Los Angeles is known for its sunshine, but the weather changes more than many visitors expect. Mornings along the coast often start with fog or a cool marine layer, especially in late spring and early summer, while afternoons usually clear into bright blue skies. Winter can bring short rainstorms that leave the air crisp and the mountains vividly visible, and spring often turns the hills green after the rain. Fall is warm, dry, and filled with golden light. LA does have seasons, just in a gentler way than most cities.

TL;DR

  • Los Angeles has a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers, cooler, wetter winters and subtle but real seasonal shifts.
  • Coastal areas stay cooler and often foggy in late spring and early summer, while inland valleys can be much hotter, especially in July–September.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb) is the main rainy season, bringing crisp air, green hills and snow-capped distant mountains between storms.
  • Spring and fall are sweet spots with comfortable temperatures, clear skies and fewer crowds; May and June often bring marine-layer “May Gray” and “June Gloom” mornings.
  • Summer is hot and dry with almost no rain; beaches stay comfortable while inland neighborhoods can see frequent 90°F+ (32°C+) afternoons.
  • Layering is key year-round: cool mornings and evenings, warmer afternoons and coastal microclimates mean you’ll often use a jacket and T-shirt in the same day.

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Overview

Los Angeles has a Mediterranean-style climate with warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. Many visitors imagine constant sunshine and identical weather year-round, but LA does experience subtle seasonal changes. Microclimates play a major role in the city’s daily conditions. Temperatures can vary widely depending on where you are: coastal areas stay mild thanks to ocean breezes, while inland neighborhoods and valleys heat up significantly during the afternoon.

Most days follow a reliable pattern of cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and breezy evenings, which makes layering essential.The city stays mostly sunny throughout the year, though late spring often brings a marine layer that creates gray, overcast mornings along the coast, especially in May and June. Rain is minimal and usually limited to winter, and you will not see snow in the city. Summer heat is typically moderate near the beach but can spike farther inland.

Overall, Los Angeles weather does not swing dramatically from month to month, but understanding these small seasonal shifts will help you pack and plan more effectively. Below you will find a detailed month-by-month guide to Los Angeles weather, including typical temperatures, rainfall, and tips on the best activities and what to wear each season.

January

January is one of the coolest months in Los Angeles, feeling mild compared to winter elsewhere. The average high is around 68°F (20°C), and the average low dips to about 49°F (9°C). It’s part of L.A.’s rainy season, so you may encounter some showers – roughly 3 inches (75–85 mm) of total rainfall across about 5–6 days in January.

When it does rain, it’s usually intermittent, and clear sunny days dominate the month. After a winter storm, the air is washed clean of smog, yielding exceptionally clear views across the city. You might spot snow-capped mountains on the horizon on those crisp post-storm days.

Overall, January days are cool to pleasantly mild – great for hiking trails like Griffith Park (the views are fantastic in the clear air) or exploring museums if a rainy day comes. Evenings get chilly, so plan on indoor activities or a cozy cafe once the sun sets early (daylight is limited, about 10½ hours).

What to pack: long pants, a light sweater or sweatshirt during the day, and a heavier jacket for the cool nights. It’s wise to bring a compact umbrella or light rain jacket just in case of showers.

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Pack a sweater and light rain jacket.

February

February in Los Angeles is similar to January – cool, crisp, and occasionally wet. Average temperatures hover in the upper 60s°F (20°C) for highs and around 50°F (10°C) for lows , so it’s still jacket weather in the mornings and after dark. In fact, February is typically the wettest month of the year in L.A..

You can expect roughly 3–4 inches (75–90 mm) of rain spread over about 5–6 days this month. Don’t worry – rain usually comes in short bursts, with many gorgeous days in between. The hills turn green from the winter rains, and you’ll see seasonal waterfalls in the nearby mountains.

The air is fresh, and visibility is outstanding on mornings after rain – you might clearly see the Santa Monica Mountains, downtown skyline, and even distant islands on the horizon. It’s a great time for outdoor photography and day hikes (just avoid trails right after heavy rain to let them dry).

