BestTimesToVisit.com Logo

✓ Updated December 2025

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Los Angeles, USA: Jan or Feb 2025

Los Angeles, USA travel destination - scenic view of Griffith Observatory at Sunset during ideal visiting season
Image: Hollywood Sign (Zuschnitt).jpg viaWikimedia Commons

✈️ Ready to book your trip?

Compare flights, hotels, and packages on Trip.com

Search Now

Quick Answer:

For a truly vibrant Los Angeles experience, aim for the sweet spot between spring and fall. From April to June, you'll find pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods, with fewer crowds than the summer rush. Then, September and October offer warm, sun-drenched days ideal for soaking up those iconic golden sunsets over the Pacific, and the ocean still feels inviting for a dip. Even the winter months can be delightful, offering a chance to enjoy the city's cultural attractions with a crisp, refreshing air and occasional dramatic skies.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Airport Code

LAX

Coordinates

34.05°, -118.24°

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)
Traveler Recommended

One Travel Essential Almost Everyone Forgets

NEWVANGA Universal USB-C Travel Adapter (All-in-One)

Compact all-in-one adapter with US, UK, EU and AU plugs plus fast USB charging, so you can charge your phone and laptop in 150+ countries without hunting for the right plug.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Top Things to Do

Griffith Observatory at Sunset

Ascend to Griffith Observatory as the sun begins its descent, painting the sky in fiery hues over the sprawling cityscape and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Stick around after dark to marvel at the twinkling lights of Los Angeles and explore the fascinating exhibits inside, often with fewer crowds than during the day.

Explore the Venice Canals

Wander through the charming, man-made Venice Canals, a tranquil escape from the bustling boardwalk. Admire the unique architecture, picturesque bridges, and the quiet lapping of water, offering a glimpse into a more serene side of Venice Beach.

Grand Central Market Culinary Journey

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Grand Central Market, a historic food hall buzzing with energy. Sample diverse global flavors from over 30 vendors, from classic LA tacos to artisanal ice cream, and don't miss the chance to try a refreshing fresh-squeezed juice.

Hike to the Hollywood Sign (Brush Canyon Trail)

For an up-close and personal encounter with the iconic Hollywood Sign, take the Brush Canyon Trail. This moderate hike offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the sign itself, providing fantastic photo opportunities without the overwhelming crowds of other viewpoints.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Embrace ride-sharing and public transport for getting around LA, especially if you're not renting a car. Apps like Uber and Lyft are plentiful, and the Metro system is surprisingly decent for hitting major tourist spots like Hollywood, Downtown, and Santa Monica. Just be prepared for longer travel times than you might expect due to the city's sprawl.

food

Don't sleep on the taco trucks! They are a quintessential LA food experience and often serve up some of the best, most authentic Mexican food you'll find. Look for ones with long lines of locals – that's usually a good sign. Try a 'carne asada' or 'al pastor' taco for a classic taste of LA.

money

Take advantage of free activities to save money. LA has tons of free attractions, from hiking in Runyon Canyon for stunning city views to strolling along the Santa Monica Pier or exploring the Getty Center (which offers free admission, though parking has a fee). Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many beautiful beaches.

culture

Be aware that 'LA time' is a real thing, and punctuality isn't always the top priority for social gatherings. If you're meeting friends, don't be surprised if things start a little later than planned. For professional or ticketed events, however, aim to be on time, as traffic can make even short distances take longer than expected.

packing

Pack layers, no matter the season. LA's weather can change dramatically from morning to afternoon, and from the coast to inland areas. A light jacket or sweater is essential for cool evenings, especially near the beach, and comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse neighborhoods.

safety

Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and when parking your car. Keep valuables out of sight and never leave anything unattended in your vehicle, as car break-ins can be common. Stick to well-lit and populated areas after dark.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
6 days
Feb
6 days
Mar
5 days
Apr
3 days
May
2 days
Jun
1 day
Jul
0 days
Aug
0 days
Sep
1 day
Oct
2 days
Nov
3 days
Dec
4 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan19°C9°C66°F48°F75mm
6 days
10.5h
Feb20°C10°C68°F50°F70mm
6 days
11.3h
Mar21°C11°C70°F52°F55mm
5 days
12.1h
Apr22°C12°C72°F54°F25mm
3 days
13h
May23°C14°C73°F57°F15mm
2 days
13.7h
Jun25°C16°C77°F61°F5mm
1 day
14.2h
Jul27°C18°C81°F64°F0mm
0 days
14.2h
Aug28°C19°C82°F66°F0mm
0 days
13.7h
Sep27°C18°C81°F64°F10mm
1 day
12.8h
Oct25°C15°C77°F59°F25mm
2 days
11.8h
Nov22°C12°C72°F54°F40mm
3 days
10.8h
Dec19°C9°C66°F48°F60mm
4 days
10.1h

