Summer Is Starting In San Francisco In August
Visiting San Francisco in August is a great idea! The summer season is just beginning and the energy and people are full of life! There are so many things to do so be sure to start planning early to make the most out of your trip.
As far as San Francisco weather goes for August, the average high temperature is 68 degrees Fahrenheit while the average low temperate is 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature is a brisk 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
In regards to what to wear for your trip to San Francisco, pack your jacket and cool weather clothes. There is a famous quote that says, “the coldest winter can be a summer’s day in San Francisco.”
Top Events Happening in San Francisco In August:
Outside Lands Music Festival
Taking place on August 8–10, 2025 in Golden Gate Park, Outside Lands is a three-day celebration of music, art, food, wine, beer, and more! This year marks its 17th edition, expected to draw around 75,000 attendees daily.
Top headliners include Tyler, The Creator, Doja Cat, and Hozier, supported by a diverse roster featuring John Summit, Anderson .Paak & the Free Nationals, Vampire Weekend, Glass Animals, Jamie xx, Gesaffelstein, Doechii, and many others.
Beyond music, the festival offers:
Seven stages presenting a wide variety of genres.
Exceptional local food and drink stalls showcasing Bay Area cuisine, wine, beer, and cannabis experiences.
Art installations, immersive experiences, and even a pop-up wedding chapel.
Ticket tiers include General Admission (GA), GA+ with fast entry and lounges, VIP with special viewing areas, and ultra-luxe Golden Gate Club access.
Nihonmachi Street Fair
August 2-3
The Nihonmachi Street Fair returns to San Francisco’s Japantown on August 2–3, 2025, celebrating Asian Pacific American culture with a lively mix of food, music, and entertainment. Held in the heart of Downtown SF, this family-friendly event features delicious street food, cultural performances, community booths, and live music that highlight the rich traditions and diversity of the Asian Pacific American community. It’s a fun and vibrant weekend full of culture, connection, and local pride.
Cruises from Fisherman’s Wharf
When visiting San Francisco, getting out on the water is a must-do experience. One of the best ways to enjoy the city’s beauty is by taking a scenic bay cruise. Sit back and relax as you sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, circle around Alcatraz Island, and take in stunning views of the city skyline, Bay Bridge, and Angel Island. Many cruises offer guided narration, so you’ll also learn fun facts and history along the way.
Head To Yosemite National Park
Various Dates – Departing from ITH Pacific Tradewinds Hostel
In August 2025, plan a day trip or spend the night exploring the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park. Just a few hours from San Francisco, Yosemite offers incredible sights like massive granite cliffs, lush meadows, and famous waterfalls such as Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall. Whether you’re hiking, taking photos, or simply enjoying the peaceful views, a visit to this iconic park is a perfect summer getaway.
FREE Museum Days
Various Dates
San Francisco is full of amazing museums and cultural experiences. You can find a different experience every day of your trip! We have highlighted which days are free for each of the most popular museums.
- SF Botanical Gardens: Second Tuesday of every month, as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, & New Year’s Day
- Asian Art Museum: First Sunday of every month
- Exploratorium: Four to five times a year
- California Academy of Sciences: Select Sundays throughout the year thanks to Pacific Gas & Electric Company
- Conservatory of Flowers: First Tuesday of every month
- Contemporary Jewish Museum: First Tuesday of every month
- de Young: First Tuesday of every month
- GLBT: First Wednesday of the month
- Legion of Honor: First Tuesday of every month
🎉 SOMA Nights
August 28, 2025 (5 PM–9 PM)
SOMA Nights is a lively, free monthly block party and night market that transforms Folsom Street (between 6th & 8th Sts) into a community celebration every fourth Thursday through September. On August 28, from 5 to 9 PM, join neighbors, families, and friends for an evening packed with fun, eats, and entertainment.
Highlights include:
Over 20 local businesses and pop-up vendors offering food, drinks, and creative goods
Live music and street performances on alley stages like Langton and Hallam
A family-friendly atmosphere open to all ages, with street closures creating a relaxed, pedestrian-friendly zone.
After 9 PM, the party continues at over a dozen clubs along 9th–12th Streets, featuring DJ sets and late-night energy
Catch a Giants Baseball Game at Oracle Park
April through October
Go for the home team or watch your favorite team play against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park in Downtown San Diego! The stadium is located on the waterfront so plan on visiting some great bars for fun pregame and post-game entertainment!
Present your same-day baseball ticket to a receptionist at ITH Hostels and save $5 on your reservation.
Find tickets for all games this month
Go Hiking In San Francisco
Lands End Trail – Golden Gate Recreation Area
If you’re visiting San Francisco in August 2025 and want to enjoy the outdoors, the Lands End Trail is a must. Located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, this scenic coastal hike offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and rugged cliffs along the shoreline.
The trail is about 3.5 miles round-trip and is great for all skill levels, with well-marked paths, slight hills, and plenty of photo-worthy stops, including the Sutro Baths ruins, Eagle’s Point Overlook, and even hidden stairways.
The Stern Grove Festival
Held at Sigmund Stern Grove in southwest San Francisco, this is a cherished summer tradition offering free outdoor concerts every Sunday at 2 PM from June 15 to August 17, 2025. Set in a beautiful eucalyptus‑lined amphitheater, the festival features a wide range of performers—from symphonies to indie bands, soul artists to reggae legends .
This summer’s lineup highlights include Michael Franti & Spearhead on August 3, The Pointer Sisters + Lyrics Born on August 10, and the much‑anticipated Big Picnic Weekend finale featuring Damian & Stephen Marley on August 16 and Diana Ross on August 17.
New for 2025: The festival introduced a fair ticket lottery system—about 75% of tickets are drawn via an online lottery six weeks before each show. Remaining tickets are available through limited in-person box offices, volunteer opportunities, and partner giveaways . Evening vibes and family-friendly atmosphere make it perfect for picnics in the park.
🎉 Fridays on Front Street
August 22, 2025 (4 PM – 9 PM)
Head downtown to 240 Front Street (between Sacramento and California) for a free summer block party like no other! This lively event kicks off your weekend with outdoor live music curated by Noise Pop Industries. Enjoy food pop-ups, casual street-sipping (beer & cocktails allowed in the entertainment zone), and a lineup of fun games like giant Jenga and beer pong.
Local bars such as Schroeder’s, Harrington’s, and Royal Exchange will join in with special drink menus and outdoor seating extending into the street.
Weekly Local Events In San Francisco:
San Francisco is one of the most unique places in America. From the historic building to scenic attractions, you will never run out of things to do.
Check out Fun Cheap SF for a full list of things to do in San Francisco
For the live music scene, check out Song Kick for the best venue and upcoming shows.
Tuesdays: Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
Thursdays: CROCKER GALLERIA FARMERS’ MARKET
Saturdays: Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
Sundays: Fort Mason Farmers Markert
Everyday:
Yoga Garden SF
Satori Yoga Studio
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