Activities: Take advantage of the clear air with a trip up to the Griffith Observatory or a hike to the Hollywood Sign, the views can stretch for miles.

Evenings are cold by SoCal standards, so maybe catch a concert or basketball game indoors. What to pack: layers, including long sleeves and a medium-weight jacket for evening, and don’t forget a small umbrella or rain shell since rain is more likely now.

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Post-rain mornings have the best visibility of the whole year.

March

March brings a gentle warm-up to Los Angeles. Spring is arriving, though early March can still feel brisk. The average high rises to about 70°F (21°C), and lows average around 52°F (11°C). Rainfall starts to decrease – expect roughly 2 inches (50–60 mm) of rain in March over maybe 5 days or so.

Often you’ll get a couple of showers early in the month and drier, sunnier weather later on. What does it feel like? By midday, it’s comfortably warm and you might even shed your jacket, especially in the sun.

Spring blooms are appearing: after the winter rains, the landscape is greener, and you may catch wildflowers in local parks or the famous cherry blossoms at the Descanso Gardens. It’s a pleasant time to be outside – not hot, not cold. Just remember that mornings and nights still get down into the 50s°F (10–15°C), so there’s a chill in the shade or after dark.

Best activities: March is perfect for outdoor exploring. You can hike without the intense heat of summer, enjoy bike rides along the beach paths, or visit the theme parks with thinner crowds (spring break aside). With flowers blooming, consider a trip to the botanical gardens or a drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to see green hills and possibly poppies if it’s a good wildflower year.

What to pack: layers, layers, layers. You’ll want a light jacket or sweater for morning, a T-shirt underneath for afternoon, and something warmer for the evening. Jeans or long pants work well, and maybe a light scarf for breezes. Sunscreen becomes important again as the sun angle gets higher and days lengthen.

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Morning layers are essential; you might start your day in a sweater and need just a T-shirt by afternoon.

April

April in L.A. truly feels like spring – though to many visitors it might seem like early summer. The average afternoon high is around 73–74°F (23°C), with nightly lows about 55°F (13°C). Rain becomes infrequent (around 0.7 inch (18 mm) in total for April, usually just a couple of light showers ).

Most days are sunny or partly sunny, and the notorious marine layer hasn’t yet kicked into full gear – so you enjoy a lot of blue skies. What it feels like: Afternoons are warm and very pleasant – not too hot, but you’ll be comfortable in short sleeves most days.

Evenings and early mornings are cool (you’ll want a light jacket), but the sun warms things quickly by late morning. There’s a freshness in the air; spring in L.A. brings occasional breezes and very clear skies on many days. Great activities now: Pretty much anything outdoors.

April is fantastic for the beach (though the ocean is still chilly), hiking, visiting outdoor attractions like the LA Zoo or Universal Studios without peak summer crowds, and enjoying alfresco dining. The longer days (around 13 hours of daylight) mean you can fit more into each day of sightseeing.

Packing tips: bring a mix of clothing: T-shirts and maybe shorts for warm afternoons, plus light sweaters or a spring jacket for morning and night. You likely won’t need rain gear this month.

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“Spring in LA feels like early summer elsewhere.”

May

May is when Los Angeles starts transitioning toward summer, but it comes with a quirk: the “May Gray”. Along the coast especially, cloudy mornings are common in May due to the marine layer. Don’t be surprised if you wake up in Santa Monica or Malibu to a gray, misty sky – it’s perfectly normal.

The sun typically peeks through by late morning or midday, giving way to bright afternoons. Temperatures: very mild and consistent. Average highs reach about 74–75°F (23–24°C), with lows around 58°F (14°C). In other words, daytime is warm but not hot, and nights are comfortably cool.

