Los Angeles enjoys one of the most enviable climates on Earth – a classic Mediterranean climate (Köppen classification Csb along the coast, Csa inland) characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. With an average of 284 sunny days per year, LA delivers the perpetual sunshine that made it famous. But “sunny and 75” isn’t the full story. The city’s vast geography – stretching from Pacific beaches to inland valleys and mountain foothills – creates dramatic microclimates where temperatures can vary by 20°F or more on the same day.
Los Angeles Climate at a Glance
Los Angeles occupies a coastal basin bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west and south, the Santa Monica Mountains to the north, and the San Gabriel Mountains to the east. This topography shapes everything about the city’s weather patterns.
The Pacific Ocean acts as a natural thermostat: the California Current brings cold water down from Alaska, keeping coastal temperatures moderate year-round. During summer, this temperature contrast between cool ocean air and hot inland air creates the marine layer – the famous “June Gloom” cloud cover that burns off by afternoon. In winter, Pacific storm systems deliver the bulk of LA’s annual rainfall (averaging just 14.77 inches downtown), while the mountains wring moisture from passing storms and shield the basin from extreme cold.
- Coastal Zone (Santa Monica, Venice, LAX): Mildest temperatures, most marine layer influence. Summer highs in the 70s, winter lows rarely below 48°F.
- Basin/Urban (Downtown, Hollywood, Culver City): Warmer than coast by 5-10°F. More sunshine. “June Gloom” still present but burns off earlier.
- Valleys (San Fernando, San Gabriel): Hottest in summer, coolest in winter. Summer highs regularly exceed 90°F, can reach 105°F+. Winter lows can dip into the 30s.
- Mountains (Griffith Park, Hollywood Hills, Angeles National Forest): Cooler year-round, occasional winter snow above 5,000 feet.
Monthly Weather Breakdown
January
January is LA’s coolest month, but “cool” is relative – daytime highs still average 67°F (19°C) downtown, with overnight lows around 48°F (9°C). This is peak rainy season: January averages 3.12 inches of rainfall across roughly 6 rainy days. You’ll experience a mix of clear, crisp days (perfect for hiking Griffith Park under brilliant blue skies) and occasional Pacific storms that bring steady rain and snow to the San Gabriel Mountains.
- Average High: 67°F (19°C) downtown, 63°F (17°C) beach
- Average Low: 48°F (9°C) downtown, 50°F (10°C) beach
- Rainfall: 3.12 inches (8 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~220 (about 7 hours/day)
- Ocean Temperature: 58°F (14°C) – wetsuit territory
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~7:00 AM / 5:10 PM
February
February mirrors January but with slightly warmer temperatures and the heaviest rainfall of the year – an average of 3.80 inches. Downtown highs reach 68°F (20°C). The marine layer is largely absent, meaning clear skies dominate between storm systems. The San Gabriel Mountains typically see their best snowpack of the year, creating the surreal experience of skiing in the morning and surfing in the afternoon. Valentine’s Day can bring unseasonably warm spells – it’s not uncommon to see 80°F in mid-February.
- Average High: 68°F (20°C) downtown, 63°F (17°C) beach
- Average Low: 50°F (10°C) downtown, 51°F (11°C) beach
- Rainfall: 3.80 inches (8 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~225
- Ocean Temperature: 58°F (14°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:40 AM / 5:35 PM
March
March marks the transition toward spring. Rain tapers off significantly (2.27 inches), and temperatures climb noticeably: downtown highs reach 70°F (21°C). The marine layer begins its gradual return as the land warms relative to the ocean. Wildflowers start blooming in the Santa Monica Mountains and Antelope Valley. March can deliver some of the year’s most pleasant weather – warm enough for the beach but cool enough for comfortable hiking. Daylight Saving Time begins, gifting extra evening light.
- Average High: 70°F (21°C) downtown, 64°F (18°C) beach
- Average Low: 52°F (11°C) downtown, 53°F (12°C) beach
- Rainfall: 2.27 inches (7 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~270
- Ocean Temperature: 59°F (15°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:55 AM / 7:00 PM (after DST)
April
April brings true spring to Los Angeles. Average highs reach 73°F (23°C) downtown with overnight lows of 55°F (13°C). Rain becomes increasingly rare – just 0.93 inches on average across 3-4 days. This is one of LA’s most photogenic months: jacaranda trees begin their purple bloom, the hills are still green from winter rains, and the air is crisp and clear. The marine layer is mild. April offers an ideal window: pre-summer crowds haven’t arrived, but the weather is already stunning.
