Where Is the Best Weather in California? 17 Lovely Cities
If you’re looking for a getaway to somewhere with great weather, look no further than California! On any given day in the Golden State, there is usually a variety of climates and temperatures to choose from. From sunny beaches along the coast to snow-capped mountains in the Sierras – you can always find what you need for a perfect vacation that fits your idea of great weather. So where should you go for the best weather in California? Here are some of the top spots for reliable sunshine and a temperate climate.
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Some of the best weather in California is found in San Diego!
🏨 Best place to stay: Pendry San Diego
Why California Has Some of the Best Weather in the World
There are many reasons why California has some of the best weather in the world! With its five major climate types, each region in California can provide you with whatever kind of atmosphere you’re looking for. Whether you prefer a dry, desert feel, cool interior, highland climate, steppe climate, or the preferred of many… the Mediterranean climate.
You name it, California has it all!
The slogan of California is “it’s always sunny and 75°F” and while that’s certainly NOT always true, you will find it’s darn close to that in many parts of the state.
Not only that, but most of the main cities in California stay temperate year-round; rarely dipping below freezing. All these factors combined make for an unbeatable combination when it comes to perfect weather!
What Part of California Has the Best Weather
California is known for its great weather, but everyone seems to have an opinion about which part of the state has the best climate. In my opinion, the southern California coast has the most ideal weather – sunny and warm days with gentle ocean breezes.
Many people enjoy the slightly cooler climate of northern coastal California or the more varied seasons the mountains provide as well. Overall, the unique combination of sunny oceanfront weather and cool mountain temperatures make California a truly unbeatable destination.
What Part of California Has the Warmest Weather Year-Round?
A handful of places stay warm all year in California. Anaheim (Orange County) has the warmest December average at 71°F (22°C). For more of a winter vacation spot, Palm Springs averages 73°F (23°C) in the winter. Some of the “hottest” cities in California include Sacramento, Redding, Fresno, and Bakersfield with average year-round highs of 72°F (22°C) to 77°F (25°C).
For the warmest beach escape with balmy temperatures all year long, head to San Diego. With an average December temperature of 64°F (18°C) and a sea breeze to temper the hot summer days, this southern city is a great place to escape anytime you need a break from cold winter weather.
Not only is San Diego home to some of the best winter beaches in California, but it also offers plenty of activities that can be thoroughly enjoyed any day of the year.
What Part of California Has the Coolest Summers?
Coastal northern California stays cool during the summer with many grey and foggy summer days. San Francisco has an average summer high temperature of 68°F (20°C) – making it perfect for those who prefer cool summers that are still warm enough to enjoy being outside!
What Time of Year Has the Best Weather in California?
The best time of year to visit California for warm beach weather is July through September. Fall has especially lovely weather as it’s often still warm out but cooling down and the ocean is at its warmest. Most of the central and southern California coast has a mild, Mediterranean climate year-round.
If you enjoy cold weather, the winter months of December, January, and February will be cooler and rainier across the state with parts of California even getting snow up in the mountains.
>>> Does it snow in southern California? Find out here!
Top 17 Cities in California With the Best Weather
Places With Warm and Mild Year-Round Weather in California
1. San Diego
Average Summer Temperature: 75°F (24°C) – 65°F (18°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 66°F (19°C) – 50°F (10°F)
Average Annual Rainfall: 10in (254mm) on the coast and 33in (838mm) in the inland mountains
Average Annual Sunny Days: 146 (117 partly cloudy)
🏨 Best place to stay: Pendry San Diego
San Diego’s beautiful weather makes it one of the top cities in California! The summers are enjoyably warm, sunny, and dry. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy spending time outside and cooling off in the ocean.
On the contrary, winters are generally milder with cooler temperatures and much higher chances of rainfall. However, even the winters are warm and comfortable in comparison to many other locations.
The warmest ocean waters in California can be found here as the water tends to be much warmer down south and gradually becomes cooler as you head north. This makes San Diego a perfect spot for ocean enthusiasts – snorkelers, surfers, kayakers, you name it!
2. Laguna Hills
Average Summer Temperature: 80°F (27°C) – 61°F (16°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 69°F (20.5°C) – 46°F (8°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 14in (355.6mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 281
🏨 Best place to stay: Ayres Hotel Laguna Woods
If you’re looking for some great weather, Laguna Hills is a wonderful place to be! The summers here are sunny and warm, but relatively short. Winters tend to be cool and breezy with plenty of clouds in the sky. It’s almost always the perfect combination of blue skies and puffy white clouds!
