San Luis Obispo (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit San Luis Obispo.
Climate overview of San Luis Obispo
Temperatures in San Luis Obispo, California, United States of America, shift moderately through the seasons. The warmest month is September at 28°C (82°F), and the coolest is December at 17°C (63°F).
The city tends toward dry conditions, with around 426 mm (17 in) of rainfall per year. It does, however, have a distinct dry season from April to November, with warm summers and mild winters. The most sunshine falls in July, with an average of 11.7 hours of daily sunshine.
San Luis Obispo Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in San Luis Obispo - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in San Luis Obispo
In San Luis Obispo, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in September to a moderate 17°C (63°F) in the coolest month, December.
Nights vary from 12°C (54°F) in September to around 5°C (41°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in San Luis Obispo
With annual rainfall averaging 426 mm (17 in), San Luis Obispo maintains relatively low precipitation levels throughout the seasons. The climate in San Luis Obispo shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect moderate rainfall in December, the wettest month, with an average of 98 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation over 10 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month August offers drier and sunnier days, with around 0.4 mm (0.02 in) of rainfall over 0 rainy days. For more details, please visit our San Luis Obispo Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in San Luis Obispo
For those who appreciate different seasons, San Luis Obispo serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 11.7 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in January, offering only 6.9 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Best Time to Visit San Luis Obispo
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Fewer rainy days: May, June, July, August and September
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from April to November, with warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in San Luis Obispo
What is the best time to visit San Luis Obispo?
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in San Luis Obispo. In contrast, December tends to have less optimal conditions. San Luis Obispo has a distinct dry season from April to November, with warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in San Luis Obispo?
Daytime highs range from 17°C (63°F) in December to 28°C (82°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 12°C (54°F).
How much rain does San Luis Obispo get?
Annual rainfall is around 426 mm (17 in). December is the wettest month with 98 mm (3.9 in), while August is the driest with 0.4 mm (0.02 in).
How sunny is San Luis Obispo?
San Luis Obispo receives around 3,187 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 352 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 208 hours. Overall, San Luis Obispo enjoys abundant sunshine.
San Luis Obispo 3-Day Forecast
San Luis Obispo (CA) 3-Day Forecast
San Luis Obispo on the map
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