Los Angeles weather in December brings mild daytime highs averaging around 67°F to 69°F (19°C to 21°C) alongside crisp evenings where temperatures drop to the high 40s or low 50s Fahrenheit (9°C). While it's one of the cooler months of the year for Southern California, you won't find freezing snow here, but you should expect occasional rain showers and distinct microclimates across the city.
Planning a trip or an outing during this month requires understanding how fast the temperature shifts once the sun sets. If you walk around downtown or Santa Monica without a proper jacket after dark, you'll feel the bite of the local winter wind. Let's break down what the climate actually looks like day by day.
Temperature Breakdown: Day Versus Night
December in Los Angeles isn't a monolith. You'll experience significant temperature swings between the mid-afternoon peak and the late-night hours.
During the warmest part of the day—usually between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM—the weather often feels comfortable enough for a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater. Clear days yield plenty of sunshine, letting you enjoy outdoor dining or hiking in Griffith Park without breaking a sweat.
Once the sun dips below the horizon around 4:45 PM, the atmosphere changes rapidly. Temperatures plunge into the 50s and low 40s. Locals pull out beanies, heavy hoodies, and light winter coats for evening walks.
Microclimates: The Coast Versus Inland
One major mistake visitors make is assuming Los Angeles has the same weather everywhere on a given day. The geography creates sharp regional differences:
- Coastal zones (Santa Monica, Malibu, Venice Beach): These areas stay windier and cooler. Ocean breezes keep daytime highs suppressed, often failing to break 60°F on cloudier days.
- The Basin and Downtown LA: Moderate conditions prevail here, offering a solid balance of sun and mild shade protection from direct ocean drafts.
- Inland Valleys (Pasadena, the San Fernando Valley): Valleys can feel warmer during peak afternoon hours than the coast, but they also experience much colder overnight lows due to radiative cooling under clear winter skies.
According to data from the National Weather Service, winter cold snaps in the valleys can occasionally push overnight readings close to frost levels, even while daytime sun recovers quickly.
Rain and Precipitation Expectations
December marks the beginning of the traditional rainy season in Southern California. It doesn't rain constantly, but when a Pacific storm system rolls through, it can drop significant amounts of water in a short window.
The month averages about five to six wet days, accumulating roughly two to three inches of total rainfall. Storms usually clear out within 24 to 48 hours, leaving behind brilliant, smog-free blue skies and snow-capped mountain views of the San Gabriel range. Checking the U.S. Climate Data portal before you fly helps track whether a wet front is heading toward the coast.
What to Pack for a December Trip
Packing for Los Angeles in the winter requires a layered approach. Leave heavy snow gear at home, but don't pack exclusively for summer either.
- Layering staples: Bring a mix of t-shirts, flannel shirts, and comfortable jeans or chinos.
- Outerwear: Pack a versatile, wind-resistant jacket or fleece for evenings. A packable puffer jacket works well if you plan to stay out past sunset.
- Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for theme parks and city sights. Add a pair of water-resistant shoes if rain is forecasted.
- Accessories: A light beanie or scarf takes up very little luggage space and saves you from the coastal chill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in the ocean in Los Angeles in December?
The ocean temperature hovers around 60°F (15°C to 16°C). While local surfers hit the waves in thick wetsuits, casual swimming is far too cold for most people.
Does it ever snow in Los Angeles?
Snow in the actual city basin or coastal areas is virtually non-existent. However, the nearby mountains, such as the local peaks in the Angeles National Forest, frequently receive winter snow.
How early does it get dark in December?
December features the shortest days of the year. Sunset occurs around 4:45 PM, meaning outdoor afternoon activities wrap up earlier than they do in summer.
Is December a crowded time to visit LA?
The first half of the month is relatively moderate for crowds, but tourism spikes significantly during the weeks of Christmas and New Year as holiday travelers flood local attractions and theme parks.
