San Francisco Weather in March
March in San Francisco averages 17°C (63°F) during the day and 9°C (48°F) at night. Quite a bit of rainfall is typical this month, with around 85 mm (3.3 in) on average. An umbrella is a good idea.
Rainfall in San Francisco in March
Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 12 days of rain are anticipated, with 85 mm (3.3 in) on average. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in San Francisco in March
In March, expect moderate temperatures in San Francisco, with highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F) at night. A light jacket or extra layer can be useful, especially outside the warmest hours of the day. With overnight lows of 9°C (48°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.
Sunshine in San Francisco in March
The month enjoys around 270 hours of sunshine, creating mostly sunny days with good weather conditions.
Wind Speed in San Francisco in March
Wind speeds average 5 m/s (10 knots) during March. At this speed, gentle to moderate breezes make small trees sway and the wind creates whitecaps on water bodies. Daily variations range from moderate winds to stronger breezes, creating excellent conditions for sailing, kite flying and wind sports.
Average water temperature in March
At 12°C (54°F), the water is too cold for most people to swim comfortably. A wetsuit is pretty much essential if you plan to go in.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the best weather for San Francisco.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our San Francisco's climate page.
San Francisco Temperature in March
Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
17°C (63°F)
Water Temperature
12°C (54°F)
Chance of Rain
40%
Precipitation
85 mm (3.3 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
75%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
270 hours
Percentage Sunshine
73%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in San Francisco typically stay consistent throughout March, with daily highs averaging around 17°C (63°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 9°C (48°F).
Average temperatures in March
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in March
Historical weather for San Francisco in March
Browse day-by-day weather records for San Francisco spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
San Francisco historical weather extremes in March
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in San Francisco from 1976 through 2026.
- San Francisco recorded its highest March temperature of 31°C (88°F) on March 20, 2026.
- The coldest March day was on March 2, 1976, with a maximum of 6°C (43°F).
- San Francisco registered its coldest March night on March 3, 1976, with temperatures dropping to 2°C (36°F).
- The heaviest March precipitation occurred on March 8, 1978, when 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation fell.
Best Places in the United States of America in March
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in March →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
What to Wear in San Francisco in March
Pleasant temperatures in March mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. With water temperatures around 12°C (54°F), the water is quite cold for swimming. You can skip the swimwear unless you're particularly tough. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.What To Do in San Francisco in March
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our San Francisco's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full San Francisco climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
