United States, North America
San Francisco in May
Bay to Breakers footrace mid month. Fog begins its summer pattern late in the month.
The straight answer
May is a good month to visit San Francisco. Bay to Breakers footrace mid month. Fog begins its summer pattern late in the month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 64F (18C), fog starting
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in San Francisco
May is mild, with highs near 64F (18C), dry days and the first signs of the summer fog pattern late in the month. The Bay to Breakers footrace takes over the streets in the middle of the month, with costumed runners from the bay to the ocean. Crowds and prices are moderate before summer arrives.
It suits families, couples and first-time visitors who want dry weather and manageable crowds. Expect cool mornings and some gray days by the end of the month. If you want the warmest, clearest weather, plan for September or October.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about San Francisco this month.
Bay to Breakers
A famous footrace across the city in mid May, known for its costumes. Watch from the route or join in.
Alcatraz before summer rush
Tickets are easier to get than in June and July, though you should still book a couple of weeks ahead.
Point Reyes day trip
Spring green lingers on the coast north of the city, and the drive makes a good day out.
What to pack for May
- A warm jacket for foggy mornings and evenings
- Layers you can peel off at midday
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen for clear afternoons
Our timing tip
Plan bridge and coast views for early May, before the summer fog starts to settle in late in the month.
Book San Francisco for May.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San FranciscoOpens a hotel search for San Francisco in May, 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 May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit San Francisco?
May is a good month to visit San Francisco. Bay to Breakers footrace mid month. Fog begins its summer pattern late in the month.
What is the weather like in San Francisco in May?
Mild, highs near 64F (18C), fog starting.
Is San Francisco crowded in May?
Crowds in San Francisco are moderate in May; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning San Francisco.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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