Port Moresby Weather in May
Papua New Guinea · May climate averages and travel tips
Port Moresby in May sees daytime temperatures around 29°C (84°F), dropping to about 27°C (80°F) at night. The month is moderately rainy, with about 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain spread over 15 days. Humidity averages 84%, so it feels sticky and hotter than the thermometer suggests. You get roughly 11.6 hours of daylight and frequently cloudy skies.
Is May a good time to visit Port Moresby?
May is a fair time to visit Port Moresby (5.2/10) mainly because of the rain. For better weather, go in July to September.
Visiting Port Moresby in May
May weather
May feels warm, sticky and often cloudy in Port Moresby. The high is 29°C and the low is 27°C, with high humidity. Rain falls on 15 days, though showers don't necessarily last all day.
You can still visit the National Museum and Art Gallery or see Parliament Haus between showers. For a day outdoors, Port Moresby Nature Park has shaded paths and indoor exhibits. Varirata National Park is less appealing after heavy rain: trails can turn muddy, and clouds may hide the views.
Events and crowds
May isn't a major festival month in Port Moresby. Labour Day falls on 1 May, but don't expect a city-wide celebration for visitors. You're more likely to notice local community events than a large public festival.
If you hate crowds, May can suit you. It's outside the busier July-to-September travel season, so sights may feel quieter. Prices can also be less pressured than in those peak months, though costs vary by hotel and flight. School breaks and work travel can still affect availability.
Local tips for Port Moresby
Rain eases compared with April, when it's heavier, but May is still wetter than June. Keep flexible plans: save indoor sights for downpours and take advantage of clearer spells for coastal views around Ela Beach. The shorter daylight and limited sunshine can make late afternoons feel dull, so don't count on a long, bright beach day.
Travelling with kids? Port Moresby Nature Park is an easy change of pace from city streets, with local wildlife to see even when the sky turns grey. Check its opening hours before you go, and use a taxi or arranged transport rather than assuming every attraction is an easy walk from your hotel.
May weather at a glance
| Average high | 29°C (84°F) |
|---|---|
| Average low | 27°C (80°F) |
| Daily mean | 28°C (82°F) |
| Rainfall | 91 mm (3.6 in) |
| Rainy days (1 mm+) | 15 |
| Humidity | 84% |
| Cloud cover | 75% |
| Daylight | 11.6 hours |
| Est. sunshine | 3.2 hours/day |
| Wind | 20.2 km/h |
| vs April | About as warm as April, with 49 mm less rain. |
What to pack for Port Moresby in May
- light, breathable clothing
- sunscreen and a hat
- an umbrella or rain jacket
- swimwear
Port Moresby weather in other months
← AprilBest time to visit Port MoresbyJune →
Better weather in May nearby
- Sydney20°C · 43 mm · Excellent
- Perth21°C · 73 mm · Excellent
- Gold Coast23°C · 74 mm · Excellent
- Adelaide19°C · 49 mm · Excellent
- Kingston21°C · 72 mm · Excellent
- Brisbane23°C · 78 mm · Excellent
Nearby in May
Where else is good in May? See where to go in May.