Rainfall is almost done for the year – only about 0.3 inch (8 mm) in May on average , so rain is unlikely. What it feels like: Mornings can feel damp or cool under the low clouds (you might need a light jacket), but once the sun comes out, the afternoons are gorgeous – usually mid-70s°F with clear skies by inland standards (the coast might stay a bit hazy).

By late May, you really sense summer around the corner: Jacaranda trees burst into purple bloom across the city, and locals start hitting the beach more.

Activities: May is a great time for outdoor sightseeing – hike in Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park in the morning (cool and cloudy is actually great for a hike), then enjoy the sunny afternoon at the Getty Center gardens or a Dodgers baseball game. It’s warm enough for the beach in the afternoons, and the Pacific Ocean starts to warm up a tad (though still cool). Crowds are still moderate, making it a sweet spot to visit.

What to pack: Bring layers, like a hoodie or light jacket for the marine layer mornings, and lighter clothing for midday. You’ll want sunglasses and maybe a hat for the afternoon sun. Shorts or jeans are both fine this time of year.

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Bring a light jacket for misty mornings. “May Gray” can keep things cool until the sun breaks through.

June

June marks the start of summer in L.A. but also the peak of the marine layer season known as “June Gloom.” Expect many overcast mornings, especially near the coast, with clouds that often linger until late morning or lunchtime. Don’t fret: by afternoon, the sun typically shines through.

Temperatures: warming up, but not extreme. The average high in June is about 77°F (25°C), and nights cool to around 61°F (16°C). Inland areas (like the valleys) will be hotter – often well into the 80s°F (around 30°C) or more – whereas beach towns might stay in the 70s°F due to that morning fog influence.

Rainfall is almost nil in June (maybe 0.1 inch (2–3 mm) total ), so you can safely leave the umbrella at home. What it feels like: Early in the day, it can be gray and a bit cool or clammy near the coast (you might want a light sweater), but by afternoon it’s typically sunny and warm just about everywhere.

This contrast is stark: downtown and inland will feel like summer, while the beach might still feel like spring until the sun comes out. Evenings are mild and pleasant, great for sitting outside once the sky clears.

Activities: June is summer kick-off. It’s beach weather most afternoons – by midday the sand is warm and people are out surfing and sunbathing (just note mornings on the beach might be chilly/foggy). It’s also a great month for inland adventures: since it’s not the absolute hottest yet, you can visit places like Joshua Tree or do canyon hikes early in the day.

Outdoor concerts and movies in the park start up for the summer; evenings are long (nearly 14½ hours of daylight in June) and usually mild. Packing advice: layers and versatility. You’ll need a light jacket or hoodie in the morning, especially by the ocean.

By afternoon, you’ll be fine in T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. If you plan to go inland (hiking or to Disneyland in Anaheim, for example), pack sun protection (hat, sunscreen) because it’ll be sunnier and hotter away from the coast. Nights can occasionally feel cool, so a light jacket for after dark is smart.

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Beaches can stay cool and foggy until midday in June; plan beach outings for the afternoon once the sun breaks through.

July

July is peak summer in Los Angeles. The marine layer retreats, so sunshine is abundant from morning to evening. It’s one of the driest and sunniest months – basically no rain to speak of (on average, less than 0.1 inch for the whole month ). Temperatures: now you really feel the summer heat, especially inland.

The average high in downtown L.A. is about 82°F (28°C), and the average low is around 65°F (18°C). Along the coast, highs are a bit cooler (mid-70s°F, ~24°C) thanks to ocean breezes, while valleys often top 90°F (32°C) or more in the afternoons. The air is generally dry and the skies are clear blue almost every day.

What it feels like: Mornings warm up fast under the summer sun. By afternoon, it can feel hot, especially in the city and valleys – the kind of dry heat that has you seeking shade or AC by mid-afternoon. However, near the beach it’s usually comfortable with a nice breeze (perfect beach weather).

