Los Angeles, California Weather in January

January weather

January feels mild by day, with highs around 19°C, but evenings cool to about 9°C. Rain falls on several days, so Griffith Observatory views can disappear behind cloud, and beach time may feel better for a walk than a swim. You'll still have plenty of sunny hours for outdoor sightseeing.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Getty Center and outdoor patios work well between showers. Save a long hike in Griffith Park for a dry day, and keep a flexible indoor stop in mind, such as the Broad downtown. January isn't the month for dependable beach weather.

Parade season

The Rose Parade rolls along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena on New Year's Day. It draws big crowds to the route, while the Rose Bowl game adds to the holiday buzz. Away from those events, January is quieter than summer and the winter holidays, and hotel rates are often lower.

Families who enjoy floats and marching bands may love the parade, but the early start and packed sidewalks take patience. For a calmer day, explore Los Angeles after the New Year crowds have gone.

Getting around

Rain can make driving across Los Angeles slower, especially when showers hit during busy travel times. For the Rose Parade, skip the road closures around Colorado Boulevard and take the Metro A Line to Pasadena; Memorial Park station is a handy stop for reaching the route on foot.

January can be a good fit if you want city sights without peak-season crowds. Just keep your beach plans flexible, and don't expect every day to feel warm enough for lounging by the water.