When to Visit San Jose
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January sits in the heart of San Jose's rainy season, though 'rainy' here means occasional showers rather than constant downpours. Mornings can be crisp and cool, but afternoons typically warm up nicely. You'll find the hills surrounding the valley lush and green, and hotel rates tend to be at their lowest since it's off-peak for tourism.
February
February continues the wet season pattern with intermittent rain, though you'll often get stretches of beautiful clear days between storms. The valley starts showing early signs of spring with blooming trees, and it's actually a lovely time to explore if you don't mind packing a light rain jacket. Temperatures remain mild and comfortable for outdoor activities when the sun's out.
March
March marks the transition toward drier weather, though you'll still catch some rain - typically the last significant precipitation until fall. The hillsides are at their most vibrant green, wildflowers start appearing, and temperatures begin climbing into more consistently pleasant territory. It's actually one of the prettier times to visit, with spring in full swing and crowds still manageable.
April
April delivers what many consider ideal San Jose weather - warm afternoons, cool evenings, and very little rain. The valley is still green from winter moisture, and you'll find comfortable conditions for pretty much any outdoor activity. Morning fog might linger along the Bay, but it typically burns off by late morning, revealing sunny skies.
May
May brings warmer temperatures and the start of the classic dry California summer pattern. You'll notice the hillsides beginning their transformation from green to golden brown, and mornings can still be surprisingly cool before warming considerably by afternoon. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities before peak summer crowds arrive, though you might want layers for the temperature swings.
June
June marks the official start of summer, though San Jose's version is more moderate than you might expect. Mornings often feature the famous Bay Area fog that keeps things cool until midday, then afternoons warm up nicely. Rain is virtually nonexistent, and you'll find long, pleasant evenings perfect for outdoor dining. The hills are now fully golden, giving the valley its characteristic summer look.
July
July tends to be one of the warmer months, though 'warm' in San Jose means comfortable rather than sweltering. You'll get consistent sunshine, virtually no rain, and those typical cool mornings that give way to pleasant afternoons. The temperature difference between morning and afternoon can be substantial - sometimes 15°C or more - so locals always keep a layer handy.
August
August is typically San Jose's warmest month, though interestingly, the fog tends to clear earlier in the day compared to June and July. You'll find reliably sunny, dry weather perfect for exploring the area, though air quality can occasionally be affected by wildfires in surrounding regions. Evenings remain comfortable, rarely requiring more than a light sweater.
September
September often surprises visitors with some of the year's best weather - what locals call the 'second summer.' The fog pattern diminishes, giving you more consistent warmth throughout the day, and temperatures remain very pleasant. It's actually an ideal time to visit, with summer crowds thinning out but weather staying reliably dry and sunny.
October
October continues the excellent weather pattern with warm, dry days and cool evenings - perfect sweater weather as the sun sets. You might catch the first rain shower of the season late in the month, but it's generally one of the most pleasant times in San Jose. The air quality tends to improve as wildfire season winds down, and the lower angle of autumn sun gives everything a beautiful golden glow.
November
November marks the transition back to the wet season, though early in the month can still feel quite summery. As the month progresses, you'll likely see the first significant rain systems moving through, and temperatures cool noticeably. The hillsides might start showing hints of green again after the first good soaking, and you'll want to start checking weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities.
December
December brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall as winter settles in, though compared to much of the country, it's remarkably mild. You'll experience a mix of rainy days and crisp, clear ones - the kind of weather that makes you appreciate a warm cafe. The valley takes on a different character with holiday lights reflecting off wet streets, and snow occasionally dusts the peaks of nearby mountains while the valley floor stays comfortably above freezing.