Evenings are balmy and pleasant; you’ll enjoy dining outside or strolling without a jacket in many areas (though by the ocean, it can get a bit cool once the sun sets). Activities: This is the time for all the quintessential summer fun. Beaches are at their best – long sunny days ideal for swimming, surfing, or just lounging on the sand.

It’s also great for outdoor events: outdoor concerts at the Hollywood Bowl, movie nights in the park, food festivals, and so on are in full swing. If you’re visiting theme parks or tourist attractions, do plan for heat – maybe go early to beat the afternoon peak temperatures. If you love hiking, do it at sunrise or in the evening, because midday on a trail can be very hot (especially in places like Griffith Park or Malibu hills).

Packing tips: Think summer wardrobe: shorts, dresses, T-shirts, sandals. Breathable fabrics are a must. Definitely pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat – the UV index is high and you’ll feel the intense sun.

For inland excursions or if you’re sensitive to heat, light-colored, loose clothing will be most comfortable. You generally won’t need a jacket in July, except perhaps a light layer if you’re by the water at night or in heavily air-conditioned venues.

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Avoid strenuous outdoor activities in the midday heat of summer.

August

August in L.A. is hot and dry, often the hottest month of the year for inland areas. The pattern from July continues: virtually no rain (perhaps a rare sprinkle, but on average only a trace of precipitation ). Temperatures: The downtown average high is around 84°F (29°C), with nights around 65°F (18°C).

In the valleys and further inland, daily highs frequently soar into the 90s°F (32–35°C). Along the coast, it stays more moderate – typically mid to upper 70s°F (24–26°C) with cool breezes, so coastal neighborhoods remain quite comfortable even in peak summer.

Feel of the weather: Mornings are sunny earlier (the marine layer is usually long gone by August). By afternoon, it can feel very hot in the city under the bright sun – you’ll definitely be craving shade or a cold drink if walking around Hollywood or downtown in the afternoon.

The air quality can be a bit hazy on some hot summer days (late August sometimes brings a bit of humidity or smog build-up), but many days are still clear. Evenings are warm but usually a tad cooler than July’s, signaling the approaching transition to fall – you might feel a slight night breeze. Overall, it’s reliably summer weather: blue skies, intense sun, warm nights.

Great activities: This is prime time for the beach and water activities. The Pacific Ocean is at its warmest now (though “warm” in SoCal is still around 68°F/20°C water temperature), so swimming is more inviting. Surfing, paddleboarding, or just splashing in the waves – go for it. It’s also a popular month for outdoor sports like beach volleyball or cycling along the Santa Monica bike path.

If you’re an early riser, sunrise hikes are gorgeous in August – try Temescal Canyon or Eaton Canyon before the heat sets in. By contrast, midday is perfect for indoor attractions (museums, shopping centers) if you want to beat the heat for a few hours.

Packing list: very similar to July – pack your summer clothes. Shorts, tank tops, sundresses, sandals – all good. Sunscreen is non-negotiable, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated is a smart accessory. A hat will help with the sun. For the evening, you might throw on a light shirt or cardigan, but many nights you won’t need it.

One more thing: air conditioning will be blasting in many indoor places, so having a light layer in your bag can save you from a chill when you go from 35°C outside to 22°C inside a mall or theater.

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The UV index is very high in August; sunscreen and sun protection are a must to avoid burns.

September

In September, Los Angeles often enjoys a “second summer” – the heat of summer lingers, but the big tourist crowds fade. This month is warm, sunny, and relatively crowd-free. Average high temperatures are about 83°F (28°C), with lows around 62°F (17°C).

Many days still reach the mid-80s°F or higher, especially in early September or if Santa Ana winds kick in (which can occasionally happen late in the month, bringing a dry heat). Rain is usually scarce (maybe a brief shower toward late September, but on average only 0.1–0.2 inches total ).

What it feels like: Very much like summer, especially during the first half of the month. By afternoon, it’s hot inland (upper 80s°F / 30°C common), and pleasantly warm near the coast (mid-70s to low 80s°F). Humidity remains low, so even hotter days feel manageable in shade.

