San Rafael (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit San Rafael.
Climate overview of San Rafael
San Rafael, California, United States of America, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with September peaking at 26°C (79°F) and December dropping to 14°C (57°F).
San Rafael sees a moderate amount of rainfall, totalling around 765 mm (30 in) per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from May to September, with warm summers and mild winters, creating some seasonal variation. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 10.8 hours of daily sunshine.
San Rafael Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in San Rafael - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in San Rafael
Visitors to San Rafael can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in September, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 14°C (57°F) during cooler months like December.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) in September to around 6°C (43°F) during December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in San Rafael
Generally, San Rafael experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 765 mm (30 in) yearly. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, December it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 172 mm (6.8 in) of precipitation, recorded across 13 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month August brings less rainfall, with 0 mm (0 in) over 0 rainy days. For more details, please visit our San Rafael 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 Rafael
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in San Rafael. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 10.8 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 5.3 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in San Rafael by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in San Rafael.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 80%. In June, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 71%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit San Rafael
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May, June, July, August, September and October
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: April, May, June and July
- Fewest rainy days: June, July, August and September
- Wettest months: January, February, March, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to September, with warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in San Rafael
What is the best time to visit San Rafael?
May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in San Rafael. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. San Rafael has a distinct dry season from May to September, with warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in San Rafael?
Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in December to 26°C (79°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 6°C (43°F) to 12°C (54°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does San Rafael get?
Annual rainfall is around 765 mm (30 in). December is the wettest month with 172 mm (6.8 in), while August is the driest with 0 mm (0 in).
How sunny is San Rafael?
San Rafael receives around 3,058 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 324 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 160 hours. Overall, San Rafael enjoys abundant sunshine.
San Rafael 3-Day Forecast
San Rafael (CA) 3-Day Forecast
San Rafael on the map
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