Golden Gate Bridge fog and the best time to go
San Francisco's mild climate means you can visit the bridge in any month. What changes is the view. Coastal fog is most common from July, and clearer, sunnier conditions tend to appear from mid or late September into October. Locals call the fog Karl, a nickname and not a weather term.
No month gives a guaranteed clear view, and no time of day is always free of fog. September and October make a reasonable planning window, with the warmest days of the year and less summer fog. That is a general pattern, not a promise. Keep one or two days free in your schedule so you can walk or visit viewpoints when the sky opens up.
San Francisco climate by month
Averages for 1991 to 2020 at the downtown San Francisco weather station. Highs and lows are monthly means of the daily values, not records.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 57.7°F / 14.3°C | 46.6°F / 8.1°C | 4.40 in / 111.8 mm |
| February | 60.4°F / 15.8°C | 47.8°F / 8.8°C | 4.37 in / 111.0 mm |
| March | 62.1°F / 16.7°C | 48.9°F / 9.4°C | 3.15 in / 80.0 mm |
| April | 63.0°F / 17.2°C | 49.6°F / 9.8°C | 1.60 in / 40.6 mm |
| May | 64.0°F / 17.8°C | 51.4°F / 10.8°C | 0.70 in / 17.8 mm |
| June | 66.6°F / 19.2°C | 53.1°F / 11.7°C | 0.20 in / 5.1 mm |
| July | 66.4°F / 19.1°C | 54.3°F / 12.4°C | 0.01 in / 0.3 mm |
| August | 67.8°F / 19.9°C | 55.6°F / 13.1°C | 0.06 in / 1.5 mm |
| September | 70.2°F / 21.2°C | 55.6°F / 13.1°C | 0.10 in / 2.5 mm |
| October | 69.8°F / 21.0°C | 54.3°F / 12.4°C | 0.94 in / 23.9 mm |
| November | 63.7°F / 17.6°C | 50.7°F / 10.4°C | 2.60 in / 66.0 mm |
| December | 57.9°F / 14.4°C | 46.9°F / 8.3°C | 4.76 in / 120.9 mm |
These are city figures, not measurements taken on the bridge, and they are not a forecast for this year. Use them to decide what to pack, not as readings from the bridge.
Golden Gate Bridge tours for any weather
Walks, bike tours, bus tours and bay cruises, with live prices and availability, so you can pick the day the sky is clear.
What each season looks like
Based on the monthly figures and the general fog pattern.
Winter, December to February
The wettest months, with 4.4 to 4.8 inches of rain in December, January and February. Highs are about 58 to 60°F (14 to 16°C).
Spring, March to May
Rain falls off from 3.15 inches in March to 0.7 inches in May. Highs climb from 62°F to 64°F (about 17 to 18°C).
Summer, June to August
Almost no rain, but this is the season of coastal fog, which the Park Service describes as dominant from July. The Marin Headlands viewpoints carry a specific warning about fog in summer. Highs are around 66 to 68°F (about 19 to 20°C).
Fall, September to November
September and October have the warmest days, with highs around 70°F (21°C) and little rain. From mid or late September into October, conditions are often clearer and sunnier. By November the rain returns, with 2.6 inches on average.
Haze, smoke and other things that hide the view
Fog is not the only factor.
Smoke and ozone
In summer and fall, smoke or ozone can reduce visibility and affect health, in addition to changeable fog and wind. Check the air quality and the forecast before a long outing.
Wind
Fog and wind near the water can change quickly. Bring a layer even on a sunny day.
Dated closures in fall 2026
Alcatraz island tours do not run from October 26 to November 18, 2026, because of dock work, with reopening expected on November 19. Plan the island for another date.
Alcatraz guide →How to plan for a clear view
Practical steps, since no one can promise the weather.
- Check the forecast on the day and decide then, not weeks ahead.
- Have a second viewpoint ready. If the north side is in fog, try the south side, or the other way round.
- Keep a flexible day in your schedule for the bridge walk or the Headlands.
- Aim for September or October if your dates are flexible, but expect that fog is still possible.
- Bring layers, because fog and wind can change quickly near the water.
Golden Gate Bridge fog: frequently asked questions
When is the Golden Gate Bridge least foggy?
From mid or late September into October the weather is often clearer and sunnier, and those are also the warmest months. There is no month with a guaranteed clear view.
Is fog worst in summer?
Coastal fog is most common in summer, from July on. The Marin Headlands viewpoints specifically warn about it.
Is there a time of day that is always clear?
No. Fog can come and go at any hour, so decide on the day and keep a backup plan.
When does it rain in San Francisco?
Mostly from November to March. January, February and December are the wettest, with about 4.4 to 4.8 inches each. June to September are almost dry.
What should I wear at the bridge?
Layers. The table shows downtown figures, and fog and wind near the water can change quickly.