As the month goes on, evenings start to get a bit cooler and days shorten (around 12 hours of daylight by the equinox). Overall, the weather is extremely pleasant – many locals actually consider September the best weather month in L.A. because ocean waters are still warm, days are long enough, and the hazy marine layer is mostly gone.

Activities: With fewer crowds and still-summery weather, this is a fantastic time for almost anything. Beaches are glorious in September – still warm and sunny, but with a more relaxed vibe now that summer vacationers have left. It’s also a prime time for sightseeing: you can roam around Hollywood, Beverly Hills, or downtown without the peak-season throngs, all under clear skies.

Photographers love September because the light gets a bit softer in late afternoon and fall clarity begins – you might notice how sharp the Hollywood sign looks or how vivid the sunsets become as humidity stays low. Outdoor events continue (outdoor movies, food festivals, etc.), and it’s also harvest time just north in wine country if you fancy a day trip.

Packing for September: think summer attire plus a light layer or two. Daytimes: T-shirts, shorts, sundresses, sandals – you’ll use them all. Late evenings or an unexpected breezy night, have a light sweater or long-sleeve shirt handy. Since the weather is still dry, you won’t need rain gear.

Do pack the usual sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF) because the sun is still strong. Comfortable shoes are great for walking tours or theme parks now that the weather isn’t overly sweltering.

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“September is L.A.’s secret summer.” Many locals relish this month for its hot days and calmer atmosphere.

October

October is a beautiful month in Los Angeles – arguably one of the most underrated times of year here. Summer warmth persists, but there’s a new softness to the light and cooler nights that give a hint of fall.

Temperatures: Early October can still feel like summer with highs in the upper 70s°F to low 80s°F (~26°C), and by late October the average high is around 79°F (26°C). Average lows drop to about 60°F (16°C). That means daytime is warm and comfortable, and nights start to get crisp (especially late in the month) – you might feel you need a jacket if you’re out late.

Rainfall remains low, though toward the end of October there’s a slight chance of the first light rain of the season. Typically, only around 0.6–0.7 inches (15–18 mm) of rain falls in October , often toward the back half of the month.

Sky and air: October often brings golden light and exceptionally clear skies. With summer smog diminishing and occasional Santa Ana winds (warm, dry winds from the desert) blowing through, the air clarity can be amazing – you can see the details of distant mountain ranges and those Hollywood hills in sharp relief.

Do note: Santa Anas can also elevate wildfire risk and make some days very dry, but they also contribute to that brilliant visibility and lovely golden hue in late afternoons.

What it feels like: Most days are sunny and warm – perfect for short sleeves during the day. You won’t usually break a serious sweat like in high summer, as the peak heat eases a bit. Evenings cool down into the low 60s°F (around 16°C) or lower, so you’ll feel the need for a light jacket or sweater after dark.

By the end of October, early mornings can even feel a bit chilly (by L.A. standards) in the 50s°F (~10–14°C). Things to do: Honestly, almost everything. October’s weather is reliably excellent for outdoor photography – the angle of the sun and clear air mean your sunrise and sunset shots will be stunning.

It’s also festival season: Halloween events ramp up all month (haunted houses, theme park horror nights, West Hollywood’s costume carnival, etc.), and the weather is usually cooperative – cool enough at night to wear a costume comfortably, but not cold.

Daytimes are still beach-friendly, especially early October, and definitely hiking-friendly (try an afternoon hike to capture that golden-hour light). Packing for October: Bring a mix: summer-weight clothes for day (think jeans or shorts and tees) and layers for night. You’ll want a light jacket, cardigan, or hoodie for evenings.

Closed-toe shoes or sneakers might start to feel nicer at night as opposed to sandals, simply due to the slight chill. If you’re attending any outdoor night events (like an outdoor movie or Halloween theme park night), maybe pack a slightly warmer sweater or even a light beanie – standing around in 60°F can feel cool.

