California is known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches. However, parts of the state do experience fall-like conditions, with cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and fall festivals. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places in California to enjoy the fall season.
Northern California
Northern California offers some of the most fall-like weather in the state. As you head inland from the coast and gain elevation, temperatures cool down dramatically. The northern mountains are one of the best places to see fall foliage in California.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe straddles the California and Nevada border in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s a stunning alpine lake surrounded by pine forests. By November, daytime highs are in the 50s with overnight lows in the 20s. The area also sees a splash of fall color from aspens and other deciduous trees.
Some of the best places to enjoy fall around Lake Tahoe include:
- Hiking the Rubicon Trail to see golden aspens
- Visiting Emerald Bay State Park
- Driving around the lake’s scenic perimeter
- Mountain biking the Flume Trail
Shasta Cascade
The Shasta Cascade region in northern California is centered around Mount Shasta. The temperatures cool down in fall, creating excellent conditions for hiking, biking, and water sports on lakes and rivers. You can also find fall color in lower elevations from black oak and dogwood trees. Some of the best places to enjoy fall in the Shasta Cascade include:
- Hiking Mount Shasta
- Visiting McArthur-Burney Falls State Park
- Exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park
- Fishing on Lake Shasta
Central California
Central California may not see dramatic fall color, but temperatures do get cooler along the coast and in the foothills of the Sierras. It’s a nice time to enjoy mild weather and smaller crowds at some popular destinations.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park offers pleasant fall weather, fewer crowds, and gorgeous scenic views. Some highlights include:
- Hiking to see Yosemite Falls and other waterfalls swollen from fall rain
- Driving through Yosemite Valley to see evergreen trees and granite cliffs
- Marveling at El Capitan, Half Dome, and other rock formations
- Camping amidst cool fall nights and crisp autumn days
Big Sur
The Central California coastline near Big Sur stays relatively warm well into fall, but sees less fog which opens up the amazing ocean views. It’s a nice time to visit Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, and other landmarks along Highway 1 without summer crowds.
Southern California
Southern California remains warm well into fall. But it’s often one of the nicest times of year to get outdoors and avoid the summer heat and crowds. The region offers plenty of ways to enjoy the transition into fall.
San Diego
San Diego enjoys warm sunny days and cooler nights in the fall. It’s an ideal time to visit attractions like:
- San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
- Beaches like La Jolla Shores and Mission Beach
- Hiking and mountain biking in Torrey Pines State Reserve
- Outdoor fall concerts and festivals
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park offers pleasant temperatures in the 70s and 80s during the day in fall. It’s a nice time to explore the unique desert landscape with its signature Joshua trees. Popular fall activities include:
- Rock climbing and bouldering amid cooler temperatures
- Hiking and camping under starry night skies
- Astrotourism and night sky photography
- Checking out seasonal art exhibitions and events
Palm Springs
Palm Springs offers abundant sunshine during the day and cooler temperatures at night in fall. It’s an appealing time to enjoy attractions like:
- Mid-century modern architecture
- Art galleries and museums
- Golfing on one of many area courses
- Dining al fresco
When to Visit
Fall in California runs from September through November. Here are some of the average temperatures and precipitation you can expect in popular destinations:
| Location | September | October | November |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Tahoe | Highs in the 70sF/20sC Lows in the 30sF/0sC 1 inch of rain |
Highs in the 60sF/15-20sC Lows in the 20sF/-5 to 0C 2 inches of rain |
Highs in the 50sF/10-15sC Lows in the teensF/-10 to -5C 4 inches of rain |
| Yosemite Valley | Highs in the 80sF/25-30sC Lows in the 40sF/5-10sC 1 inch of rain |
Highs in the 70sF/20sC Lows in the 30sF/0sC 2 inches of rain |
Highs in the 60sF/15-20sC Lows in the 20sF/-5 to 0C 3 inches of rain |
| Big Sur | Highs in the 70sF/20sC Lows in the 50sF/10-15sC 0.5 inch of rain |
Highs around 70F/20C Lows in the 40sF/5-10C 1 inch of rain |
Highs in the 60sF/15-20sC Lows in the 30sF/0sC 2 inches of rain |
| San Diego | Highs in the 70sF/20sC Lows in the 60sF/15-20sC 0.25 inch of rain |
Highs in the 70sF/20sC Lows in the 60sF/15-20sC 1 inch of rain |
Highs around 70F/20C Lows in the 50sF/10-15sC 1 inch of rain |
| Palm Springs | Highs in the 90sF/30-35sC Lows in the 70sF/20sC 0.5 inch of rain |
Highs in the 80sF/25-30sC Lows in the 60sF/15-20sC 0.5 inch of rain |
Highs in the 70sF/20sC Lows in the 50sF/10-15sC 0.75 inch of rain |
Fall Events and Activities
California has plenty of fall fun, from harvest festivals to spooky Halloween events. Here are some of the best fall activities around the state:
- Apple picking – Pick apples and pumpkins at oak Glen or Julian.
- Wine tasting – Visit Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, or Santa Barbara wine regions.
- Oktoberfest – Enjoy German food, beer, and music in Huntington Beach.
- Haunted houses – Get spooked at LA Haunted Hayride, Winchester Mystery House, or Knott’s Scary Farm.
- Corn mazes – Try to escape mazes in Half Moon Bay, Lathrop, or Castaic.
- Fall foliage – Hike amongst fall color in Bishop Creek Canyon or Grover Hot Springs.
- Fairs and festivals – Attend harvest festivals in Half Moon Bay, McArthur, or Woodland.
- Wildlife watching – Look for migrating whales, birds, or monarch butterflies.
Plan Your Fall Trip
California offers beautiful fall experiences without having to travel too far. For the best weather and activities, plan your trip between September and November. Be sure to book accommodations well in advance, as fall is a popular time to visit many California destinations. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, fall is a special time to enjoy natural scenery, seasonal events, and outdoor activities across the state.
