United States, North America
San Francisco in September
Fog retreats and heat spikes into the 80s F are possible. The single best month, with hotel rates driven by conventions.
The straight answer
September is one of the best months of the year to visit San Francisco. Fog retreats and heat spikes into the 80s F are possible. The single best month, with hotel rates driven by conventions.
- Weather
- Warmest of the year, highs near 70F (21C), clear
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What September is like in San Francisco
September is San Francisco's best month. The fog usually retreats, highs reach about 70F (21C), and warm spells into the 80s F are possible. Skies are often clear from morning to evening, and the summer crowds have gone home. Hotel rates stay fairly high because of conventions, so compare dates carefully.
It suits everyone: first-timers, families, hikers and anyone who wants to see the bridge without the fog. The only thing to watch is wildfire smoke, which can drift in from inland fires in some years. If rates are too high, October is almost as good.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about San Francisco this month.
Clear Golden Gate views
With the fog pulled back, the bridge is visible from Baker Beach, Lands End and Battery Spencer for most of the day.
Beach days in the city
The warmest days of the year make Baker Beach and Ocean Beach pleasant for a picnic or a walk, though the water stays cold.
Lands End trail
Clear skies make the coastal walk past the Sutro Baths ruins one of the best short hikes in any US city.
What to pack for September
- Light layers for warm days and cool nights
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket for evenings
Our timing tip
Check the Moscone Center convention calendar and book around the big shows, which can double hotel rates in September.
Book San Francisco for September.
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- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San FranciscoOpens a hotel search for San Francisco in September, 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 September. 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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit San Francisco?
September is one of the best months of the year to visit San Francisco. Fog retreats and heat spikes into the 80s F are possible. The single best month, with hotel rates driven by conventions.
What is the weather like in San Francisco in September?
Warmest of the year, highs near 70F (21C), clear.
Is San Francisco crowded in September?
Crowds in San Francisco are moderate in September; 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 September
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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