While it stays a bit warmer inland during the summers, you can always cool off by heading to Laguna Beach or Dana Point to take a dip in the ocean waters.
3. Manhattan Beach (South Bay)
Average Summer Temperature: 75°F (24°C) – 62°F (17°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 68°F (20°C) – 48°F (9°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 14in (355.6mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 286
🏨 Best place to stay: Shade Hotel
Manhattan Beach, CA is a beautiful place to visit year-round! The weather is temperate and pleasant for the most part. In summer, the days are usually sunny and warm with low humidity.
During winter months, the temperatures are a bit cooler with occasional rain or fog. The warm summers are great for enjoying the beach while the cool winters are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking.
>>> Detailed post on the best hotels in Manhattan Beach, found HERE
4. Napa Valley
Average Summer Temperature: 91°F (33°C) – 55°F (13°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 57°F (14°C) – 36°F (2°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 27in (686mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 260
🏨 Best place to stay: Auberge du Soleil
The beautiful Napa Valley is known for its amazing wine and lush vineyards, but it’s also home to some wonderful weather! In the summertime, you can expect long days of warmth with little humidity. The skies are mostly clear, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
It’s not uncommon during winter in Napa Valley for cloudy days or fog to roll through, giving a soft touch to the landscape. Temperatures can cool down quickly as the sun sets and an extra layer may be needed at night. All in all, Napa Valley is a great place that enjoys plenty of sunshine no matter what season.
>>> Related Post: Where to Stay in Napa Valley on a Budget
5. Santa Monica
Average Summer Temperature: 70°F (21°C) – 62°F 17°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 64°F (18°C) – 51°F (10.5°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 13in (330mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 281
🏨 Best place to stay: Shutters on the Beach
Santa Monica is known for its beautiful and consistent weather all year round. It’s usually sunny, with temperatures ranging from balmy to crisp depending on the season. During the winter months, temperatures are mild and cool, perfect for a stroll along the boardwalk or some shopping on the Third Street Promenade! In the summer, it warms up but still stays fairly mild which is great to escape the heat of Los Angeles.
6. Catalina Island
Average Summer Temperature: 74°F (23°C) – 59°F (15°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 63°F (17°C) – 48°F (9°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 12in (305mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 278
🏨 Best place to stay: Hotel Atwater
Catalina Island, located off the coast of southern California, has mild and pleasant weather year-round. With plenty of sunshine, gentle seasonal winds, and near-perfect temperatures all day long, Catalina Island is a paradise for those seeking a warm and comfortable escape.
Whether you want to take advantage of its stunning beaches (and world-renowned snorkeling and diving!), explore its wild and rugged terrain, or just relax under the balmy sun, there’s something here that will please everyone.
❗️Psst… make sure to book your ferry ticket in advance >>> HERE❗️
Hottest Cities in California
7. Palm Springs
Average Summer Temperature: 106°F (41°C) – 77°F (25°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 73°F (23°C) – 46°F (8°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 5in (127mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 354
🏨 Best place to stay: Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis
With year-round sunshine, Palm Springs is a desert oasis located in southern California and the weather here is HOT! Even during the winter months, you will find warm temperatures and sun. This makes it perfect for spending days poolside or hopping between air-conditioned restaurants and shopping centers. It’s gorgeous year-round and a favorite winter escape from LA and the cooler beach cities.
8. Los Angeles
Average Summer Temperature: 82°F (28°C) – 63°F (17°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 68°F (20°C) – 50°F (10°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 15in (381mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 275
🏨 Best place to stay: SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills
The weather in Los Angeles is usually sunny and beautiful. During the summer months, temperatures can get surprisingly hot – up to the high nineties some days with very low humidity. But on the more coastal side of the city, the cooling ocean breezes from the nearby Pacific often make it feel a bit more comfortable. Winters are mild and pleasant, although every now and then there is a chance of rain.
>>> RELATED POSTS:
When Is the Best Time to Visit LA?
