Dressing for San Francisco’s Summer: The Foggy and Very Chilly City

Welcome to San Francisco, the City by the Bay, where the summers are as unpredictable as a cat on a hot tin roof! If you’re planning a visit during the summer months, you’re in for a delightful surprise: San Francisco is one of the few places where you’ll need to bring a jacket, even in July. Yes, you read that right.

While most of the country is basking in sweltering heat, San Francisco offers a unique and cool respite. Let’s dive into why you should be packing layers and preparing for a chillier summer than you might expect.

The Fog: San Francisco’s Summer Star

San Francisco is famously known for its fog, affectionately named “Karl the Fog” by locals. Karl is a regular summer guest, rolling in from the Pacific Ocean and blanketing the city in a misty embrace. The fog is more than just a weather pattern here; it’s a part of the city’s identity. This fog is not just for atmospheric effect; it significantly influences the temperature.

Average Summer Temperatures in the City by the Bay

During the summer months, average temperatures in San Francisco range from the mid-50s to the high-60s Fahrenheit (13-20°C). While this might sound mild, the combination of wind and fog can make it feel much cooler. In contrast, just a short drive inland can reveal temperatures soaring into the 80s and 90s (27-37°C), making San Francisco’s cool summers even more striking.

Fun Facts About San Francisco’s Summer Weather

1. The Microclimates: San Francisco is famous for its microclimates. You might start your day in a foggy and chilly Golden Gate Park, only to find yourself shedding layers in the sunnier Mission District by afternoon. This variability makes dressing in layers essential.

2. The Coldest Winter Quote: Mark Twain is often (though incorrectly) credited with saying, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco.” While Twain never actually said this, the quote persists because it so accurately captures the city’s summer climate. The fog can make summer days feel quite brisk, especially for those expecting typical California sunshine.

3. Fog Season: While fog can occur year-round, it’s most prevalent in the summer months. This phenomenon is known as “June Gloom,” “No-Sky July,” and “Fogust.” During these months, the marine layer is at its thickest, bringing cool temperatures and reduced visibility.

Dressing Tips for San Francisco’s Summer

Given this unique weather, here are some tips to help you stay comfortable:

1. Layers, Layers, Layers!

The key to dressing for San Francisco’s summer is layers. Start with a base layer like a t-shirt or light sweater, then add a hoodie or sweatshirt, and top it off with a windproof and waterproof jacket. This way, you can adjust your clothing as you move through the city’s varying climates.

2. Pack a Scarf and Hat

Even in the summer, a scarf and hat can be lifesavers. They provide extra warmth when the wind picks up and can be easily stashed in a bag when not needed.

3. Comfortable Shoes

San Francisco is a city best explored on foot, and its hilly terrain demands comfortable footwear. Opt for shoes with good support and non-slip soles, especially if you plan to walk through foggy areas that might be damp and slippery.

4. Sunglasses and Sunscreen

Despite the fog, UV rays can still penetrate the clouds, so don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen. The sun can break through unexpectedly, and you’ll want to be prepared.

5. Avoid Shorts and Flip-Flops

While shorts and flip-flops might be summer staples elsewhere, they’re often impractical in San Francisco. The wind and fog can leave you feeling cold and uncomfortable. Stick to pants and closed-toe shoes for maximum comfort.

Fun S.F. Weather Quotes

1. Oscar Wilde: “It’s an odd thing, but anyone who disappears is said to be seen in San Francisco.” Wilde’s words capture the city’s magical, almost ethereal quality, much like its foggy weather.

2. Herb Caen: “The cool, grey city of love.” Caen, a beloved San Francisco columnist, encapsulated the city’s romantic yet chilly ambiance perfectly.

Embrace the Chill

One of the best things about San Francisco’s summer weather is that it offers a refreshing break from the heat found in much of the rest of the country. Instead of sweating through your vacation, you can enjoy the cool, crisp air and the dramatic fog that adds an air of mystery to your explorations.

Iconic Foggy Spots to Visit

1. Golden Gate Bridge: The sight of this magnificent structure partially shrouded in fog is a quintessential San Francisco experience. Dress warmly, as the wind can be quite fierce on the bridge.

2. Twin Peaks: For a panoramic view of the city blanketed in fog, head to Twin Peaks. The view is breathtaking, and the cool temperatures make it a perfect spot for a brisk hike.

3. Fisherman’s Wharf: While this popular tourist spot can be foggy, it’s also one of the most atmospheric places to enjoy a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.

Why We Love the Fog

Despite its chilly reputation, the fog is beloved by San Franciscans. It adds character to the city and provides a natural air conditioning system during the summer months. Plus, it makes for some truly stunning photography. The fog has even inspired local art, poetry, and music, cementing its place as a cherished part of San Francisco’s culture.

Final Thoughts

So, as you pack for your trip to San Francisco, remember to embrace the unexpected. The city’s summer weather might be cool and foggy, but it’s all part of the charm. Dress in layers, prepare for cooler temperatures, and get ready to fall in love with the City by the Bay, where the fog is as much a part of the landscape as the Golden Gate Bridge.

With these tips in mind, you’re set to enjoy all that San Francisco has to offer, from its iconic landmarks to its quirky neighborhoods. So, grab your jacket, don your scarf, and step out into the foggy wonderland that is a San Francisco summer. You might just find that you prefer this cool, grey city over the sun-soaked destinations you’ve visited before.