Los Angeles changes beautifully with the seasons, each one offering a different side of the city’s charm. Winter brings crisp air, golden light, and clear views of snow-capped mountains. In spring, jacaranda trees bloom in shades of purple, filling the streets with color and fragrance. Summer arrives with long, sunny days, ocean breezes, and lively beaches, while autumn brings sharp, vivid skies under the Santa Ana winds.

TL;DR

  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Classic beach weather, long days, biggest crowds; coastal mornings can be cloudy.
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Warm, clear, fewer crowds; sharp views with Santa Ana winds—great for photos/hikes.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild days, occasional rain, best visibility and prices; snow on nearby peaks.
  • Spring (Mar–May): Comfortable temps, blooms, jacarandas late May–early Jun; lighter crowds.
  • Microclimates vary widely the same day (valley vs. coast); pack layers.
  • Book summer/theme parks early; winter (ex-holidays) = best deals.

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Overview

Los Angeles is known for its mild, sunny weather year-round, making it one of the most pleasant cities to visit in any season. The city has a Mediterranean-style climate with dry, warm summers and cooler, wetter winters. Average summer highs reach the low 80s °F (around 27 °C), while winter afternoons are usually in the upper 60s °F (around 20 °C). Rain is rare outside of late fall and winter, with nearly all of it falling between November and April. Even in midwinter, visitors can expect plenty of sunny, comfortable days between brief rain showers.

The best time to visit Los Angeles depends on what you want to experience. For classic beach weather, summer offers hot days, cool ocean breezes, and long daylight hours, though mornings near the coast can start off cloudy with “June Gloom.” Spring and fall are ideal for warm temperatures, clear skies, and smaller crowds, while winter provides the best visibility and lower travel costs.

Because of the city’s microclimates, temperatures can vary widely across neighborhoods on the same day, it might be 90 °F (32 °C) in the San Fernando Valley but only 75 °F (24 °C) by the ocean. If you’re planning a trip for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, or relaxing by the coast, this guide will help you choose the best time to visit Los Angeles based on weather, events, and atmosphere, so you can experience the city at its most vibrant.

Spring (March–May)

Spring in Los Angeles arrives with gentle warmth and vibrant color. By March, daytime temperatures hover in the 70s °F (low 20s °C) and rain becomes infrequent, giving way to clear skies and fresh green hills. Jacaranda trees burst into bloom in late spring, draping neighborhoods in purple blossoms and scenting the air with a sweet floral aroma.

It’s an ideal time for outdoor exploration – you can hike Griffith Park or Runyon Canyon without the intense heat of summer, and stroll botanical gardens bursting with spring flowers. The light is especially beautiful: spring mornings are bright and afternoons often feature high, cotton-ball clouds that make sunsets spectacular.

Culturally, spring is festival season. The LA Marathon typically takes place in March, sending thousands of runners from Dodger Stadium to the Santa Monica Pier in the cool morning hours. In April, music lovers flock to the desert for Coachella (about a 2-hour drive from LA) – if you’re in the city, you’ll notice a buzz of concert after-parties and events tied to this world-famous festival.

Spring is also a great time for Hollywood happenings; late March often brings film premieres and the end of awards season excitement. Travelers in spring enjoy a sweet spot of pleasant weather and moderate crowds. Hotels start to fill up toward Memorial Day, but early spring often means better rates than the summer high season. And while occasional drizzle may linger from winter, by May the chance of rain is very low.

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Visit in May for clear skies and warm days before June’s marine layer arrives. Early May often has summer-like weather without the summer crowds or “June Gloom” overcast mornings.

Summer (June–August)

Los Angeles in summer is the image many visitors dream of: palm-lined beaches, sunshine until 8 pm, and a vibrant outdoor culture in full swing. June kicks off with the coastal “June Gloom” – don’t be surprised if mornings near the ocean are gray or foggy. This marine layer usually burns off by midday, revealing bright blue skies and temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s °F (25–30 °C).

