Beirut really shines with its Mediterranean sunshine, mild winters, and warm summers, but picking the right time to go can make all the difference. If you’re after comfortable weather, aim for spring (March to May) or fall (October to early December).
During these months, you get pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. The city’s outdoor cafés, seaside promenades, and cultural sites feel much more inviting without summer’s heat or winter’s rain.
You’ll see how the seasons change the city’s vibe. Summer heats up and draws crowds, while winter cools off with more rain.
Spring and fall really strike a sweet spot. Warm but not stifling, clearer skies—these months just make sightseeing and day trips way more enjoyable.
If you plan your trip with the weather in mind, you’ll get more out of your visit than just good photos. The right timing lets you stroll the Corniche, join festivals, or explore the nearby mountains without hassle.
With a bit of luck, you’ll catch Beirut at its most welcoming, both in climate and in spirit.
Overview of Beirut Weather
Beirut’s got a Mediterranean climate—think warm, dry summers, mild in-between seasons, and cooler, wetter winters.
You’ll notice real changes in temperature, rain, and humidity depending on when you go. Understanding these shifts makes planning a lot easier.
Climate Classification and Seasonal Patterns
Beirut falls under the Mediterranean climate category, like much of coastal Lebanon. Summers get hot and dry, and winters bring most of the rain.
Spring and autumn sit in the middle. Temperatures stay comfortable, and the weather feels much more stable.
Here’s a quick seasonal rundown:
- Summer (June–August): Hot, dry, and long sunny days.
- Autumn (September–November): Starts warm, cools down, and you’ll see some rain.
- Winter (December–February): Cooler, wetter, and cloudier, sometimes with heavy rain.
- Spring (March–May): Mild, fresh air, moderate temperatures, and some light showers.
This seasonal rhythm really shapes when you’ll want to do outdoor activities or hit the beach.
Temperature Trends Throughout the Year
Temperatures in Beirut stay moderate compared to the rest of Lebanon. August usually takes the prize for hottest month, with daytime highs around 31°C (88°F).
Nights don’t cool off much, often sticking above 23°C (73°F).
January is the coolest, with daytime highs near 16°C (61°F) and nighttime lows dipping to about 8°C (46°F). Thanks to the coast, it rarely gets close to freezing.
Spring and autumn bring the nicest range, usually between 18°C and 29°C (65°F–84°F). These mild days make walking the city and eating outdoors a real treat.
Water temperatures follow the air. The Mediterranean warms up to about 29°C (84°F) in August, but by February, it cools to 18°C (64°F)—something to keep in mind if you’re planning to swim.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
Rain in Beirut doesn’t spread out evenly. Almost all of it falls between November and March, and February is the wettest month, averaging about 148 mm over 14 rainy days.
July barely sees a drop, often less than 2 mm.
Humidity sticks around, usually between 60% and 72%. You’ll feel it most in July and August when the heat and humidity team up, making the air feel heavier than the thermometer shows.
Sunshine changes a lot too. July brings the most daylight—up to 12 hours—while January gets just 4 to 5 hours. That can really affect how much time you want to spend outside.
Best Months to Visit Beirut for Ideal Weather
Beirut’s weather patterns make spring and autumn the most comfortable times, while summer means hot, dry days and lots of visitors. Rain mostly sticks to winter, so you can count on plenty of dry days for most of the year.
Spring: March to May
Spring brings warm but comfortable weather, usually from the mid-60s °F (around 18°C) in March to the low-80s °F (around 27°C) in May.
Rainfall drops off fast after March, so you get mostly dry, clear days.
It’s a fantastic season for sightseeing. You can explore the Corniche, wander downtown, or take day trips to the mountains without sweating through extreme heat.
Humidity stays moderate, and evenings can be cool enough for a jacket. Tourists start arriving in April and May, but it’s not as packed as summer.
If you want good weather and reasonable crowds, spring just makes sense.
Quick facts for spring:
- Avg. rainfall: 0.5–3 inches per month
- Avg. highs: 70–81°F (21–27°C)
- Best for: outdoor walks, cultural visits, day trips
Summer: June to August
Summer in Beirut gets hot and dry. Highs climb from 86°F (30°C) in June to over 91°F (33°C) in August.
Nights stay warm, rarely dropping below 77°F (25°C). Rain is almost nonexistent, so you’ll see lots of clear skies.
