Why December is the Perfect Time to Visit Los Angeles
December in Los Angeles offers a magical combination of mild weather, festive holiday celebrations, and fewer crowds than peak summer months. With average temperatures ranging from 45°F to 68°F, you'll enjoy comfortable conditions for both indoor and outdoor activities. The City of Angels transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, holiday markets, and special seasonal events that make it one of the best times to experience LA's diverse attractions.
Top Holiday Events and Festivals in December
LA Zoo Lights
The Los Angeles Zoo transforms into a dazzling light display featuring over a million LED lights. This family-friendly event runs throughout December and offers:
- Illuminated animal sculptures
- Holiday-themed light tunnels
- Special seasonal treats and beverages
- Extended evening hours for optimal viewing
Griffith Observatory Holiday Programming
Griffith Observatory hosts special December programming including:
- Extended viewing hours for winter constellations
- Holiday-themed planetarium shows
- Free telescope viewing of winter sky objects
- Educational programs about winter solstice
Downtown LA Holiday Markets
Grand Park's Winter Glow features:
- Local artisan vendors
- Food trucks with seasonal specialties
- Live entertainment and performances
- Instagram-worthy light installations
Best Outdoor Activities for December Weather
Beach Activities in Mild Winter Weather
Los Angeles beaches remain accessible and enjoyable in December:
Santa Monica Pier
- Pacific Wheel offers panoramic ocean views
- Beach volleyball courts with comfortable temperatures
- Seaside dining with outdoor seating
- Street performers and entertainment
Manhattan Beach
- Perfect for morning walks or jogging
- Beach volleyball tournaments continue year-round
- The Strand bike path remains popular
- Stunning sunset photography opportunities
Hiking and Nature Activities
Runyon Canyon Park
- Ideal hiking weather with cooler temperatures
- Celebrity spotting opportunities
- Off-leash dog areas
- Hollywood Sign views without summer heat
Griffith Park Trails
- Mount Hollywood Trail offers city panoramas
- Comfortable hiking conditions
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Access to Griffith Observatory
Cultural Attractions and Indoor Activities
World-Class Museums
Getty Center
- Free admission with stunning architecture
- Special December exhibitions
- Garden tours in pleasant weather
- Panoramic city views from hilltop location
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- Urban Light installation perfect for holiday photos
- Rotating special exhibitions
- Family-friendly programming
- Climate-controlled comfort
Entertainment Districts
Hollywood Boulevard
- TCL Chinese Theatre tours and screenings
- Walk of Fame exploration
- Hollywood Museum visits
- Dolby Theatre behind-the-scenes tours
Beverly Hills Shopping
- Rodeo Drive window shopping and dining
- Beverly Hills Hotel afternoon tea
- Luxury boutique browsing
- Celebrity home tours
Holiday Shopping and Dining Experiences
Premium Shopping Destinations
The Grove
- Outdoor shopping with holiday decorations
- Dancing fountain shows
- Farmer's Market adjacent dining
- Trolley rides and entertainment
Third Street Promenade
- Street performers and buskers
- Diverse dining options
- Movie theaters and entertainment
- Walking distance to Santa Monica Pier
Seasonal Dining Experiences
Rooftop Restaurants
December's mild weather makes rooftop dining comfortable:
- Perch downtown with French cuisine
- EP & LP in West Hollywood
- Catch LA in West Hollywood
- Yamashiro with Japanese cuisine and city views
Holiday-Themed Dining
- Seasonal menus at top restaurants
- Holiday afternoon tea services
- Festive cocktail experiences
- Pop-up holiday bars and lounges
Family-Friendly December Activities
Theme Parks and Attractions
Disneyland Resort Holiday Celebrations
- Holidays at Disneyland Resort through early January
- Special holiday parades and fireworks
- Seasonal attraction overlays
- Holiday-themed dining and merchandise
Universal Studios Hollywood
- Grinchmas celebration
- Holiday-themed shows and experiences
- Comfortable weather for park touring
- Special seasonal attractions
Educational and Interactive Experiences
California Science Center
- Space Shuttle Endeavour permanent exhibit
- Interactive science demonstrations
- IMAX theater experiences
- Climate-controlled environment
Natural History Museum
- Dinosaur exhibits and fossil displays
- Butterfly Pavilion (seasonal)
- Gem and mineral collections
- Special traveling exhibitions
Sports and Entertainment Events
Professional Sports
NBA Basketball
- Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena
- LA Clippers home games
- Premium seating and dining options
- Celebrity spotting opportunities
NHL Hockey
- Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena
- Fast-paced indoor entertainment
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Concession and merchandise options
Live Entertainment
Concert Venues
- Hollywood Bowl occasional winter performances
- Walt Disney Concert Hall classical music
- The Greek Theatre intimate concerts
- Various club and theater venues
Photography and Instagram Opportunities
Best Photo Locations in December
Holiday Light Displays
- Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills
- Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena
- Beverly Hills holiday decorations
- Downtown LA light installations
Scenic Viewpoints
- Mulholland Drive overlooks
- Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
- Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
- Beach sunset locations
Transportation and Getting Around
Public Transportation Options
- Metro Rail system connects major attractions
- Metro Bus extensive route network
- Beach Shuttle services to coastal areas
- Ride-sharing services readily available
Parking and Traffic Considerations
- Holiday shopping increases traffic
- Beach areas remain accessible
- Downtown parking for events
- Valet services at major attractions
Budget-Friendly December Activities
Free Attractions and Events
- Griffith Observatory admission
- Beach access and activities
- Getty Center free admission
- Holiday light display viewing
- Hiking trails and nature areas
Affordable Dining Options
- Food truck gatherings
- Grand Central Market diverse vendors
- Happy hour specials
- Farmer's market fresh options
Weather Preparation and What to Pack
December Weather Patterns
- Daytime temperatures: 60-68°F
- Evening temperatures: 45-55°F
- Rainfall: Minimal, occasional light showers
- Humidity: Low, comfortable levels
Recommended Clothing
- Layered clothing for temperature changes
- Light jacket for evenings
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses for bright days
- Light rain jacket (optional)
Accommodation Recommendations
Luxury Hotels
- The Beverly Hills Hotel
- Chateau Marmont
- Hotel Bel-Air
- The Peninsula Beverly Hills
Mid-Range Options
- Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
- Freehand Los Angeles
- The Line Hotel
- Ace Hotel Downtown
Budget-Friendly Choices
- HI Los Angeles Hostel
- Pod Hotels
- Various boutique motels
- Vacation rental options
Day Trip Itinerary Suggestions
Classic LA Day Trip
Morning: Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign viewing Afternoon: Getty Center or LACMA visit Evening: Santa Monica Pier and beach sunset
Holiday-Themed Day
Morning: LA Zoo Lights preparation and nearby breakfast Afternoon: Holiday shopping at The Grove Evening: Downtown holiday market and light displays
Beach and Culture Day
Morning: Manhattan Beach walk and breakfast Afternoon: Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney shopping Evening: Rooftop dining with ocean views
Safety Tips for December Visitors
General Safety Considerations
- Stay aware of surroundings in tourist areas
- Secure valuables in vehicles
- Use reputable transportation services
- Keep emergency contacts accessible
Holiday-Specific Safety
- Crowded event awareness
- Traffic pattern changes
- Extended hours planning
- Weather-appropriate preparation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Los Angeles?
Yes, December offers mild weather, festive holiday events, and fewer crowds than summer months. Average temperatures range from 45-68°F, making it comfortable for both indoor and outdoor activities.
What should I pack for Los Angeles in December?
Pack layered clothing including light jackets for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and optionally a light rain jacket. The weather is generally mild but can vary between day and night.
Are beaches enjoyable in December in LA?
Absolutely! Los Angeles beaches remain accessible and pleasant in December with mild temperatures perfect for walking, dining, and sightseeing. While swimming might be cool, beach activities are very enjoyable.
What are the best holiday events in LA during December?
Top holiday events include LA Zoo Lights, Disneyland Holiday celebrations, Grand Park's Winter Glow, various holiday markets, and special programming at major attractions like Griffith Observatory.
How crowded is Los Angeles in December?
December sees moderate crowds, especially around holiday events and shopping areas. However, it's generally less crowded than peak summer months, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and attractions.
Do I need a car to get around Los Angeles in December?
While a car provides maximum flexibility, Los Angeles has improved public transportation including Metro Rail and bus systems. Ride-sharing services are also readily available. Many attractions are accessible without a personal vehicle.
Conclusion
December in Los Angeles offers an incredible blend of perfect weather, festive holiday celebrations, and diverse activities that cater to every interest and budget. From world-class museums and stunning beaches to holiday light displays and premium dining experiences, the City of Angels provides endless opportunities for memorable experiences.
The mild winter climate makes outdoor activities comfortable while indoor attractions offer respite and entertainment. Whether you're interested in cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, luxury shopping, or budget-conscious adventures, Los Angeles in December delivers exceptional value and unforgettable memories.
Plan your December Los Angeles adventure today and discover why millions of visitors choose this time of year to experience everything this magnificent city has to offer. The combination of holiday magic and year-round attractions creates the perfect setting for your California winter getaway.