Welcome to San Francisco in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
San Francisco’s spring weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to layer your clothing. Mornings are often chilly and foggy, but the sun comes out in the afternoon, especially in May. A light jacket is perfect for cooler mornings, but you might want to wear short sleeves or a light sweater by the afternoon. Comfortable shoes are a must if you’re walking around neighborhoods or exploring outdoor spots like Golden Gate Park. And don’t forget sunglasses and a hat for those sunnier afternoons.
Dress Code
San Francisco’s style is casual and laid-back, but it’s always smart to bring layers due to the changing weather. During the day, jeans or casual pants with a t-shirt or light sweater are perfect for sightseeing or enjoying the city’s parks. If you plan on going out for dinner or to a nice bar in the evening, a smart-casual outfit like a dress or jumpsuit works well. San Franciscans are also known for their love of comfortable yet stylish walking shoes, so don’t forget to pack those for strolling around the city’s hilly streets.
*This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.
MARCH
48 – 62F (9 – 17C)
Cool, windy, occasional rain
3.2 inches
APRIL
49 – 63F (9 – 17C)
Mild, foggy, with sunny afternoons
1.4 inches
MAY
51 – 64F (11 – 18C)
Warmer, breezy, partly sunny
0.7 inches
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for sunny afternoons spent walking through Fisherman’s Wharf or Golden Gate Park. I loved having these for warm days by the bay!
2. Tank Tops: Perfect for layering under a jacket when the fog clears and the sun comes out in the afternoon.
3. Light Jacket: Essential for cooler mornings and evenings, especially when crossing the Golden Gate Bridge or riding a ferry.
4. Rain Jacket: Handy for the occasional spring showers, especially in March and early April.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Ideal for walking around the city’s hills and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury. I liked having these for chilly, breezy days.
2. Skirt: A stylish option for sunny days exploring the city’s outdoor spaces or enjoying an afternoon in Golden Gate Park.
3. Dress: Perfect for casual dinners or drinks in trendy neighborhoods like the Mission District.
4. Jumpsuit: A great all-in-one outfit for both daytime sightseeing and evening outings.
5. Leggings: Perfect for layering under skirts or dresses or wearing for a casual day around the city.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: A must for exploring San Francisco’s hilly streets, parks, and attractions like the Ferry Building. I found these really practical for all the walking I did!
2. Flats: A great option for stylish yet comfortable shoes while visiting museums or going out to dinner.
3. Sunglasses: Essential for those bright, sunny afternoons spent by the waterfront or in Golden Gate Park.
4. Hat: Keeps you cool during warmer days, especially while walking across the Golden Gate Bridge or hanging out in Dolores Park.
5. Swimsuit: Great if you’re planning to visit a nearby beach like Baker Beach or taking a dip in a hotel pool.
6. Pajamas: Light and cozy for cool nights after a day of exploring the city.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a spring trip, with space for layers, casual outfits, and some dressier clothes for evenings out.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying snacks, water, and an extra layer while exploring the city or heading out on day trips to places like Sausalito.
3. Purse: Handy for keeping essentials with you while visiting cafes, museums, or walking along the waterfront.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying your picnic supplies or purchases from local markets like the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: San Francisco weather can change quickly, so pack layers like light jackets and sweaters for versatility.
- Comfortable shoes: The city is hilly, so you’ll need shoes that can handle lots of walking, especially around neighborhoods like Nob Hill and Russian Hill.
- Sun protection: Even with the fog, you’ll need sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny afternoons by the bay.
- Wind protection: A light jacket or scarf is useful for the windy days, especially by the water.
San Francisco Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT SAN FRANCISCO?
May is the best month to visit San Francisco in the spring, with fewer rain showers, warmer temperatures, and plenty of outdoor events.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SAN FRANCISCO?
March: St. Patrick’s Day Parade – A lively parade with Irish dancing, bagpipes, and festivities in the city.
April: Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival – Celebrating Japanese culture with traditional music, food, and performances in Japantown.
May: Bay to Breakers – An iconic San Francisco footrace, known for its costumes and fun atmosphere.
April: Earth Day SF – A citywide event with eco-friendly activities and performances.
May: How Weird Street Faire – A unique festival celebrating art, music, and creativity in downtown San Francisco.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SAN FRANCISCO IN THE SPRING?
Spring is a great time to explore San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods and outdoor spaces. Start by walking across the Golden Gate Bridge for amazing views of the bay and the city skyline. Visit Alcatraz Island for a historic tour, then head to Fisherman’s Wharf for seafood and shopping. Stroll through Golden Gate Park to see the California Academy of Sciences or the Japanese Tea Garden. For a more local vibe, check out the Mission District’s street art or enjoy a picnic in Dolores Park. Don’t forget to ride a cable car to Union Square for some shopping and people-watching.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SAN FRANCISCO IN THE SPRING?
A 4-5 day trip is perfect for experiencing San Francisco’s top attractions, neighborhoods, and outdoor activities during the spring.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start by walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz Island in the afternoon, and enjoy dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf. Day 2: Spend the morning in Golden Gate Park exploring the California Academy of Sciences, then ride a cable car to Union Square for shopping and sightseeing.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Spend the day exploring the Mission District’s murals, street art, and local cafes. Day 4: Visit the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in the morning, then take a ferry to Sausalito for lunch and a relaxing afternoon by the bay. Day 5: Take a scenic walk through the Presidio and Crissy Field, ending with dinner in the Marina District.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Take a day trip to Muir Woods for hiking among the redwoods. Day 7: Explore the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, visit the de Young Museum, and relax in Dolores Park.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Spend a day in Berkeley, visiting the university and the Botanical Garden. Day 9: Head to Napa Valley for a wine-tasting day trip. Day 10: Revisit favorite spots in San Francisco or enjoy a scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Take a road trip to Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, exploring the scenic coastal towns. Day 12: Explore Point Reyes National Seashore for hiking and wildlife spotting. Day 13: Visit the Legion of Honor Museum in San Francisco. Day 14: Spend a relaxing day at Baker Beach or Lands End.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SAN FRANCISCO?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Tank Top
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Rain Jacket
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SAN FRANCISCO IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Coats: San Francisco’s spring weather is mild, so you won’t need bulky coats.
Thick Sweaters: Lighter layers are a better option for staying comfortable in the city.
Flip-Flops: The hilly streets of San Francisco aren’t ideal for flimsy footwear—opt for comfortable shoes instead.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SAN FRANCISCO IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $150 – $450, depending on your departure location and when you book.
Accommodation: $200 – $400 per night, depending on location and hotel class.
Transportation: $40 – $100 for local travel, including Ubers and public transportation.
Meals: $50 – $150 per day, with a wide range of dining options available.
Activities: $50 – $200 for entry fees, tours, and events like ferry rides or museum visits.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SAN FRANCISCO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is expected in San Francisco. A 20% tip is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on the location.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SAN FRANCISCO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Microclimates: San Francisco has microclimates, so expect varying temperatures in different parts of the city—layering is key.
- Public transportation: The city’s Muni buses and cable cars are convenient ways to get around and see the sights.
- Restaurants: San Francisco has an excellent food scene, from fine dining to food trucks, so be sure to explore the local cuisine.
- Walking: Be prepared to walk up and down hills when exploring neighborhoods like Nob Hill or Russian Hill.