Business Casual
Navy Trench and Shorts
A navy trench coat over khaki bermuda shorts and a blue linen blouse works between seasons on a mild rainy day. Black pointed-toe heels sharpen what could easily be too casual.
What to Wear in San Francisco in December
December in San Francisco brings the city's rainy season, with highs averaging 57°F and lows near 46°F — but it's the combination of wind, fog, and frequent rain across about 11 days that makes warm, waterproof layers essential. A Gore-Tex shell or proper rain jacket paired with a mid-layer fleece and waterproof boots handles the range from a gusty walk across the Golden Gate Bridge to a rainy afternoon in the Mission District. The temperature gap between neighborhoods — SoMa and the Mission run warmer than the Sunset and Richmond districts near the Pacific — is worth accounting for.
What to wear
top / Long-Sleeve Top
fitted long-sleeve
lightweight layer for mild temps
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
waterproof or DWR-treated — keep it packable
Consider bringing:
Umbrella
Based on typical December conditions in San Francisco. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
San Francisco's December is the arrival of the Pacific storm season — grey, windswept, and wet in a way that the city's summer fog absolutely is not. Highs settle at 57°F with lows around 46°F, but the combination of persistent Pacific wind and frequent rain makes the cold feel more penetrating than those numbers suggest. About 11 days bring measurable rain, often as multi-day Pacific systems that push in from the west. The Golden Gate Bridge walkway and the Embarcadero promenade are windswept even on non-rainy days; the hills of Noe Valley and the Castro can funnel winds significantly. The local style tendency is understated and functional — Patagonia or Arc'teryx shells over fitted base layers, dark slim jeans, Chelsea boots or waterproof leather ankle boots, and a wool or cashmere scarf. San Francisco's micro-climate phenomenon is at its most pronounced in December: SoMa and the Mission can be 5–10°F warmer than the Inner Sunset or Outer Richmond. Layering that can adapt to a 15°F neighborhood-by-neighborhood swing is the most practical approach.
Curated Looks
Casual
Olive Anorak Trousers
An olive anorak handles mild rain without abandoning the polish of wide-leg navy trousers underneath. The crossbody stays tucked and close.
Chic
Cream Puffer Wide-Leg
A cream oversized puffer over a navy striped cardigan and wide-leg ivory linen trousers handles mild rain with a considered mix of textures. Black ballet flats are the restrained finish.
Cozy
Parka Cable Knit Mules
A black longline parka over a cable knit sweater in mild rain keeps warmth without overdressing. Black mule heels under leggings are an unexpected and intentional detail.
Cute
Blush Jacket Knit Skirt
A blush cropped jacket over a grey cardigan and black sweater mini skirt handles mild rain with charm. A black bucket bag and ankle boots keep the proportions balanced.
Formal
Grey Coat Wide-Leg
A grey longline coat over an ivory blouse and black wide-leg trousers handles mild rain without losing formal intent. Black Chelsea boots and a mini bag keep it focused.
Sporty
Cargo Rain Jacket
A black rain jacket over an oversized graphic tee and olive cargo trousers handles mild rain practically. White lace-up booties finish the look with enough contrast to lift the palette.
Packing List
What to Pack for San Francisco in December →
Other Months in San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in San Francisco in December?+
A waterproof shell with a hood is the most important piece — the Pacific rain systems that arrive in December are sustained, not brief. Layer a mid-weight fleece or wool sweater underneath and wear moisture-wicking base layers against the skin. Waterproof ankle boots handle the hills of the Castro and Noe Valley as well as the Embarcadero's exposed waterfront. Add a wool scarf and light gloves for windier spots near the Golden Gate Bridge or Crissy Field.
Is December a good time to visit San Francisco?+
San Francisco's December rewards visitors who don't mind rain and embrace the indoor culture. The Ferry Building Marketplace is excellent year-round, the SFMOMA and de Young Museum are uncrowded, and the Mission District's restaurant scene is at its most atmospheric. Hotel rates are significantly lower than summer peak. The main challenge is the rain — sustained Pacific systems can bring multiple overcast, drizzly days in a row. Outdoor activities like Alcatraz ferry tours are still accessible but require full rain gear.
What shoes are best for San Francisco in December?+
Waterproof ankle boots with a grip sole handle the city's combination of wet hills, uneven sidewalks, and rain-slicked cable car streets. The steep grades of Russian Hill, Nob Hill, and the Castro demand boots with meaningful traction — smooth leather soles become genuinely dangerous on wet San Francisco hills. A Chelsea boot in waterproofed leather or Gore-Tex fabric is the most versatile option for urban walking across multiple neighborhoods.
How cold and wet does it get in San Francisco in December?+
Temperatures average 46–57°F — mild in absolute terms but made colder by wind and moisture. The Pacific wind along the Embarcadero and at Crissy Field can make the real-feel temperature feel 10°F colder. About 11 days bring measurable rain, often as multi-day storms rather than brief showers. The Sunset and Richmond districts near the Pacific coast tend to run several degrees cooler and foggier than the Mission or SoMa.
What should I pack for San Francisco in December?+
Pack a seam-sealed waterproof shell with a hood, a wool or fleece mid-layer, moisture-wicking base layers, waterproof ankle boots, a wool scarf, and light gloves. An umbrella helps during moderate rain but is ineffective against the Pacific wind gusts near the waterfront — a jacket with a proper hood matters more. Bring layers in a daypack so you can adjust for the 10°F+ temperature swings between different neighborhoods.