Santa Monica Weather: Foggy Mornings? Freezing Nights? Not Quite.

Despite its coastal location, Santa Monica doesn't fit the "foggy and freezing" stereotype. Its Mediterranean climate delivers mild, sunny days and cool—but not cold—nights year-round.

Typical Patterns

• Morning marine layer: May–August ("June Gloom") brings low clouds/fog until 10 AM–1 PM. Burns off to sun. Not daily; not all neighborhoods.
• Daytime highs: 65–75°F (18–24°C) most days. Rarely above 85°F or below 60°F.
• Nighttime lows: 50–60°F (10–16°C). Almost never freezes (last freeze: 1949).
• Rain: November–March (12–15" annually). Dry April–October.

Microclimates Matter

Beach (Santa Monica Pier, Will Rogers): Coolest, foggiest, windiest.
Inland (Montana Ave, Brentwood, West LA): Warmer, sunnier, less marine influence.
Canyons (Topanga, Pacific Palisades): Wider day/night swings, more fog retention.

Bottom Line

Pack layers, not parkas. A light jacket suffices for evenings. The "foggy and very cold" description fits San Francisco or London better. Santa Monica is gentle—one reason it's been a lifestyle magnet for a century.