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Contents
- The climate of Big Sur
- The best time to visit Big Sur
- The worst time to visit Big Sur
- Spring weather in Big Sur
- Summer weather in Big Sur
- Autumn weather in Big Sur
- Winter weather in Big Sur
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Big Sur
According to the Köppen climate classification, Big Sur, California, falls under the category of 'Csb,' indicating a Mediterranean climate with warm summers. In more specific terms, the area experiences moderate climatic conditions with relatively mild and damp winters and dry, warmer summers.
Analyzing the data, one notices the fluctuations in climatic parameters throughout the year. The highest temperature averages from 66.7°F (19.3°C) to 69.6°F (20.9°C) occur from June to September, while the lowest averages, between 46.9°F (8.3°C) and 50°F (10°C), are observed from November to March. Relative humidity saturates the atmosphere to a level between 70% and 79%, slightly increasing in the summer months. Rainfall in Big Sur is typically sparse from June to October, reaching near-zero levels, while the heaviest average rainfall of 2.48" (63mm) occurs in December.
An intriguing aspect of Big Sur's climate is the minimal variation in sea temperature throughout the year, typically ranging from 54°F (12.2°C) to 59°F (15°C). Additionally, the longest daylight hours, reaching up to 14.6 hours, occur in June while December witnesses the shortest span of 9.7 hours.
Analyzing the data, one notices the fluctuations in climatic parameters throughout the year. The highest temperature averages from 66.7°F (19.3°C) to 69.6°F (20.9°C) occur from June to September, while the lowest averages, between 46.9°F (8.3°C) and 50°F (10°C), are observed from November to March. Relative humidity saturates the atmosphere to a level between 70% and 79%, slightly increasing in the summer months. Rainfall in Big Sur is typically sparse from June to October, reaching near-zero levels, while the heaviest average rainfall of 2.48" (63mm) occurs in December.
An intriguing aspect of Big Sur's climate is the minimal variation in sea temperature throughout the year, typically ranging from 54°F (12.2°C) to 59°F (15°C). Additionally, the longest daylight hours, reaching up to 14.6 hours, occur in June while December witnesses the shortest span of 9.7 hours.
The best time to visit Big Sur
Considerable sunshine, fewer rainfall days, and moderate temperatures suggest that the summer months between June and September are the best time to visit Big Sur. The average daylight hours exceed 14, and the sun shines for about half the day. The scale indicates a moderate ultraviolet index of 5, and the wind speed dips to around 6.5mph (10.5km/h), making the weather pleasant for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Big Sur
Big Sur witnesses harsh weather conditions between November and March when cold temperatures and heavy rainfall persist. The lower temperature drops to an average of 46.9°F (8.3°C) during these months, and December brings the heaviest rainfall of up to 2.48" (63mm) on average. Thus, these months may not be suitable for visitors who prefer a drier and warmer climate.
Spring weather in Big Sur
Spring weather in Big Sur, which spans from March to May, starts off relatively cold with an average low temperature of 47.7°F (8.7°C) and ends on a warmer note with an average high of 61.9°F (16.6°C). Rainfall decreases rapidly from 2.05" (52mm) in March to a paltry 0.47" (12mm) by the end of the season. Sea temperatures hover around a constant 54°F (12.2°C), and daylight hours stretch from 12 to 14.1 hours, providing ample sunshine for outdoor exploration.
Summer weather in Big Sur
Summers in Big Sur are dry, warm, and laden with sunshine. The high temperature averages from 65.1°F (18.4°C) to 69.6°F (20.9°C), allowing a pleasant and sunny ambiance. Average rainfall hovers around 0.08" (2mm) throughout the season, making these months the driest, with sunshine spanning around 11.7 to 11.9 hours per day.
Autumn weather in Big Sur
Autumn in Big Sur features a slow transition from the warm summer months to the relatively colder winter. From September to November, an average high temperature ranges from 66.7°F (19.3°C) to 61.5°F (16.4°C). Rainfall begins to pick up from a low of 0.08" (2mm) in September to a higher level of 1.26" (32mm) by November. Despite the increase in rainfall, the sunshine continues to predominate, averaging between 7.1 and 11 hours per day.