Interestingly, while the beaches stay pleasantly cooler, inland areas can get hot – valleys and downtown often see 90+ °F days (32+ °C) during July and August. Pack layers, because a morning in Santa Monica might be 65 °F with mist, but an afternoon in Hollywood could hit 90 °F under clear sun.

Summer is LA’s busiest tourist season for good reason. The coastline comes alive: surfers dot the waves at Venice and Malibu, families picnic on the sand, and beach volleyball games seem to spring up every few yards. Outdoor concerts and movies are a staple of summer nights – you can catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl under the stars or enjoy free concerts in parks across the city.

Theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios extend their hours and fill to capacity with vacationers. You’ll also find seasonal events such as LA Pride in June, when colorful parades and festivals celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, adding extra energy and crowds especially in West Hollywood.

By July and August, everything from the Getty Center’s Saturday evenings to rooftop bars downtown are buzzing late into the warm nights. Keep in mind this popularity means higher prices and crowds: book accommodations and attractions well in advance if visiting in summer. Traffic can be heavier with both tourists and locals out enjoying summer Fridays and weekends.

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Book popular attractions and theme park tickets early, and plan beach trips on weekday mornings if you can. You’ll beat the worst of the traffic and find easier parking and a spot on the sand before the afternoon throngs arrive.

Fall (September–November)

Fall in Los Angeles is a paradise of golden light and comfortable warmth. Through September and even into October, the days often remain summery – it’s not uncommon to see 85 °F (29 °C) afternoons well after Labor Day. But with kids back in school and summer tourists gone, many of the crowds diminish. You’ll find it easier to get a table at popular restaurants and move around town, and even the freeways calm down (a bit).

Photographers consider fall the prime time in LA: the air is typically dry and clear, especially when the Santa Ana winds blow from the desert. These winds bring low humidity and sometimes boost temperatures, but they also sweep away smog. As a result, autumn days have crystal-clear skies and distant mountains etched sharply on the horizon, making for stunning photographs and sunsets.

In fact, many locals swear that autumn sunsets are the most colorful, thanks to the low moisture and particulate content in the air when those Santa Anas arrive. Evening skies glow with shades of tangerine, pink, and violet, silhouetting palm trees and downtown skyscrapers in dramatic fashion.

Fall is considered by many the best overall time to visit LA. You retain the long daylight and warmth of summer (minus the extreme heat spikes of deep summer), but gain a more relaxed city now that the peak season has passed. Special events dot the fall calendar.

In September, the city often hosts outdoor film screenings and food festivals taking advantage of the balmy weather. October brings a month of Halloween celebrations – from Universal Studios’ Horror Nights to West Hollywood’s legendary Halloween Carnaval street party – turning LA into a playground of costumes and spooky fun.

By November, the weather cools to the 70s °F (low 20s °C) and you might catch the first light rains of the season, but most days are still sunny. The later sunsets and slight chill in the evenings create a cozy atmosphere – think farmers markets with apple cider and events like the November LA Auto Show heralding the upcoming holiday season.

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Autumn sunsets are especially brilliant, painting the sky in fiery hues. Dry air and Santa Ana winds help create these postcard-perfect sunsets that linger over the Pacific and downtown skyline, so have your camera ready at dusk.

Winter (December–February)

Winter in Los Angeles is a season of surprising clarity and calm. The period from December through February brings the coolest weather of the year, but “cool” in LA still means average highs around 68–70 °F (~20 °C) and nights in the upper 40s °F (~9 °C).

You’ll want a light jacket in the evenings, and occasional rainstorms sweep through – typically a few days at a time, separated by many sunny days. When it does rain, it can be heavy (LA gets most of its annual rain in these months), but locals celebrate it as a refreshing change.

The payoff is huge: after rainstorms, the city’s air is scrubbed clean of haze and smog, revealing crystal-clear views from the Hollywood Hills all the way to snow-capped mountains. On a bright day after a winter storm, you might spot Catalina Island across the ocean or see Mount Baldy gleaming white against a blue sky behind downtown’s skyline.

