Los Angeles in December typically blends mild coastal weather with occasional winter fronts, shaping how residents dress and plan outdoor activities. December falls in the heart of the local rainy season, yet the city still averages warm days compared with much of the United States.
Below is a quick snapshot of what to expect across different neighborhoods and time spans, followed by a deeper dive into temperature trends, holiday conditions, and visitor tips.
| Metric | Downtown | Santa Monica | San Fernando Valley | Mountains (e.g., Mt. Baldy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average High (°F) | 68 | 66 | 67 | 53 |
| Average Low (°F) | 48 | 49 | 46 | 34 |
| Average Rainfall (inches) | 2.3 | 2.1 | 1.9 | 3.8 |
| Typical Sunshine (hours/day) | 6 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
| Sea Temperature (°F) | 59 | 59 | 61 | N/A |
December Temperature Patterns Across Los Angeles
December temperature in Los Angeles is shaped by proximity to the ocean and elevation. Coastal districts stay moderated by marine layers, while valleys warm faster during the day and cool more at night. Mountain areas can drop near freezing at night, especially during clear, calm evenings that promote radiational cooling.
On any given December day, you might see 70°F on a San Pedro hillside trail and 48°F in Burbank before dawn. These gradients are typical for a basin ringed by mountains whose influence on airflow and temperature can shift quickly with wind direction.
The interplay between high pressure and incoming storm tracks explains why some Decembers feel unusually warm while others bring several chilly, rainy days in a row. Understanding these patterns helps residents and visitors choose activities and clothing without being surprised by swings between sun and drizzle.
What to Wear in December
Daytime temperatures in most of Los Angeles sit in the mid to upper 60s, making light layers ideal. A long-sleeve shirt with a fleece or light jacket works well for coastal and urban walks, while valleys may feel comfortably short-sleeved during peak afternoon warmth.
Evenings routinely drop into the high 40s or low 50s, so bringing a medium-weight jacket is wise. In the mountains, lows near or below freezing call for warmer layers, insulated outerwear, and traction-ready footwear if you plan to hike or drive at higher elevations after dark.
Rain is common enough that a compact umbrella and waterproof shoes are practical December accessories, especially for downtown commuters, beachgoers, and anyone exploring hillside neighborhoods where slick roads and trails can develop quickly after showers.
Regional Microclimates in December
Los Angeles is not a single climate zone; the same month can feel notably different depending on neighborhood and terrain. The coast and beach cities often stay cooler with persistent onshore flow, while the basin and valleys can experience warmer afternoons under clearing skies between storm bands.
- Coastal areas like Santa Monica and Venice average highs in the mid-60s with cooler evenings and higher humidity.
- Inland regions such as the San Fernando Valley see similar highs but larger day-to-night temperature swings.
- Mountain communities can experience freezing nights and occasional snow at higher elevations, even when lower neighborhoods stay mild.
- December marine layer events may keep downtown and beach cities cooler and cloudier while valleys enjoy clearer skies.
Planning December Activities
For travelers and locals deciding how to spend time outdoors, aligning activities with regional conditions improves comfort and safety. Coastal hikes are best scheduled mid-morning to early afternoon when onshore winds calm and temperatures peak. Valley and urban sightseeing can be more flexible, but checking forecasts for incoming rain and wind shifts helps avoid surprises on hillsides and freeways.
Holiday events, outdoor markets, and family gatherings often rely on brief windows of drier weather, making it helpful to track daily radar and short-range forecasts. Dressing in layers, carrying rain gear, and planning indoor backups for cold or wet periods ensures that December outings in and around Los Angeles remain enjoyable regardless of the weather’s mix.
Key Takeaways for December in Los Angeles
- Expect mild to moderate daytime temperatures, commonly in the upper 60s, and cooler evenings in the upper 40s to low 50s.
- Regional differences are significant, with coasts staying breezier and valleys warming more rapidly each afternoon.
- December is part of the rainy season, so occasional storms and damp days are typical, though many clear intervals occur.
- Dressing in layers and carrying rain gear makes it easy to adapt to changing conditions throughout the month.
- Planning outdoor activities for late morning to afternoon in coastal zones and checking forecasts for rain windows in valleys improves experiences.
FAQ
Reader questions
How warm does it usually get in Los Angeles in December?
Most neighborhoods see daytime highs in the mid to upper 60s Fahrenheit, with coastal areas a few degrees cooler and valleys often reaching the upper 60s on clear afternoons.
Do I need a heavy winter coat in Los Angeles in December?
Not usually; a medium-weight jacket or layered clothing is sufficient for most residents, though mountain visitors or those expecting rain may want warmer, waterproof outerwear.
Can it freeze in Los Angeles during December?
Freezing temperatures are uncommon at sea level but can occur in the mountains and some valley pockets on clear, calm nights, especially later in the month.
What is the chance of rain on an average December day in Los Angeles?
There is roughly a 20 to 30 percent chance of measurable rain on any given December day, with more frequent storms approaching from the Pacific during active weather patterns.