Winter weather in Big Sur
The winter months in Big Sur, from December to February, are characterized by colder temperatures and relatively higher rainfall. The average high temperature drops from 57°F (13.9°C) to 58.5°F (14.7°C), and the average low temperature ranges between 46.9°F (8.3°C) to 47.7°F (8.7°C). Rainfall tends to peak in December with an average of 2.48" (63mm), tapering off to 1.97" (50mm) by February. The daylight hours reduce to 9.7 to 10.9 hours, accompanied by a diminished sunshine span of 5.9 to 6.4 hours.
Weather in January
January brings the winter chill to Big Sur, offering temperatures destined to keep you cozy under a warm blanket. Moving from December, the fluctuation in the mercury level is negligible, retaining nearly identical temperatures. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In February, Big Sur's weather marches on its winter rhythm. The temperatures show a subtle fall from the preceding month while remaining consistent when transitioning to March. Lighter showers are expected in comparison to January, with rainfall decreasing to 1.97" (50mm) over a period of 8.6 days. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As March proceeds, the cold fingers of winter gradually loosen their grip over Big Sur. An imperceptible rise in temperature is observed from the previous month. However, it’s the month's distinct propensity for rain that diverts attention, with the town experiencing its highest rainfall of the year by reaching 2.05" (52mm) over 12.3 days. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April signals the advent of the spring season in Big Sur, carrying with it an alluring blend of weather patterns. The cold stiffness of the previous months begins to wane as warm beckons usher in. A notable drop in rainfall emerges, plummeting to 0.87" (22mm) distributed over 7.7 days. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May indicates the arrival of a mellow warmth in Big Sur, nudging the thermometer slightly upwards by comparison with April's figures. Concluding the spring season, May sets the stage for the forthcoming summer with its temperate weather conditions. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in the onset of summer in Big Sur, with temperatures gradually edging towards higher degrees. Comparatively, from the softer warmth of May, June exhibits an increased warmth. An almost dry spell marks this month as rainfall drops to an insignificant 0.08" (2mm), spread over 2.5 days. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July, as Big Sur's warmest period of the year, is marked by gentle summer weather patterns. Following June, the mercury pushes slightly higher, signifying a peak in the annual temperature trend. Despite the summer heat, July doesn't completely abandon its chances of rain but retains a slight, almost negligible precipitation of 0.12" (3mm) across 2.7 days. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August bridges the gap between the high summer months and the approaching turn of the fall season in Big Sur. The warmth of July humbly recedes, giving way to slightly lessened, yet still warm temperatures. Additionally, August claims the distinction as the driest period, with a minimum rainfall of 0.04" (1mm) over 1.3 days. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September's arrival marks the onset of autumn in Big Sur while maintaining the vestiges of the summer's warmth. From August’s minimal rainfall, September witnesses a minor rise as the precipitation climbs to 0.08" (2mm), rationed over 2.4 days. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October's chill begins to subtly permeate the air in Big Sur, signaling the firm presence of the autumn season. With falling temperatures as compared to September, October portrays the quintessence of fall. A noticeable increment in rainfall resurfaces, surging to 0.43" (11mm) across 3.5 days. Weather in October »
Weather in November
In November, Big Sur's weather acknowledges the looming winter season by showcasing a dip in the prevailing temperatures. The transition from October is marked by a significant drop in temperature as the colder days of the year approach. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Finally, December denotes the inception of winter in Big Sur, ushering in the year's lowest temperatures. The mercury continues its plunge, further descending from November's already chilly conditions. Rainfall hits its annual peak, reaching 2.48" (63mm) over 9.8 days, The magical ambiance of the holiday season amidst misty winter mornings and crisp, cold nights make December synonymous with a winter charm encompassing the picturesque landscapes and the Pacific coastline. December is the month when Big Sur sees the lowest average temperatures, with a high of 57°F (13.9°C) and a low of 46.9°F (8.3°C). Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 6, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain?