Still carry those sunglasses – the sun is lower angle but still bright. And as always, sunscreen during the day, especially if you’ll be out for hours. October’s sun can still give you a burn (and UV is often moderate to high).

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Thanks to the clear air and angled sunlight, October is one of the best months for photography in L.A.

November

November in Los Angeles is a transition to the mild winter pattern. It’s generally very pleasant: think mild warm days and cooler nights, with the first hints of the rainy season possibly appearing.

Temperatures: The average high is around 73°F (23°C) early in the month, cooling toward the upper 60s°F by late November (about 21°C) as winter nears. Nights become noticeably cooler, averaging around 53°F (12°C) , and by Thanksgiving time you’ll definitely want a jacket in the evenings.

Rainfall: November is when rain starts to be possible again, though many years it’s still mostly dry until late in the month. On average, L.A. sees about 0.8–1.0 inch (20–25 mm) of rain in November , often from one or two moderate storms. You might get a couple of drizzly days or one decent rainstorm especially in the second half of the month – it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast.

What it feels like: In early November, afternoons can still be warm enough for short sleeves, especially if it’s sunny and you’re active (mid-70s°F days feel lovely). But you’ll also feel cool breezes and longer nights. By late afternoon, once the sun is low, temperatures drop quickly.

The air is crisp – by now the foliage (what little L.A. has in terms of fall colors) might show some change, and the overall vibe is a tiny bit autumnal. After any rain, expect sparkling clear skies and possibly a dusting of snow on distant mountain peaks, making the views fantastic.

Also, fewer tourists are around in November, aside from the week of Thanksgiving, so it’s a calmer time in the city. Activities: November is great for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. It’s still usually sunny and nice for outdoor exploring like visiting the L.A. Zoo, hiking local trails (the cooler weather is actually perfect for longer hikes now), or strolling outdoor shopping centers like The Grove.

But if a rare rainy day hits, it’s a perfect excuse to dive into L.A.’s museums (the Getty, LACMA, etc.) or discover the food hall scene (Grand Central Market is cozy in any weather).

The month also brings some early holiday festivities – outdoor ice rinks open in downtown and Santa Monica (yes, skating in 20°C weather under palm trees is a thing), and holiday markets start popping up. The weather cooperates with these events, being cool enough to feel “holiday-ish” at night but still very comfortable.

Packing suggestions: Layers are crucial as November straddles warm and cool. Bring light to mid-weight long pants (jeans or chinos are great). For daytime, have t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts that you can roll sleeves up if it’s warm. For evening, pack a warmer sweater or light jacket – a medium-weight jacket or fleece should suffice most nights.

An umbrella or rain jacket isn’t a bad idea to throw in your luggage just in case, but you might not need it. Footwear: you might shift from sandals to closed shoes more often now, especially at night or if it rains. And maybe pack a scarf – not a heavy wool one, but a light scarf can be nice for a breezy evening by the ocean or after a rain when the air turns cooler.

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November nights can get chilly by L.A. standards. A day that’s 23°C (73°F) at noon might be 13°C (55°F) by late evening, so you’ll feel the difference.

December

December in Los Angeles is a delightful mix of mild days and cool nights, with a festive atmosphere in the air. It’s the coolest month overall, but still very gentle compared to true winter climates.

Temperatures: The average high hovers around 67°F (19°C), and the average low around 48–50°F (9–10°C). Many days at midday will reach the upper 60s or even low 70s °F (20–22°C) under sunshine, but mornings can start in the mid-40s°F (7–9°C) in the coldest valleys or inland areas.

Rainfall: December is part of the rainy season, so you should anticipate some wet weather. On average, about 2–3 inches (50–75 mm) of rain falls in December , typically through a few separate storms. This might mean, for example, one week you get a two-day stretch of rain showers, and the rest of the month is dry. When it’s not raining, it’s often sunny and crisp.

