TripVibzWorst times to visit San Francisco
The weeks, days and hours locals would tell you to avoid in San Francisco — and what to do instead.
Say it here and visitors will actually read it. One sentence is enough.
Add your takeSan Francisco month by month
Festivals, conventions, weather and price seasons that change what a visit is like. Researched by the TripVibz editors from official event and weather sources.
January
J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference — avoid. Mid-January. This investor conference fills hotels around Union Square, which can sell out and charge very high rates that week.
March
Spring — good. Mild weather with highs in the mid-60s, hotel prices that haven't yet risen for summer, and fewer tourists. Bring a layer for the wind.
April
Spring — good. Mild weather with highs in the mid-60s, hotel prices that haven't yet risen for summer, and fewer tourists. Bring a layer for the wind.
May
Spring — good. Mild weather with highs in the mid-60s, hotel prices that haven't yet risen for summer, and fewer tourists. Bring a layer for the wind.
June
Foggy summer peak — avoid. Peak tourist season brings higher room rates, while chilly, damp fog keeps highs in the 60s. Pack a jacket; it often isn't beach weather.
July
Foggy summer peak — avoid. Peak tourist season brings higher room rates, while chilly, damp fog keeps highs in the 60s. Pack a jacket; it often isn't beach weather.
August
Outside Lands — busy. Early-to-mid August. A three-day music festival in Golden Gate Park; expect large crowds and heavy demand on transit and taxis.
Foggy summer peak — avoid. Peak tourist season brings higher room rates, while chilly, damp fog keeps highs in the 60s. Pack a jacket; it often isn't beach weather.
September
Dreamforce — avoid. Held in September or October at Moscone Center. Competition for hotel rooms is fierce that week and prices can soar, so book early or pick another week.
Fall warm season — good. Often the warmest, sunniest stretch of the year, with highs in the low 70s, fewer crowds and lower hotel rates than summer.
October
Fleet Week — busy. Early-to-mid October. Navy ships visit, and the free Blue Angels air show over the Marina Green draws crowds to the waterfront.
Dreamforce — avoid. Held in September or October at Moscone Center. Competition for hotel rooms is fierce that week and prices can soar, so book early or pick another week.
Fall warm season — good. Often the warmest, sunniest stretch of the year, with highs in the low 70s, fewer crowds and lower hotel rates than summer.
November
Fall warm season — good. Often the warmest, sunniest stretch of the year, with highs in the low 70s, fewer crowds and lower hotel rates than summer.