Northern California FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Northern California.

When is the best time to visit Northern California?

The best time to visit Northern California depends on what kind of outdoor pursuit you are looking to engage in. Summer and early autumn or the months of June to September guarantee the best weather with daytime temperatures rising to the mid-20s throughout the region. Spring is mild and for those interested in rock climbing Mount Shasta, this is the best time to go. Winter weather ranges from cool by the coast to cold in the mountains. Expect rainy conditions and temperatures around 10-12°C by the coast and temperatures just above and below freezing around Mount Shasta. November to February are actually great times to visit as Mendocino will be in peak whale-watching season, and Mount Shasta will have plenty of snow for winter sports.

What is the time difference between the UK and Northern California?

GMT – 8 hours

What places combine well with Northern California?

A visit to Northern California can easily be combined with a stay in the metropolitan city of San Francisco – from which Northern California is most easily accessed thanks to its international airport. A trip to California’s Wine Country – Napa and Sonoma – is also convenient given the geographic proximity. Lastly, if you are looking for a lengthy road trip then travel along the Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH) down into Southern California or, if you are coming from the south, you can travel along this route into the heart of Northern California.