Weather in Mallorca and best time to go

Cala Gat

Mallorca isn’t a year-round destination for swimming. If you’re mainly after beaches and warm seas, go between June and early October.

We consider June to be the best compromise: it’s warm, there’s hardly any rain, and the island hasn’t yet seen the biggest holiday crowds.

July and August bring the most reliable beach weather, but also the greatest heat and the highest prices. The second half of September is more pleasant; the sea remains very warm, though you must expect a higher likelihood of thunderstorms.

From November to April, Mallorca is best suited for day trips, cycling and a stay in Palma. By the sea, the weather is usually mild during the day, but you can’t rely on it being suitable for swimming or consistently sunny.

Compare flight prices to Mallorca

What do you expect from your holiday? Best time to visit
Swimming and the most reliable sunshine June–September
Best balance of weather, prices and visitor numbers June, September
Warm sea and fewer people second half of September
Beach holiday outside the peak season May or the first half of October
Hiking and cycling March to May, late October and November
Sightseeing and day trips by car November–May
Escape from the Central European winter January–March

If you can travel at any time, we’d recommend June. For families tied to the school holidays, we’d suggest early July rather than August, when the heat and sea temperatures are at their peak.

Compare hotel prices in Mallorca

Mallorca throughout the year

Here’s what the average weather in Mallorca looks like month by month.

Weather in January

January is the coldest month, but daytime temperatures of around 15 °C are still pleasant for walks around Palma or day trips by car. It cools down quickly after dark, and in the resorts, most seasonal businesses will be closed.

Verdict: a good month for a budget sightseeing trip, but not for a beach holiday.

Weather in February

In February, daytime temperatures are usually around 16 °C and the island begins to turn green. Almond trees usually blossom in the second half of the month, though the exact date varies depending on how the winter has gone.

Verdict: head out for walks and to see the almond trees; pack a waterproof jacket.

Weather in March

March offers pleasant conditions for hiking and cycling, but mornings, evenings and mountainous areas remain chilly. The sea is around 14 °C and not very inviting for swimming.

Verdict: one of the best months for an active holiday away from the crowds.

Weather in April

In April, daytime temperatures hover around 19 °C and the countryside is still green. It can be significantly warmer in the sun, but after sunset you’ll need a jumper or a light jacket.

Verdict: ideal for the mountains, cycling and exploring the island; it’s still too early for swimming.

Weather in May

May often feels like summer, but the sea is only just warming up and is usually around 19 °C. You’ll enjoy pleasant days on the beach, but the weather doesn’t yet guarantee regular swimming.

Verdict: a great month for a mix of excursions and relaxation. If you’re travelling with children, look for a hotel with a heated swimming pool.

Weather in June

In June, temperatures regularly rise above 26 °C, the sea is around 22 °C and rain is rare. Set off on your excursions in the morning, as it tends to get hot in the afternoon.

Verdict: in our opinion, the best month to visit Mallorca, as you can enjoy both the beaches and sightseeing.

Weather in July

July brings consistent sunshine, very little rain and temperatures of around 29 °C. Inland and during heatwaves, maximum temperatures can exceed 35 °C.

Verdict: excellent for swimming, less so for hiking and full-day city tours.

Weather in August

August is the hottest month and the sea reaches around 26 °C. The heat continues into the evening and, in our opinion, air conditioning in your accommodation is a necessity, not a nice bonus.

Verdict: go for the sea, not for day trips. Expect the highest number of visitors.

Weather in September

September still offers summer temperatures and a sea temperature of around 25 °C. After the middle of the month, visitor numbers start to drop, but at the same time the likelihood of short thunderstorms and changeable weather increases.

Verdict: the best choice for warm seas without the peak holiday crowds, especially in the first half of the month.

Weather in October

In October, the sea is still a pleasant 23 °C and daytime temperatures are usually around 24 °C. It is also the rainiest time of year, so a few lovely days may be followed by a heavy storm.

Verdict: the first half of October may be suitable for swimming, but a hotel with an indoor or heated pool is a sensible precaution.

Weather in November

November brings temperatures of around 19 °C and is ideal for walking, cycling or a visit to Palma. The beach resorts quieten down considerably and some hotels and restaurants close for the season.

Verdict: a good time for an active holiday, provided you don’t mind the occasional rain.

Weather in December

December’s daytime temperatures of around 17 °C are more pleasant than a Central European winter, but the days are short and the weather changeable. You’ll hardly see any snow on the coast, though it may appear on the highest peaks of the Tramuntana mountains.

Verdict: opt for Palma and a sightseeing itinerary, rather than a deserted beach resort.

Sea temperature in Mallorca

We recommend the period from June to October for comfortable swimming. The sea is at its warmest in August, whilst in May it will still be too cold for most people.

Season Sea temperature How is the swimming?
May 19 °C More of a quick dip; a bit chilly for children.
June 22 °C It’s now comfortable to go for a swim.
July 25 °C The water is very pleasant, even for children.
August 26 °C The warmest sea of the year.
September 25 °C Warm sea even after sunset.
October 23 °C Pleasant, but the weather may put a damper on swimming.
November 20 °C Too cold for most people by now.

