Best Times to Visit San Francisco on a Pacific Coast Cruise

San Francisco is one of the most popular spots in California. Its Golden Gate Bridge alone is recognized worldwide as a beloved symbol of the Golden State. If you are planning a Pacific Coast cruise with the City by the Bay on the itinerary, here are the best times to visit:
Visit San Francisco in the Fall
As summer ends and the fog lifts, you are likely to enjoy clear skies and mild temperatures where highs are in the upper 60s to 70s. That means perfect sight-seeing weather, allowing you to comfortably explore all San Francisco has to offer. The city can be windy and foggy at any time though, so definitely check the forecast before you travel to ensure you have cozy attire for all the fun. In November, San Francisco begins to experience a slight uptick in rain. If you want to avoid rain altogether to have the best chance for clear skies, aim for September or October.
Another perk to visiting San Francisco on a cruise to California is navigating smaller crowds at popular sites, like Pier 39 in Fisherman’s Wharf. If you enjoy a nice stroll through the park, do not miss Golden Gate Park. It is home to Japanese Tea Garden and San Francisco Botanical Garden.
If you enjoy wineries, consider a drive to Sonoma to explore the flavors of the season.
Fun Fact for Wildlife Lovers: You could see hundreds of sea lions at K-Dock at Pier 39.
Fall in Love With San Francisco in the Spring
Spring season in San Francisco will also gift you with mild temperatures, typically in the 60s. Though the fog begins to roll in during the spring, the weather is still enjoyable to explore the outdoors.
Soak up the sights and vibrant colors of flowers in bloom. March and April are good times to bask in the beauty of cherry blossom trees, too. Speaking of which, you may want to stop by the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival in mid-April to enjoy parades and cultural activities.
Spring is also a fun time for whale watching in the area. Though there are typically whales here year-round, you will have a greater chance of spotting a variety of whales in San Francisco during this time. They include the gray whale, sperm whale and orca.
Top off your San Francisco adventures with a toast at a local winery or vineyard.
Though the best times to visit San Francisco are usually in the fall and the spring, you can immerse yourself in the beauty, culture and unforgettable sights of the City by the Bay anytime you’re there. Which season do you prefer? Share in the comments below.