Quick verdict
Peak season: Mar–May, Sep–Nov. Shoulder: Feb, Jun, Aug, Dec. Low: Jan, Jul.
LA has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters.
What's the weather like in Los Angeles by month?
Each month classified as peak (best balance of weather and value), shoulder (a step in either direction), or low season.
Why visit Los Angeles during Mar–May, Sep–Nov?
Lovely weather, green hills, and wildflower blooms in the deserts and canyons. May can bring heavy morning marine layer ("May Gray").
Shoulder season (Feb, Jun, Aug, Dec) trades a small weather concession for noticeably smaller crowds and softer prices — often the sweet spot for travelers who want flexibility.
Low season (Jan, Jul) is when prices fall hardest. Expect weather extremes (heat, humidity, cold, or rain depending on the destination) and reduced hours at some seasonal businesses, but the trade-off can be worth it if budget or solitude matters more than perfect conditions.
What festivals and events happen in Los Angeles?
- Rose Parade & Rose BowlJanuary 1
Pasadena's century-old parade of flower-covered floats and marching bands, followed by the Rose Bowl college football game.
- Academy Awards (Oscars)March
The red carpet at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood is closed to visitors but the surrounding buzz and viewing parties light up the city.
- LA Film FestivalsYear-round
From AFI Fest in November to Outfest in July and the LA Film Festival — the city's cinema culture is unrivaled.
- Dia de los Muertos at Hollywood ForeverLate October / November 1
LA's largest Day of the Dead celebration at the famous cemetery, with altars, Aztec dancers, and food stalls.
Cooler & warmer in North America this March
If Los Angeles's March weather isn't your match, here are the closest North America alternatives at different temperatures. Distances are from Los Angeles.
Cooler
See the full ranked list: All North America destinations in March →
Frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
The best time to visit Los Angeles is Mar–May, Sep–Nov. LA has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. These months balance comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and prices that haven't yet hit peak-season highs.
When is the cheapest time to visit Los Angeles?
Low-season months in Los Angeles run Jan, Jul. Flights and hotels typically run 20-40% cheaper than peak. The trade-off is weather (which is why these months are off-peak) and some businesses operating shorter hours, especially in smaller seasonal destinations.
What's the weather like in Los Angeles year-round?
Summer averages around 28°C (82°F) and winter averages around 14°C (57°F) in Los Angeles. LA has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The "marine layer" — a low morning cloud cover off the Pacific — often burns off by late morning (locals call it "June Gloom" when it lingers). Inland valleys run significantly hotter than the coast, sometimes by 10-15°C on the same day.
What festivals or events are happening in Los Angeles?
Notable events in Los Angeles: Rose Parade & Rose Bowl (January 1); Academy Awards (Oscars) (March); LA Film Festivals (Year-round). Pasadena's century-old parade of flower-covered floats and marching bands, followed by the Rose Bowl college football game.
How many days do I need in Los Angeles?
Most travelers spend 3-5 days in Los Angeles, which covers the main neighborhoods, top attractions, and a half-day day trip. Add a day if you're visiting during peak season when crowds slow you down, or if you're combining Los Angeles with nearby destinations.
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