Singapore in May
Wondering if May is the right time to visit Singapore? It is! May brings warm weather, exciting festivals, and fewer crowds. This makes it a great month to explore the city. The days are sunny, and the evenings are pleasant. You can enjoy outdoor places like Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa Island. If you love adventure, Universal Studios Singapore has shorter lines this month.
May also has special events like Vesak Day and the Singapore International Festival of Arts. These celebrations add fun and culture to your trip. Plus, travel costs are lower since it is not the peak season. Whether you love nature, shopping, or food, Singapore in May has something for you. Get ready for a fun and memorable trip!
Singapore Weather in May
May in Singapore is warm and humid. The temperature stays between 25°C to 31°C. The city gets pre-monsoon showers on about 19 days this month. These short rains help cool the weather but do not last long. Humidity is high, making it feel hotter. Some days, there may be haze from Sumatra. This can cause throat and eye irritation, especially for people with breathing problems. It is best to check air quality before heading out. Outdoor activities are still fun in May. You can visit places like Gardens by the Bay or Sentosa Island. Just carry sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and light cotton clothes. A small umbrella is useful for sudden rain.
Despite the heat, Singapore in May is great for travel. With the right packing and some sun protection, you can enjoy the city without worry!
Check out the 3-day itinerary in Singapore trip.
Why Visit Singapore in May?
Singapore in May is a great time to explore the city with fewer crowds and better travel deals. Since the peak tourist season starts in June, May offers a quieter, more relaxed experience at top attractions like Marina Bay Sands, Universal Studios Singapore, and Gardens by the Bay. You won’t have to wait in long lines, making your trip more enjoyable.
One of the biggest perks of visiting in May is the off-peak discounts. Flights and hotels are cheaper compared to the busier months of June to December. This means you can save money while still enjoying the best of Singapore.
May is also a month of unique cultural experiences. You can witness Vesak Day, a significant Buddhist festival celebrated with temple visits and candlelit processions. Another exciting event is the Singapore International Festival of Arts, showcasing theater, music, and dance performances from around the world.
If you are looking for the best time to visit Singapore with great weather, rich culture, and budget-friendly deals, May is the perfect choice. Whether you want adventure, shopping, or relaxation, there are plenty of things to do in Singapore in May that will make your trip unforgettable!
Best Places to Visit and Things to do in Singapore in May
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is one of the most stunning places to visit in Singapore. This futuristic garden features the famous Supertree Grove, which lights up beautifully at night. The indoor conservatories, Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, provide a cool and refreshing escape from the May heat. The lush greenery and floral displays make it a paradise for nature lovers. The OCBC Skyway offers an amazing aerial view of the gardens, making it a must-visit attraction.
Key Attractions:
- Supertree Grove – Light show at 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM.
- Cloud Forest – Home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.
- Flower Dome – Seasonal floral displays.
- OCBC Skyway – Walkway with scenic views.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tickets: From SGD 12 (some areas are free)
Universal Studios Singapore
For thrill-seekers, Universal Studios Singapore is the perfect place. Since May is an off-peak season, you can enjoy rides with shorter wait times. Experience exciting attractions like the Transformers 3D ride, Battlestar Galactica roller coaster, and Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure. The park also has family-friendly shows and character meet-and-greets. Visiting in May means cooler evenings, making it more comfortable to explore.
Key Attractions:
- Transformers: The Ride 3D – A thrilling battle simulation.
- Battlestar Galactica – Two high-speed roller coasters.
- Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure – Water ride with dinosaur surprises.
- Hollywood Dream Parade – A fun show with movie characters.
Timings: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
Tickets: From SGD 82 per adult
Sentosa Island
Sentosa is Singapore’s ultimate island getaway, offering beautiful beaches, adventure parks, and thrilling activities. May is ideal for relaxing at Siloso Beach, trying out Adventure Cove Waterpark, or riding the SkyHelix Sentosa for a stunning aerial view. The warm weather is perfect for water sports like kayaking and jet skiing. You can also visit Madame Tussauds Singapore to see the wax figures of celebrities.
Key Attractions:
- Siloso Beach – Perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
- Adventure Cove Waterpark – Water slides and a lazy river.
- SkyHelix Sentosa – A 79-meter-high open-air gondola ride.
