wet season in Esperance lasts from May to September. You can expect around 26.5 mm (1.04 in) of rainfall over 12 days this month. The average humidity is 69%. 

Best Things to Do in Esperance in May

Esperance has plenty of activities to offer in May, whether you’re seeking leisure, adventure, or cultural experiences. Here are a few of our favourites.

Great Ocean Trail

The Great Ocean Trail is a 17 km (10.5 mi) sealed path that follows the Esperance coastline from the Esplanade to Twilight Beach, to then continue through native bushland past Pink Lake. The path has some uphill sections but isn’t overly difficult, which makes it popular for walking, jogging, and biking. Highlights include Rotary Lookout with sweeping views of the Recherche Archipelago islands, as well as scenic West Beach and Blue Haven Beach.

The Esperance region offers a variety of coastal bushwalking trails. Read more in our overview of the Best Esperance Hikes.

Esperance Tanker Jetty diving

The Esperance Tanker Jetty, stretching 415 m (0.2 mi) off the coast into the ocean, is a popular diving spot during cooler months. The underwater environment near the jetty is known for its excellent visibility and offers perfect conditions for discovering a diverse array of marine species, including the endemic sergeant baker, old wives fish, and long-snouted boarfish. 

Kepa Kurl Cultural Discovery Tours

Kepa Kurl is the Aboriginal name for Esperance, meaning "where the water lies like a boomerang." Locally owned and operated Kepa Kurl Tours offer a personalised cultural experience where visitors can learn more about the heritage and customs of the Noongar people. The tours are suitable for families with children.

For more kid-friendly activities in Esperance, see our article on Things to Do in Esperance With Families.

Bijou Theatre

Located on Dempster Street, Bijou Theatre is the oldest surviving theatre in Western Australia. Since its opening in 1896, the theatre has been a popular venue for local entertainment. It still regularly holds live acts, stand-up comedies, and movie screenings. To learn more about this unique cultural landmark, join a tour offered by Esperance Theatre Guild volunteers.

For more cultural experiences, check out our article Must Do Highlights of Esperance. 

Recommended Itineraries for Esperance in May

Ready to start planning a trip to Esperance in May? First Light Travel popular Western Australia Self-Drive Tour Itineraries, such as Perth To Esperance Self Drive offer plenty of inspiration on activities in the region. And if you would like an itinerary customised just for you, feel free to get in touch with one of our Australia travel specialists.