Tourist crowds are at their lowest in winter (aside from the holiday period around late December). That means easier access to popular attractions – no long lines at Universal or the Getty, and better hotel rates in many cases. Culturally, winter is a fantastic time to dive into LA’s indoor offerings.

You can explore world-class museums like LACMA or The Broad without haste, catch live theater and music performances, or indulge in the diverse culinary scene. It’s also awards season in Hollywood: from January into early March, the city buzzes with industry events, from Golden Globes to the Oscars.

You might spot red carpet premieres or themed exhibits celebrating film – or just enjoy that the town is a bit quieter as many entertainment folks are busy with awards business. The holidays in LA are festive but not freezing: outdoor ice skating rinks pop up in places like Pershing Square under palm trees, and neighborhoods dazzle with light displays. By February, the hills around the city often turn a lush green from the rains, and wildflowers start to hint at spring renewal.

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“After rain, LA feels like it’s been freshly repainted.”

Month-by-Month Highlights

Each month in Los Angeles has its own flavor. Here’s a quick Los Angeles weather by month and what to expect:

  • January: Cool and calm. Mid-winter brings mild days (67 °F/19 °C) and brisk nights. Crowds are thin – it’s a great time for museums, award-season film screenings, and catching the clear views after occasional rain. New Year’s Day features the Rose Parade in nearby Pasadena.

  • February: Green hills and Oscar buzz. Winter rains often peak now, turning Griffith Park and Malibu hills emerald green. It’s still quiet tourism-wise. This is high time for Hollywood with the Academy Awards often held in late Feb or early March, so you might feel a buzz of celebrity excitement.

  • March: Wildflowers and spring energy. Temperatures rise into the low 70s °F (22 °C). It’s an ideal outdoor month – wildflowers bloom in parks and maybe even a super bloom in surrounding areas if rains were good. The LA Marathon usually runs this month, and spring break travelers begin to appear.

  • April: Mild days and cultural festivals. April is gorgeous – mid-70s °F (~24 °C), generally dry. It’s prime time for events: the city hosts film festivals, and just outside LA the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival draws music fans (with many basing themselves in LA). Easter and Earth Day bring outdoor festivities.

  • May: Warm, clear, and a pre-summer sweet spot. Highs around 75–80 °F (24–27 °C). May is often the clearest month before the marine layer deepens – great for beach days and hiking with unimpeded views. Crowds are still moderate, making this perhaps the best month overall for beautiful weather without summer tourism. Memorial Day weekend kicks off outdoor concert season.

  • June: Gloomy mornings, bright afternoons. Summer begins with “May Gray” and June Gloom along the coast – expect cloudy, misty mornings especially near Santa Monica and Venice. By afternoon, skies clear to the upper 70s °F. Surf season is in full swing. June also brings Pride Month celebrations, making West Hollywood especially lively.

  • July: Beach days and long daylight. Now it’s classic summer – highs in the 80s °F (30 °C) and lots of sun (coastal fog retreats earlier in the day). Beaches are at their busiest with both locals and tourists trying to beat inland heat. Expect packed attractions – 4th of July fireworks sparkle over the coast and Disneyland. Longest daylight means more time to explore each day.

  • August: Hottest inland, perfect on the coast. The hottest month on average – downtown and valleys frequently see 90s °F (32–35 °C), while coastal neighborhoods enjoy more comfortable 80 °F days. It’s a popular month for surfing and coastal escapes. Outdoor movie nights in parks and Cinespia cemetery screenings are summer rituals in August. Book hotels early – this is peak travel season.

  • September: Warm, photogenic, and quieter. Summer weather often continues (highs 85 °F/29 °C) but the busy crowds fade after Labor Day. It’s a fantastic month for photographers – the light is gorgeous and sunsets are vivid. The ocean water is at its warmest, so beach swimming is great. Late September sometimes sees the first Santa Ana winds, bringing ultra-clear skies. A true shoulder season gem – summer weather at lower prices.

