Why Now Is the Best Time to See This Iconic City Without the Usual Fog

Wondering when to pack your bags for the city of the Golden Gate Bridge, hippie culture, and fog named Karl?

Having dated a local for a couple of years, I made trips up to San Francisco at all different times of the year. There are days I wake up to mist so white you can’t see the next building to hanging in Dolores Park under the sun on the same day.

This is a city of microclimates, it can be foggy AF downtown while being sunny and warm just across the bridge in Oakland. It’s wild.

San Francisco’s weather can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride. So, what is the best time to visit San Francisco?

• Best Season: September to October
• Peak Season: June to August
• Off-Peak Season: January to March

Now, let’s peek into the details, including the top events and what each month has in store. Whether you’re planning a day trip to SF or a weekend exploration of everything from Alcatraz Island to Golden Gate Park, these insights will help you choose the best times to go to San Francisco.

Best Time to Visit San Francisco

Best Time of Year to Visit

The absolute best time to visit San Francisco is from September to October. The weather is simply unbeatable; you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days with little to no fog, which is a real problem for much of the year. Plus, you dodge the summer tourist rush.

Best Time for Good Weather

For the absolute best weather, again, aim for late September through early October. During this sweet spot, the city has an average temp of 70°F (21°C), with clear skies and minimal fog to cloud your adventures. Shorts and sunglasses are your go-to, perfect for waterfront walks or city explorations.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds

Mid-January to early February is one of the least visited times of the year. This time is post-holiday and before the spring break rush, plus the weather is a little chillier and rainier than people prefer.

Cheapest Time to Visit

If you’re looking to save, the months of January to March offer the cheapest hotel rates. Of course, this is the off-season considered the city’s rainy season. I’ve been here during New Year’s Eve and even with a great rooftop access, the fireworks looked like a lightning storm through the clouds.

Worst Time to Visit San Francisco

It’s crazy to say this, but I think the worst time to go to SF is in the summer, especially July and August. It’s peak tourist season and foggy season all rolled into one.

Ironically, while the rest of the country basks in sunshine, the city rolls in its famous dense fog. Plus, hotel prices are at an all-time high, and you’ll be wrestling through crowds everywhere, from Alcatraz tours to Mission District cafes.

But if incredible US festivities like Pride Month and Outside Lands Music Festival are on your bucket list, then the summer season might be worth it.

Seasons of San Francisco

Spring (March to May)

Spring in San Francisco comes alive with cherry blossoms, street fairs, and cultural festivals. This is when you’ll see cherry blossoms in Japantown and magnolias at the San Francisco Botanical Garden.

Unpredictable weather patterns can switch from sunny one moment to drizzly the next.

Temperature-wise, keep a light jacket handy. Days can warm up to a comfy 60-70°F (15-21°C), but nights are cooler. Unpredictable weather patterns can switch from sunny one moment to drizzly the next.

Pro tip! Pack layers. San Francisco’s microclimates mean you could be sunbathing in Dolores Park one minute and shivering in the Marina the next.

Key Events:

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival (March): Join the festivities for a day filled with Irish music, dancing, and hearty laughs.
• Art Market San Francisco (April): Visit the Fort Mason Festival Pavilion for a showcase of contemporary and modern art from over 70 galleries.
• Union Street Spring Celebration (April): This family-friendly event turns Union Street into a wonderland with parades, live music, and activities for the kiddos.
• San Francisco International Film Festival – SFIFF (April): This festival is a cinephile’s dream with diverse range of groundbreaking cinema from around the world.
• Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival (April): This festival celebrates Japanese culture and the beauty of cherry blossoms with traditional music, dance, and, of course, mouthwatering sushi.
• Easter Celebrations (April): From sunrise services to egg hunts in Golden Gate Park, Easter in San Francisco is time for community, chocolate bunnies, and maybe even a brunch cruise on the Bay.
• Bay to Breakers (May): Strap on your running shoes—or your most outrageous costume—and hit the streets for this footrace. It’s part race, part carnival, and 100% San Francisco.
• Carnaval (May): Feel the rhythm of the drums with colorful costumes and electrifying dances in the Mission District.

Summer (June to August)

If you’re expecting scorching hot days perfect for sunbathing, well, you’re in for a surprise. Welcome to the land of the endless fog, affectionately known by locals as “Fogust.”

While most of the U.S. is sweating through a heatwave, San Francisco’s summer temps hover around a cool 60-70°F (15-21°C). This phenomenon is thanks to the chilly ocean currents off the Pacific.

And while the mornings might start with a thick blanket of fog, it usually clears by the afternoon, gifting those postcard-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

But Summer in SF is still festival season! From the flamboyant and fabulous SF Pride Parade in June to the delights at the Gilroy Garlic Festival (okay, that one’s a bit of a drive, but totally worth it for garlic ice cream), there’s something happening every weekend.