Los Angeles, USA Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Los Angeles, USA? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

19°C°C / 66°F°F

6 days rainy days • 75mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Feb in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

20°C°C / 68°F°F

6 days rainy days • 70mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Mar in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

21°C°C / 70°F°F

5 days rainy days • 55mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Apr in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

22°C°C / 72°F°F

3 days rainy days • 25mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

May in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

23°C°C / 73°F°F

2 days rainy days • 15mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jun in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

1 day rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Aug in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

28°C°C / 82°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Sep in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

1 day rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

25°C°C / 77°F°F

2 days rainy days • 25mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Nov in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

22°C°C / 72°F°F

3 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Dec in Los Angeles, USA

⭐ Best Time

Weather

19°C°C / 66°F°F

4 days rainy days • 60mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

All Things to Do in Los Angeles, USA

Griffith Observatory at Sunset

attraction

Ascend to Griffith Observatory as the sun begins its descent, painting the sky in fiery hues over the sprawling cityscape and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Stick around after dark to marvel at the twinkling lights of Los Angeles and explore the fascinating exhibits inside, often with fewer crowds than during the day.

Best time: Apr-Oct

Explore the Venice Canals

nature

Wander through the charming, man-made Venice Canals, a tranquil escape from the bustling boardwalk. Admire the unique architecture, picturesque bridges, and the quiet lapping of water, offering a glimpse into a more serene side of Venice Beach.

Grand Central Market Culinary Journey

food

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Grand Central Market, a historic food hall buzzing with energy. Sample diverse global flavors from over 30 vendors, from classic LA tacos to artisanal ice cream, and don't miss the chance to try a refreshing fresh-squeezed juice.

Hike to the Hollywood Sign (Brush Canyon Trail)

activity

For an up-close and personal encounter with the iconic Hollywood Sign, take the Brush Canyon Trail. This moderate hike offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the sign itself, providing fantastic photo opportunities without the overwhelming crowds of other viewpoints.

Best time: Sep-May

Discover the Last Bookstore

shopping

Get lost in the labyrinthine shelves of The Last Bookstore, a cavernous independent bookstore in Downtown LA. Explore its unique art installations, including the famous book tunnel, and unearth literary treasures in a truly inspiring atmosphere.

Catch a Show at The Hollywood Bowl

cultural

Experience a magical evening at the Hollywood Bowl, an iconic outdoor amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn before a world-class performance, with the city lights providing a dazzling backdrop.

Best time: Jun-Sep

Explore the Getty Villa

cultural

Step back in time at the Getty Villa, a stunning recreation of a Roman country house dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman art. Wander through tranquil gardens and admire remarkable artifacts, offering a peaceful and culturally enriching experience away from the city's hustle.

Sip Cocktails in a Speakeasy

nightlife

Uncover one of LA's many hidden speakeasy bars for a nightcap. Seek out establishments like The Varnish or No Vacancy for expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, atmospheric setting, often with live jazz music adding to the ambiance.

Planning your Los Angeles, USA adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Los Angeles, USA

LA Metro Rail & Bus

Los Angeles' public transit system is extensive, connecting major hubs like Downtown LA, Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Valley. The Metro Rail (subway and light rail) is great for avoiding traffic on key corridors, while the bus system fills in the gaps.

Cost:$1.75 per ride (transfers included within 2 hours), $7 for a 1-day pass, $25 for a 7-day pass.
Tip:Download the 'TAP' app to purchase and load fares onto a TAP card (required for all rides). Avoid peak commute hours (7-10 AM and 3-7 PM) if possible, as trains and buses can get crowded. Don't expect buses to wait if you're running late – they operate on strict schedules. Be aware of your surroundings, especially on late-night bus routes.

Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)

Ubiquitous and convenient, Uber and Lyft are the go-to for many Angelenos when public transit isn't feasible or direct. They offer door-to-door service and are readily available across the sprawling city.