  • October: Golden days and spooky nights. One of LA’s most pleasant months: days in the upper 70s °F (25 °C), nights mild. The city has a relaxed vibe; tourism is relatively low. Halloween spirit takes over with haunted attractions and events all month. Fall also means some of the best sunsets of the year. It’s the perfect time for an evening hike to watch the sunset from Griffith Observatory.

  • November: Cozy fall tones and holiday prep. Early November often still feels like late summer, but by mid-month temperatures dip to the comfortable 70s °F. Trees (like sycamores and liquidambars) in some neighborhoods show fall color. This is the start of LA’s “winter” event season – ice rinks open and holiday lights begin to appear. Crowds pick up slightly around Thanksgiving, but nothing like summer. Often, a few light showers return in late November, bringing that fresh post-rain clarity.

  • December: Mild holidays and bright nights. While much of the country is snowbound, LA enjoys days around 68 °F (20 °C). It’s a unique time: you can sunbathe on a warm afternoon, then wander outdoor holiday markets in the evening with a coat on. The city sparkles with festive lights – Griffith Park’s Light Festival, LA Zoo Lights, and illuminated boat parades in Marina del Rey bring cheer. It’s high season for culture too, with the Nutcracker ballet, award-contender movie releases, and bowl games. Hotels are busier around Christmas and New Year’s, but earlier in the month is quiet. All in all, a bright and merry month to experience LA’s version of winter.

Events and Seasonal Experiences

Los Angeles offers special events year-round, many tied to its seasons. In early summer, Pride Month (especially the first half of June) sees vibrant celebrations like the LA Pride Parade and festival, turning parts of Hollywood and West Hollywood into rainbow-colored parties.

Come July and August, outdoor experiences rule – from free summer concert series (think Twilight Concerts by the Pier or jazz nights at LACMA) to movie screenings under the stars.

Every September, as summer fades, the city’s event calendar remains packed but the tone shifts: you’ll find more locals at events like street fairs, food festivals, and cultural celebrations (September also often brings Latinx Heritage events and the start of the performing arts season).

Fall might just be the most eventful stretch. Halloween in Los Angeles is nearly a month-long affair – beyond the big theme park horror nights, neighborhoods like West Hollywood put on one of the world’s largest Halloween street parties, and even Disneyland transforms with pumpkins.

Fall is also when awards season quietly begins revving up (with film festivals or screenings), but it really takes off in winter. Awards season (roughly January through the Oscars in Feb/Mar) is a unique LA phenomenon: you might catch a premiere at the Chinese Theatre or spot industry billboards campaigning for “For Your Consideration” around town.

If celebrity culture is your thing, this can be an exciting time to visit – there are public bleachers at the Oscar red carpet or you can simply enjoy the buzz in Beverly Hills and Hollywood.

The winter holidays bring their own SoCal twist. L.A.’s diverse communities celebrate with events like Christmas boat parades at local marinas, Hanukkah festivals, and the stunning Enchanted Forest of Light in Descanso Gardens.

Driving through bedecked neighborhoods (try Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills or Upper Hastings Ranch in Pasadena) is a local tradition. New Year’s brings the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl game, drawing crowds to greater LA for a final burst of festivity.

How to Choose the Right Time for You

Every traveler is different. Here’s how to match LA’s seasons to your style:

  • Beach Seekers: If your Los Angeles vision is all about sun, sand, and surf, aim for summer. July and August guarantee hot inland temps and reliably warm beach days (just be ready for crowds). Late August or early September can be ideal – the ocean is warmest and beaches slightly less crowded post-summer break.

  • Sightseers & Families: Spring break (March or April) and late summer are great for families and theme-park fans. Spring offers nice weather for Disneyland or Universal without peak summer lines (avoid the week around Easter for lower crowds). Late August can also be good – still summer weather but many schools have resumed. Family travelers should consider weekdays in off-peak months like October, too, for a calmer experience at kid-friendly attractions.

