Los Angeles in December is a magical contradiction – palm trees draped in Christmas lights and surfers wearing Santa hats. As someone who’s lived here for 15 years, I’ll share what makes LA’s winter wonderland truly special.
Why December is Actually LA’s Best-Kept Secret
While tourists flock here in summer, December offers perfect 68°F (20°C) days and cool 50°F (10°C) nights. You’ll enjoy about 7 hours of sunshine daily – plenty for both outdoor adventures and festive activities.
Last December, I took my visiting family to Runyon Canyon, and we hiked in t-shirts while watching snow-capped mountains in the distance. That’s LA’s winter magic for you.
The Holiday Spectacles That’ll Make Your Jaw Drop
The Hollywood Christmas Parade isn’t just another parade – it’s a 90-year tradition that transforms Tinseltown into a festive wonderland. Pro tip: grab a spot near Hollywood & Highland for the best views.
Want something truly spectacular? The Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens is mind-blowing. I remember standing in the middle of their light tunnel last year, completely mesmerized by the million twinkling lights around me.
Theme Parks That Go All-Out (And How to Beat the Crowds)
- Disneyland’s holiday transformation is worth every penny
- Universal’s Grinchmas brings Whoville to life
- Six Flags Magic Mountain becomes a winter paradise
Here’s a secret: visit these parks on weekday evenings in early December. The crowds are thinner, and the holiday magic is just as strong.
Ice Skating in Paradise? Yes, Really!
Only in LA can you ice skate with palm trees in the background. The LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE offers the most surreal experience – skating under the downtown skylight with Christmas music filling the air.
The Hidden Holiday Shopping Gems
Skip the tourist traps and head to the Unique LA Holiday Market. Local artisans showcase one-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find anywhere else. My favorite purchase last year? A hand-painted LA skyline ornament that perfectly captured the city’s essence.
Entertainment That’ll Make Your December Unforgettable
The Walt Disney Concert Hall’s holiday performances are breathtaking. Even if classical music isn’t your thing, the architecture alone will leave you speechless.
Outdoor Adventures with a Winter Twist
Despite the cooler temps, December is perfect for outdoor activities:
- Griffith Observatory hikes offer clearer views after winter rains
- Santa Monica Pier is less crowded but equally charming
- Venice Beach shows its quirky character with holiday-themed street performances
Museums and Culture Without the Summer Crowds
The Getty Center in December offers something special – clear winter days provide stunning views all the way to the ocean, and the gardens take on a different beauty in the winter light.
Getting Around Town (Without Losing Your Mind)
Los Angeles is sprawling, and holiday traffic can be overwhelming. Plan ahead by using public transit or ride-shares when possible. The Metro Expo Line is a great way to get from Downtown LA to Santa Monica without the headache of parking.
Getting Around LA in December (Without the Usual Headaches)
Here’s what 15 years of navigating LA during the holidays has taught me: rent a car, but use it strategically.
The Metro Red Line becomes your best friend for downtown events – it stops right at major venues like the Hollywood Christmas Parade route.
Pro tip: Download the Transit app and buy a TAP card immediately. You’ll thank me later.
Where to Stay When Everything’s “Full”
Popular areas like Santa Monica get packed, but here’s my secret: look for hotels in Culver City or Studio City.
They’re cheaper, less crowded, and perfectly positioned for exploring.
Last December, my cousin scored a boutique hotel in Culver City for half the price of Santa Monica – and loved the local vibe.
Sports Adventures That’ll Make Your December Pop
Catching a Lakers game at Crypto.com Arena (still feels weird not calling it Staples Center) is electric in December.
The energy is different – holiday spirits are high, and the crowd goes wild for those Christmas Day games.
Food Experiences That’ll Blow Your Mind
December brings out LA’s most creative seasonal menus. Must-try spots:
- Grand Central Market’s holiday food festival
- Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air’s winter tasting menu
- Smorgasburg LA’s special December vendors
I still dream about last year’s white truffle pasta at Felix Trattoria – they only serve it in winter.
Day Trips That’ll Make Your Instagram Followers Jealous
While everyone else crowds Disneyland, head to:
- Santa Barbara (2 hours north) for wine tasting and Spanish architecture
- Palm Springs (2 hours east) for desert warmth and mid-century modern vibes
- San Diego (2.5 hours south) for a different kind of coastal charm
Budget-Friendly Secrets (Because December Can Get Expensive)
Free activities that feel luxurious:
- Griffith Observatory star parties (clearer winter skies!)
- Beverly Hills holiday light tours (self-guided)
- Venice Beach Boardwalk holiday performers
Save money by visiting museums on free admission days – most offer them monthly.
What to Pack (And What to Leave Behind)
Forget the heavy winter coat. Instead, bring:
- Light layers (temperatures can swing 20 degrees in a day)
- A good rain jacket (December storms are real)
- Comfortable walking shoes (LA is more walkable than you think)
The Final Word on LA in December
Los Angeles in December isn’t just another winter destination – it’s a unique blend of California sunshine and holiday magic.
Whether you’re watching sunset at Griffith Observatory or ice skating under palm trees, you’ll experience something that exists nowhere else.
Remember: book early, stay flexible, and embrace the unexpected. That’s how you’ll discover the real Los Angeles in December.
For more ideas, check out this Los Angeles December Activities & Events Guide or this Complete Guide to Visiting LA in December: Weather & Activities.
