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San Francisco Packing Guide From a Local: What to Pack for Every Season
- 6 hours ago
- 10 min read
Planning a trip to San Francisco and wondering what to wear? Packing for San Francisco can be tricky thanks to the city’s many microclimates, sudden fog, strong coastal winds, and surprisingly warm fall days. Weather can vary dramatically from one neighborhood to the next, making it difficult to know what to pack for your trip.
In this local San Francisco packing guide, we’ll break down what to wear in San Francisco for every season so you’re prepared for the city’s rapidly changing weather year-round. Whether you’re visiting during foggy summer months or sunny September and October, this guide will help you pack smart and stay comfortable during your trip.
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San Francisco Weather by Month: What to Pack for Each Season
San Francisco weather is fairly consistent year-round, with average daytime highs in the mid-60s and nighttime lows in the 40s-50s. However, wind and the city’s famous coastal fog often make it feel much colder than the actual temperature. Here’s what you can expect from San Francisco weather throughout the year based on the month you visit.
San Francisco Winter Weather (December – February)
Winter is the coldest and rainiest time of year in San Francisco. If you're visiting San Francisco in December, January, or February, expect average daytime highs between 58-61°F and nighttime lows between 47-48°F.
January and December are typically the coldest months in San Francisco, both averaging highs of around 58°F and lows of 47°F. February warms slightly with an average high of 61°F and low of 48°F.
Rain is most common during these months, with December, January, and February each averaging about 8 rainy days. Fog is also possible throughout the winter, especially near the coast and in the mornings.
San Francisco Weather in Spring (March – May)
Spring brings slightly warmer and drier weather to the city. San Francisco in March sees average highs of around 62°F and lows near 49°F, along with about 8 days of rain.
By April, temperatures rise to an average high of 64°F and low of 50°F, while rainfall drops to roughly 4 days during the month.
In May, San Francisco averages daytime highs of 65°F and nighttime lows of 51°F. Rain becomes rare with only about 2 rainy days on average, though fog can still roll in from the Pacific Ocean.
San Francisco Summer Weather (June – August): Fog Season
Summer in San Francisco is known for its foggy and cool conditions, often referred to as “June Gloom.” In June, average highs reach only about 67°F with lows around 53°F. Fog is very common, though rainfall is virtually nonexistent.
July is typically the foggiest month in San Francisco, with average highs around 67°F and lows near 55°F. Despite being peak summer, overcast skies are common, but rain is rare.
By August, temperatures begin to warm slightly with average highs of 69°F and lows around 56°F. Fog is still frequent but generally less intense than in June and July.
San Francisco Fall Weather (September – November): Warmest & Sunniest
Fall is often considered the best time to visit San Francisco for warm and sunny weather. San Francisco in September is typically the warmest and sunniest month of the year, with average highs around 71°F and lows near 56°F. Fog is less common, making it one of the best months for beach days. Although the average high is 71°F, occasional heat waves can push temperatures close to 90°F.
October is the second warmest month in San Francisco, averaging highs of 70°F and lows around 55°F. Most days are clear with limited fog, and there is only a slight chance of rain with about 2 rainy days on average.
By November, temperatures begin to cool again with average highs of 64°F and lows near 51°F. Rainfall increases slightly to about 5 days during the month, and fog may return.
Best Time to Visit San Francisco for Good Weather
If you’re visiting San Francisco for warm, sunny weather, September and October usually offer the best conditions with the least fog and the highest average temperatures. In recent years, October has even seen multiple 90°F days.
If you'd like to experience San Francisco’s iconic summer fog, plan your visit between June and August, when overcast skies and cooler temperatures are most common.
San Francisco Microclimates: Why Packing Layers Is Essential
San Francisco’s weather can change dramatically from one neighborhood to the next thanks to the city’s unique microclimates. While some areas stay sunny and warm, others are often foggy, windy, and significantly colder, even if they’re only a few miles apart.
Fog is most common during the summer months (June-August), but it can appear year-round depending on where you are in the city. This is why packing layers for San Francisco is essential, you may experience sunshine, wind, and chilly fog all in the same day.
