August is dry and often foggy, especially near the ocean. Mark Twain never actually said the line about the coldest winter being a summer in San Francisco, but it is easy to see why people repeat it in August.
In this guide
This guide is part of our San Francisco weather by month hub. For trip planning, see the San Francisco visitors guide.
August averages, San Francisco Downtown
- Average high 68°F
- Average low 56°F
- Average rainfall 0.1 inch
- Rainy days 0 (days with at least 0.1 inch)
- Source NOAA 1991 to 2020 climate normals
What the weather is like
Average highs reach the upper 60s, a little warmer than July. Fog and wind remain common in the afternoon, while late August can bring the first warm spells.
These averages come from the downtown station. Neighborhoods near Ocean Beach are often cooler and grayer, and the Mission and SoMa are often warmer. In August the station records almost no days with measurable rain in an average year.
What to pack
Bring layers and a warm jacket for evenings. If you are going to Outside Lands in Golden Gate Park, plan on cold nights. Our San Francisco packing list covers the basics for every season.
What is on in August
Outside Lands fills Golden Gate Park in August, and free Stern Grove concerts run on summer Sundays. See San Francisco events in August for dates and details.
Planning around the weather
Compare August with the months either side: July and September. If you are still choosing dates, read the best time to visit San Francisco.
Official resources: NOAA U.S. climate normals, National Weather Service Bay Area forecast.
Frequently asked questions
How warm is San Francisco in August?
The average high at the downtown station is 68°F and the average low is 56°F.
Is August a good month to visit San Francisco?
It is busy and usually dry, but often foggy and cool. Pack warm layers and plan sunny-side activities in the eastern neighborhoods.
Photo credits
Featured image: Frank Schulenburg / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.