Travel time: Year-round
Long Beach, California, occupies a unique meteorological niche within the Los Angeles Basin. Defined by its south-facing coastline and the protective presence of the Palos Verdes Peninsula to its west, the city experiences a Mediterranean climate that is significantly milder and more tempered than its inland neighbors.
The most defining characteristic of the Long Beach climate is its daily interaction with the Pacific Ocean, specifically through the "marine layer." This phenomenon acts as nature’s air conditioning.
While the region is known for "eternal spring," distinct seasonal shifts dictate the local atmospheric feel.
Contrary to popular belief, summer often starts with "June Gloom," where the marine layer is so persistent it may not clear until late afternoon or at all. Once into July and August, the city enters its warmest period. Temperatures typically hover in the low 80s°F (27–28°C). Unlike the humid East Coast, Long Beach remains relatively dry, though occasional "monsoonal moisture" from the south can bring rare humidity and spectacular cloud formations.
This is often considered the most pleasant season. Summer heat lingers, but the marine layer is less frequent, leading to incredibly clear, blue-sky days. However, autumn also brings the Santa Ana Winds—hot, dry gusts from the Great Basin deserts. During a Santa Ana event, the coastal breeze is pushed back, and temperatures can spike into the 90s°F (32°C+) with extremely low humidity.
Winter is the city's rainy season, though "rainy" is relative. Long Beach receives an average of 12-14 inches of rain annually, mostly falling during a few powerful Pacific storms. Between these storms, winters are crisp and sunny, with daytime highs around 65°F (18°C) and nighttime lows rarely dropping below 45°F (7°C).
Known as "May Gray," spring is a transition period where the marine layer begins to strengthen. It is a season of flowers and moderate temperatures, with the landscape at its greenest after the winter rains.
Geography plays a massive role in what you feel at any given moment.
Long Beach has a history of dramatic weather, including the rare "waterspout" occurring offshore during winter storms. Historically, the area has also faced significant flood events before the channelization of the Los Angeles River. Modern residents are most attuned to the Coastal Inversion, where a layer of warm air sits on top of the cool ocean air, trapping the morning fog and creating the sharp temperature gradients Southern California is famous for.
Locals have mastered the art of "dressing for the burn-off." You will see residents carrying light layers even on sunny days because the temperature can swing by 20 degrees the moment the sun sets or the fog rolls in. The weather is more than just a forecast here; it dictates the social calendar. Outdoor events are almost always scheduled for late afternoon to guarantee the gloom has lifted, and a "beach day" is rarely actually spent on the beach before noon.