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9. Sacramento
Average Summer Temperature: 92°F (33°C) – 60°F (15.5°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 58°F (14°C) – 42°F (5.5)°C
Average Annual Rainfall: 18.5 (470mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 269
🏨 Best place to stay: Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
The capital city of Sacramento is famous for its mild, balanced weather. It’s a great place to visit throughout the year! Summers in Sacramento are usually hot and sunny, but there are plenty of indoor places to escape the heat for a bit. Winters are cool, but you won’t find snow in this region since Sacramento is still considered part of the Mediterranean climate zone.
Spring and fall seasons can vary a bit depending on where you’re located, with areas closer to the Sierra Nevada Mountain foothills often experiencing more rainfall during those months. Overall, no matter the season Sacramento remains fairly comfortable and enjoyable.
Cities With Cool, Mild Weather Year-Round
10. Santa Barbara
Average Summer Temperature: 75°F (24°C) – 58°F (14°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 65°F (18°C) – 56°F (13°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 16in (406mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 283
🏨 Best place to stay: Kimpton Canary Hotel
Santa Barbara is blessed with picture-perfect weather all year round! You can enjoy sunny, warm temperatures in the summer, and throughout the winter months, you will still experience mild temperatures.
At night, be sure to bring an extra layer as temperatures do dip down into the 40s. Rain can be expected during the colder months from November through March. Santa Barbara residents are lucky enough to take advantage of their beautiful beaches and outdoor activities nearly every day!
>>> Related Post: 15 Best Santa Barbara Surf Spots
11. Monterey Bay
Average Summer Temperature: 64°F (18°C) – 53°F (12°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 61°F (16°C) – 45°F (7°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 18.5 (470mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 267
🏨 Best place to stay: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
The weather in Monterey Bay is perfect for those who enjoy the coast but don’t love the heat. The temperature does not vary much throughout the year, staying mild and cool through the summer and winter. The wind often brings an additional coastal chill, especially during the winter, so be sure to bring some light layers!
The rain begins to pick up in spring, which makes it the perfect time for wildflowers and other greenery to start filling the landscape. All in all, Monterey Bay provides lovely weather year-round.
12. Santa Cruz
Average Summer Temperature: 74°F (23°C) – 53°F (12°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 62°F (17°C) – 41°F (5°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 33in (838mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 262
🏨 Best place to stay: Dream Inn
Santa Cruz is a beautiful place to visit regardless of the season. The weather in Santa Cruz is known for being mild and sunny all year round, with summer temperatures typically staying cool with a few stretches of warm days. It’s one of the warmer coastal cities in northern California while staying comfortable and not too humid or too dry all year.
13. San Francisco
Average Summer Temperature: 72°F (22)°C – 65°F (18°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 59°F (15°C) – 47°F (8°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 24in (610mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 259
🏨 Best place to stay: Fairmont San Francisco
San Francisco is known for its diverse weather and microclimates, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in the United States. Most days are characterized by sunny skies and mild temperatures, but you can find plenty of variety between the foggy mornings on one side of town to the warm summer afternoons in another part of the city.
Aside from the typical seasons, San Francisco also enjoys a couple of surprise showers throughout the year. It’s no wonder people say, “The coldest winter I ever experienced was a summer in San Francisco!”
California Cities With Cold Winters and Warm Summers
14. Big Bear
Average Summer Temperature: 79°F (26°C) – 46°F (8°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 47°F (8°C) – 22°F (-5.5°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 21in (533mm)
Average Annual Snowfall: 120in (3m)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 285
🏨 Best place to stay: Bluegreen The Club at Big Bear Village
Big Bear, a mountain town in southern California, is an amazing destination to visit year-round for those who like some variety in their weather. In winter, Big Bear offers some excellent skiing and snowboarding – perfect for those who enjoy hitting the slopes.
When the weather warms up, Big Bear’s breathtaking lake comes alive with a variety of lake activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and even just relaxing on a boat while soaking in the stunning scenery. No matter which season you choose to visit Big Bear, you’ll be sure to find something enjoyable to do!
15. Tahoe
Average Summer Temperature: 78°F (25.5°C) – 48°F (9°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 44°F (7°C) – 26°F (-3°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 52.5in (1m)
Average Annual Snowfall: 408in (10m)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 249
🏨 Best place to stay: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa And Casino
The weather in Tahoe can vary drastically depending on the time of year and elevation. In the summer months, you can expect warm temperatures during the day, while nights stay relatively cool.
