Hollywood enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Because of its position within the Los Angeles Basin, nestled against the Santa Monica Mountains, its weather is a study in subtle shifts and specific regional phenomena that distinguish it from the nearby beach or the inland valleys.
The Daily Rhythm
In Hollywood, the day often begins with a cool, crisp air that quickly warms as the sun climbs over the Hollywood Hills.
- Mornings: Early hours can be surprisingly cool, even in summer, due to the residual night air.
- Afternoons: This is when the heat peaks, typically between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
- Evenings: Once the sun sets, the temperature drops rapidly. Locals refer to this as "desert cooling," where a 20-30 degree Fahrenheit swing between day and night is common.
Seasonal Trends
Summer (June – August)
Summers are warm and almost entirely rain-free. While coastal areas stay cool, Hollywood—located further inland—retains more heat.
- Typical Weather: Clear blue skies and sunshine.
- The Heat Factor: Highs usually hover in the mid-80s°F (29°C), but heatwaves can push temperatures above 100°F (38°C).
- Atmosphere: The air is dry, meaning the heat rarely feels "heavy" or oppressive, but the sun is intense.
Fall (September – November)
Fall is often the most unpredictable season. It can be the hottest time of the year due to specific wind events.
- Santa Ana Winds: These "Devil Winds" are a signature Hollywood phenomenon. They are hot, dry winds that blow from the inland deserts toward the coast.
- What it feels like: During a Santa Ana event, humidity drops to near zero, the air feels electric and parched, and visibility becomes exceptionally clear.
Winter (December – February)
Winters are mild and represent the region's only true "rainy season."
- Atmosphere: Daylight is shorter, and the air feels "crisp." Most rain falls in short, heavy bursts from Pacific storms rather than long, drizzly days.
- Temperatures: Daytime highs stay in the mid-60s°F (18°C), but nights can dip into the mid-40s°F (7°C).
Spring (March – May)
Spring is famously identified by a phenomenon known as "May Gray."
- The Marine Layer: As the inland areas heat up, they pull cool, moist air from the Pacific Ocean over the city.
- Visuals: This creates a thick blanket of low clouds and fog that usually "burns off" by early afternoon. It leaves the morning feeling damp and cool, even if the afternoon becomes warm.
Microclimates and Variations
Hollywood’s topography creates distinct weather pockets.
- The Hills vs. The Flatlands: If you are hiking up to the Hollywood Sign or Griffith Observatory, it will likely be 5-7 degrees cooler and windier than it is on Hollywood Boulevard.
- The Sea Breeze Barrier: While Santa Monica may be shrouded in fog, Hollywood’s distance from the coast often allows it to remain sunny. However, if the marine layer is deep enough, it will flow through the Cahuenga Pass, bringing a sudden chill to the area.
Local Perspective and Adaptation
Angelenos in Hollywood treat weather as a "layering" Challenge. Because the sun provides significant radiant heat, standing in the shade can feel 10 degrees cooler than standing in direct sunlight. Locals are highly attuned to the Air Quality Index (AQI), as the geography of the basin can occasionally trap hazy air against the mountains, especially during late summer.