The fog season begins. Mornings slow, afternoons golden.
Summer means marine layer. June mornings are often thick with coastal fog that burns off sometime between noon and 2 PM. What follows is warm, clear afternoon light. The redwood canyon hikes are cool and atmospheric in the fog. Summer visitor numbers are high — the highway is congested on weekends.
Magic window: Milky Way Core Season (May – Sept)
The galactic core rises above the southern horizon from spring through early fall. Kirk Creek Campground — perched on the coastal bluff — is one of the most remarkable Milky Way viewing sites in California. Best in summer (Bortle 1–2 on the ridges above the marine layer). New moon window is non-negotiable.
Conditions
Weather: 72°F high / 54°F low. Morning marine layer most days. Clears to afternoon sun. Highway 1 can be foggy and congested.
Crowds: high
What's open
- All parks and services
Limited or closed
- Trail parking lots fill before 9 AM on weekends
- McWay Falls pullout often at capacity by 10 AM
Prioritize
Be on the road before 8 AM on weekends. Redwood canyon hikes in the fog. Andrew Molera 8-mile. Milky Way above the marine layer from the ridge (Pfeiffer Ridge or Tin House area).
Wellness
Word of Mouth Yoga on weekend mornings. Esalen — book well ahead. The fog makes morning meditation atmospheric.
Dining
Full summer hours. Reservations essential at Sur House, Nepenthe, and Coastal Kitchen.
Where to stay
Peak summer pricing. Book weeks ahead.
What to pack
Layers essential — the fog is cold. Fleece for morning. Sun protection for afternoon. Layers regardless of forecast.