Winter in Southern California doesn't look like winter anywhere else. If you're picturing snow-covered streets and heavy coats, you're looking in the wrong place. Los Angeles in December brings a unique blend of mild daytime warmth, brisk evenings, and the region's primary rainy season. While it ranks as one of the coolest months of the year locally, daytime highs regularly hover around 67 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius), offering a comfortable escape for travelers trading frost for mild coastal breezes.
Understanding what to expect means looking past the simple averages. Microclimates, sharp temperature drops after sunset, and occasional winter storms shape daily life here. Whether you're planning a holiday vacation or a winter trip, preparing for the nuances of local weather ensures you stay comfortable from the beach to the inland valleys.
Understanding Los Angeles December Climate Averages
December sits squarely in the middle of Southern California's cool season. Daytime temperatures usually peak in the upper 60s, while overnight lows settle near 48 degrees Fahrenheit (9 degrees Celsius). It's crisp, but it's rarely freezing.
Unlike regions with steady, gray winter gloom, LA averages roughly seven to nine hours of daily sunshine. Clear blue skies often follow winter storm systems, washing the air clean of smog and revealing panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains. However, because humidity levels stay relatively low, the air feels sharper when the sun goes down. Once twilight hits around 4:30 PM, temperatures drop quickly, catching unprepared visitors off guard.
The Role of Microclimates and Coastal vs. Inland Weather
Geography dictates everything about Southern California weather. You can't treat Los Angeles as a single weather zone.
Coastal neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu feel the direct influence of the Pacific Ocean. Water temperatures hover around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius), which stabilizes coastal air. While beaches avoid extreme heat, they also avoid the deep freezes found inland.
Heading inland toward Downtown LA, Pasadena, or the San Fernando Valley changes the dynamic. Valleys lack the thermal buffering of the ocean, leading to cooler night temperatures and frost risks in localized pockets. Conversely, when offshore Santa Ana winds kick up, inland areas can spike into the 80s, overriding typical winter patterns with dry, desert heat. Checking hyper-local forecasts matters more than looking at a generic city-wide app.
Rainfall Patterns and Storm Preparedness
December marks the start of the wet season, averaging about two to three inches of rainfall spread across five to seven wet days. While total precipitation is low compared to the Pacific Northwest, rain storms in LA can arrive with surprising intensity.
Flash downpours can create slick driving conditions on major freeways like the I-405 and US-101. Local authorities closely monitor flood-prone intersections and burn scars from earlier wildfire seasons. If a storm hits, outdoor plans shift quickly to indoor venues like the Getty Center or the Broad museum. Fortunately, prolonged multi-day washouts are rare; storms typically clear within 24 to 48 hours, paving the way for bright, sun-soaked days.
What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Los Angeles
Packing for a winter trip requires a modular approach centered on layers. Bulky parkas stay home, but lightweight outerwear is essential.
- Layering staples: Bring a mix of t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts for the warm afternoons, paired with sweaters or fleece pullovers for the shade and evening hours.
- Outerwear: A versatile jacket or trench coat handles both cool coastal winds and unexpected light rain.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers suit most sightseeing, while a compact umbrella or rain shell provides cheap insurance against sudden showers.
- Sun protection: Don't skip sunglasses and sunscreen. Winter UV rays remain strong, especially during peak daylight hours at the beach or on mountain hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Los Angeles beaches in December?
Swimming is generally not recommended for casual beachgoers. Ocean temperatures drop to around 58 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. While surfers utilize wetsuits to handle the chilly water, most visitors stick to beach walking, tide-pooling, or whale watching, as winter marks the beginning of the California gray whale migration.
How short are the daylight hours in December?
December features the shortest days of the year, with the winter solstice occurring mid-month. Sunrise happens around 6:45 AM, and sunset occurs right around 4:54 PM. This leaves roughly ten hours of daylight to plan outdoor activities.
Does it ever snow in Los Angeles?
Snow does not fall in the low-elevation city basin. However, the nearby San Gabriel Mountains often receive heavy snowpacks during winter storms, allowing residents to drive roughly 90 minutes from downtown to ski or snowboard at local resorts like Mountain High.
What are the best outdoor activities during this month?
Crisp, clear post-storm days provide the best visibility of the year. This makes December ideal for hiking in Griffith Park, visiting the Griffith Observatory, or walking the Hollywood Walk of Fame without battling the oppressive heat of summer.
