So You Want to Escape the Winter Blues and Head to LA in December? Hold on to Your Pool Floaties, Dude!
Ah, December. The month of twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and...wait, what's that? You're planning a trip to Los Angeles? Forget the snow boots, my friend, and dust off your flip flops (or, as they probably call them in fancy LA, "toe thongs").
Sunshine State, Not Always Sunshine Days
Now, Los Angeles might be famous for its beaches and perpetual sunshine, but even Californians get a taste of winter (kind of). December in LA is like that cool aunt at the family gathering - a little unpredictable. Here's the lowdown:
-
Sunshine: Don't get us wrong, you'll still get a decent amount of sunshine, but we're talking seven hours a day on average. That's like a permanent happy hour for your vitamin D levels, but not quite the sun-baked extravaganza you might have pictured.
-
Temperature: Think comfy afternoons in the mid to upper 60s Fahrenheit (around 19-24°C). Early December might even bless you with the occasional day in the 70s (25-27°C), but don't get used to it. Evenings and mornings can get a bit chilly, dipping down into the 40s (4-10°C). So ditch the parka, but pack a light jacket – you never know what this fickle weather will throw your way.
-
Rain: Los Angeles isn't exactly known for its downpours, but December does see a slight uptick in sprinkles. On average, you might get a splash or two for a total of 66mm. Nothing umbrella-worthy, but enough to make you question your decision to wear those brand new white jeans.
Pro Tip: Pack layers. This way, you can adjust to the ever-changing LA weather and avoid that awkward "stuck sweating in a hoodie" moment.
Don't Forget Your Holiday Cheer (and Maybe a Light Jacket)
So, what does this mean for your December LA adventure? Well, you can definitely ditch the snow gear and embrace the outdoors. Here are some ideas:
-
Hit the Beach: The water might be a bit chilly for a polar bear plunge, but it's still perfectly pleasant for a stroll on the sand or a game of beach volleyball. Just remember, the sun sets earlier in December, so plan your beach time accordingly.
-
Explore the City: LA is a sprawling metropolis with something for everyone. Hike in the Hollywood Hills, browse the shops on Melrose, or catch a holiday-themed show. Just be prepared for the occasional burst of sunshine – sunglasses are a must!
-
Embrace the Festive Spirit: Los Angeles goes all out for the holidays! From over-the-top Christmas light displays to festive markets, there's plenty to get you into the holiday spirit. Just be warned, the crowds can get a bit crazy, so pack your patience (and maybe a flask of eggnog for emergencies).
The Bottom Line: December in LA might not be the full-blown summer paradise you might have envisioned, but it's a delightful escape from the winter blues. Just pack accordingly, embrace the slightly unpredictable weather, and get ready for a fun-filled holiday adventure (with a chance of sunshine and festive cheer).