- Madame Tussauds Singapore – Lifelike wax figures of famous personalities.
Timings: Open 24 hours (Attraction timings vary)
Tickets: Prices depend on the activity
MacRitchie Reservoir Park
Nature lovers will love MacRitchie Reservoir Park, a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. The TreeTop Walk offers breathtaking views from a suspension bridge. May’s occasional rain showers make the greenery even more vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for trekking or kayaking. Birdwatching is also popular here, with exotic species like the Oriental Pied Hornbill often spotted.
Key Attractions:
- TreeTop Walk – A 250m-long suspension bridge.
- Kayaking and Canoeing – Available for beginners and experts.
- Nature Trails – Various walking paths through lush forests.
- Wildlife Spotting – Look out for monkeys, turtles, and rare birds.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tickets: Free entry (Water activities have separate charges)
Experience Vesak Day Celebrations
Vesak Day is one of the most important Buddhist festivals in Singapore, celebrated in May. The temples are beautifully decorated, and devotees gather for prayers, chanting, and candlelit processions. A visit to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple or Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery lets you witness these spiritual celebrations. Many people also take part in good deeds like food donations and releasing caged birds as a symbol of kindness. This is a unique cultural experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Key Attractions:
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – Grand Vesak ceremonies.
- Kong Meng San Monastery – Peaceful meditation sessions.
- Sri Lankaramaya Temple – Colorful Vesak Daylights.
- Candlelight Processions – Held in major temples.
Timings: Most temples open 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tickets: Free entry
Check : Singapore in June
Attend the Singapore International Festival of Arts
If you love theater, dance, and music, the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) is the perfect event in May. This festival showcases global performances, live music, and art exhibitions from talented artists worldwide. The shows take place in different theaters and outdoor spaces, making it a dynamic cultural experience. Whether you enjoy classical performances, experimental theater, or visual arts, SIFA has something exciting for everyone.
Key Attractions:
- Live Theater Performances – Featuring world-class actors.
- Music Concerts – From jazz to classical symphonies.
- Art Exhibitions – Showcasing contemporary and traditional art.
- Workshops & Talks – Meet artists and learn creative skills.
Timings: Varies by event, typically 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tickets: From SGD 25 (Depending on the show)
Shop at Orchard Road & Bugis Street
May is a great month for shopping in Singapore, as many stores offer mid-season discounts. Orchard Road is the ultimate shopping district, featuring luxury brands, designer boutiques, and high-end malls. If you’re looking for budget-friendly fashion, souvenirs, and trendy accessories, head to Bugis Street. This lively market has over 600 shops, offering everything from clothes to electronics at affordable prices.
Key Attractions:
- ION Orchard – High-end fashion and luxury brands.
- VivoCity – Singapore’s largest shopping mall.
- Bugis Street Market – Affordable fashion and souvenirs.
- Mustafa Centre – 24-hour shopping hub in Little India.
Timings: Most malls open 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tickets: Free entry (Shopping expenses vary)
Enjoy an Evening at Clarke Quay & Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
For a memorable evening in Singapore, visit Clarke Quay and Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. Clarke Quay is a lively riverside area with restaurants, bars, and boat rides. You can enjoy a romantic dinner with a view or take a river cruise to see the city lights. The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark offers a 360-degree view of Singapore’s skyline, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Key Attractions:
- Clarke Quay River Cruise – Scenic boat ride.
- Live Music & Dining – Various bars and restaurants.
- Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – Iconic rooftop view.
- Spectra Light Show – Free water and light show.
Timings: Clarke Quay (4:00 PM – 3:00 AM), SkyPark (11:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
Tickets: Clarke Quay free (Cruise from SGD 25), SkyPark from SGD 30
Also explore Amusements Park in Singapore.
Travel Tips for Singapore in May
- Best sightseeing hours – Explore outdoor attractions in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat.
- Plan a balanced itinerary – Combine outdoor sights like Gardens by the Bay with indoor spots like museums.
- Pack smart – Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a light raincoat, and breathable clothing.
- Book in advance – Secure flights and hotels early for lower prices and better deals.
- Use public transport – The MRT and buses are the most affordable and efficient ways to travel.
- Stay hydrated – The humidity is high, so drink plenty of water and take breaks.
- Check festival dates – Plan your visit around events like Vesak Day for a cultural experience.
