California is known for its generally sunny and mild climate, but what to wear in April can vary across the large state. As spring transitions to summer, temperatures start warming up, but the coastal areas remain cooler than inland. To help figure out what to pack for your April trip to California, here's an overview of typical weather conditions and clothing recommendations by region.
Southern California Coast
Temperatures and Weather
- Average highs of 67-73°F; lows of 51-56°F
- Mix of sun and clouds; potential for rain showers
- Ocean breeze keeps things cooler, especially at night
What to Wear
- Light layers like cardigans, denim jackets, blazers
- T-shirts, short sleeve shirts, sleeveless blouses
- Shorts, skirts, lightweight pants, jeans
- Sandals, sneakers, flats
- Sweatshirt or light jacket for nights
Key Pieces to Pack
- Denim or utility jacket
- Mix of short and long sleeve shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of pants or jeans
- Skirts or shorts
- Light sweater or cardigan
Activities
Some popular April activities and the clothing you'll want:
- Beach Days - Swimsuit, cover up, sandals, hat
- Hikes - Good shoes/sneakers, moisture wicking shirts
- Downtown Shopping - Stylish casual pieces, comfortable shoes
Southern California Inland
Temperatures & Weather
- Average highs of 76-86°F; lows of 50-60°F
- Mostly sunny skies
- Very dry; cooler nights
What to Wear
- T-shirts, tank tops, short sleeve button ups
- Shorts, skirts, dresses, cropped pants
- Open-toed shoes like sandals, wedges, loafers
- Sun hat; sunglasses
- Light cardigan or shirt for night
Essentials to Bring
- Lightweight dresses
- Breathable shirts and tanks
- Skirts and shorts
- Sandals
Activities
Some popular activities and key pieces to wear:
- Coachella Festival - Fun printed pieces, denim shorts, comfortable sneakers/sandals
- Palm Springs - Pool cover ups, bathing suits, resort style maxi dresses, sandals
San Francisco Bay Area
Weather & Temperatures
- Average highs of 60-68°F; lows of 46-52°F
- Mix of sun and fog; potential for rain
- Cooler overall, with a chill on breezy days
What to Pack
- Layers - cardigans, light jackets, blazers
- Long sleeve shirts, sweaters
- Pants; jeans; leggings with dresses/tunics
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Versatile cardigan or jacket
- Mix of long and short sleeve tops
- Dresses and tunics to layer
- At least 1 pair of pants
Top Activities
Some top things to do and key pieces to wear:
- Sightseeing - Comfortable walking shoes, layers to add/remove
- Shopping - Stylish casual outfit with jacket/cardigan
- Beach Walks - Windbreaker, pants or jeans, sneakers/sandals
Northern California Coast
Typical Weather
- Average highs of 60-65°F; low 50s at night
- Mix of sun and clouds; chance of rain
- Cooler overall, especially in the evenings
What to Wear
- Layers like lightweight jackets, button-downs, sweaters
- Long sleeve shirts and blouses
- Jeans or pants; leggings with tunics or dresses
- Comfortable closed toe shoes
Must-Have Items
- Versatile sweater or jacket
- At least 2 long sleeve tops
- 1-2 pairs of pants / jeans
- Sneakers or booties
Top Activities
Some popular things to do and what to wear:
- Wine Tasting - Stylish casual outfit with layers on top
- Hiking - Good sneakers/shoes, quick-dry shirts
- Beach Walks - Windbreaker, pants, closed toe shoes
Northern California Inland
Typical Weather
- Average highs of 65-75°F; lows of 45-55°F
- Mostly sunny skies
- Cooler mornings and nights
Clothing Tips
- T-shirts, short sleeves early in the day
- Lightweight cardigans and layers for night
- Light jackets and blazers to pull looks together
- Jeans or pants; skirts; casual dresses
- Comfortable walking shoes
- 2-3 short sleeve shirts/blouses
- 1-2 pairs of jeans/pants/skirts
- Sweater or light jacket
- Sneakers or loafers
Top Activities
Some popular things to do and what to wear:
- Wine Tasting - Casual dress or skirt; blazer; booties
- Local Markets - Jeans or pants; short sleeve tee; sneakers
- Hiking - Good shoes, performance shirt, vest
Conclusion
April in California offers mild temperatures perfect for layering during the day and cool nights. Make sure to pack versatile pieces like light jackets and cardigans that work for both coastal and inland destinations. Bring shorts and sandals for hotter inland areas, along with pants and closed toe shoes if you’ll be in San Francisco or Northern California. With some lightweight layers and both short and long sleeve tops, you'll be comfortable no matter where your California adventures take you.
