What's the Weather like in San Francisco in January
Temperature
January is one of the coldest months in San Francisco, USA and it is also one of the wettest. This month is the rainy season and heavy downpours can occur at any time with a month's worth of rain sometimes falling over a couple of days. During this month temperatures are gradually rising with the average temperature at 100 C. The average high and low temperatures range from a low of 70C to a high of 130C. Temperatures here are comparable to those in Barcelona, Spain or to Los Angeles although these other cities receive less rainfall on average. The highest recorded temperature was 260C in 1962 and the lowest temperature was 00C also in 1962.
Rain
There is a fairly high chance of rain during this month with average rainfall around 119mm and 11 days of precipitation during January. The rain may be light, moderate or heavy with increasing chance of rain as the month progresses from 38% chance of rain at the beginning of the month to 42% chance towards the end of the month. If planning outdoor activities, more pleasant months to travel to San Francisco may be July and August when the area is dry and warm. Precipitation varies from year to year depending on the El Nino which brings warmer wetter conditions or cooler, dryer La Nina years that bring less rain. The wettest year recorded in recent years was 305mm in 1997 and the driest in 2015 with 0mm rainfall.
The topography of San Francisco means there are several micro-climates with the hills located in the middle of the city affecting the rainfall across the area. The hills protect the suburbs to the east from the colder and wetter extremes of the weather, while neighbourhoods to the west experience generally colder and windier conditions. There is rarely snow during this month but occasional snow flurries may be experienced briefly that do not settle.
Sunshine Hours
Daily average hours of sunshine at this time of year is 7 hours a day, with the length of day gradually increasing as spring approaches. The sunrise is at around 7.25am at the start of the month and sunset at 5.00pm. Daylight saving is not observed during January and the whole month is standard time. Cloud cover is fairly constant throughout each day this month, at around 66% cover most days.
Humidity
Humidity varies from 59% to 94% throughout January with humidity decreasing later in the month. Sea temperatures are a chilly 130C on average and swimming and water sports are only for the bravest or most committed swimmers.
Wind
The wind speeds are fairly light during this month, ranging from 0 m/s to 6 m/s, a calm to moderate breeze. Winds speeds rarely reach over 11 m/s and the wind direction is often from the west. The famous foggy conditions usually seen here are not as common during this month. A 25 day forecast is available for detailed travel planning for the coming weeks.
San Francisco Hotels in January
Omni San Francisco hotel
Omni San Francisco hotel is a 4.5* luxury hotel located in the financial district of the city, close to a cable car line and walking distance to Union Square, a neighbourhood with high-end shopping and art galleries. The building was originally built in 1926 as a bank and the architecture reflects the grand style in this elegant hotel with modern amenities. It is an ideal hotel for a romantic getaway for the cold weather in January, and Bob's Steak and Chop House located within the hotel provides quality dining with a reputation as a great steak restaurant. Hotel facilities include room service, fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, business centre, laundry service, concierge and pets are allowed.
Park Central San Francisco
Another great option is the Park Central San Francisco hotel. This centrally located 4* hotel offers convenience and comfort. This large neighbourhood has good nightlife and entertainment as well as outdoor spaces and is close to the financial district. Hotel facilities include concierge, gym, restaurant and bar, business centre, internet services and is pet friendly.
Hostelling International
A good option for budget conscious travellers is Hostelling International, San Francisco. Located in the heart of the city in Union Square, close to Chinatown and cafes, bars and shopping, this hostel is 1.5* and offers clean dorms with 4 to 8 beds in each. This hostel offers a free continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen and tour desk.
Bars and Restaurants
The Bimini Twist
For quality seafood dining, try The Bimini Twist offering a selection of regional seafood in a communal, social setting while meeting other diners and sharing conversation. Booking is essential at this restaurant and all diners are seated around a common table, creating a unique dining experience located at the chef's house. The ambience is social and relaxed yet elegant and refined with options such as clam chowder, fish tacos and sushi on the menu.
Burma Superstar restaurant
For something a little different, try the Burma Superstar restaurant, with great value Burmese home style cooking. Open since 1992, this award winning restaurant brings Burmese culture, hospitality and cuisine to San Francisco. With menu offerings such as coconut chicken noodle soup and mango salad, this restaurant is sure to please everyone who visits.
Things to do in San Francisco in January
The weather in January is not ideal for outdoor activities, but there are still many activities to keep busy and entertained when visiting at this time of year.
Ballet
On those cold and rainy January days you can attend the ballet at the War Memorial Opera House. This beautiful performing arts centre opened its doors in 1932 and has been home to the San Francisco Ballet company for many years. Walking tours of the San Francisco War Memorial and Performing Arts Centre are available on Mondays, and a café opens prior to evening performances for a delicious pre-show buffet dinner.
San Francisco restaurant week
Food aficionados can enjoy San Francisco restaurant week from January 22nd -31st 2018. This 11-day festival celebrates local restaurants and allows locals and visitors to explore and experience world-class dining in the city while supporting local organisations. Over 100 restaurants around San Francisco take part and offer special menus showcasing their best dishes for diners. Many menus offer discounts or special offers during this time.
