Los Angeles in November is a masterclass in perfect timing. As someone who’s lived here for over a decade and guides visitors through the city year-round, I can tell you – November is LA’s best-kept secret.
Perfect Weather When Everyone Else is Freezing
While the rest of the country bundles up, LA serves up daily temperatures between 70-75°F (21-24°C).
Last November, I hosted my cousin from Chicago who couldn’t believe she was wearing shorts in “winter.”
But pack that light jacket – evenings dip to around 50-55°F (10-13°C).
The real magic? 22-24 sunny days on average. That’s right – nearly the entire month is perfect for exploring.
Why The Crowds Vanish (And Your Photos Get Better)
Remember those endless summer lines at Griffith Observatory? Gone.
Those packed beaches in August? Now you’ve got breathing room.
November hits the sweet spot between peak season and winter, meaning:
- 40% shorter wait times at major attractions
- Better photo ops without random tourists in your shots
- Actually finding parking at popular spots
The Secret Season for LA’s Best Events
Día de los Muertos transforms the city in early November.
Pro tip: Skip the touristy celebrations and head to Olvera Street. The authentic processions and altar displays will give you goosebumps. I stumbled upon a local family’s celebration there last year – they invited me to join their candlelight vigil, a moment I’ll never forget.
Sports fans, November is your month:
- Lakers and Clippers both in full swing
- LA Kings hockey bringing the ice action
- Perfect weather for catching a game at Dodger Stadium
The Theme Park Hack Nobody Talks About
Want to experience Disneyland without the chaos? November weekdays are your golden ticket.
I took my nieces last November – we rode Space Mountain three times in a row. Try that in July!
Key stats:
- 30-50% shorter wait times than summer
- Hotels near parks offer significant discounts
- Better character interaction time due to smaller crowds
Packing Smart for LA’s November Surprise
Forget what you know about fall packing. LA November requires strategy:
Must-bring items:
- Light layers for temp swings
- One good jacket for evenings
- Sunscreen (yes, even in November)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimsuit (the heated pools are fantastic)
The Transportation Truth Nobody Tells You
Skip LAX if possible. November sees increased holiday traffic, but here’s the insider move:
Alternative airports:
- Burbank (BUR) – closer to Hollywood
- Long Beach (LGB) – smoother security lines
- Ontario (ONT) – perfect for Disneyland access
Where to Stay Without Breaking the Bank
November hotel rates drop by 15-30% compared to peak season. But location matters more than price.
Top areas for first-timers:
- Santa Monica (beach + shopping)
- Hollywood (nightlife + attractions)
- Downtown (culture + food scene)
Remember, LA’s famous sunshine takes a slight break in November, with daylight hours shortening to about 9-10 hours per day. This actually works in your favor – imagine sunset at Griffith Observatory without fighting through crowds of Instagram influencers.
The Hidden Gems That Make November Magic
Speaking of Griffith Observatory, let me share a local secret: November’s marine layer creates some of the most spectacular sunset photography conditions you’ll ever see.
Last year, I caught Jupiter and its moons through the public telescopes without the usual two-hour wait.
Day Trips That’ll Make Your Instagram Followers Jealous
November opens up possibilities that summer heat makes unbearable:
Joshua Tree National Park
- Perfect 70°F hiking weather
- Clearest night skies for stargazing
- Rock climbing without scorching hands
Santa Barbara
- Wine country without the crowds
- Whale watching season begins
- Thanksgiving at historic Spanish missions
The Food Scene Nobody Warns You About
November transforms LA’s culinary landscape:
Farmers markets explode with fall produce:
- Fresh persimmons at Santa Monica Farmers Market
- Local pomegranates at Hollywood Farmers Market
- Special Thanksgiving pop-ups
Pro tip: Hit Grand Central Market downtown on weekday mornings. The holiday crowds haven’t discovered this yet.
Culture Vulture Paradise
November brings LA’s cultural calendar to life:
- AFI Film Festival showcases Oscar contenders
- Theater productions premiere before holiday runs
- Museum exhibitions change for winter season
I caught a preview of the Getty’s fall exhibition last November – had the entire wing practically to myself.
The Beach Secret That’ll Surprise You
Yes, you can still hit the beach in November. Here’s why it’s better:
- Warmer water than you’d expect (65-68°F)
- Perfect conditions for sunset walks
- Free parking spots at Venice Beach (unheard of in summer)
The Money-Saving Moves That Matter
November visitors save big with these insider tricks:
- Go LA Pass prices drop 20-30%
- Hotels offer “shoulder season” rates
- Restaurant Week often falls in November
Why Locals Love November Most
Ask any Angeleno – November hits different:
- Traffic eases as tourist season winds down
- Reservation-only restaurants suddenly have openings
- Holiday decorations appear without holiday crowds
The Final Verdict on LA in November
After guiding countless visitors through LA’s seasons, I can say with confidence: November offers the perfect blend of accessibility and authenticity.
You get the real Los Angeles experience without fighting through summer crowds or winter rain.
Remember: Los Angeles in November isn’t just a visit – it’s an insider’s experience of the city at its most authentic.
Book that trip. Pack those layers. And prepare to see LA like a local in November.