Cost:Varies significantly based on demand, time of day, and distance. Expect $15-$40 for moderate trips within the city.
Tip:Surge pricing can dramatically increase costs during events or rush hour; check prices before booking. Always confirm your driver and car details match the app. A common mistake is not factoring in potential traffic delays when estimating arrival times – LA traffic is legendary.

Rental Cars

For maximum flexibility, especially if exploring beyond the immediate city center or visiting multiple spread-out attractions, a rental car is often considered essential. It allows you to set your own pace and access areas less served by public transit.

Cost:Varies widely by rental company, car type, and duration. Expect $40-$100+ per day, plus gas and parking fees.
Tip:Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Parking can be a nightmare and expensive in popular areas like Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Downtown; factor this into your budget. GPS is a must, and be prepared for the infamous LA traffic – use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps that provide real-time traffic updates.

Biking (Metro Bike Share)

Metro Bike Share offers a fun and eco-friendly way to explore specific neighborhoods like Downtown LA, Hollywood, and Santa Monica. It's ideal for short, point-to-point trips or covering the 'last mile' from a Metro station.

Cost:$1.75 per 30 minutes for classic bikes, $3.50 per 30 minutes for electric bikes. Day passes are available.
Tip:Download the 'Metro Bike' app to find stations and rent bikes. Be extremely cautious of traffic – LA drivers are not always bike-friendly. Stick to designated bike lanes where available and always wear a helmet. A common mistake is underestimating the distances and hills involved.

The DASH Bus System

DASH is a network of local shuttle buses operated by LADOT, offering affordable and convenient service within specific neighborhoods and business districts. They are excellent for short hops within areas like Downtown, Hollywood, or Westwood.

Cost:$0.50 per ride.
Tip:These are cash-only, so have exact change ready. Routes are limited to specific zones, so check the route map online or via the LADOT Transit app to ensure it serves your destination. They are a fantastic budget option for exploring within a defined area.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Los Angeles to avoid the crowds and still get great weather?

Honestly, my sweet spot for LA is late September through October. The summer heat has mellowed, the school holidays are over, and the ocean is still warm enough for a dip. You'll find fewer families and a more relaxed vibe, plus the light is absolutely gorgeous for photos.

I'm planning to drive around LA. What's the real deal with traffic, and how can I survive it?

Ah, LA traffic. It's a rite of passage! My best advice is to embrace it by planning your travel around peak hours (roughly 7-10 AM and 3-7 PM on weekdays). If you can, use navigation apps that show real-time traffic and consider using the carpool lanes if you have a passenger – it can be a lifesaver. Also, don't underestimate the power of a good podcast or audiobook!

Beyond the Hollywood Walk of Fame, what's a truly 'LA' experience that most tourists miss?

You absolutely must explore the Getty Center. It's not just about the art (though it's stunning), but the architecture, the gardens, and the panoramic views of the city and ocean are breathtaking. It feels like a serene escape, and best of all, admission is free – just pay for parking. Go on a weekday morning to really soak it in.

I've heard about 'beach culture' in LA. What are some local etiquette tips I should know?

LA beach culture is pretty laid-back, but a few things to keep in mind: respect personal space, especially on crowded days. If you're setting up chairs or an umbrella, make sure you're not blocking pathways or someone else's view. And please, please clean up after yourself – leave the beach as beautiful as you found it. Venice Beach has a unique, eclectic vibe, while Santa Monica is more family-friendly.

What's the best way to get around if I *don't* want to rent a car?

It's definitely doable! The Metro system is expanding and can get you to many key areas like Downtown, Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Pasadena. Ride-sharing services are ubiquitous and often more affordable than a rental car when you factor in parking. For shorter distances within neighborhoods, consider electric scooters or bikes – they're a fun way to explore, especially along the coast.

Are there any 'hidden gem' neighborhoods or areas that offer a more authentic taste of LA life?

For a real taste of local flavor, I love exploring areas like Los Feliz or Silver Lake. They're brimming with independent boutiques, fantastic coffee shops, and some of the best ethnic food you'll find outside of their respective countries – think authentic Thai, Armenian, and Salvadoran. Plus, you can catch live music or a film at the historic Vista Theatre. It's where Angelenos actually hang out.

How many days do you need in Los Angeles, USA?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Los Angeles, USA to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Los Angeles, USA expensive to visit?

Los Angeles, USA can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Los Angeles, USA famous for?

Los Angeles, USA is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.

Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!