How to plan a trip to San Francisco
Known for its myriad hills, shimmering bay and stately Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco resonates with natural beauty, vibrant Victorian neighborhoods, and dynamic, infectious energy. Thriving on a variety of eclectic and colourful culture, the city boasts a vibrant arts scene, world-class shopping, stylish boutiques and award-winning restaurants and bars, as well as spacious parks and urban spaces for locals and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. Home to famous landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and the Financial District’s Transamerica Pyramid, San Francisco won’t disappoint.
Weather in San Francisco during September to November
San Francisco is at its best from September to November. This time of year boasts warm, pleasant temperatures, long, sunny days with clear cloudless skies and balmy evenings full of stars, perfect for outdoor dining. Oddly enough, temperatures during these months can be warmer than summer, with average temperatures resting in the low 70s, making for perfect beach weather. There are cool bay-side breezes though, so be sure to pack a few layers to ward off the chill. There are fewer crowds during this time than in the summer months, which can be very busy, and good, discounted hotel prices can be found.
What clothes to pack for San Francisco during September, October and November
Women-
- Summer dresses, skirts
- Shorts and T-shirts
- Capri pants for the day and long pants for the evening
- A lightweight jacket for evening wear
- A waterproof jacket / rain jacket in case of rain
- Beach wear – swimming costume, sarong, hat, sandals
- Active wear – hiking shoes, comfortable long pants, shorts
- Footwear: sandals, flip-flops for the day; closed shoes, heels for the evening
Expert tip! San Francisco has cool sea breezes, so be sure to pack layers to cater for cooler days, such as a light cardigan for over a summer dress.
Men-
- Shorts, T-shirts, golf shirts for day wear
- Long pants, chinos, dress shirt for evening wear
- A lightweight jacket for evening wear
- A waterproof jacket / rain jacket in case of rain
- Beach wear – swimming costume, hat, sandals
- Active wear – hiking shoes, comfortable long pants, shorts
Expert tip! If you plan on hitting the nightclubs, make sure to pack a pair of closed shoes, as the general dress code for most nightclubs is long pants and closed shoes.
Children-
- Shorts, T-shirts (boys); Dresses, skirts (girls)
- Long pants, chinos, dress shirt for evening wear
- A lightweight jacket for evening wear
- A waterproof jacket / rain jacket in case of rain
- Beach wear – swimming costume, hat, sandals
- Active wear – hiking shoes, comfortable long pants, shorts
Things to see and do in San Francisco
From the Golden Gate Bridge and the infamous Alcatraz Prison to more than 1,000 acres of urban greenery, a vibrant contemporary arts and culture scene, world-class restaurants and a buzzing nightlife, San Francisco is a city that has something for everyone.
Top Ten Attractions:
1. Golden Gate Bridge- Once called “the bridge that couldn’t be built,” today, the Golden Gate Bridge is one the seven wonders of the modern world and spans 1.7 miles from San Francisco to the Marin headlands.
2. Golden Gate Park- Spread across 1,017 acres with not one single “Keep off the Grass” sign, the Golden Gate Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world.
3. Alcatraz Island- Home of the famous federal penitentiary that housed famous convicts such as Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Alcatraz is one of the city’s most popular attractions.
4. Pier 39- Pier 39 is the best place for clam chowder bread bowls, California wines, sea lions and amazing views.
5. Twin Peaks- Rising nearly 1,000 feet above the ground, San Francisco’s towering Twin Peaks are the second highest point in the city and offers superb views of the city.
6. The Castro– Explore San Francisco’s rich gay and lesbian culture in this must-see neighbourhood that was the home of Harvey Milk, California’s first openly gay public official.
7. California Academy of Sciences- Home to an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, the California Academy of Sciences is one of San Francisco’s must-see destinations.
8. Palace of Fine Arts- The grandiose and antiquated Palace of Fine Arts was built in the early 20th-century and palace remains one of the most recognizable and popular tourist landmarks in the city today.
9. Ferry Building Marketplace- For scrumptious gourmet treats and exotic delights, head to this foodie heaven, where you’ll find freshly baked pastries, artisan cheeses, handmade chocolates and fresh oysters.
10. San Francisco Zoo & Gardens- An historic treasure with more than 1,000 endangered animals in 100 acres of lovely, peaceful gardens resting against the azure backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
