Season by season
Spring (March–May). Mild, increasingly dry and less crowded than summer. A good time for walking the hills and for day trips to wine country.
Summer (June–August). Peak visitor season but often grey, windy and cool, particularly in the morning and evening. The fog is atmospheric; the bridge may be hidden.
Autumn (September–October). The city’s real summer: warm, sunny days, little fog and long views across the bay. Book early — locals know it is the best time.
Winter (November–February). The rainy season, with clear, crisp days between storms. Hotel prices are at their lowest outside conventions and holidays.
Month-by-month
| Month | Avg. high | Avg. low | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14°C / 57°F | 8°C / 46°F | Moderate |
| February | 16°C / 61°F | 9°C / 48°F | Moderate |
| March | 17°C / 63°F | 9°C / 48°F | Moderate |
| April | 18°C / 64°F | 10°C / 50°F | Busy |
| May | 19°C / 66°F | 11°C / 52°F | Busy |
| June | 20°C / 68°F | 12°C / 54°F | Peak |
| July | 20°C / 68°F | 12°C / 54°F | Peak |
| August | 21°C / 70°F | 13°C / 55°F | Peak |
| September | 22°C / 72°F | 13°C / 55°F | Busy |
| October | 21°C / 70°F | 12°C / 54°F | Busy |
| November | 17°C / 63°F | 10°C / 50°F | Moderate |
| December | 14°C / 57°F | 8°C / 46°F | Moderate |
Temperatures are rounded long-term averages for the main visitor area; real days vary, and mountains and deserts swing much more between day and night.
Events & festivals
- January or February: Chinese New Year Festival and Parade
- April: Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown
- May: Bay to Breakers footrace
- June: San Francisco Pride
- August: Outside Lands music festival in Golden Gate Park
- October: Fleet Week air show over the bay
