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Because of its temperate Northern California address, San Francisco beckons to tourists and business travelers year-round. However, San Francisco is most crowded between June and October. If you visit during this time of the year, make hotel and car reservations at least six weeks in advance, reserve a table at the more well-known restaurants three to four weeks in advance, and purchase your tickets to Alcatraz shortly after you commit to this trip. You don't want to waste your time and energy searching for accommodations or squabbling with your traveling companion because Slanted Door couldn't seat you.
Something to remember about the San Francisco "summer" is that it may not be the summer you're expecting. Temperatures rarely top 70 degrees. Bring a sweater and be prepared for morning fog — at any time of year.
The city is at its warmest and most glorious in September and October. In an average year, these months are also the busiest. It's when Fisherman's Wharf is packed to the gills, every cable car overflows with bodies, and there's not an available hotel room in sight. Unless something unusual is keeping the tourists home, don't even think about trying to get a discount on accommodations during this time.
School vacation schedules will probably dictate your travel dates if you're bringing the kids. Normally, the days start out with heavy fog in July and August but eventually clear up enough for you to lose the jacket or sweatshirt. Prepare for crowds, especially at the most popular tourist destinations.
During the winter, the crowds do thin out considerably. (Those seeking a tan at this time of year should go elsewhere.) November through March, when the weather can be damp and chilly, is considered downtime for tourists in San Francisco. But if you don't mind sightseeing with an umbrella, or bundled up in a sweater and a hat, you can get a terrific deal at a nice hotel during these months. You may even be pleasantly surprised by blue skies and low 60s temperatures in the middle of February (and no fog!). In general, room rates are lower between November and mid-April, unless a big convention is in town. A few attractions even reduce their entrance fees at this time of year.
 | Wintertime can be a great time to see San Francisco, in spite of the weather, which will still be an improvement over much of the United States. A good number of the larger hotels offer packages, and some have special events for kids. The Ritz-Carlton hosts a Teddy Bear Tea throughout December, a popular affair that sells out early in the season. Along with sightseeing, you can admire the Christmas windows decorating Union Square, skate around the Embarcadero Center's outdoor ice rink, and take in one of many Nutcracker ballet or music performances. |
Winter
You're unlikely to see snow unless you drive to Tahoe, but the weather won't exactly be balmy either. Still, a winter visit to San Francisco has its advantages, including the following:
- Hotel prices are lower, especially on weekends.
- Cable cars aren't jam-packed.
- Store windows are decorated for the holidays.
- The January sales linger into February.
- Restaurants won't be as busy.
But keep in mind the following wintertime pitfall:
- The skies may be gray and/or rainy.
Spring
Spring is a popular time for travel, but in San Francisco, it's also a popular time for conventions. Here are some of the advantages to expect if you're considering a springtime visit:
- Flowers are in bloom in the parks.
- The weather can be glorious.
- The major sites will be less crowded than in summer.
But keep in mind the following springtime drawback:
- Convention season starts, bringing hotel costs up and making it even harder to get reservations at the most popular eateries.
Summer
Many travelers are surprised at how cool and foggy San Francisco summers are. Here are some of the advantages to visiting in the summer months:
- Mimes are out in full force.
- Longer days make the evening tours of Alcatraz more attractive.
- The city sponsors free weekend concerts at Golden Gate Park and Stern Grove.
- The fruit and vegetable bounty available at the Ferry Building Farmer's Market is mouthwateringly spectacular.
But here are some negatives about visiting in the summertime:
- Mimes are out in full force.
- PIER 39 and Fisherman's Wharf are madhouses.
- Foggy mornings are downers.
Fall
If reliably warm, sunny days are a top priority for you, fall is the best time to visit. Here are some other advantages to planning your trip for the autumn months:
- It's the finest weather available all year on average.
- The cultural season begins.
But keep in mind the following drawbacks:
- Napa Valley is solidly booked on the weekends.
- The heavy events calendar lures additional crowds.
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