Hollywood weather by month
Dreaming of a trip to Hollywood? Beyond the glitz and glamour, knowing what to expect from the weather is key to a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Hollywood, nestled in the Los Angeles basin, boasts a Mediterranean climate – mild, sunny, and dry for much of the year. However, there are distinct seasonal shifts. This guide breaks down the Hollywood weather by month, helping you pack appropriately and plan the perfect itinerary.
Overview of Hollywood’s Climate
Hollywood generally enjoys sunshine over 284 days a year. The Pacific Ocean plays a significant role, moderating temperatures and keeping things relatively mild. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are cool and see most of the annual rainfall. Microclimates exist – the hills can be noticeably cooler than the valley floor, and coastal areas experience more marine influence. This guide focuses on the general Hollywood area, but be prepared for slight variations depending on your specific location.
Hollywood Weather in Spring (March – May)
Spring is arguably one of the best times to visit Hollywood. The weather transitions from the cooler winter months to the warmer summer, offering pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers in the surrounding hills.
- March: Temperatures begin to rise, averaging highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) and lows in the low 50s°F (around 11°C). Rainfall is still possible, but less frequent than in winter.
- April: A beautiful month with average highs in the high 60s°F (around 20°C) and lows in the mid-50s°F (around 13°C). Sunshine is abundant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- May: Warm and sunny days are the norm, with average highs reaching the low 70s°F (around 22°C) and lows in the upper 50s°F (around 15°C). The "May Gray" phenomenon – morning cloud cover that burns off by afternoon – can occur, but doesn’t usually last all day.
Hollywood Weather in Summer (June – August)
Summer in Hollywood is warm, dry, and perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor attractions. However, it can get hot, especially inland.
- June: Temperatures climb into the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) for highs and the low 60s°F (around 17°C) for lows. Expect consistently sunny skies.
- July: The hottest month of the year, with average highs in the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) and lows in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). Heat waves are possible, pushing temperatures even higher.
- August: Similar to July, with average highs in the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) and lows in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). The humidity remains relatively low, making the heat more bearable than in some other parts of the country.
Hollywood Weather in Autumn (September – November)
Autumn brings a welcome relief from the summer heat, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. September and October are often considered the "secret season" for visiting Southern California.
- September: Warm days and cooler evenings. Average highs are in the low 80s°F (around 28°C) and lows in the low 60s°F (around 17°C).
- October: One of the most comfortable months. Average highs are in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) and lows in the upper 50s°F (around 15°C). Rainfall is still minimal.
- November: Temperatures continue to cool, with average highs in the low 70s°F (around 21°C) and lows in the mid-50s°F (around 13°C). The chance of rain increases slightly.
Hollywood Weather in Winter (December – February)
Winters in Hollywood are mild, with occasional rainfall. While you won’t experience snow, it can get chilly, especially at night.
- December: Cool and damp, with average highs in the upper 60s°F (around 20°C) and lows in the low 50s°F (around 11°C). This is one of the wettest months.
- January: The coolest month, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) and lows in the upper 40s°F (around 9°C). Rainfall is common.
- February: Similar to January, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) and lows in the upper 40s°F (around 9°C). The chance of rain gradually decreases.
Hollywood Weather by Month: A Quick Reference Table
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | 65 | 52 | 2.2 |
| April | 69 | 55 | 0.8 |
| May | 72 | 58 | 0.4 |
| June | 75 | 62 | 0.2 |
| July | 88 | 66 | 0.1 |
| August | 88 | 66 | 0.1 |
| September | 82 | 63 | 0.3 |
| October | 75 | 58 | 1.1 |
| November | 70 | 55 | 1.6 |
| December | 67 | 50 | 2.0 |
| January | 66 | 49 | 2.7 |
| February | 66 | 49 | 2.4 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Hollywood?
A: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Q: Does it ever rain in Hollywood?
A: Yes, but most of the rainfall occurs between November and March. Summers are typically very dry.
Q: What should I pack for a trip to Hollywood in the summer?
A: Lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler evenings.
Q: Is Hollywood humid?
A: Generally, no. Hollywood has relatively low humidity, even in the summer.
Q: Are there significant temperature differences between day and night?
A: Yes, especially in the spring and autumn. It’s a good idea to bring layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
Resources for More Detailed Weather Information
- The National Weather Service – Los Angeles: https://www.weather.gov/lox/
- AccuWeather – Hollywood: https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/california/hollywood/90028/daily-weather-forecast/349355
- Time and Date – Hollywood: https://www.timeanddate.com/weather/usa/hollywood-california
- LA Tourism & Convention Board: https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/ (for event planning based on weather)