People think there’s no winter in Los Angeles, and honestly that’s part of why I love it here. We get crisp mornings, golden afternoons, the occasional rainy day that makes everyone panic, and the prettiest sunsets of the year. This is my guide to living (and loving) winter in LA. — Cami Del Toro

What LA winter actually feels like

From December to February, most days are in the 60s with clear blue skies. Mornings and nights get cold, sometimes into the 40s, especially in the valley and near the beach. It rains a handful of times, and when it does the whole city slows down. It’s the season for sweaters in the morning, sunglasses at noon and a coat after dark.

What I wear in an LA winter

Layers on layers. A fitted long-sleeve or bodysuit, straight jeans or leather pants, a chunky sweater or cardigan, and a long wool coat I can take off in the car. Ankle boots most days, knee-high boots for dinners and clean sneakers for walks. Most of my go-to pieces are in my fall outfit ideas, and I just add warmer layers on top.

Holiday lights worth the drive

Every December I make a little night out of seeing the lights. Grab a hot drink, put on a holiday playlist and drive through a neighborhood that goes all out, or walk one of the big botanical garden light shows. The outdoor malls do huge trees and snow shows too, which is the closest most Angelenos get to real snow without driving to the mountains.

Beach days in December

This is my favorite LA secret. The beach in winter is quiet, clean and gorgeous. I’ll take a long walk in a big sweater and jeans rolled up, then sit and watch the sun go down around 4:45 PM. Bring a blanket and a thermos of coffee. Some of the best photos I’ve ever taken were on cold, empty December beaches.

Cozy cafés and brunch

Winter is peak brunch season for me. Something about a cool morning makes a latte and a warm pastry taste better. I listed my favorite spots from La Brea to Venice in my LA brunch spots. In winter I always pick places with a patio heater or a fireplace.

Hikes and outdoor workouts

Winter is the best time to hike in LA. It’s cool enough to do the long trails without melting, and after a rainy week everything turns green. I go early, layer up, and end with a big breakfast. The rest of my weekly training is in my workout routine. When I want real sunshine, I drive out to the desert for my Palm Springs winter getaway, and for warmer trips I follow my holiday vacation packing list.

Holiday markets and shopping

LA has great holiday markets every weekend in December, full of local makers, candles, ceramics, jewelry and vintage. It’s where I find most of the gifts in my holiday gift guide. Go early in the day, bring a tote bag, and grab a churro on the way out.

Winter skincare in a dry climate

LA winters are dry, especially when the Santa Ana winds kick in. I switch to a richer moisturizer, run a humidifier at night and never skip SPF, because the sun is still strong here even in December. My full routine is in my skincare routine.

A perfect winter Saturday in LA

It’s a winter version of my everyday LA routine, just with more sweaters and more twinkle lights.

Rainy day plans

When it rains in LA, I fully commit to a cozy day: face mask, a movie marathon, baking something, and a long call with my mom. I also use it to plan my posts for the week. A rainy day here is rare enough to feel like a treat. My favorite rituals for staying in are in my cozy night-in guide.

New Year in Los Angeles

I like to end the year with a big night out and start the new one with a sunrise hike or a cold beach walk. It’s my reset. If you want to see what I’m wearing for the big night, check out my holiday party outfits.

For more of how I live in this city, open my Los Angeles guide.

Every holiday post in one place lives in my holiday season hub.

Building a smaller closet for the colder months? Here’s my winter capsule wardrobe: 15 pieces I wear on repeat.

FAQ

What is winter like in Los Angeles?

Winter in Los Angeles is mild: days are usually in the 60s, nights can drop into the 40s, and it rains a few times. Layers are the key.

What does Cami Del Toro do in LA during the holidays?

I love holiday light displays, cozy café mornings, sunset beach walks, holiday markets and brunch with friends.