Arcata (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Arcata.
Climate overview of Arcata
Temperatures in Arcata, California, United States of America, shift moderately through the seasons. The warmest month is September at 20°C (68°F), and the coolest is December at 12°C (54°F).
The city receives considerable rainfall, with around 1140 mm (45 in) annually. December is the wettest month. It has a distinct dry season from June to September.
Arcata Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Arcata - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Arcata
The climate in Arcata experiences moderate temperature changes, with mild shifts between seasons. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 20°C (68°F) in September to a moderate 12°C (54°F) in the coolest month, December.
Nights vary from 11°C (52°F) in September to around 4°C (39°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Arcata
Arcata has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1140 mm (45 in) of rainfall per year. The climate in Arcata shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in December, the wettest month, with an average of 227 mm (8.9 in) of precipitation over 19 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month August offers drier and sunnier days, with around 3.6 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall over 3 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Arcata Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Best Time to Visit Arcata
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July, August, September and October
- Fewest rainy days: July, August and September
- Wettest months: January, February, March, April, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from June to September
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Arcata
What is the best time to visit Arcata?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Arcata. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Arcata has a distinct dry season from June to September.
What temperatures can I expect in Arcata?
Daytime highs range from 12°C (54°F) in December to 20°C (68°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 4°C (39°F) to 11°C (52°F).
How much rain does Arcata get?
Annual rainfall is around 1140 mm (45 in). December is the wettest month with 227 mm (8.9 in), while August is the driest with 3.6 mm (0.1 in).
Arcata 3-Day Forecast
Arcata (CA) 3-Day Forecast
Arcata on the map
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