In Big Sur, during the entire year, the rain falls for 70 days and collects up to 11.93" (303mm) of precipitation.
What are the months with the coldest ocean?
The months with the coldest seawater are March through May, with an average ocean temperature of 53.6°F (12°C).
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Big Sur, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.
When are the longest days?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 36min of daylight.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index are June through September, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What month has the most sunshine?
With an average of 11.9h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.
What is the most humid month?
August is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 79%.
What is the driest month?
August is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 1.3 days and accumulates 0.04" (1mm) of precipitation.
When is the ocean warmest?
The months with the warmest seawater are August through October, with an average ocean temperature of 59°F (15°C).
What part of the year is the hottest?
September, with its high-temperature average of 69.6°F (20.9°C) and a low-temperature average of 55.4°F (13°C), is the warmest month.
What is the least humid month?
November is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
What is the coldest time of year?
The coldest month in Big Sur, California, is December, with an average high-temperature of 57°F (13.9°C) and an average low-temperature of 46.9°F (8.3°C).
What is the rainiest month?
The month with the most rainfall in Big Sur is December, when the rain falls for 9.8 days and typically aggregates up to 2.48" (63mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 42min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
With an average of 5.9h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year.
When is the lowest UV index?
With an average maximum UV index of 3, December is the month with the lowest UV index.
Average temperature
Big Sur, CA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is September (69.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (57°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is September (55.4°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (46.9°F).
Average pressure
Big Sur, CA
- Average pressure in January:
30.13"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.11"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.13"Hg).
The months with the lowest atmospheric pressure are June, August and September (29.93"Hg).
Average wind speed
Big Sur, CA
- Average wind speed in January:
7mph - Average wind speed in February:
8.3mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.1mph - Average wind speed in April:
8.5mph - Average wind speed in May:
8.4mph - Average wind speed in June:
7.8mph
- Average wind speed in July:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in August:
6.2mph - Average wind speed in September:
6.3mph - Average wind speed in October:
6.5mph - Average wind speed in November:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in December:
7.3mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is April (8.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (6.2mph).
Average humidity
Big Sur, CA
The month with the highest relative humidity is August (79%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is November (70%).
Average rainfall
Big Sur, CA
- Average rainfall in January:
2.09" - Average rainfall in February:
1.97" - Average rainfall in March:
2.05" - Average rainfall in April:
0.87" - Average rainfall in May:
0.47" - Average rainfall in June:
0.08"
- Average rainfall in July:
0.12" - Average rainfall in August:
0.04" - Average rainfall in September:
0.08" - Average rainfall in October:
0.43" - Average rainfall in November:
1.26" - Average rainfall in December:
2.48"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (2.48").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is August (0.04").
Average rainfall days
Big Sur, CA
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8.6 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.3 days - Average rainfall days in April:
7.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
4.2 days - Average rainfall days in June:
2.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
2.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
1.3 days - Average rainfall days in September:
2.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
3.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
5.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
9.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is March (12.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (1.3 days).
Average sea temperature
Big Sur, CA
The best months for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) are August, September and October (59°F).
The coldest months (with the lowest average sea temperature) are March, April and May (54°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Big Sur, CA
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in March:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
11h and 0min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
5h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 11h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 5h and 54min).
Average sunshine days
Big Sur, CA
- Average sunshine days in January:
20.2 days - Average sunshine days in February:
18.3 days - Average sunshine days in March:
17.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
21.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
24.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
26.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
26.5 days - Average sunshine days in August:
27.8 days - Average sunshine days in September:
26.8 days - Average sunshine days in October:
26.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
23 days - Average sunshine days in December:
20.3 days
The month with the most sunshine days is August (27.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is March (17.3 days).
Average UV index
Big Sur, CA
The months with the highest UV index are June, July, August and September (UV index 5).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Big Sur, CA
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 35).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 13).
Average visibility
Big Sur, CA
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Big Sur, California, USA
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