This is when tourists really pack the city. Beaches and outdoor cafés buzz with activity, and hotel prices go up.
If you love swimming in the Mediterranean, this is your season. The sea is warm and perfect for a dip.
Humidity jumps in July and August, making the heat feel even stronger. If you’re out all day, don’t forget shade and water.
Quick facts for summer:
- Avg. rainfall: 0 inches
- Avg. highs: 86–91°F (30–33°C)
- Best for: beach trips, nightlife, coastal activities
Autumn: September to November
Autumn brings a welcome drop in heat. September can still be hot, with highs near 89°F (32°C), but by November, days cool to about 76°F (24°C).
Evenings get cooler as fall goes on.
Rain starts to return in October and November, though usually in short bursts, not long storms. The air feels less sticky than in summer, so sightseeing is more comfortable.
After September, tourist numbers fall, and you’ll find better hotel deals. If you want mild weather for city exploring or countryside trips, autumn is a solid choice.
Quick facts for autumn:
- Avg. rainfall: 0.7–3.5 inches per month
- Avg. highs: 76–89°F (24–32°C)
- Best for: city tours, cultural events, relaxed travel
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect Each Time of Year
Beirut’s coastal climate means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Temperature swings, rain patterns, and humidity all play a part in what you’ll actually want to do outside, whether it’s walking tours or hitting the beach.
Winter: December to February
Winter in Beirut feels mild if you’re used to Europe or North America, but it’s the rainiest season here.
Average daytime temperatures run from 58°F to 64°F (14°C to 18°C), and nights can dip into the low 50s.
Rain is frequent, with January averaging close to 3 inches. Overcast days and storms happen, especially along the coast.
The city stays mild, but the nearby mountains sometimes get snow, drawing skiers to places like Faraya.
Humidity often climbs above 70% in winter, which can make cool days feel even damper. You can still sightsee outdoors, but it’s smart to have some indoor plans—museums, cafes, souks—when showers roll through.
Hotels drop their prices, and you’ll find fewer tourists. If you don’t mind the rain, winter gives you a quieter and cheaper way to see Beirut and beyond.
Monthly Weather Overview
Here’s a quick table showing Beirut’s average conditions through the year:
| Month | Avg. High °F (°C) | Avg. Low °F (°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 60 (16) | 50 (10) | 3.0 | Wettest month |
| February | 61 (16) | 51 (11) | 2.7 | Cool, damp |
| March | 64 (18) | 54 (12) | 2.0 | Rain easing |
| April | 70 (21) | 58 (14) | 1.0 | Mild, drier |
| May | 77 (25) | 64 (18) | 0.3 | Warm, dry |
| June | 82 (28) | 69 (21) | 0.1 | Hot, dry |
| July | 86 (30) | 73 (23) | 0.0 | Peak summer heat |
| August | 86 (30) | 74 (23) | 0.0 | Hottest month |
| September | 84 (29) | 72 (22) | 0.3 | Warm, still dry |
| October | 79 (26) | 67 (19) | 1.0 | Comfortable |
| November | 70 (21) | 60 (16) | 2.0 | Rain returns |
| December | 63 (17) | 53 (12) | 2.8 | Cool, wet |
You can see how Beirut’s dry, sunny summers contrast sharply with its wetter, cooler winters. Use this to match your travel plans with your weather preferences.
Weather-Related Activities and Events in Beirut
Mild spring and fall weather makes it easy to enjoy Beirut’s coast and cultural life. Hot, dry summers are best for the beach, while cooler, wetter winters shift things indoors and bring seasonal events.
Beach and Outdoor Activities
Beirut’s Mediterranean coast really shines from late spring through early fall. Between May and October, sea temperatures hover around 24–28°C (75–82°F), which is perfect for swimming.
Clear skies and little rain make it ideal for sunbathing, boating, or diving.
You’ll find both public and private beaches along the coast. Ramlet al-Baida is a popular spot and easy to get to.
The warmer months also let you explore the Corniche, a seaside promenade great for walking, jogging, or cycling with sea and mountain views.
If hiking’s your thing, spring and autumn offer cooler air for mountain day trips. Trails in the Chouf Mountains stay cooler than the city and let you escape the summer heat.
Rain is minimal in these seasons, so hiking paths stay open.
Cultural Festivals and Local Events
Spring and fall bring out Beirut’s cultural calendar. You can catch outdoor performances, art fairs, and food markets without worrying about heat or rain.
