Travel time: Year-round
Anaheim sits in a classic Mediterranean climate zone, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Located in the heart of Orange County, the city’s weather is largely dictated by its position between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Santa Ana Mountains to the east. This geographic placement creates a "Goldilocks" environment—rarely too hot and rarely too cold—though it is subject to distinct regional phenomena like the marine layer and the famous Santa Ana winds.
A typical day in Anaheim follows a predictable solar cycle. Mornings often begin with the "marine layer," a mass of cool, misty air that pushes inland from the Pacific. This can create a gray, overcast start to the day, particularly during late spring and early summer. As the sun rises, it "burns off" this moisture, usually by mid-morning, leading to clear blue skies and a rapid temperature climb. By late afternoon, a refreshing sea breeze often kicks in, naturally cooling the city as the sun sets.
Spring is widely considered the most idyllic season. Temperatures transition from the crisp high 60s°F (20°C) to the pleasant mid-70s°F (24°C). While early spring can still see occasional rain showers, the season is mostly defined by blooming citrus trees and lavender. This is the period of "May Gray," where the marine layer is more persistent, keeping mornings cool and damp even as the inland deserts begin to heat up.
Summers are warm and arid. While inland California cities can see temperatures soaring past 100°F (38°C), Anaheim usually remains in the mid-80s°F (29°C) due to coastal moderation. June Gloom is a hallmark of this season; the dense marine overcast may linger until noon or later, providing a natural respite from the sun. Rainfall is almost non-existent during these months, and humidity remains low to moderate, ensuring the heat rarely feels oppressive.
Fall in Anaheim acts as a "second spring." September is often the hottest month of the year as the ocean stays warm and the marine layer thins. This season also marks the start of the Santa Ana Wind season. These dry, gusty winds blow from the high-pressure deserts of the Great Basin toward the coast, causing temperatures to spike suddenly and humidity to drop to single digits. Locals experience these as warm, "electric" days with exceptionally sharp, clear visibility.
Winter is the designated "wet season," though Anaheim only receives about 13 to 14 inches of rain annually. Most of this falls in short, intense bursts during January and February. Days remain mild, typically hovering around 68°F to 70°F (20-21°C), while nights can dip into the mid-40s°F (7°C). Snow is unheard of on the valley floor, though the surrounding peaks like Mt. San Antonio (Mt. Baldy) provide a stunning snow-capped backdrop.
Anaheim’s geography creates internal variations. Anaheim Hills, located further east and at a higher elevation, often experiences temperatures 3–5 degrees warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter compared to the Anaheim Resort District near the coast. The Hills are also the first to encounter the force of the Santa Ana winds as they channel through the Santa Ana Canyon, resulting in higher wind speeds and lower humidity than the flatter coastal plains.
The Santa Ana winds, colloquially known as the "Devil Winds," are embedded in local lore. Beyond the fire risk, locals often describe a psychological shift during these events; the dry, static-filled air can feel unsettling. Conversely, the "June Gloom" is embraced by many residents as a cooling blanket that saves them from the high energy costs of air conditioning, with the "burn-off" signaling the official start of the daily outdoor lifestyle.