United States, North America
San Francisco in January
Low hotel rates outside convention weeks. Storms come in waves, with brilliant clear days between them.
The straight answer
January is a quiet, good-value month to visit San Francisco. Low hotel rates outside convention weeks. Storms come in waves, with brilliant clear days between them.
- Weather
- Cool and rainy, highs near 57F (14C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What January is like in San Francisco
January is the heart of San Francisco's rainy season. Highs sit near 57F (14C), and storms come in waves, with bright, clear days in between that show off the bay and the bridge. Hotel rates are low outside big convention weeks, and lines at Alcatraz and the cable cars are short. Winter storms can close coastal trails or delay ferries for a day or two.
It suits budget travelers, museum lovers and anyone happy to plan around the weather. Families will find plenty to do indoors. If you want dry trails and warm sun, September and October are far better, and March brings green hills with less rain.
Make the most of January
What is especially good about San Francisco this month.
Short lines at Alcatraz
Winter is the easiest time to get Alcatraz tickets, often just a week or so ahead.
Clear days between storms
After a storm passes, the air is crisp and the views from Lands End and Twin Peaks are sharp.
Lunar New Year in some years
When Lunar New Year falls in late January, the festival and parade through downtown and Chinatown can land this month.
What to pack for January
- A waterproof jacket with a hood
- Water-resistant shoes for wet, hilly sidewalks
- A warm sweater or fleece for layering
- A compact umbrella
Our timing tip
Check the Moscone Center convention calendar before booking, since one big show can push hotel rates sharply higher for the week.
Book San Francisco for January.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for January
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San FranciscoOpens a hotel search for San Francisco in January, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in San FranciscoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in San FranciscoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in San Francisco for January. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in January
Chinese New Year Festival and Parade
January or February, following the lunar calendar
One of the largest Lunar New Year parades outside Asia, winding through downtown and Chinatown at night.
Things to do in San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge
Walk or bike across from the south end. The best photo spots are Battery Spencer on the Marin side and Baker Beach. Fog often clears midday.
Alcatraz Island
Tickets sell out weeks ahead in summer and on weekends. The first morning ferry and the night tour are the least crowded.
Golden Gate Park and the California Academy of Sciences
The Academy has an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome under one living roof. A great rainy or foggy day plan.
Exploratorium
Hands-on science museum on Pier 15. Thursday evenings are adults-only After Dark nights.
Ferry Building Marketplace
Go Saturday morning for the farmers market, the best in the city. Weekdays are calmer.
Cable cars
The Powell lines have long waits at the turnarounds. Board a few stops up, or ride the California Street line with shorter lines.
Beat the crowds
- Book Alcatraz as soon as your dates are set. In summer, same-week tickets are rare.
- Visit Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, and Lombard Street before 9am. By noon they are packed.
- Stay outside Union Square: Hayes Valley, the Mission, or near the Presidio give you calmer mornings and better food.
- For sunshine in summer, go east or north. The Mission and the East Bay are often sunny when the western neighborhoods are socked in.
Know before you go
- Nearly everything runs year-round. Winter storms can close coastal trails and delay ferries for a day or two.
- Muir Woods requires advance parking or shuttle reservations. Arriving without one means turning around.
- Wildfire smoke from inland California can reduce air quality in late summer and fall. It varies year to year, so check air-quality forecasts before outdoor plans.
- Large conventions (Moscone Center) can push hotel prices sharply higher for a week at a time. Check the convention calendar when comparing dates.
San Francisco in January, quick answers
Is January a good time to visit San Francisco?
January is a quiet, good-value month to visit San Francisco. Low hotel rates outside convention weeks. Storms come in waves, with brilliant clear days between them.
What is the weather like in San Francisco in January?
Cool and rainy, highs near 57F (14C).
Is San Francisco crowded in January?
January is one of the quieter months in San Francisco; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in San Francisco in January?
Chinese New Year Festival and Parade (january or february, following the lunar calendar).
Keep planning San Francisco.
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Before you book.
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