United States, North America
Los Angeles in August
The hottest month inland, with the warmest ocean. Crowded everywhere.
The straight answer
August is a month of real tradeoffs in Los Angeles. The hottest month inland, with the warmest ocean. Crowded everywhere.
- Weather
- Hot, highs near 85F (29C), 100F possible inland
- Crowds
- 5 of 5
- Prices
- 5 of 5
What August is like in Los Angeles
August is the hottest month inland, with highs near 85F (29C) at the coast and 100F (38C) possible in the valleys. The ocean is at its warmest of the year, which makes the beaches the best place to be. Crowds and prices are still at their summer peak everywhere.
This month suits beach families and anyone who has to travel during summer break. Plan around the heat and book early. If you can wait a few weeks, September after Labor Day gives you the same warm water with far fewer crowds.
Make the most of August
What is especially good about Los Angeles this month.
The warmest ocean
Water temperatures peak now, so this is the most comfortable month for swimming and boogie boarding at Santa Monica or Malibu.
Last weeks of summer at the Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl season rolls on, and a cool evening concert is a good escape from the daytime heat.
Air-conditioned museums
The California Science Center, the Natural History Museum, and LACMA are good hot-afternoon escapes for kids.
What to pack for August
- Swimsuits, rash guards, and a beach umbrella
- High SPF sunscreen and hats
- Refillable water bottles for inland days
- Light, breathable clothes
Our timing tip
Get to the beach before 10am on weekends, since parking lots near Santa Monica and Malibu fill by late morning.
Book Los Angeles for August.
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- Hotels for August
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Los AngelesOpens a hotel search for Los Angeles in August, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Los AngelesWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Los AngelesTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Los Angeles for August. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in August
Hollywood Bowl summer season
Late May into September
The LA Phil and big-name concerts in the famous outdoor amphitheater.
Things to do in Los Angeles
Griffith Observatory
Free, with the best view of the Hollywood sign and the city lights. Closed Mondays; weekday evenings are calmest.
The Getty Center
Free admission (paid parking) with art, gardens, and city views. Closed Mondays.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Go midweek outside summer and holidays. Early entry helps.
Disneyland Resort
In Anaheim, about an hour from downtown without traffic. Weekdays in fall and late winter have the lowest crowds.
LACMA
The largest art museum in the western US. Urban Light is best at dusk.
Santa Monica Pier and the beach
Go early in the morning or at sunset. Bike the beach path to Venice.
Beat the crowds
- Plan days by neighborhood. LA traffic makes crossing town twice in one day a mistake.
- Hit the theme parks midweek in September, late January, or early February for the shortest lines.
- Do Griffith Observatory and the beach early; parking fills by late morning on weekends.
- Stay near where you will spend most of your time: Santa Monica for beaches, Hollywood for the observatory and Universal, Anaheim for Disneyland.
Know before you go
- Several major museums, including the Getty Center and Griffith Observatory, close on Mondays.
- Wildfire danger peaks with Santa Ana winds from fall into winter. Parks and trails in the Santa Monica Mountains can close during red flag warnings.
- Big storms in winter can close canyon roads and some trails for a few days.
Los Angeles in August, quick answers
Is August a good time to visit Los Angeles?
August is a month of real tradeoffs in Los Angeles. The hottest month inland, with the warmest ocean. Crowded everywhere.
What is the weather like in Los Angeles in August?
Hot, highs near 85F (29C), 100F possible inland.
Is Los Angeles crowded in August?
August is peak crowd season in Los Angeles; expect lines at the headline sights.
What is happening in Los Angeles in August?
Hollywood Bowl summer season (late may into september).
Keep planning Los Angeles.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
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