April is a genuinely good time to visit San Francisco. The cherry blossoms in Japantown are at or near peak, the hills are green, the fog that defines summer SF (Karl the Fog) is less prevalent, and the city's eclectic event calendar is active. It is one of the better months to be in the Bay Area.

Weather

April in San Francisco sees daytime temperatures of 13C to 17C, with cool evenings around 9C. The famous microclimates mean temperatures vary significantly across the city: the Mission can be 5C warmer than the Sunset or the outer Richmond. April is generally less foggy than summer. Pack layers: a light jacket for evenings, and always carry something warm regardless of the morning forecast, because the weather can shift quickly.

Crowds and Prices

San Francisco is a year-round destination and hotel prices are high at any time. April is not peak season (summer is more crowded), but it is not cheap either. The major attractions (Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf) are busy year-round. Alcatraz tours must be booked in advance and commonly sell out one to two weeks ahead. April is manageable but not a sleeper shoulder season.

What's On

The San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival in Japantown runs over two weekends in April and is one of the best free events in the city: Japanese cultural performances, food stalls, and the blossoms themselves. The San Francisco International Film Festival runs in April and May. The Giants baseball season is underway at Oracle Park, and a game in April is a good spring afternoon.

One Thing to Watch

Alcatraz tickets are the single most important advance booking in San Francisco. Popular evening and night tours sell out three to four weeks ahead. Day tours go nearly as fast in April. Book Alcatraz as your first planning action after booking flights. Everything else in San Francisco is manageable on shorter notice.

Our San Francisco guide covers Alcatraz logistics, the neighbourhoods worth knowing, and how to get around one of America's most interesting cities.

Master San Francisco in Minutes

Don't waste hours planning. Get our condensed, digital cheat sheet with everything you actually need.

Shop Guide on Etsy →