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 March
In March, San Francisco averages highs of 63°F and lows of 49°F with about 10 rainy days — Bay Area spring with the tail end of rainy season and the city's signature fog patterns beginning to establish. The 14°F daily swing and microclimatic differences (the Sunset and Richmond run 10°F cooler than the Mission) mean layering is always the answer. A waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes handle SF's hills and March conditions.
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 March conditions in San Francisco. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
March in San Francisco is the late rainy season easing into spring — highs averaging 63°F, lows at 49°F, and 10 rainy days of the Pacific fronts that define Bay Area winters. San Francisco's famous microclimates are already in effect: the Sunset and Richmond districts facing the Pacific run significantly cooler than the Mission, SoMa, and downtown neighborhoods. The California Academy of Sciences, SF MoMA, and the de Young Museum are excellent indoor anchors for the wet days. The SF style aesthetic — eclectic, layered, never too weather-exposed — is exactly right for March conditions. Layering is the San Francisco answer to weather year-round: a quality waterproof jacket as the outer layer, a sweater or fleece underneath, and lighter base layers for when the afternoon warms. The city's hills require comfortable walking shoes with grip; stylish waterproof options work well on wet sidewalks. The Ferry Building and Embarcadero waterfront, Golden Gate Park, and the Mission District's outdoor scene are all accessible in March conditions.
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 March →
Other Months in San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in San Francisco in March?+
San Francisco in March averages 63°F highs and 49°F lows with 10 rainy days — layered pieces with a waterproof outer jacket are the SF formula year-round. The city's microclimates mean bringing layers you can add or remove throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes with grip handle SF's hills. The Sunset and Richmond districts run noticeably colder than downtown.
Is March a good time to visit San Francisco?+
March is a good time to visit San Francisco — the rainy season is winding down, summer fog season hasn't started, and the city's indoor cultural institutions are excellent. The Ferry Building, Mission District, and Golden Gate Park are accessible in March conditions. Crowds are manageable compared to summer.
What shoes should I wear in San Francisco in March?+
Comfortable walking shoes with grip are essential for San Francisco in March. The city's hills — particularly in Pacific Heights, Russian Hill, and Nob Hill — are steep enough that grip matters, and wet sidewalks add to the challenge. Waterproof walking shoes bridge comfort and weather resistance for the 10 rainy days.
How cold does San Francisco get in March?+
San Francisco averages a low of 49°F in March, with the Pacific-facing neighborhoods running noticeably colder. The Bay's wind can make exposed areas feel colder than the temperature suggests. Highs average 63°F, comfortable in layered pieces. SF's microclimate variations mean the forecast temperature tells only part of the story depending on which neighborhood you're in.
What should I pack for San Francisco in March?+
Pack layered pieces and a quality waterproof jacket for San Francisco's March — this is the SF formula year-round. A sweater or fleece plus lighter base layers handle the microclimate variations. Comfortable walking shoes with grip handle SF's hills and wet sidewalks. A compact umbrella provides extra coverage for the 10 rainy days.