Find out when is the best time to visit San Francisco and take advantage of the best seasons with this guide to complete planning.
The busiest months in San Francisco: end of June to end of September
As you might expect, summer is the peak season in San Francisco. It lasts from the end of June until the end of September, and is when the city is really crowded, especially because it has so many beaches. The period is ideal for enjoying the outdoors, the coast, the parks and even the outlets. Temperatures are between 12ºC and 24ºC, with August and September being the hottest months.
As this is a popular time of year, you can expect to find more expensive accommodation, meals, stores and other travel items during these months. That’s why we stress the importance of good financial planning.
During this time, make the most of the summer festivals:
- Outside Lands: most often held in August in Golden Gate Park. This music festival brings together artists from different parts of the world and the most varied musical styles.
- San Francisco Jazz Festival: this is a festival focused on jazz music, where national and international artists perform. It usually takes place in June.
- San Francisco Pride Celebration & Parade: because San Francisco is a symbol city for the LGBTI community, the gay parade there is one of the most important events in the state. It usually takes place in June.
Holidays around this time:
04/07: Independence Day.
06/09: Labor Day.
Winter in San Francisco
The months from December to March represent winter and the low season in the city. But, contrary to what many people think, temperatures are not so low in winter (they range from 7ºC to 16ºC), it just rains a lot (which prevents some activities).
Prices at this time of year are more attractive, and you can save a lot by traveling in winter. For this season, we suggest museums and shopping malls, for example.
Holidays at this time of year
01/01: New Year.
18/01: Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
15/02: Washington’s Birthday.
25/12: Christmas Day.
31/12: New Year’s Eve.
- Important tip: San Francisco is a city with many tourist attractions, such as museums and tours. That’s why our tip is to always buy your tickets in advance. We buy everything on this website that has the best price.
Spring and fall in San Francisco
Spring and fall are mid-season, when the city is neither as crowded nor as empty. As a result, prices are neither as expensive as in summer nor as cheap as in winter. Temperatures are between 9ºC and 23ºC at this time, so always pack warm coats, pants and closed shoes, as well as shorts and T-shirts.
Spring in San Francisco, in particular, has many attractions typical of this time of year. The flowers take over the places and give them a unique and special charm. Must-see attractions during this period include Lombard Street, Alamo Square, the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Francisco Botanical Garden.
- Carnival San Francisco: in San Francisco there are Carnival parties with lots of entertainment, music, dancing and various other activities. It’s fun and colorful.
- It rains less in the fall, so you can take advantage of the opportunity to visit Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square.
- Treasure Island Music Festival: this is a totally free music festival, with lots of food trucks and performances, and usually takes place in October, in the middle of the fall.
Holidays around this time:
31/03: Cesar Chavez Day.
04/04: Easter.
31/05: Remembrance Day, Memorial Day.
11/10: Columbus Day.
11/11: Veteran’s Day.
25/11: Thanksgiving Day.
- Important tip: to make the most of your trip to San Francisco, staying in the best areas is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the main areas, the hotels and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
Earthquake and hurricane season in San Francisco
Yes, there have been earthquakes and hurricanes in California throughout history. However, this shouldn’t be a concern for tourists. There have been no natural disasters in the state for many years, and the most that can happen is a 2-3 point tremor (which is nothing serious).
If you have to go through a situation like this, look for places that have a roof and where there is no risk of items falling on you. And when you find a safe place, sit on the floor to avoid dizziness.
Save money on your trip to San Francisco:
Tickets: find out where to buy your San Francisco tickets in the cheapest and safest way. You can save up to 40%!
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Hotels: our article on where to stay in San Francisco. You will find out the best areas and how to save a lot on the hotel.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
