Recife in May

December through February is peak season, which means crowds and higher prices but also the best weather. Temperatures hover around 28°C with ocean breezes that make it bearable. This is when Carnival happens—February usually—and the city goes completely insane in the best way possible. Hotel prices triple, but you'll see frevo and maracatu groups practicing on every street corner. March through May is shoulder season and honestly the sweet spot. The weather stays warm but the tourist crowds thin out. You'll pay normal prices for hotels and actually get a table at restaurants without waiting. August through November is technically winter, but this is the tropics so winter means 26°C instead of 30°C. It rains more, but usually in short afternoon bursts that cool things down. The rain here is warm and feels good after walking around all day. Avoid June and July if you can. It's the wettest time of year, and while the rain is still warm, it can last for days. Plus, it's Brazilian winter break so domestic tourists flood the beaches.