United States, North America
Los Angeles in October
Warm, clear, and quieter. Santa Ana wind events raise fire danger.
The straight answer
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Los Angeles. Warm, clear, and quieter. Santa Ana wind events raise fire danger.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 79F (26C), Santa Ana winds
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What October is like in Los Angeles
October is warm, clear, and quieter, with highs near 79F (26C). The ocean is still pleasant, the skies are often the bluest of the year, and prices are moderate. Santa Ana winds can blow in, bringing hot, dry air and higher fire danger, and sometimes smoky air if a fire starts.
This month suits nearly everyone, from families to couples to first-time visitors. Halloween season adds fun to the theme parks. Hikers should check fire closures and red flag warnings before heading out, and anyone with breathing issues should watch air quality during wind events.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Los Angeles this month.
Clear, warm days
Crisp blue skies and warm afternoons make October ideal for the beach, the Getty gardens, and city views from Griffith Observatory.
Dia de los Muertos begins
Celebrations start in late October on Olvera Street and at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, with altars, music, and marigolds.
Quieter theme parks
Weekday crowds are low, and Halloween decorations add something extra for kids.
What to pack for October
- Light clothes and a swimsuit for warm afternoons
- A light jacket for cool evenings
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- A mask for smoky days if fires break out
Our timing tip
Check red flag warnings and trail closures in the Santa Monica Mountains the night before any hike, since parks can close on windy days.
Book Los Angeles for October.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Los AngelesOpens a hotel search for Los Angeles in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
Dia de los Muertos
Late October into early November
Celebrations on Olvera Street and at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Los Angeles?
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Los Angeles. Warm, clear, and quieter. Santa Ana wind events raise fire danger.
What is the weather like in Los Angeles in October?
Warm, highs near 79F (26C), Santa Ana winds.
Is Los Angeles crowded in October?
Crowds in Los Angeles are moderate in October; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Los Angeles in October?
Dia de los Muertos (late october into early november).
Keep planning Los Angeles.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
Before you book.
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