Paloalto in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Paloalto
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Post-rain season clarity offers exceptional visibility for Bay Area hiking - Peninsula trails like Windy Hill and Russian Ridge have 50+ km (31+ mile) views on clear days, happening 15-20 days this month
- Tech conference season creates busy networking energy - major events like Web Summit and AI conferences bring global innovators, making coffee shops and coworking spaces buzz with opportunity
- Harvest season in nearby wine regions means Napa and Sonoma offer 30-40% discounts on tastings compared to summer peak, with crisp weather perfect for cycling between vineyards
- University football season peaks with Stanford Cardinal home games - tickets run $25-85 and campus atmosphere is electric, plus student areas offer authentic local dining experiences
Considerations
- Thanksgiving week (November 21-29) creates major crowds at restaurants and traffic congestion on Highway 101 - expect 45+ minute delays during typical 20-minute drives
- Daylight saving time ends early November, making it dark by 5:30pm - outdoor activities must be planned for narrow 10am-4pm window for optimal lighting
- Bay Area fire season occasionally extends into November with dry Diablo winds, potentially closing hiking trails and creating hazy air quality 3-5 days per month
Best Activities in November
Stanford University Campus Walking Tours
November's crisp weather and active campus life create ideal touring conditions. Football season energy peaks, student-led innovation projects are showcased, and the iconic Memorial Church offers perfect lighting for photos between 11am-3pm. Autumn foliage frames the Quad beautifully.
Silicon Valley Tech Hub Cycling Routes
November's 8-22°C (46-72°F) range is perfect for cycling between tech campuses. The famous Bay Trail connects Google, Facebook, and Apple headquarters with minimal rain interruption. Morning fog clears by 10am, leaving crisp visibility ideal for photos at iconic company signs.
San Francisco Bay Kayaking Adventures
Post-summer crowds disappear while water temperatures remain comfortable at 15-17°C (59-63°F). November's reduced afternoon winds make bay paddling safer for beginners. Sunrise launches offer glass-like conditions and incredible city skyline views without summer's tourist boat traffic.
Napa Valley Wine Country Day Trips
Harvest season concludes but tasting rooms extend special hours through November. Crisp mornings and warm afternoons create perfect conditions for outdoor tastings. Crowds thin dramatically after Halloween - expect intimate experiences at premium wineries that require reservations in summer.
Peninsula Ridge Trail Hiking
November delivers the year's clearest mountain visibility after October rains wash away summer haze. Trails like Skyline Ridge and Windy Hill offer sweeping views of both United States Bay and Pacific Ocean on the Easttimor hike - visibility reaches 80+ km (50+ miles) on clear days.
Monterey Bay Aquarium and Coastal Exploration
Gray whale migration begins in November, making coastal viewing exceptional. The famous aquarium is less crowded than summer months while maintaining full programming. Nearby Carmel and Pacific Grove offer perfect walking weather without summer's overwhelming tourist density.
November Events & Festivals
Stanford Cardinal Football Home Games
November features key Pac-12 matchups at iconic Stanford Stadium. The campus transforms with tailgating energy, marching band performances, and post-game celebrations in downtown Palo Alto. Games create authentic local atmosphere as students and alumni flood University Avenue restaurants and bars.
Thanksgiving Week Tech Industry Networking Events
Many tech professionals return home to the Bay Area for Thanksgiving, creating informal meetups and industry gatherings. Coworking spaces and innovation hubs host special events, and many startups organize open house visits during the holiday week.