St James Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit St James.
Climate overview of St James
St James, Western Cape, South Africa, enjoys a steady climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures typically around 19°C (66°F). February is the warmest month at 23°C (73°F), while August is the coolest at 17°C (63°F).
With around 628 mm (25 in) of annual rainfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. June is the wettest month and February the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from October to March. The most sunshine falls in January, with an average of 11.3 hours of daily sunshine.
St James Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in St James - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in St James
The temperature in St James remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently comfortable climate. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in February to a moderate 17°C (63°F) in the coolest month, August.
Nights vary from 18°C (64°F) in February to around 12°C (54°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in St James
Generally, St James has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 628 mm (25 in) of rainfall annually. The climate in St James shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in June, the wettest month, with an average of 115 mm (4.5 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month February offers drier and sunnier days, with around 18 mm (0.7 in) of rainfall over 4 rainy days. For more details, please visit our St James 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 St James
For those who appreciate different seasons, St James serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in January with an average of 11.3 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in June, offering only 5.8 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in St James
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 14°C (57°F) in August to 20°C (68°F) in February.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in St James by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in St James.
The city experiences its highest humidity in May, reaching 81%. In January, 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
Wind Speed in St James
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) in May and June to 6 m/s (12 knots) in January. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit St James
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, February, March, April, November and December
- Warmest weather: January, February, March and December
- Most sunshine: January and December
- Fewer rainy days: January, February, March, November and December
- Best for swimming: February, with water temperatures around 20°C (68°F).
- Wettest months: May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to March
Frequently asked questions about the climate in St James
What is the best time to visit St James?
January, February, March, April, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in St James. In contrast, June and July tend to have less optimal conditions. St James has a distinct dry season from October to March.
What temperatures can I expect in St James?
Daytime highs range from 17°C (63°F) in August to 23°C (73°F) in February. Nighttime lows range from 12°C (54°F) to 18°C (64°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does St James get?
Annual rainfall is around 628 mm (25 in). June is the wettest month with 115 mm (4.5 in), while February is the driest with 18 mm (0.7 in).
How sunny is St James?
St James receives around 3,094 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 338 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 175 hours. Overall, St James enjoys abundant sunshine.
St James 3-Day Forecast
St James on the map
St James is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Pretoria
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17°C (63°F) Stellenbosch18°C (64°F) 
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