Outdoor movies? Check. Shakespeare in the Park? Double check. And for the music lovers, don’t miss out on the Outside Lands Music Festival in Golden Gate Park.

The best way to enjoy San Francisco summer is by exploring its vibrant neighborhoods. Each one has its unique microclimate. You might need that scarf in the Outer Sunset, but you could be soaking up the sun in Mission Dolores Park.

Key Events:

• Fillmore Jazz Festival (July): This event transforms Fillmore Street into the largest free jazz festival on the West Coast.
• Giants Baseball (June-September): Catch the SF Giants in action at Oracle Park.
• Haight-Ashbury Street Fair (June): Take a trip back to the ’60s with this groovy fair. It’s a day filled with live music, eclectic stalls, and a vibe that’s all about peace, love, and community.
• Union Street Festival (June): Union Street turns into arts, crafts, and gourmet food booths.
• North Beach Festival (June): Welcome to one of the oldest street fairs in the country.
• Soy and Tofu Festival (June): Dive into the wonderful world of soy and tofu.
• Festa Coloniale Italiana (June): Experience Italy in SF with authentic Italian food, music, and performances.
• Fourth of July Celebration at The Pier (July 4th): The Pier is another fabulous spot to celebrate Independence Day with entertainment, food, and, of course, spectacular fireworks.
• San Francisco Frozen Film Festival (July): Cool off with independent films from emerging filmmakers.

Fall (September-November)

After the quirky summer SF gets, in fall, the fog lifts, revealing clear days with comfortable temperatures and without the summer crowds. The weather is typically around 60-70°F (15-21°C).

Fall here is buzzing with events still, with the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival and Fleet Week. With the harvest season in full swing, restaurants across the city whip out innovative menus. It’s also the perfect time to explore the wineries nearby since a day trip to Napa and Sonoma are just a short drive away.

Key Events:

• Folsom Street Fair (September): Come out and celebrate diversity at the world’s largest leather event.
• Fleet Week (October): The Blue Angels perform jaw-dropping aerial stunts, and the whole week is a tribute to the armed forces, complete with ship tours and military bands.
• Hardly Strictly Bluegrass (October): Free music in Golden Gate Park! This festival is a celebration of bluegrass and so much more.
• Castro Street Fair (October): It’s a day of music, art, community, and the spirit of the Castro. Glitter is a fashion statement here, and everyone’s invited to the party.
• Italian Heritage Parade (October): The oldest Italian-American parade in the country makes its way through the streets with colorful floats and marching bands.
• Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival (October): Get into the Halloween spirit with giant pumpkins, pumpkin-flavored treats, and ghoulish fun.

Winter (December-March)

SF’s winter is pretty mild. I remember just wearing a light sweater at all times, as the only things falling here are leaves, not snowflakes. Temperatures hover around 50-60°F (10-15°C).

Rain is commonplace and usually lasts from November through March. This is what makes the hills green and lush come Spring. But if you’re visiting in winter, just bring a raincoat and an umbrella.

Union Square becomes a festive hub with an ice-skating rink and towering Christmas tree. Neighborhoods like the Castro or Hayes Valley sparkle with decorations. Pop-up holiday markets and light installations like the ones at the California Academy of Sciences add that special touch of warmth to the cooler days.

Key Events:

• Union Square Christmas Tree Lighting (November): The kickoff to the holiday season, where thousands gather to witness the lighting of the towering Christmas tree.
• The Guardsmen Tree Lot Party (December): This charity event features live music, local food and wine, and the sale of Christmas trees.

• Parol Lantern Festival and Parade (December): This festival lights up the night with beautifully handcrafted lanterns, symbolizing hope and solidarity.
• Chinese New Year Parade & Festival (February): It’s the largest celebration of its kind outside of Asia. The parade is a spectacle with floats, dragon dancers, and gorgeous costumes.
• Chronicle Wine Tasting Competition (February): This event is a paradise for wine enthusiasts, presenting an array of California’s finest.

San Francisco Weather By Month

Here is a month-by-month breakdown of the average high and low temperatures and precipitation in San Francisco:

Month	Average High (°F)	Average Low (°F)	Precipitation (Days of Rain)
Jan	57	46	8.2
Feb	60	49	8.4
Mar	63	51	7.5
Apr	65	53	3.9
May	67	54	2.1
Jun	69	55	0.7
Jul	70	56	0.1
Aug	70	57	0.1
Sep	72	58	0.7
Oct	70	56	2.6
Nov	63	52	6.1
Dec	57	47	8.5

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

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• Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss
• Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers
• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons
• Perfect Day Trip to Sonoma Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect Day Trip to Napa Valley Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary from a Local

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.