Wintertime in Tahoe brings a different kind of beauty to the region with temperatures dropping significantly lower and frequent snowfall. Similar to Big Bear, you can enjoy being out on the lake during the summer and a snowy winter wonderland in the winter. With such diverse weather conditions throughout the year, Tahoe is truly a place for any season.
16. Mammoth
Average Summer Temperature: 76°F (24°C) – 46°F (8°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 41°F (5°C) – 17°F (-8°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 15in (381mm)
Average Annual Snowfall: 288in (7m)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 275
🏨 Best place to stay: The Village Lodge Mammoth
The weather in Mammoth is a true spectacle. During the winter, you can expect pristine white snow and brisk cold temperatures, perfect for skiing and snowboarding (arguably the best place to do so in California!). In the springtime, temperatures gradually start to warm up while still allowing for opportunities to get out on the slopes as the longer days make winter sportsmen’s dreams come true.
The summer brings with it warmer alpine temperatures and plenty of sunshine which makes Mammoth a great spot to camp or take a hike. And autumn means gorgeous changing foliage in addition to equally beautiful scenery amongst the oak trees of the Eastern Sierra Nevadas.
17. Yosemite
Average Summer Temperature: 89°F (32°C) – 55°F (13°C)
Average Winter Temperature: 50°F (10°C) – 28°F (-2°C)
Average Annual Rainfall: 36.5in (930mm)
Average Annual Snowfall: 29in (737mm)
Average Annual Sunny Days: 268
🏨 Best place to stay: The Ahwahnee
Yosemite is a popular national park in northern California and as such, the weather and natural beauty are absolutely breathtaking! During the summer months, temperatures can reach into the mid-80s and sunny skies are common. Spring and fall can offer more moderate temperatures and chances of precipitation.
The winter season brings with it cool breezes and some moderate, but breathtaking snowfall. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, the dry air that is typical of this area gives a refreshing feeling. It’s no wonder why parkgoers flock to Yosemite year-round to enjoy its stunning landscapes!
FAQs About Weather in California
While California weather is often referred to as “sunny and 75°” year-round, that’s actually not entirely the case. California and Hawaii are about as close as you can get to a state that stays 70°F year-round, but California has a diverse range of climates, with temperatures varying depending on location and time of year.
It’s subjective to determine which state has the nicest weather, as people have different preferences and priorities. However, based on factors such as mild temperatures, low humidity, and plentiful sunshine, California, Hawaii, and Florida are often considered to have some of the best weather in the United States.
Many places in California can have temperatures of 80°F or higher, especially during the summer months. Some areas that frequently experience such temperatures include the Central Valley, Palm Springs, and parts of Southern California, such as Los Angeles and San Diego. However, specific temperatures and weather conditions can vary widely based on location and time of year.
The warmest place in California year-round is typically the southeastern portion of the state, which includes the Mojave and Colorado deserts. Places like Palm Springs and Death Valley often have high temperatures above 100°F during the summer months and relatively mild winters, making them some of the warmest locations in the state.
Several cities in California are implementing climate-resilient strategies to address the impacts of climate change. Examples include San Francisco and San Jose, which have adopted a comprehensive climate action plan, and Los Angeles, which is investing in renewable energy and increasing urban green space. Other cities, such as Santa Cruz and San Diego, are also taking steps to improve their climate resilience.
Some cities that are known for having cooler temperatures and likely have never hit 100 degrees include Eureka and Crescent City, which are located on or near the northern coast and benefit from ocean breezes and fog.
California’s low humidity levels are due to its location on the West Coast and the influence of the Pacific Ocean. The ocean’s cool waters and prevailing westerly winds help regulate the state’s temperatures and keep humidity levels relatively low, particularly along the coast. Inland areas can experience higher temperatures and lower humidity but still tend to be less humid than other regions of the country.
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CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!
Regardless of what you’re looking for in a climate, California is the place to be. Because of the state’s large size, you can find whatever weather suits your fancy somewhere within its borders. So whether you long for eternal sunshine or love cold and foggy weather – California has it all!
Still not sure where exactly is calling your name? Perhaps you need to take a Pacific Coast Highway road trip to experience it all! OR, feel free to reach out via email for advice on planning your dream California trip! janelle@makethetripmatter.com
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☀️ California FAQs ☀️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Vrbo
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals
