San Diego Weather Guide


San Diego has the best weather in the United States and possibly, the world. But sometimes it can experience an overcast day here or there or may even rain. Here’s where you can get the scoop on the seasons here in the San Diego County.

December through March

The average monthly rainfalls is between 1.4 to 1.9 inches with about 7 wet days per month, and those days are usually grouped together in a passing storm. The average daily high temperature is 66 degrees and can be as low as 50 degrees.

Storms tend to come through about once a week during this period. The wet weather can be intense, with wind and a cool rain. The rain usually doesn’t last long (maybe 12 to 24 hours at the very most).

If you plan to visit San Diego during this time, plan for rainy days by dressing appropriately. Pack light to medium weight jacket or parka that is water and wind resistant. Many people wear long pants but you can get away with shorts and T-shirts, as some days are just right for lighter clothing.

If the jet stream locks in a southerly pattern, San Diego can see extended periods of wet, cool, windy weather but will usually last for one or two weeks straight. Don’t surprised to get cool weather during this time.

April through June

Average combined rainfall for this time period is only 1.1 inches with most of it occurring the first week or two of April. Average daily high are 70 degrees and the lows can reach 55 degrees. March and April are windy, but not uncomfortable. This is a great time to fly kites at Mission Bay or the beaches. April weather is usually one of the best, with daytime highs reaching 70 to 75 degrees with perfect relative humidity of 60 percent and bright beautiful blue skies. The end of April will usher in the beginning of the night and morning low clouds and fog period, which will peak mid-to-late May and will last through June. Local refer to it as “June Gloom” when the coast can stay overcast and foggy for weeks. The inland areas may clear up but not the beaches, although most days the beaches will receive sun. Don’t be surprised to see fog and low clouds at the beach during this time…it may even still feel chilly. Travelers may consider planning inland activities during the morning and heading to the beach in the afternoon.

There have been extended periods of fog or sunshine – as much as 2 to 3 week stretches of no sunshine and the same with no fog or clouds.

July through October

Now, this is the best weather of the year. Avery daily temperature range from 73 to 78 degrees and will be as low as 60 to 65 degrees. Rainfall is pretty non-existent. The sun is out, the water is warm and the beach is great. Temperatures in September and October can be unusually warm (sometimes reach as high as the 90s) but rare. You may still fog or clouds in the morning but they will usually burn-off.

November

Sometimes you will see all warm sunny days but others can yield significant rainfall. Plan for either.