San Francisco in December: What to Expect

San Francisco in December is not a beach holiday, but it's one of the more interesting American city breaks in winter. The temperature is mild by any sensible comparison with the rest of the northern hemisphere in December, the major attractions are less crowded than in summer, and the city has a December energy that suits it well. It's expensive, because San Francisco is always expensive, but early December offers better hotel rates than peak summer, and the fog that defines the city in July is largely absent.

Weather

Cool and often clear. San Francisco in December averages 8°C to 14°C, with less fog than the famous summer season. Rain is the weather risk, with December and January being the wettest months. When it rains in San Francisco, it rains properly. But in between, there are clear, crisp days when the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay views are at their sharpest. A decent jacket and waterproofs cover most situations. The cold is mild by New York or Chicago standards, but the wind off the bay adds to the chill on exposed spots like the waterfront and Twin Peaks.

Crowds and Prices

Hotel prices are lower in early December than in summer, which is when the city peaks. The Alcatraz ferry and the Golden Gate tour options are more available. Fisherman's Wharf, which is essentially always crowded, is slightly more manageable. The city's restaurants, particularly in the Mission and Hayes Valley, operate at a normal pace rather than the summer restaurant-crunch. Christmas week brings a domestic holiday travel surge and prices rise again.

What's On

San Francisco does a good Christmas: Union Square has an ice rink from November through January and the city's main Christmas tree. The Embarcadero Waterfront is decorated and the Ferry Building market, which runs year-round, has a Christmas season version with seasonal food and crafts. The Nutcracker season at the San Francisco Ballet is a December institution. Alcatraz Island is open year-round and December is one of the quieter months; book the ferry in advance, as it does sell out even in winter. New Year's Eve events range from the city centre street parties to the various entertainment district options.

One Thing to Watch

Alcatraz ferry tickets sell out even in December, particularly for weekend departures. Book well in advance rather than arriving at Pier 33 on the morning and hoping there's availability.