- Average High: 73°F (23°C) downtown, 66°F (19°C) beach
- Average Low: 55°F (13°C) downtown, 55°F (13°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.93 inches (3-4 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~305
- Ocean Temperature: 60°F (16°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:20 AM / 7:25 PM
May
May is a spectacular month weather-wise. Downtown highs reach 76°F (24°C), and rain essentially disappears (0.26 inches). But there’s a catch: this is when “May Gray” arrives. The marine layer thickens, producing overcast mornings that can linger until noon or later at the beach. Inland areas burn off quickly and see abundant sunshine. The temperature gradient between coast and valley grows: Santa Monica might be 68°F while Burbank hits 85°F. This is the unofficial start of beach season for locals.
- Average High: 76°F (24°C) downtown, 68°F (20°C) beach
- Average Low: 58°F (14°C) downtown, 58°F (14°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.26 inches (1-2 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~305 (but morning clouds at coast)
- Ocean Temperature: 62°F (17°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~5:50 AM / 7:50 PM
June
The infamous “June Gloom” dominates LA’s early summer. Cool ocean air trapped under a warm inversion layer creates dense morning overcast – sometimes so thick it produces drizzle. At the beach, clouds may not clear until 2 PM or even all day, while downtown clears by late morning and the valleys enjoy full sunshine. Downtown highs reach 79°F (26°C). This phenomenon surprises many visitors expecting endless California sunshine, but it’s a defining feature of LA’s Mediterranean climate. The gloom typically fades by month’s end.
- Average High: 79°F (26°C) downtown, 71°F (22°C) beach
- Average Low: 61°F (16°C) downtown, 61°F (16°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.08 inches (trace)
- Sunshine Hours: ~310 (after morning clouds)
- Ocean Temperature: 64°F (18°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~5:43 AM / 8:05 PM
July
July is LA’s hottest month downtown, with average highs of 83°F (28°C) and valley temperatures routinely reaching 95-105°F. The marine layer weakens considerably – morning clouds, if present, burn off by 9-10 AM. This is peak summer: nearly zero rainfall, maximum sunshine (over 12 hours of daylight), and warm ocean temperatures reaching 68°F (20°C). The 4th of July brings fireworks displays across the basin, often visible from multiple vantage points. Heat waves can push valley temps past 110°F, though coastal areas stay comfortable.
- Average High: 83°F (28°C) downtown, 74°F (23°C) beach
- Average Low: 65°F (18°C) downtown, 64°F (18°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.03 inches (essentially zero)
- Sunshine Hours: ~370 (12+ hours/day of possible sun)
- Ocean Temperature: 68°F (20°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~5:50 AM / 8:05 PM
August
August rivals July for heat, with downtown highs averaging 84°F (29°C). Valley temperatures are at their most brutal, frequently exceeding 100°F. The ocean reaches its warmest – up to 70°F (21°C) – making this the best month for comfortable ocean swimming without a wetsuit. The marine layer is at its weakest, giving way to clear, hazy days. Smog can be noticeable, especially inland. Late August occasionally brings monsoon moisture from the southeast, spawning rare thunderstorms over the mountains and deserts. Sunsets are spectacular due to atmospheric particulates.
- Average High: 84°F (29°C) downtown, 75°F (24°C) beach
- Average Low: 66°F (19°C) downtown, 65°F (18°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.14 inches (rare thunderstorm possible)
- Sunshine Hours: ~350
- Ocean Temperature: 70°F (21°C) – warmest of the year
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:15 AM / 7:40 PM
September
September is LA’s secret summer – often warmer than June or July. Downtown highs average 83°F (28°C), and Santa Ana wind events (hot, dry offshore winds) can produce the year’s hottest temperatures, sometimes exceeding 105°F at the coast. The ocean remains warm at 69°F (21°C). The marine layer is minimal. This is wildfire season’s peak, with dry vegetation and Santa Ana winds creating dangerous fire conditions. On the plus side, tourist crowds thin after Labor Day while the weather remains superb – arguably the best month for a beach vacation.
- Average High: 83°F (28°C) downtown, 75°F (24°C) beach
- Average Low: 65°F (18°C) downtown, 64°F (18°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.24 inches (rare)
- Sunshine Hours: ~305
- Ocean Temperature: 69°F (21°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:35 AM / 7:00 PM
October
October delivers some of LA’s finest weather. Downtown highs settle to 78°F (26°C) with cool, comfortable nights at 60°F (16°C). The marine layer is rare, yielding crisp, clear days. Santa Ana winds remain possible early in the month, but by late October, the first Pacific storms of autumn may arrive. This transition creates dramatic skies and gorgeous golden-hour light. Halloween in LA is typically warm enough for outdoor parties – no bulky coats over costumes needed. This is a prime month for outdoor activities and rooftop dining.