  • Budget Travelers: Winter is your friend. Aside from the holiday period, January and February are the cheapest months to visit LA. You’ll find better airfare and hotel deals, and the city is yours to explore without tourist congestion. Similarly, November (excluding Thanksgiving) can offer good prices and mild weather. You might not be swimming in the ocean (though you could on a warm day), but you’ll have plenty of sunny skies to enjoy.

  • Outdoor Adventurers: For hiking, photography, and outdoor adventures, consider fall. September and October have fantastic weather for hitting trails – not too hot, not too cold – and you’ll get those crystal-clear views. Photographers especially will love the fall light and winter months after rain for the best shots (sunsets, cityscapes with mountains visible, etc.). Spring is another great window for outdoor lovers, with waterfalls flowing and wildflowers blooming in March/April.

  • Event Enthusiasts: If you thrive on events, plan around them! For music and pop culture events, April (Coachella, film festivals) and June (Pride, start of summer concerts) are thrilling. Love movies and awards? Late Feb/early Mar puts you in town during Oscars and could even overlap with the LA Marathon and other events. Prefer cultural festivals? Summer and early fall weekends are filled with street fairs, food festivals, and cultural celebrations citywide – you’ll always find something happening.

The Takeaway

Los Angeles is a true year-round destination, with something special to experience in every season. The best time to visit Los Angeles depends on what you want from your trip. Winter offers peaceful hikes, clear skies, and quiet beaches. Spring brings colorful blooms, perfect weather, and fewer crowds. Summer delivers classic California sunshine, long beach days, and vibrant nightlife, while autumn brings golden light, warm afternoons, and the city at its most photogenic.

Instead of searching for the “perfect” week, plan your visit around your travel style. Whether you want outdoor adventures, festivals, or relaxed sightseeing, each season highlights a new side of the city. Los Angeles combines urban excitement with coastal and mountain beauty, making it one of the most versatile destinations in the world.

No matter when you visit, Los Angeles shines. Watch the sunset over the Pacific, stroll beneath blooming jacarandas, or explore world-class museums under clear skies. Every season offers its own version of the city’s magic, proving that the best time to visit Los Angeles is simply whenever you arrive.

FAQ

Q1. What’s the best overall month to visit LA?
May or October offer warm, relatively clear weather, manageable crowds, and good value compared to peak summer.

Q2. When is LA least crowded and cheapest?
January to February (excluding holidays) typically offer lower hotel rates, lighter crowds, and crisp post-rain views.

Q3. What is “June Gloom”?
A marine-layer cloud deck forms along the coast in late spring and early summer. Mornings are gray and cool, while afternoons usually clear.

Q4. How big are microclimate differences in one day?
Valleys can be 10 to 15°F (6 to 8°C) hotter than the coast. Plan layers and check neighborhood forecasts.

Q5. When do jacarandas bloom?
Late May to early June, peaking around early June in many neighborhoods such as Pasadena, Long Beach, and West LA.

Q6. Best season for beach days and swimming?
Late July to September brings warmer ocean temps and reliable sun. Arrive early for parking and space.

Q7. Best season for hiking and clear views?
Fall and post-rain winter days have cooler temps and exceptional visibility. Bring layers for breezy ridgelines.

Q8. Is winter rainy all the time?
No. Storms come in short bursts, with many sunny days in between and freshly washed air plus snow-capped mountain backdrops.

Q9. What are Santa Ana winds?
Dry and often warm winds from inland, mainly in fall. They bring low humidity, sharp visibility, and occasionally elevated fire risk.

Q10. Which months are hottest inland?
July to September. Valleys and downtown LA often exceed 90°F (32°C) while the coast stays cooler.

Q11. When should I book theme parks and popular attractions?
In summer and during holidays, book weeks ahead. Off-peak weekdays in October to November and February to March have shorter lines and better prices.

Q12. What should I pack, given the microclimates?
Layers, a light jacket, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a warm layer for evenings. Coastal nights can be cool even in summer.