San Francisco in September

September through November is San Francisco's secret season. The fog finally lifts, temperatures hit the 70s, and you can actually see the Golden Gate Bridge most days. October especially shines — locals call it their summer. Summer disappoints first-time visitors. June through August brings thick fog and 60-degree highs. Mark Twain never actually said that thing about the coldest winter, but he should have. Pack layers always. Spring (March to May) stays cool but clear. Cherry blossoms bloom in Japantown around April, and hotel rates haven't hit peak season yet. Winter gets a bad rap, but December through February offers the city's most dramatic weather. Storm systems roll in off the Pacific, clearing to reveal snow-capped mountains across the bay. Just bring a serious rain jacket. Here's the thing about SF weather — microclimates rule everything. It might be 75 and sunny in Mission Dolores while Karl the Fog devours the Sunset District. Always check neighborhood-specific forecasts.