South Lake Tahoe (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit South Lake Tahoe.
Climate overview of South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe, California, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 27°C (81°F) in July, while winters cool to 6°C (43°F) in December.
South Lake Tahoe sees a moderate amount of rain/snowfall, totalling around 515 mm (20 in) per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from April to September, with warm summers and cold winters, creating some seasonal variation. The sunniest month is July, with 14.1 hours of sunshine per day on average.
South Lake Tahoe Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in South Lake Tahoe - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in South Lake Tahoe
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in South Lake Tahoe. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 6°C (43°F) during cooler months like December.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) in July to around -6°C (21°F) during December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in South Lake Tahoe
Generally, South Lake Tahoe has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 515 mm (20 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, December it receives moderate snow/rainfall, averaging 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation, recorded across 13 snowy/rainy days. In contrast, the driest month August brings less rainfall, with 6.7 mm (0.3 in) over 3 rainy days. For more details, please visit our South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in South Lake Tahoe. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 14.1 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 6.2 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 South Lake Tahoe by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in South Lake Tahoe.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 68%. In July, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 36%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit South Lake Tahoe
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 and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewest rainy days: June, July, August and September
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from April to September, with warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: December, with freezing nights around -6°C (21°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in South Lake Tahoe
What is the best time to visit South Lake Tahoe?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in South Lake Tahoe. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. South Lake Tahoe has a distinct dry season from April to September, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in South Lake Tahoe?
Daytime highs range from 6°C (43°F) in December to 27°C (81°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -6°C (21°F) to 8°C (46°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does South Lake Tahoe get?
Annual rainfall is around 515 mm (20 in). December is the wettest month with 93 mm (3.7 in), while August is the driest with 6.7 mm (0.3 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.
How sunny is South Lake Tahoe?
South Lake Tahoe receives around 3,642 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 424 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 187 hours. Overall, South Lake Tahoe enjoys abundant sunshine.
South Lake Tahoe 3-Day Forecast
South Lake Tahoe on the map
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