Los Angeles Weather Guide
United States
Best Time to Visit
March, April, May, October, November
Avoid
January–February (rainy season), August (hot inland, gloomy coast)
Climate
Mediterranean — warm dry summers, mild wet winters, abundant sunshine
Annual Rainfall
14 inches (356 mm)
Overview
Los Angeles has one of the most consistent climates on Earth. Coastal areas stay mild year-round; inland valleys can be dramatically hotter in summer and colder on winter nights. The infamous June Gloom socks coastal areas in marine layer fog May–July until midday.
Seasonal Weather Breakdown
Winter
December–February
55–68°F
13–20°C
LA's wet season. Most annual rainfall arrives in storms from the Pacific. Between storms it's sunny and pleasant. Snow is visible on the San Gabriel Mountains — you can ski in the morning and be back at the beach by afternoon.
- →Rain gear for occasional storms
- →Best skiing conditions at Big Bear are January–February
- →Wildfire risk is low; flooding and mudslides possible
Spring
March–May
60–74°F
16–23°C
Ideal LA weather. Wildflowers bloom across the hills. Marine layer (coastal fog) starts to build in May.
- →Antelope Valley poppy fields peak March–April
- →Morning fog at the beach burns off by noon in spring
- →Before June Gloom peaks — best beach weather
Summer
June–September
68–88°F
20–31°C
Coastal areas are often grey until noon (June Gloom). Inland areas like the San Fernando Valley and Riverside hit 100°F+ regularly. September is the hottest month — second summer.
- →The coast is grey in June–July mornings; head inland for sun
- →Santa Ana wind events in September–October bring extreme fire danger
- →Avoid the Valley on days above 100°F
Fall
October–November
62–79°F
17–26°C
LA's most dangerous season for wildfires due to hot, dry Santa Ana winds. Also the most beautiful weather — warm, clear, and low humidity.
- →Monitor fire conditions closely in October
- →Perfect outdoor weather between fire events
- →Santa Monica and Malibu are spectacular in fall
What to Pack for Los Angeles
- ✓Sunscreen always — UV is high even on cloudy days
- ✓Light jacket for coastal evenings
- ✓Rain gear December–February
- ✓Layers — coastal vs. inland temps can differ 20°F
Los Angeles Weather FAQ
What is the best time to visit Los Angeles for weather?
March, April, May, and October–November offer ideal weather: 65–78°F (18–26°C), minimal rain, and low humidity. March–April often has the best combo of wildflowers, clear skies, and uncrowded beaches.
What is June Gloom in Los Angeles?
June Gloom is a marine layer of low clouds and fog that blankets coastal LA from late May through July, typically clearing by noon. Santa Monica and Venice Beach are especially affected. Drive 10–15 miles inland and skies are often clear.
How hot is Los Angeles in summer?
Coastal LA averages summer highs of 75–82°F (24–28°C). Inland areas (San Fernando Valley, Pasadena) regularly hit 95–105°F (35–41°C). Temperature difference between the beach and inland can exceed 20°F on the same day.
Does LA have a rainy season?
Yes — most of LA's 14 inches (356mm) of annual rain falls December through March in Pacific storms. The city has little stormwater infrastructure, so heavy rain causes flash flooding and mudslides, especially in burn-scar areas.
Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own microclimate. Check real-time conditions below: