December in Los Angeles often marks the beginning of the region’s distinct winter season, transforming the city into a destination for those escaping colder climates. While the term "average" suggests a uniform experience, the reality involves microclimates where coastal breezes keep neighborhoods like Santa Monica cool while inland valleys retain daytime warmth. Understanding the typical conditions helps residents and visitors plan activities, from coastal walks to holiday events, without being surprised by the occasional cold snap or unseasonably warm spell.
Typical Temperature Ranges and Averages
The average high temperature in Los Angeles during December generally sits between 68°F (20°C) and 70°F (21°C), providing a pleasant contrast to the freezing point averages common in much of the United States. Overnight lows, however, can dip significantly, with averages ranging from 48°F (9°C) to 50°F (10°C), creating a noticeable chill in the early morning and evening hours. These figures represent a city-wide baseline, but specific zip codes near the beach or in the basin can vary by 10 degrees or more, illustrating the importance of location when interpreting climate data.
Coastal vs. Inland Variations
The Pacific Ocean acts as a massive thermal regulator along the coast, ensuring that neighborhoods such as Venice, Marina del Rey, and Palos Verdes experience milder temperatures. December coastal highs rarely fall below 65°F (18°C), and the ocean’s inertia often keeps these areas warmer than inland areas at night. Inland communities like Burbank, Glendale, and the San Fernando Valley, however, lack this buffer, allowing daytime highs to potentially reach 75°F (24°C) while also dropping into the 40s°F (4-5°C) after sunset, a swing of 25 to 30 degrees.
Daily Weather Patterns and Sunshine
December is one of the cloudiest months in Los Angeles, with the marine layer frequently rolling in from the ocean during the early morning and late afternoon. This natural ceiling can suppress the sun to the point that residents in Westwood or the Hollywood Hills might experience gray, overcast conditions that feel more like late autumn than winter. Despite this, the city still averages about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day, as the high-pressure systems that dominate California often burn off the morning haze by midday, revealing clear blue skies.
Rainfall and Humidity Considerations
While temperature is a primary concern, the interplay of rain and humidity significantly affects how the cold feels. December is the start of Los Angeles’s wet season, with average rainfall around 3 to 4 inches, but this is often delivered in intense, single-day storms rather than steady drizzle. The humidity during these events can make the air feel damp and chilly, particularly when the temperature hovers near the 50°F (10°C) mark, necessitating a windbreaker or light jacket even for short outdoor excursions.
What to Wear and Activity Planning
Navigating the December weather requires a layered approach, as the difference between a sunny afternoon and a windy evening is substantial. Light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for daytime exploration, while a medium-weight jacket becomes necessary once the sun sets. Visitors heading to the mountains for a rare snowfall or to the beach for a twilight stroll should prepare for a wide thermal range, ensuring they can adapt to microclimates that might vary dramatically within a 20-mile radius.
Holiday Atmosphere and Visitor Tips
The holiday season imbues the December air with a festive energy, with decorations and light displays providing visual warmth against the cooler temperatures. For those attending events at Dodger Stadium or the Hollywood Bowl, the clear-sky nights can be surprisingly cold, making blankets and hand warmers practical accessories. Conversely, families enjoying the milder days at Griffith Park or the Santa Monica Pier benefit from the comfortable mid-60s temperatures, which are ideal for extended periods outdoors without the summer heat.
