Discover

West Coast USA

Journey along the West Coast of the USA, where opportunities for self-drives, multi-centre stays, and touring adventures abound amidst breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. From the rugged coastlines of California to the majestic national parks of the Pacific Northwest, the West Coast beckons with endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.

What you’ll love most about West Coast USA

The West Coast is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the rugged coastlines of Big Sur, the towering redwoods of Northern California, and the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges
From the bustling streets of Los Angeles and San Francisco to the hipster neighbourhoods of Portland and the tech hubs of Seattle, the West Coast is home to dynamic cities offering diverse cultural experiences
Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the West Coast for its abundance of recreational activities, including hiking in national parks, surfing along the coast, skiing in the mountains, and exploring desert landscapes
The West Coast boasts world-class wine regions such as Napa Valley and Sonoma County in California, where visitors can indulge in wine tastings, gourmet dining, and scenic vineyard tours
Known for its progressive values and forward-thinking attitudes, the West Coast embraces diversity, innovation, and creativity, shaping its vibrant arts, music, and culinary scenes

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on San Francisco’s weather patterns

Holiday Highlights

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

13℃J
15℃F
16℃M
17℃A
17℃M
19℃J
23℃J
22℃A
21℃S
20℃O
17℃N
13℃D

11J
11F
10M
6A
4M
2J
0J
0A
2S
4O
7N
10D

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

January

Winter settles in, but it varies widely. Coastal Southern California stays mild and sunny - think walks on Venice Beach or hikes in Griffith Park with highs around 18–20°C. Further north, San Francisco brings misty mornings and crisp air, while the Pacific Northwest sees rain-drenched days perfect for coffee shop hopping in Seattle or Portland. Snow blankets the Cascades and Sierra Nevada, drawing skiers to Lake Tahoe and Mount Hood.

February

Still a quiet time to travel. Yosemite’s waterfalls begin to stir as snowmelt starts, while whale watching hits its peak along the Californian coast, especially near Monterey and Santa Barbara. Rain continues in Oregon and Washington, but mossy forests and dramatic coastal drives make for moody, photogenic adventures. San Diego’s weather remains tempting for a midwinter escape.

March

Spring begins to stir. Cherry blossoms bloom in Seattle and Portland, and desert wildflowers start to colour Southern California. Temperatures rise across the coast - San Francisco sees highs of 16-18°C - and daylight stretches. It’s a great time for road trips before the summer crowds arrive, particularly along the Pacific Coast Highway.

April

A transition month filled with possibility. California’s wine regions - Napa and Sonoma - come to life with budding vines and bright green hills. Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge dazzles with waterfalls framed by spring growth. National parks like Joshua Tree or Point Reyes offer ideal hiking weather. Occasional showers linger in the north but give way to clearer skies.

May

One of the loveliest months. Wildflowers cover meadows, beaches are blissfully quiet, and coastal temperatures are comfortably warm. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco feel energised but not overcrowded. Oregon’s coastline is especially scenic now, with whale sightings continuing and hiking trails in top condition.

June

Summer begins with long days and golden light. Fog may cling to San Francisco’s waterfronts, but inland valleys heat up. In California, June gloom can cool the mornings, especially near the coast, but it often burns off by midday. National parks like Crater Lake and Mount Rainier begin to open fully as snow recedes. It's also a good month for coastal camping.

July

High summer brings the crowds - and the sunshine. California’s beaches fill with sunseekers, while Yosemite and the Pacific Northwest see peak visitation. Expect temperatures in the high 20s°C inland, though coastal breezes keep places like Monterey and Cannon Beach comfortable. The Fourth of July adds fireworks and small-town parades across the coast.

August

Another prime travel month. Inland regions - including California’s Central Valley - can be scorching, often topping 35°C. But head to Big Sur, the Oregon Dunes, or Olympic National Park for refreshing sea air and forest shade. Festivals thrive, from food and wine events in Sonoma to music in Seattle and Shakespeare in Ashland, Oregon.

September

Perhaps the West Coast’s best-kept secret. Summer lingers but crowds begin to thin. Coastal fog lifts, revealing warm, golden afternoons. Harvest begins in wine country, and temperatures settle to a comfortable 22-26°C in many places. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives from San Diego all the way up to Bellingham.

October

Autumn colours start to spread, especially through Northern California’s Sierra foothills and Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Apple picking, vineyard visits, and crisp hikes make this a magical month. The coast remains mild, though wetter weather returns up north. Halloween brings a festive air, from pumpkin patches in Half Moon Bay to haunted tours in old mining towns.

November

The rains return to the Pacific Northwest, bringing rich colour to forests and waterfalls. It’s quieter now, with moody skies and fog drifting over coastal cliffs. San Francisco and LA stay relatively dry, and desert areas like Palm Springs offer warmth and calm. Thanksgiving marks a turning point, with festive decorations beginning to appear.

December

A mix of twinkling lights and wintry escapes. Ski resorts are in full swing in the Sierras and Cascades. California’s cities glow with holiday spirit, palm trees wrapped in fairy lights. Coastal walks are crisp and peaceful, and festive markets pop up from Portland to San Diego. Whale watching resumes along the coast, and sunsets are often spectacular.

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