While California as a whole has a reputation for high temperatures, San Francisco enjoys a temperate marine climate year round – usually hovering between 40° and 70° F. Winter months tend to be chilly, so a warm jacket is always a good idea. Pack an umbrella, as we see most of our rain in these winter months. Spring means mild temperatures, but again, bring a sweater or lightweight jacket on daytrips for fluctuations in temperature. Expect our famous fog to blanket the city in mornings and evenings, especially in the summer. It usually burns off in the course of the day, however typical summer clothes are not appropriate. The marine layer keeps temperatures well below what you may expect for June, July and August. You’ll be best prepared with long pants and a sweater or light coat. When adventuring north to Marin, Napa and Sonoma counties or south to Santa Cruz and San Jose, shorts and t-shirts are best as summer temperatures are much warmer than in the city. Autumn gives San Francisco its traditional “summer” weather and temperatures go into the high 70’s and 80’s in September and October. To be most comfortable in our city by the bay, pack a jacket whenever you plan to visit. |