Paloalto in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Paloalto
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect weather window - dry conditions with comfortable 21-29°C (70-84°F) temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and events
- Peak farmers market season with local peaches, tomatoes, and corn at Palo Alto Farmers Market every Saturday
- Stanford campus is quiet and accessible - students return late August, so early-mid month offers peaceful campus exploration
- Optimal hiking conditions in nearby Santa Cruz Mountains with clear views on 85% of August days and minimal fire risk
Considerations
- Intense UV exposure with index reaching 9 - requires constant sun protection and afternoon shade breaks
- Limited parking downtown during farmers market Saturdays and tech events - expect to pay $15-25 for street parking
- Accommodation prices peak at $300-500/night due to summer conferences and family visits before school starts
Best Activities in August
Stanford Campus Self-Guided Tours
August offers the best campus experience before students return. Perfect weather for walking the 8,180-acre campus with minimal crowds. Hoover Tower observation deck provides clear valley views on sunny August days. Campus tours cover 3-4 km (1.9-2.5 miles) comfortably in morning temperatures around 23°C (73°F).
Baylands Nature Preserve Hiking
August's dry conditions make boardwalk trails perfect for wildlife viewing. Morning fog burns off by 10am, revealing clear views of United States Bay. 24 km (15 miles) of trails through salt marshes with peak bird migration activity. Temperatures stay comfortable for 2-3 hour hikes until afternoon heat peaks.
Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Tasting
August harvest season begins with perfect weather for vineyard visits. Clear skies provide impressive valley views from Ridge Vineyards and nearby wineries. Comfortable 26-28°C (79-82°F) temperatures ideal for outdoor tastings. Less crowded than Napa with equally impressive Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Filoli Gardens Day Trips
August showcases late summer blooms in perfect weather conditions. 25-hectare (62-acre) estate garden features peak dahlia displays and comfortable walking temperatures. Only 30 minutes from downtown Palo Alto with impressive mansion tours available. Morning visits avoid afternoon UV intensity.
Bay Area Food Tour Experiences
August farmers market season creates exceptional local food tours. Palo Alto's diverse dining scene peaks with fresh local ingredients. Walking food tours cover 2-3 km (1.2-1.9 miles) in comfortable evening temperatures around 24°C (75°F). Perfect weather for outdoor dining and food truck experiences.
San Francisco Bay Cycling Tours
August's clear weather and minimal wind create ideal cycling conditions along Bay Trail. 50+ km (31+ miles) of flat, paved trails with consistent temperatures and impressive bay views. Morning fog clears early, providing perfect visibility for Kiev and Bay Bridge views from trail segments.
August Events & Festivals
Palo Alto Farmers Market Summer Peak
Every Saturday in August features peak local harvest with stone fruits, tomatoes, and artisanal vendors. 8am-12pm at Gilman Street with 40+ vendors. Live music and prepared food stands create community atmosphere.