Things to Do in Sanjose in October

October Weather in Sanjose

33°C (91°F) High Temp

25°C (77°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect tech conference season - October hosts major Silicon Valley conferences including Dreamforce spillover events, with comfortable 25-33°C (77-91°F) temperatures ideal for outdoor networking
Farmers market peak season - local produce is at its finest with apple harvest season, pumpkin displays, and perfect 70% humidity for outdoor market browsing
Optimal hiking conditions in nearby Santa Cruz Mountains - trails are dry after summer but temperatures haven't dropped to winter lows, with visibility extending 50-80 km (31-50 miles) on clear days
Tourism shoulder season pricing - hotel rates drop 15-25% compared to summer peaks, while weather remains consistently pleasant for sightseeing

Considerations

Unpredictable afternoon showers on 10 days throughout the month - locals carry light jackets even on sunny mornings as temperatures can feel 3-5°C (5-9°F) cooler when wet
Fire season air quality concerns - October historically sees the worst air quality days when winds shift, with AQI occasionally spiking above 100 during red flag warnings
Tech event crowds - accommodation books up quickly near convention centers, and popular restaurants require reservations 5-7 days ahead during major conference weeks

Best Activities in October

Santa Cruz Mountains Hiking Trails

October offers ideal hiking conditions with dry trails after summer and comfortable temperatures averaging 28°C (82°F) during midday. The redwood groves provide natural cooling, and you'll avoid both summer crowds and winter rain closures. Morning fog typically lifts by 10am, revealing spectacular valley views extending 60 km (37 miles) to the bay.

Booking Tip: Reserve parking passes online 2-3 days ahead for popular trailheads like Castle Rock. Most trail systems are free, but parking fills by 11am on weekends. Guided nature walks typically cost $25-45 per person through local park services. See current guided tour options in booking section below.

Silicon Valley Tech Campus Tours

October is prime season for tech campus visits, with many companies hosting special events and product launches. Weather is perfect for outdoor portions of tours, and you'll catch the buzz of new academic year partnerships with Stanford and other universities. The 70% humidity makes walking between buildings comfortable.

Booking Tip: Book campus tours 14-21 days ahead, especially during conference weeks. Public tours range from free (Apple Park Visitor Center) to $35-75 for guided experiences. Private group tours typically cost $150-300 per group. Check current availability in booking section below.

Monterey Bay Wine Country Tours

October marks crush season in nearby wine regions, offering unique harvest experiences impossible other times of year. The 51 mm (2.0 inches) of rainfall refreshes vineyard air without impacting outdoor tastings. Temperatures of 25-33°C (77-91°F) are perfect for cycling between wineries, and you'll witness actual winemaking in progress.

Booking Tip: Harvest season tours book solid by early September. Full-day wine tours typically cost $120-200 per person including transportation. Cycling tours range $85-150. Book through licensed operators with tasting room partnerships. See current harvest tour options in booking section below.

San Francisco Bay Sailing Excursions

October delivers consistent afternoon winds perfect for sailing, with less fog than summer months. Water temperatures stabilize around 16°C (61°F), and you'll enjoy crystal-clear views of the city skyline. The variable weather conditions create dramatic cloud formations perfect for photography, especially during the golden hour from 5-6pm.

Booking Tip: Weekend sailing trips book 10-14 days ahead. Half-day excursions typically cost $65-95 per person, full-day trips $140-220. Look for operators offering wet suits in October. Sunset sails are particularly popular and range $45-75. Check current sailing options in booking section below.

Palo Alto Farmers Market Food Tours

October showcases peak autumn produce including heritage apples, winter squash, and locally-made artisanal products. The comfortable humidity levels mean food samples don't spoil quickly in the warmth. Market vendors offer seasonal specialties like fresh cider and pumpkin-spiced local treats unavailable other months.

Booking Tip: Saturday markets are most extensive but crowded by 10am. Guided food tours typically cost $35-55 per person and include 5-7 tastings. Self-guided tours work well with most vendors accepting cards. Budget $25-40 for substantial market lunch. See current food tour options in booking section below.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum Cultural Experiences

October's moderate temperatures make the indoor-outdoor museum complex comfortable for extended visits. The museum often hosts special autumn exhibitions, and the outdoor gardens are at their most photogenic with fall lighting. The 8 UV index means you can enjoy courtyard areas without harsh shadows on artifacts.

Booking Tip: General admission costs $9-15, with special exhibition surcharges of $5-8. Guided tours add $10-12 per person and run twice daily. The museum is rarely crowded in October, making it ideal for photography. Book specialized workshops 1-2 weeks ahead. See current cultural experiences in booking section below.

October Events & Festivals

Early October

San Jose Jazz Festival

Multiple venues across downtown host intimate jazz performances in perfect outdoor weather. Local food trucks complement the music scene, and the comfortable evening temperatures of 25°C (77°F) make for ideal festival conditions.

Mid October

Pumpkin Festival at Half Moon Bay

Just 45 km (28 miles) away, this massive pumpkin celebration features record-breaking giant pumpkins, local crafts, and perfect autumn atmosphere. The coastal location offers cooler temperatures and stunning Pacific views.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof jacket - October's 10 rainy days bring brief but heavy downpours that soak through cotton

Layered clothing for 8°C (14°F) temperature swings between morning fog and afternoon sun

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 8 combined with 70% humidity intensifies burn risk

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - Silicon Valley campuses involve extensive outdoor walking on sometimes-wet surfaces

Portable phone charger - outdoor activities and navigation drain batteries faster in variable weather

Light scarf or shawl - evening temperatures drop quickly after sunset, especially near the bay

Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps moisture

Compact umbrella - afternoon showers can start suddenly while you're away from shelter

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in warm, humid conditions during tech campus tours

Casual business attire - many spontaneous networking opportunities arise during conference season

Insider Knowledge

Tech conference overflow creates amazing networking opportunities at local coffee shops - downtown Palo Alto and Mountain View cafes buzz with industry conversations in October

Many major tech companies offer free public lectures and product demos in October - check company websites for events that don't require employee sponsorship

Local farmers markets accept Apple Pay and most major cards now - no need to carry cash like in previous years, though small vendors appreciate $1-2 tips

The Caltrain system runs special weekend schedules during conference season - check updated timetables as they add extra cars and earlier morning runs to accommodate tech events

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming all of October is sunny - pack for rain even if the forecast looks clear, as afternoon storms develop rapidly

Underestimating conference impact on restaurant availability - make dinner reservations 5-7 days ahead during major tech events

Wearing heavy clothing for morning temperatures - you'll overheat by midday when temperatures reach 33°C (91°F) with high humidity