Here’s a general breakdown of the weather you can expect throughout different parts of San Francisco:
East & Southeast Neighborhoods: Warmer and sunnier
Western Neighborhoods: Cooler, foggier, and often windy
North Waterfront Areas: Windy and variable
Downtown: Moderate during the day, colder at night
Neighborhoods with Sunny Microclimates
Mission District
Noe Valley
Bernal Heights
Potrero Hill
Dogpatch
SoMa
Neighborhoods/Areas with Foggy Microclimates
Outer Sunset
Outer Richmond
Ocean Beach
Lands End
Golden Gate Bridge
Neighborhoods with Mixed Weather
Fisherman’s Wharf
Marina District
North Beach
Union Square
What to Wear in San Francisco by Season
Summer (June, July & August)
Summer in San Francisco is famously cool and foggy. While much of the United States experiences heat waves, San Francisco often stays overcast with daytime temperatures in the mid-60s. Evenings can feel especially cold near the water due to wind and fog, so layering is essential when visiting during the summer months.
Here’s what we recommend packing for San Francisco in the summer:
Base Layer: Lightweight and breathable for when the sun comes out.
T-Shirts
Long Sleeves
Middle Layer: Warm enough for exploring without overheating.
Sweaters
Hoodies / Sweatshirts
Outer Layer: Especially useful for ferry rides, Alcatraz visits, or foggy evenings.
Windbreaker
Lightweight Puffer Jacket
Rain Jacket
Pants: Long pants are ideal, but pack at least one warm-weather option.
Jeans
Sweats
Long Pants
Shorts (in-case there is a rare sunny summer day!)
Spring (March, April & May)
Spring in San Francisco is still cool, with average daytime highs in the low-to-mid 60s and chilly evenings. You may also encounter light rain or fog depending on the neighborhood, so layering remains important this time of year.
Here’s what we recommend packing for San Francisco in the spring:
Base Layer:
T-Shirts
Long Sleeves
Middle Layer:
Sweaters
Hoodies
Outer Layer:
Lightweight Jacket
Windbreaker
Rain Jacket
Pants:
Jeans
Leggings
Long Pants
Fall (September, October & November)
Fall is typically the warmest and sunniest time of year in San Francisco, especially in September and October. Daytime temperatures often reach the upper 60s to low 70s, though evenings can still cool off quickly, particularly near the coast.
Here’s what we recommend packing for San Francisco in the fall:
Base Layer:
T-Shirts
Tank Tops
Breathable Long Sleeves
Middle Layer (Optional):
Lightweight Sweater
Hoodie
Outer Layer:
Windbreaker
Light Jacket
Pants:
Jeans
Linen Pants
Leggings
Shorts
Winter (December, January & February)
Winter is the coldest and rainiest time of year in San Francisco, with average highs in the upper 50s and lows in the upper 40s. Wind, rain, and fog are all possible, especially near the waterfront, making warm layers essential.
Here’s what we recommend packing for San Francisco in the winter:
Base Layer:
Long Sleeves
T-Shirts
Sweaters
Middle Layer:
Sweaters
Hoodies / Sweatshirts
Outer Layer:
Rain Jacket
Puffer Jacket
Warm Coat
Windbreaker
Pants:
Jeans
Sweats
Long Pants
Must-Have San Francisco Packing Essentials for a Comfortable Trip
You don’t need much for a trip to San Francisco, but the right gear can make a big difference, especially with the city’s hills, wind, and rapidly changing weather. Below are our must-have San Francisco packing essentials to stay comfortable while exploring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes for San Francisco Hills
Comfortable walking shoes are a must when visiting San Francisco. The city’s steep hills and walkable neighborhoods mean you’ll likely cover several miles a day, and the right footwear can make or break your trip. Our go-to travel shoes are Hokas or On Clouds, both are comfortable enough for long days of exploring without leaving your feet sore.
Our go-to travel shoes for long walking days:
Womens: Hoka Transport & On Cloud Cloud 3
Mens: Hoka Transport & On Cloud
Lightweight Windbreaker or Rain Jacket
San Francisco’s wind and fog can roll in quickly, even on sunny days. A lightweight windbreaker or rain jacket is essential for staying warm near the waterfront or during foggy evenings. We recommend packing a jacket that folds up small so you can easily carry it throughout the day.
Cushioned Socks for Long Walking Days
If you plan on walking around the city (which you should!), cushioned socks can make a huge difference. Extra support helps prevent blisters and keeps your feet comfortable, especially on days when you’re exploring neighborhoods on foot.
