The Weather
Winter is a wonderful time to visit Los Angeles. Daytime temperatures usually reach the mid-60s, but this warm spell may only last for a short period. Generally, while summer brings cooler beach days and warmer inland temperatures, winter tends to reverse this trend—expect colder temperatures further inland, with milder weather at the beach.
The winter rainy season spans from November to March or April, with January and February typically experiencing the most rainfall. It’s worth noting that heat waves can occur during an average LA winter, where temperatures can spike into the 80s or 90s.
The Pacific Ocean: The waters off the Southern California coast remain cool to cold throughout the year, merely reaching 70 degrees during particularly hot summer spells. Surfers commonly sport thicker wetsuits in winter, while lighter gear is sufficient in summer. Even during the warmer winter weeks, the ocean remains chilly, and there are no lifeguards on duty at this time.
What to Pack
When preparing for your winter visit to Los Angeles, your packing list will largely depend on your planned activities. If upscale restaurants and nightlife aren’t on your agenda, casual attire like jeans and t-shirts should suffice for a variety of venues, including the theatre. Layering is advisable to transition comfortably from chilly mornings to warm afternoons, and nights can get quite cold—fleece materials are particularly valuable.
Despite the common belief that nobody walks in LA, it is wise to bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes for city exploration, shopping, or hiking adventures.
If shopping is on your itinerary, packing light is recommended to make the most of your experience in LA.
Things to Do
- Outdoor Ice Skating in LA: Despite the warm climate, outdoor ice skating has become quite popular in LA. Rinks begin operating in October and generally remain open until January, with some extending into February.
- Skiing, Snowboarding, and Snowshoeing Near Los Angeles: Los Angeles serves as an ideal location for those seeking a combination of beach fun and mountain recreation. You can easily transition from surfing to skiing within about an hour and a half.
Travel Tips
- Crowds tend to thin out during winter, resulting in shorter lines at amusement parks. However, it is essential to check—some parks may have reduced hours or limited ride availability due to maintenance.
- Getting tickets for popular shows is typically easier and may come at a lower cost.
- Hotel rates generally drop significantly, often to half their summer prices.