- Average High: 78°F (26°C) downtown, 72°F (22°C) beach
- Average Low: 60°F (16°C) downtown, 60°F (16°C) beach
- Rainfall: 0.66 inches (2-3 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~280
- Ocean Temperature: 66°F (19°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:55 AM / 6:20 PM
November
November marks autumn’s true arrival. Downtown highs drop to 73°F (23°C), with nights cooling to 53°F (12°C). Rain increases to 1.22 inches as Pacific storm tracks shift south. The marine layer returns intermittently. This is a transitional month: early November can still feel like summer (80°F+ days possible during Santa Anas), while late November brings sweaters and the first real chill. Thanksgiving week often delivers postcard-perfect weather – sunny, mild, and ideal for outdoor activities. Fall colors appear in the mountains and canyons.
- Average High: 73°F (23°C) downtown, 68°F (20°C) beach
- Average Low: 53°F (12°C) downtown, 54°F (12°C) beach
- Rainfall: 1.22 inches (4-5 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~235
- Ocean Temperature: 63°F (17°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:25 AM / 4:50 PM (after DST ends)
December
December brings winter proper, though LA’s version is mild. Downtown highs average 67°F (19°C) with lows around 48°F (9°C). Rainfall jumps to 2.38 inches. December days are short – the sun sets before 5 PM – but often brilliantly sunny between storms. The mountains receive snow, while the city decks itself in holiday lights. New Year’s Eve outdoor celebrations are entirely feasible, if a bit cool. The Rose Parade on January 1 benefits from Pasadena’s typically clear, mild New Year’s weather (a point of local meteorological pride).
- Average High: 67°F (19°C) downtown, 64°F (18°C) beach
- Average Low: 48°F (9°C) downtown, 50°F (10°C) beach
- Rainfall: 2.38 inches (6-7 days)
- Sunshine Hours: ~215
- Ocean Temperature: 59°F (15°C)
- Sunrise/Sunset: ~6:50 AM / 4:45 PM
LA Weather Comparison Table
| Month | Avg High (°F) | Avg Low (°F) | Rainfall (in) | Rain Days | Ocean Temp (°F) | Sunshine (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 67 | 48 | 3.12 | 6 | 58 | 220 |
| Feb | 68 | 50 | 3.80 | 7 | 58 | 225 |
| Mar | 70 | 52 | 2.27 | 6 | 59 | 270 |
| Apr | 73 | 55 | 0.93 | 3 | 60 | 305 |
| May | 76 | 58 | 0.26 | 1 | 62 | 305 |
| Jun | 79 | 61 | 0.08 | 0 | 64 | 310 |
| Jul | 83 | 65 | 0.03 | 0 | 68 | 370 |
| Aug | 84 | 66 | 0.14 | 0 | 70 | 350 |
| Sep | 83 | 65 | 0.24 | 1 | 69 | 305 |
| Oct | 78 | 60 | 0.66 | 2 | 66 | 280 |
| Nov | 73 | 53 | 1.22 | 4 | 63 | 235 |
| Dec | 67 | 48 | 2.38 | 6 | 59 | 215 |
Data source: NOAA/NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard. Averages based on Downtown LA (USC campus) 1991-2020 climate normals. Coastal temperatures typically run 3-8°F cooler than downtown values shown.
Seasonal Packing Guide
Spring (March-May): The Layering Season
Spring in LA is all about layers. Mornings start cool (low 50s), afternoons warm up (mid-70s), and evenings drop again – especially near the coast.
- Light jacket or cardigan (essential for evenings and marine layer mornings)
- T-shirts and short-sleeve tops for daytime
- Jeans or lightweight pants
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk more than you think)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (SPF 30+) – UV is high year-round
- A light scarf – doubles as warmth and style
- One dressier outfit for rooftop bars and nice restaurants
- Compact umbrella (March has ~6 rain days; April tapers off)
Summer (June-August): Beach-Ready + June Gloom Prep
Summer packing depends heavily on where you’ll be. Beach towns are cooler; the valleys bake.
- Swimsuits (at least 2 so one can dry)
- Beach cover-up, flip-flops, beach towel
- Shorts, tank tops, sundresses
- Wide-brimmed hat – the sun is intense, especially 11 AM-3 PM
- High-SPF sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, after-sun lotion
- Light hoodie or sweatshirt – essential for June Gloom mornings and beach evenings
- Reusable water bottle (critical – dehydration sneaks up in dry heat)
- Sandals for walking (broken in!)