The Beirut International Film Festival usually happens in autumn, attracting crowds from all over. Warm evenings make outdoor screenings pretty comfortable.
Music and arts festivals pop up in open-air venues around the city. Summer brings concerts along the coast, while spring festivals focus on local food and traditions.
National holidays, like Independence Day in November, feature public celebrations, parades, and fireworks. Mild temperatures and less rain make these events easier to enjoy.
Tourist Seasons and Crowd Levels
Tourist numbers in Beirut rise and fall with the weather. Warm, dry months pull in the most visitors, while cooler or wetter months mean smaller crowds and better prices.
Peak and Off-Peak Travel Periods
Beirut really comes alive in July, August, and September. During these months, hotels get pricier, beaches get packed, and attractions fill up fast. August brings the most heat, so lots of people head straight for the coast.
Spring, especially April and May, draws a steady crowd too. The weather feels great, and cultural events pop up all over the place. Sightseeing just feels easier during this time.
If you’d rather avoid crowds and save some money, try November through March. These months bring cooler temperatures and a bit of rain. Still, you’ll breeze through museums and probably pay less for a place to stay.
Here’s a quick look:
| Season | Crowd Level | Travel Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jul–Sep) | High | Expensive | Hottest, busiest |
| Spring (Apr–May) | Moderate | Mid-range | Comfortable weather |
| Fall (Oct–Nov) | Low–Moderate | Lower | Pleasant, fewer tourists |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Low | Lowest | Cool, some rain |
Impact of Weather on Tourism
Beirut’s weather really shapes when people decide to visit. Summers hit hard with heat and barely any rain, so everyone flocks to the beaches and outdoor spots. That’s why July and August get so busy.
Winter brings cooler air and more rain. Temperatures stay mild compared to a lot of places, but the wetter days keep most people indoors. You’ll notice fewer visitors around then.
Spring and autumn hit that sweet spot. Temperatures land somewhere between the upper teens and high twenties Celsius, and rain doesn’t bother you much. Exploring old neighborhoods, joining walking tours, or grabbing a meal outside just feels right during these months.
Humidity makes a difference too. July and August feel even hotter because of it. By November, the air dries out, and you get those crisp, clear days that some travelers really love.
Tips for Planning Your Trip Based on Weather
Beirut’s climate shifts a lot between seasons. What you pack—and how you get ready—can totally change your experience. Temperatures, humidity, and rain all play a part, especially if you’re planning to be outside a lot.
Packing Suggestions for Each Season
In spring (March–May), daytime highs usually sit between the upper 60s and low 80s °F (19–27 °C). Light layers do the trick, since mornings and nights can get chilly. You’ll want to toss in a light rain jacket, especially for March and April.
Summer (June–August) gets hot and sticky, with highs often above 86 °F (30 °C). Bring breathable clothes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Don’t forget comfy sandals or walking shoes—you’ll probably spend hours on your feet.
During fall (September–November), temperatures drop from the upper 80s °F (31 °C) in September to the low 70s °F (22–23 °C) by November. Pack a mix of short sleeves and light sweaters. A compact umbrella or jacket comes in handy in October and November, just in case it rains.
Winter (December–February) feels pretty mild compared to a lot of other places, with highs around 65–70 °F (18–21 °C). You’ll want long sleeves, a medium jacket, and closed shoes. Rain shows up more often, so waterproof shoes and an umbrella are smart to have.
Staying Comfortable During Your Visit
Humidity really spikes in Beirut during midsummer, and honestly, it can make the heat feel a bit overwhelming. Try to drink plenty of water, take breaks in the shade, and maybe skip those long walks during the hottest parts of the afternoon.
Rain showers show up in winter and early spring, and while they’re often quick, they can get pretty intense. If you carry a small umbrella or a waterproof jacket, you probably won’t have to stop exploring just because of a sudden downpour.
If you’re heading to the coast, keep in mind that sea breezes sometimes feel surprisingly cool in the evenings, even when the days are warm. Tossing a light jacket in your bag can make those after-sunset strolls a lot more comfortable.
Most of the time, wind speeds stay light, but February and March sometimes bring stronger gusts. It’s a good idea to hold onto your hat and keep an eye on loose clothing if you’re visiting open spots along the waterfront or up at higher viewpoints.