Water temperatures usually vary only slightly between different parts of the island. Shallow coves may warm up more quickly, but the weather will have a greater impact on your choice of travel dates than the specific stretch of coastline.

You’ll find tips on specific spots in the sections ‘The Most Beautiful Beaches and Activities ’ and ‘What to See in Mallorca’.

Does the weather vary depending on the part of Mallorca?

Yes, particularly between the coast, the interior and the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. So, for the forecast, check the specific location rather than just the general forecast for the whole island.

Area What to expect
Coast The sea moderates temperature fluctuations. In summer, it’s usually more bearable by the water than inland.
Inland In summer, temperatures above 35 °C are more common here; conversely, it can be cooler in the evenings.
Serra de Tramuntana More rainfall, wind and, as the altitude increases, lower temperatures. The weather can change quickly.

In the mountains, don’t rely on what you see in the morning from your hotel by the sea. Even in spring and autumn, take a light waterproof layer with you and check the radar before setting off on a hike.

Where to stay depending on the time of year

In summer, choose your accommodation primarily based on the beach. Out of season, it’s more important to check whether restaurants, shops and other services remain open in the area.

Time of year Where we’d stay Why
June to September Playa de Muro or Alcúdia Long beaches and good facilities for families.
June to September Cala Millor or Sa Coma A classic beach holiday on the east coast.
April, May and October Palma, Alcúdia or Sóller You can easily combine city breaks, the mountains and the coast.
November to March Palma The widest choice of open hotels, restaurants and activities in inclement weather.

You’ll find further recommendations in the ‘Accommodation in Mallorca’ section.

Find a hotel in Mallorca by date

Is it worth hiring a car in the off-season?

Yes. From October to May, we’d recommend a car even more than in summer. You can adapt flexibly to the weather and move your trip from the rainy mountains to the coast or to Palma.

Before booking, read the practical tips in the Car Hire in Mallorca section.

Compare car hire prices in Mallorca

What to do in Mallorca when it rains

Rain often comes in the form of short showers, but particularly in autumn, very heavy thunderstorms can occur. If there is an AEMET warning, do not plan a mountain hike or a trip to narrow gorges.

In bad weather, it’s worth visiting:

  • the historic centre of Palma and the cathedral
  • The Dragon Caves or the Hams Caves
  • Palma Aquarium
  • a visit to a winery
  • a short drive, depending on the current weather forecast

You can find further options in the guides ‘What to see in Mallorca ’ and ‘Activities in Mallorca’.

Choose tickets and activities in Mallorca

Mallorca webcam and current weather

If you’re travelling in the coming days, check the forecast for your specific resort. The weather in Palma may differ from that in the Tramuntana mountains or on the opposite side of the island.

A 2- to 4-day forecast is usually useful for planning. Treat the 10- to 14-day icons as a guide only, particularly in autumn and in the mountains.

Table of temperatures during the year

Mallorca - Air and sea temperatures

Month
Weather
Air
Water
january
rainy
15 °C
14 °C
february
rainy
15 °C
13 °C
march
sunny
17 °C
14 °C
april
sunny
19 °C
16 °C
may
sun
23 °C
20 °C
june
sun
27 °C
23 °C
july
sun
29 °C
25 °C
august
sun
30 °C
26 °C
september
sun
27 °C
26 °C
october
rainy
23 °C
23 °C
november
rainy
19 °C
19 °C
december
rainy
16 °C
16 °C

When to go to Mallorca

When is the best time to swim in the sea in Mallorca?

Generally, from June to October. For families with young children, the safest time is from July to September.

Is Mallorca a good place for a holiday in May?

Yes, if you want to combine sightseeing with relaxation. Air temperatures are pleasant, but the sea, at around 19 °C, will be too cold for many people.

Can you swim in Mallorca in October?

Yes, the sea is usually around 23 °C. A greater risk than the cold water is the changeable weather and rain, so we recommend the first half of October.

Which month is the warmest in Mallorca?

August is usually the warmest. Average daily maximum temperatures hover around 30 °C, though they can be significantly higher during heatwaves.

Book your hotel in Mallorca in advance

When does it rain the most in Mallorca?

The heaviest rainfall usually occurs in October and November. This doesn’t mean constant rain, but autumn storms can be short and very intense.

Is it worth visiting Mallorca in winter?

Yes, for Palma, walking tours and travelling by car. No, not for swimming or the guarantee of sunny weather. For a winter break, we’d choose Palma over a purely seasonal seaside resort.

This article may contain affiliate links from which our editorial team may earn commissions if you click on the link. See our Advertising Policy page.

Any questions left?

If you have any questions or comments about the article...

1 comment

Sign in to Cestee

... the worldwide travel community

Continue with Facebook

Do not have your travel account yet? Sign up