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The Weather in San Francisco in November

Updated: February 8, 2024

This post is a summary of the weather in San Francisco in November, with tips on what to wear and things to do. 

As a retired maritime meteorologist, I am very familiar with the weather in the Port of San Francisco and the city in general.

I didn't expect that I would use my experience as a forecaster in my new career in tourism.

But here I am, finding myself answering more weather questions as a blogger than I ever did as a weatherman.

So, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the weather in San Francisco in November.


AVERAGE TEMPERATURES IN NOVEMBER

Although September and October are some of the best months to visit San Francisco, November is what we call the "shoulder season" in this city.

When you arrive, it probably won't be very cold: the typical temperatures in the early part of the month are in the mid-60s F (19-20 C).

The warmest days of the month get into the mid-70s F (22-23 C).

Average Temperatures in San Francisco in November

As the month progresses, it will get a bit chillier. Late November temperatures are often in the mid-50s (11-12 C).

At night, the temperatures are always about 10 degrees (5 C) lower than the daytime temperatures.

So if you plan to be out at night, you should remember to bring an extra layer of clothing.

The November weather in San Francisco has never gotten below freezing (0 C), so you do not have to worry about snow.


DO I NEED AN UMBRELLA IN NOVEMBER IN SAN FRANCISCO

November is the beginning of the rainy season in San Francisco.

However, there will be very few days with heavy rain (meaning 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain.

So we recommend bringing a small umbrella that you can carry around.

How Much Does it Rain in November in San Francisco

A typical "rainy" day in San Francisco might actually only have 15-30 minutes of rain, with the rest of the day remaining cloudy.

But in those 15-30 minutes, you will be thankful to have your umbrella.


October to December 2024 San Francisco Seasonal Forecast

There is a 77% chance for normal to above normal temperatures and a 77% chance for normal to below normal rainfall.


WHAT TO WEAR IN NOVEMBER IN SAN FRANCISCO

Since November can get a bit cold during the day and into the evening, we recommend wearing a light jacket.

In addition, you may want to bring a sweatshirt around the city.

What to Wear in San Francisco in November

The daytime should stay warm enough that a jacket will keep you comfortable.

But, if the day gets windy, or if you stay outside into the evening, you will be thankful to have the extra layer of warmth.

In addition, if you are particularly sensitive to windy weather, you may want to bring a scarf or earmuffs.


THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER

There are more things to do in November than we can list here, so be sure to read our full post on what to do and see this month, as well as our master post for any time of the year.

And if you are planning on visiting many of San Francisco's top attractions, then you should consider a tourist discount pass.

These passes could save you up to 50% off retail ticket prices for tours, attractions, and restaurants.

  1. Take a walking tour.
  2. Go to a football or hockey game.
  3. Attend a concert.
  4. See Hamilton the musical.
  5. Find creative art at the craft fair.
  6. Participate in the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot.
  7. See the Christmas Tree Lighting in Union Square.
  8. Attend the Dia de los Muertos Festival.
  9. Go to the Bay Area Science Festival.
  10. Save with a tourist attraction pass

Find out more and read our full post on what to do and see this month.

Written by Fred Pickhardt

Ocean Weather Services

About The Author

Fred Pickhardt

Fred is a marine meteorologist and sailed briefly with American Export Lines in the Far East trade. He has extensive experience in weather analysis, weather forecasting, and forensic weather event reconstructions. Fred founded Ocean Weather Services and currently provides forensic marine weather reports to the maritime industry.
Updated: February 8th, 2024
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