Best Time to Visit LA: When to Hit the City for Insta-Worthy Weather and Epic Adventures
Planning a trip to the City of Angels? Discover what you need to know about LA to decide when the best time is to visit!
Planning a trip to Los Angeles? You’re in for a treat! The City of Angels is packed with famous sights, fabulous food, and fun activities. But before you pack your bags and head for the Hollywood Hills, let’s chat about the best time to visit Los Angeles. After all, no one wants to be caught in the rare rainy season or end up sweating through their sunscreen in the height of summer!
So when is the best time to visit LA? Let’s dive into some LA travel tips that’ll help you plan the perfect sunny getaway.
Los Angeles Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
First things first on our Los Angeles best time to visit guide, let’s talk about the weather. Los Angeles seasons is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
It’s a city that promises more sunny days than you can count—perfect for exploring its famous sights. But not all sunshine is created equal, so timing your trip just right can make all the difference.
If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Los Angeles, it all depends on what you’re after. Are you a beach bum seeking the perfect wave, or do you want to avoid crowds while exploring LA’s tourist attractions?
The Sweet Spot: September to November
One of the best times to visit LA is during the fall, specifically from September to November. These months offer pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s°F (18-29°C).
It’s warm enough for the beach but cool enough to wander around without melting into a puddle. This period is also after the busy summer tourist season, so you’ll experience fewer crowds at popular spots like Universal Studios and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Additionally, fall is full of fun Los Angeles events. For example, Halloween is a big deal in LA, with events like Universal Studios’ Horror Nights and the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval drawing both locals and tourists. If you’re a movie buff, September also marks the start of award season, with a slew of film festivals and premieres.
LA travel tip: Be sure to pack layers. Evenings can get chilly, especially if you’re out by the coast. A light jacket will be your best friend. Read more insider tips in our Los Angeles travel guide and packing list.
Winter Wonders: January and February
If you’re a fan of mild weather and don’t mind the possibility of a few rainy days, January and February are also contenders for the best time to visit LA. Winter in LA is not your typical cold season; average temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F (10-21°C).
But while the beach may not be calling your name, this is an excellent time for sightseeing without the summer crowds. It’s also one of the cheapest times to visit Los Angeles, as airfare and hotel prices tend to dip.
Just don’t say we didn’t warn you: January and February fall during LA’s rainy season, so you might encounter a few wet days. That said, rain in LA is more of a drizzle than a downpour. Plus, LA looks stunning after a fresh shower—just think of those clear views of the Hollywood sign!
LA trip advice: If you’re planning on visiting LA’s many theme parks, like Disneyland or Universal Studios, this is the time to do it! You’ll find shorter lines and fewer tourists.
Springtime Bliss: March to May
Spring in LA (March to May) is another top choice for your Los Angeles vacation planning. During this time, the flowers are blooming, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are a comfortable 60°F to 75°F (16-24°C). This is the perfect time of year to explore LA’s outdoor attractions, from hiking in Griffith Park to cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway.
If you’re a festival lover, springtime brings a ton of exciting events to the city. Thus the best time to go LA-event hopping. Coachella, the famous music festival, takes place in April, just a short drive from LA. There’s also the Los Angeles Marathon in March and the Renaissance Pleasure Faire in April, where you can relive the 16th century—tights optional!
LA travel tip: Don’t forget your sunscreen. Even though it’s not the height of summer, the sun can still be intense.
Summer Sizzle: June to August
While summer may seem like the obvious choice for a Los Angeles vacation, it’s actually not the best time to go to Los Angeles if you’re trying to avoid crowds and high prices. From June to August, LA sees an influx of tourists, especially at major attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, and Venice Beach. The weather during summer is (of course) hot, with temperatures often soaring into the 90s°F (32-35°C) inland, though the coastal areas stay a bit cooler.
But, if summer is when you’re free to travel, don’t worry—there’s still plenty to enjoy! Summer in LA is packed with outdoor concerts, beach days, and movies under the stars. The vibe is energetic, and if you’re a people-watcher, this is peak season to see the city at its busiest.
LA tourist attractions: Head to Griffith Observatory for a free look at the stars, or visit the Getty Center, where you can enjoy art, gardens, and breathtaking views—all while staying cool indoors. Add a bunch of these to your summer Los Angeles itinerary too.
When’s the Best Time to Visit LA?
So, after all this weather talk, you’re probably wondering: when is the best time to visit Los Angeles? The answer depends on what you’re looking for in your trip:
- Best time to visit Los Angeles for good weather and fewer crowds: September to November.
- Best time to go to LA for cheap travel and sightseeing: January and February.
- Best month to visit Los Angeles for events and festivals: April, when spring festivals and outdoor events kick off.
Ultimately, the best time to travel to Los Angeles comes down to your preferences, but with the right planning, you can make any time of year an incredible experience.
A Few Final LA Travel Tips
Plan ahead: Book tickets for popular attractions like Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Hollywood tours well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons.
Take advantage of Tripster’s discount tickets, combo deals, and hotel packages to get the best rates for everything you want to do in LA. You might even score that luxury accommodation you’ve been eyeing at half price (or less!!).
Stay flexible: Los Angeles is huge, and traffic is a given. Try to plan your itinerary with some buffer time to avoid stressing over delays.
Enjoy the local vibe: Take advantage of the laid-back atmosphere by visiting neighborhood markets, quirky shops, and lesser-known spots like Silver Lake or Los Feliz.
No matter when you decide to visit Los Angeles, you’re sure to find something magical about this vibrant city. Whether it’s the sunny skies, the world-class events, or just the endless opportunities for fun, LA is a year-round destination that promises a good time!