- One pair of closed-toe shoes for hiking and nicer venues
- Mosquito repellent (rare but present, especially near water features)
Autumn (September-November): The Sweet Spot
Early autumn can be LA’s hottest time (Santa Ana winds), while late autumn brings crisp evenings.
- Summer clothing for September/early October – it can still hit 95°F+
- Layers for October/November – light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts
- Medium-weight jacket for November evenings (temps drop to low 50s)
- Jeans and closed-toe shoes become wardrobe staples
- Swimwear still worthwhile – ocean remains 66-69°F through October
- Rain jacket or compact umbrella for November storms
- Sunglasses and sunscreen remain essential
Winter (December-February): Mild but Damp
LA winters are mild by any non-Californian standard, but the dampness and cool evenings can surprise visitors expecting perpetual warmth.
- Medium to heavy jacket – especially for evenings (lows in upper 40s)
- Sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, warm socks
- Jeans or warm pants
- Waterproof jacket or umbrella – winter is rainy season
- Closed-toe waterproof shoes for rainy days
- Scarf and light gloves for chilly evenings (surprisingly useful)
- Sunglasses – yes, even in winter; sunny days are abundant between storms
- Swimsuit – unlikely you’ll swim, but hotel pools may be heated
Microclimate Cheat Sheet
ALWAYS check the forecast for your specific destination, not just “Los Angeles.” The difference between Santa Monica and Burbank on the same summer day can be 25°F.
- Going to the beach? Pack a sweatshirt even in July. The moment the sun sets or the marine layer rolls in, the temperature drops 10°F in minutes.
- Hiking in the Hollywood Hills? Start early – trails are exposed, and summer heat builds rapidly. Bring at least 1 liter of water per hour of hiking.
- Spending the day at Disneyland (Anaheim)? Anaheim is inland – it’ll be 5-10°F warmer than downtown LA. Summer highs regularly hit 90°F.
- Visiting Universal Studios? The Universal City area sits in a valley pocket – warmer than Hollywood proper. Dress for heat in summer.
- Driving the PCH to Malibu? The coast can be socked in with fog until afternoon even when inland areas are sunny and hot.
- Going to a Dodgers game? Chavez Ravine cools quickly after sunset. Bring a jacket for evening games, even in summer.
When Does LA Get “Bad” Weather?
LA’s “bad” weather is relative, but there are genuine weather challenges visitors should know about:
June Gloom / May Gray
From late May through early July, the marine layer produces overcast mornings that can last until 2 PM at the coast. If you’re visiting for the beaches, book a mid-July through September trip instead. If you’re stuck with a June visit, plan beach days for afternoon (after 1 PM) and do indoor attractions (museums, shopping) in the morning.
Santa Ana Winds
Most common September-November but possible any time October-April, these hot, dry offshore winds gust 30-60 mph (sometimes 80+ mph in canyons). They spike fire danger dramatically, create hazardous driving conditions (especially for high-profile vehicles on canyon roads), and push temperatures 10-20°F above normal. Santa Anas also bring spectacularly clear skies and brilliant sunsets – a silver lining for photographers.
Atmospheric Rivers
Winter storms can stall over Southern California, delivering 2-5+ inches of rain in 24 hours. These events cause flash flooding in burn scars, mudslides in canyon neighborhoods, and treacherous driving conditions. They’re infrequent (1-3 times per winter) but serious when they occur. Check forecasts and avoid canyon roads during heavy rain.
Heat Waves
Valley and inland areas regularly hit 100°F+ in July-September. Even coastal areas can reach 95°F+ during Santa Ana events. Heat waves strain the power grid and make outdoor activities dangerous between 11 AM-5 PM. Plan indoor activities or water-based recreation during extreme heat.
Smog Season
Smog is worst during hot, still summer days (July-September). The brownish haze is most visible looking toward the mountains. Air quality has improved dramatically since the 1970s, but on hot, stagnant days, ozone levels can reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. The coast has better air quality than inland valleys. Check airnow.gov for real-time AQI data.
Best Months for Specific Activities
- Beach days & swimming: July-September (warmest ocean, least marine layer)
- Hiking (comfortable temps): March-May, October-November
- Hiking (wildflowers): March-April (after winter rains)
- Surfing: Year-round, but best swells November-March (wetsuit required year-round)
- Snow in mountains nearby: January-February (ski at Big Bear, then surf in 2 hours)
- Outdoor dining/rooftops: April-October (June Gloom mornings clear by evening)
- Theme parks (smallest crowds): Late January-February, September (after Labor Day)
- Photography: December-February (clearest skies, snow-capped mountains backdrop)
- Budget travel: January-February (excluding New Year’s), September-October
- Whale watching: December-April (gray whales), June-September (blue whales)