Our favorite cushioned travel socks (Bombas): A week's worth of the very best socks to get you ready for the holidays + save 20% on first orders
Day Bag or Backpack for Extra Layers
A day bag or backpack is incredibly helpful when exploring San Francisco. Since temperatures can change quickly throughout the day, it’s useful to have somewhere to store extra layers, water, snacks, or souvenirs while you’re out and about.
Our go-to day bag and camera backpack:
Hat for Wind and Sun Protection
If you’re heading out on the water, visiting Alcatraz, or walking along the coast, a hat is a great item to pack. Even on overcast days, sun exposure and strong coastal winds can be an issue.
Our favorite travel hat: North Face Bucket Hat
Sunscreen for Foggy or Sunny Days
Sunscreen is essential when visiting San Francisco, even when it’s cloudy. UV exposure can still be high, especially if you're spending time outdoors or on the water during ferry rides or boat tours.
Our recommended travel sunscreen: Lightweight, not greasy, and doesn't break us out!
Clipper Card for Getting Around the City
A Clipper Card is one of the most useful things to bring when visiting San Francisco. It allows you to tap and pay across most Bay Area transit systems, including BART, Muni, Caltrain, and ferries. The mobile Clipper Card can be added directly to your phone’s wallet for easy access while getting around the city. Below we have a video tutorial on how to download and use a Clipper Card!
What Not to Pack for San Francisco
There is a lot of advice online about what to wear in San Francisco that we do not necessarily agree with. As locals, we often see visitors being told to pack heavy winter gear that most people simply will not need during their trip.
You Probably Do Not Need Heavy Winter Gear
We frequently see recommendations for gloves, scarves, down coats, and other cold weather gear when visiting San Francisco. While the wind and fog can feel chilly, these items are usually not necessary for most visitors.
Even in the evenings, we are typically comfortable wearing a sweatshirt with jeans or sweats while walking around the city. Some nights can feel brisk, especially near the waterfront when it's foggy, but we have never needed gloves, scarves, or heavy down jackets.
If you tend to get cold easily, these items may still be worth packing. However, for most people visiting San Francisco, normal layers like a shirt, sweatshirt, and lightweight windbreaker will be more than enough.
Yes, You Can Wear Shorts in San Francisco
Another common tip we see online is that you will never wear shorts in San Francisco and should not pack them. In reality, we wear shorts often and regularly see others doing the same, especially on sunny days or when hiking in and around the city.
We recommend packing at least one pair of shorts if you are visiting during warmer months. You may not need them every day, but San Francisco does occasionally have warm or even hot days, particularly in September and October.
What to Pack for San Francisco’s Most Popular Attractions
What you pack for San Francisco may vary depending on what you plan to do during your trip. Different areas of the city have different weather conditions, especially near the water or along the coast.
Golden Gate Bridge
If you are planning to walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, be prepared for strong winds and cooler temperatures. Even on sunny days, it can feel significantly colder on the bridge than in other parts of the city. Having a hood is helpful as well to help keep the wind off your face!
We recommend bringing:
A windbreaker or lightweight jacket
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunglasses
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park tends to be cooler and foggier than neighborhoods on the east side of the city. If you plan to spend time walking or biking through the park, layering is key.
We recommend packing:
A sweatshirt or hoodie
Comfortable walking shoes
Long pants
Alcatraz Island
If you are visiting Alcatraz Island, be aware that temperatures on the ferry and island are often colder due to the wind coming off the bay. Be prepared to walk as well, the climb to the top is equivalent to a 13 story building!
We recommend bringing:
A windbreaker or rain jacket
Closed-toe and comfortable walking shoes
Extra layers for the ferry ride
Final Thoughts for a Locals San Francisco Packing Guide
Packing for San Francisco can be a challenging task due to rapidly changing weather, micro-climates, and cold foggy weather in odd seasons. As locals we're used to the cold weather, fog, and sunny warm Fall weather, but for those visiting we know it can seem odd! Hopefully this San Francisco packing guide has helped you get an idea of what to pack, and wear based on when you are visiting the city.
Just remember the key to being comfortable in San Francisco, no matter the season is sheddable layers, and comfortable walking shoes. With those two things you are bound to have a trip to San Francisco that is Worth Your Wallet.
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