Tasmania Weather in May

Average Temperatures in Tasmania in May

The maximum daytime temperatures in May are around 16 °C (60.8 °F), while the nighttime minimums range from 5 °C (41 °F) to 8 °C (46.4 °F). The Central Plateau is the coldest region of Tasmania with temperatures just above 0 °C (32 °F). 

Average temperatures in Tasmania in May

Average Sunshine Hours per Day in Tasmania in May

There are on average 4 hours of sunshine per day in Tasmania in May. The sun rises between 7:00 am and 7:30 am and sets between 4:45 pm and 5:14 pm, offering up to 10 hours of daylight. 

UV levels in Tasmania in May

The average daily UV index in Tasmania in May is 3. Sunscreen can be useful when spending time in the direct sun, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Average Sea Temperatures in Tasmania in May

The average sea temperature in Tasmania in May is 14.6 °C (58.3 °F). The water is not suitable for comfortable swimming at this time of the year. 

Average Rainfall in Tasmania in May

It rains on average 10 days during the month of May, with approximately 51 mm (2.01 in) rainfall on the East Coast. Queenstown and the West Coast experience heavy rains and around 245 mm (9.6 in) rainfall.

Average rainfall in Tasmania in May

Best Things to Do in Tasmania in May

In autumn, you will find an endless array of things to do, see and experience in Tasmania, from outdoor walks to unique festivals and events. Here are the activities you shouldn’t miss when visiting Tasmania in May.

AgFest

Every autumn, the town of Carrick near Launceston hosts AgFest, a popular festival packed with activities such as cattle handling, industrial demonstrations, sheepdog trials, and agricultural costume contests. 

Cracker Night at Glen Derwent

During Cracker Night in May, Glen Derwent Heritage Retreat puts on a spectacular show of fireworks and entertainment, with fire pots and a giant bonfire to keep the guests warm and cosy.

Liawenee Trout Weekend

The small town of Liawenee on Tasmania's Central Plateau welcomes hundreds of visitors to a weekend dedicated to trout fishing. Here you can watch the brown trout on their annual spawning migration and fish in the Great Lake if you have an angling licence.

Turning of the fagus

In autumn, Tasmania’s only cold climate winter-deciduous tree puts on a flamboyant display of red, orange, and golden leaves. Some of the best places to witness the turning of the fagus are the northern end of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and Mount Field National Park around Lake Fenton.

Breath of Fresh Air (BOFA) Film Festival

The Breath of Fresh Air showcases dozens of films by local filmmakers, exploring what it means to be Tasmanian. Other events include short film competitions, community and innovation sessions, and master classes.

If you are looking for more ideas on what to see and do in Tasmania in May, read our comprehensive Eight Day Tasmania Itinerary. 

Recommended Itineraries for Tasmania in May

FLT’s Tasmania Self-Drive Itineraries provide plenty of inspiration for your autumn holiday in Tasmania. And if you’d like to have an itinerary customised just for you, our travel specialists are here to help.