Atmosphere: There’s something special about L.A. in winter – the skies are often a brilliant blue, especially after a storm when the smog is washed away. You’ll frequently see snow on the distant mountains framing the city (a beautiful contrast: palm trees in the foreground, snowy peaks far behind). The sunlight has a softer, golden quality on winter afternoons.

And the sunsets can be spectacularly colorful this time of year, thanks to the clean air and occasional high clouds – many locals note that winter sunsets are the most vivid of all. In fact, a clear December evening can produce a sky streaked with pink, orange, and purple over the Pacific, which is a real treat if you’re near a beach or vista point.

Activities: While it’s cooler, L.A. is very much alive outdoors even in December. Hiking can be fantastic on clear days (cool air and far visibility – you might be able to see Catalina Island or the entire cityscape from a trail like Parker Mesa or Mt. Hollywood).

It’s also the peak of holiday season: outdoor ice rinks, holiday light displays at places like the LA Zoo or Descanso Gardens, and festive events are everywhere, and the weather is usually cooperative for strolling around with a cup of hot cocoa.

If a rainy day comes, it’s a perfect time for indoor attractions like museums, the Aquarium of the Pacific, or catching a movie at one of L.A.’s historic theaters. Big sporting events (like Lakers or Clippers basketball games at Crypto.com Arena, or Rams/Chargers NFL games) happen in winter, so you can enjoy those in climate-controlled comfort.

By late December, the city often gets a dry, clear spell between storm systems – those days are gorgeous, with crisp air and all the holiday decorations out under the sun. Packing for December: You’ll want to pack more warm clothing than in other months, but still think layers rather than heavy winter coats.

A medium-weight jacket (like a bomber jacket, fleece, or light puffer) will be useful at night. During the day, you might be fine with just a long-sleeve shirt or a thin sweater, especially if it’s sunny.

Bring jeans or long pants, and you might want closed-toe shoes or sneakers more often than not (sandals aren’t very practical on a cold rainy day or cool night, though you’ll still see locals wear them sometimes!). An umbrella or waterproof jacket is smart to have in case you catch those few rainy days.

Don’t forget sunglasses – the winter sun is lower but still bright. And if you plan to partake in any mountain trips (Big Bear for snow sports, etc.), then obviously pack heavier winter gear for those specific excursions, but within L.A. basin you won’t need anything too bulky.

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December sunsets are some of the most colorful of the year in Los Angeles.

Seasonal Weather Summary

To make planning easier, here’s a quick look at L.A. weather by season:

  • Spring (March – May): Mild and blooming. Daytime highs range roughly from the low 70s to upper 70s°F (21–26°C) by late spring. Rainfall tapers off – a few showers in March, very little by May.

    Mornings often have clouds or fog, especially in May (“May Gray”), but afternoons are generally sunny and pleasant. The hills are green and flowers are in bloom, making it a photogenic time. Humidity is low, and visibility is usually great. Spring is comfortable for all activities, just keep a light jacket for the AM and PM.

  • Summer (June – August): Hot inland, cooler at the coast, virtually no rain. This is L.A.’s dry season – you might not see a single drop of rain for weeks. Daily highs average in the 80s°F (27–32°C) for much of the city. Inland valleys can get well into the 90s°F (~35°C+) on many days, while coastal areas stay in the 70s°F (~24°C) with ocean breezes.

    Mornings in June (and sometimes early July) can start cloudy (“June Gloom”), but by noon it’s usually clear. Humidity is low, though late summer can bring a touch of muggy monsoon air on rare occasions. You’ll enjoy long daylight (14+ hours in June) and warm evenings. It’s perfect beach weather once the marine layer clears. Just be mindful of the intense midday sun and higher temperatures inland.

  • Fall (September – November): Warm, golden, and clear. Early fall (Sep/Oct) often feels like an extension of summer – warm to hot days (80s°F, ~27–30°C) and minimal rain. By November, temperatures ease into the lower 70s°F (~22°C) with cooler nights. Fall brings spectacular clarity: the dry air and occasional Santa Ana winds result in crisp views of the city and vividly clear skies.

    Many locals love fall weather best – you get summer-like warmth with far fewer crowds, and gorgeous golden-hour light in the afternoons. Rain remains scarce until mid/late November, so outdoor plans are rarely disrupted. It’s also “shoulder season” for tourism, meaning beaches, parks, and attractions are less crowded.

  • Winter (December – February): Cooler, with the year’s rain – but still plenty of sun. This is L.A.’s wet season, though “wet” is relative. You might get periodic storms with cool, rainy days, especially in January and February (each month averaging 3–4 inches of rain).

    That said, there are also many sunny, mild days in winter. High temperatures usually range from about 65°F to 70°F (18–21°C) , with lows in the upper 40s°F (~8–10°C) at night. It rarely gets truly cold – frost is very unusual in the city, and snow is essentially unheard of at sea level. After rainstorms, views are spectacular – you can often see snow on distant mountains and the air is freshly washed clean.

    Winter days are shorter (about 10 hours of light in Dec), and sunsets come early (around 5pm), but those sunsets can be amazingly colorful. Overall, winter in L.A. feels like early spring in many other places – you’ll need a jacket, and an umbrella occasionally, but you can still enjoy the outdoors most days.

The Takeaway

Los Angeles offers pleasant weather in every season, with mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and only subtle changes from month to month. You won’t deal with extreme conditions here. Instead, you’ll experience clear winter mornings, warm summer afternoons, refreshing coastal breezes, and glowing fall evenings. Each time of year brings its own small highlights, whether it’s blooming hillsides after spring rain or brilliant sunsets in the cooler months.

The climate makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. You can dine outside in winter, hike in spring, surf in summer, and explore neighborhoods comfortably in autumn. Bringing a few layers, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes is usually all you need to stay prepared.

With this month-by-month weather guide, you can plan confidently and enjoy Los Angeles in any season. The city’s gentle climate means there is rarely a bad time to visit, so get ready to enjoy the sunshine, the coastal air, and the endless outdoor possibilities that define Southern California.

FAQ

Q1. Does Los Angeles really have seasons?
Yes. LA’s changes are subtle compared to colder climates, but it does have cooler, wetter winters, warm dry summers, green spring hills and golden, clear fall days.

Q2. When is the rainy season in Los Angeles?
Rain is most likely from roughly December through February, with January and February usually the wettest months; the rest of the year is mostly dry.

Q3. What is “May Gray” and “June Gloom”?
They’re local nicknames for the coastal marine layer: gray, overcast mornings in May and June that often clear to sunny skies by late morning or midday.

Q4. How hot does it get in Los Angeles in summer?
Near the coast, summer highs are usually in the 70s°F (low–mid 20s°C), but downtown and especially inland valleys can regularly climb into the 80s–90s°F (high 20s–mid 30s°C).

Q5. Does it ever snow in Los Angeles?
Snow is extremely rare at city level, but after winter storms you can often see snow-capped mountains in the distance while the city itself stays mild.

Q6. What is the best month to visit Los Angeles for weather?
Many people love April–May and September–October, when temperatures are warm but not extreme, skies are often clear and crowds are lighter than peak summer.

Q7. Do I need a jacket in Los Angeles?
Yes. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool, especially near the ocean, so a light jacket or sweater is useful year-round.

Q8. Is June a good month for the beach in LA?
Yes, but plan for cloudy or foggy mornings; afternoons usually clear and become pleasant for beach time once the sun burns off the marine layer.

Q9. How cold does it get at night in winter?
Winter nights in LA typically fall into the upper 40s to low 50s°F (about 8–12°C), so you’ll want a medium-weight jacket or warm layers after dark.

Q10. What should I pack for Los Angeles in any season?
Pack layers: T-shirts, a light sweater or hoodie, a jacket for evenings, comfortable pants, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and shoes suitable for walking and light hikes.