When to Go

When to Go

Almost any time of the year is the right time to go to Los Angeles; the climate is mild and pleasant year-round. Contrary to popular belief, Los Angeles does have seasons. Winter brings crisp, sunny, unusually smogless days from about November to May. Although this takes in the rainy season, December to April, the storms are usually brief, and afterward the skies are brilliant. Of course, the nearby mountains are glorious in winter, perfect for skiing. However, dining alfresco, bike riding, sailing, catching a concert under the stars -- these are the domain of Los Angeles summers. Summers are virtually rainless, leading to the occasional days of air-quality alerts. Prices skyrocket and reservations are a must when tourism peaks from July through early October.

Climate

Southern California is a temperate area: the Pacific Ocean is the primary moderating influence. In addition, mountains along the north and east sides of the Los Angeles coastal basin act as buffers against the extreme summer heat and winter cold of the desert and plateau regions.

Mild sea breezes and winds from the interior can mix to produce a variety of weather conditions; an unusual aspect of the Los Angeles climate is the pronounced difference in temperature, humidity, cloudiness, fog, rain, and sunshine over short distances. Rule of thumb, particularly in spring and summer, is that the San Fernando Valley (Burbank, North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, etc.) will be hotter than the Beverly Hills/Hollywood/Mid-Wilshire/downtown area, while the coastal areas (Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, etc.) will be cooler. Late spring brings "June gloom," when skies tend to be overcast until afternoon.