Weather in Orange County, CA

Orange County weather year-round

Southern California's treasure and favorite tourist destination, Orange County is home to scenic beaches, magnificent parks, and legendary attractions such as Disneyland and California Adventures. You will be impressed by the countless regional and wilderness parks in Santa Ana Valley offering opportunities for hiking and connecting with nature.

Given the Orange County weather forecast, this part of California has an almost perfect climate with an average of 300 sunny days a year and mild temperatures ranging from 45°F at night to 85°F during the day, giving travelers ample opportunity to enjoy year-round relaxation.

Moreover, the proximity of beaches, jungles, and mountains within only a few hours’ drive allows you to experience all climate peculiarities in a single day. In Orange County, the summers are usually short, warm, and cloudless and the winters are long, cool, and wet.

Weather forecast for Orange County, CA

The weather in Orange County is quite changeable. Thus, use the weather forecast table to plan your activity during your stay in the Santa Ana Valley. If you want to know the weather in Orange County today, check the table below. If you are intending to visit the Pacific coast in the coming days, below you will also find the report of Orange County weather this week.

Average temperatures in Orange County

The location between the Pacific Ocean in the southwest and the Santa Ana Mountains in the southeast determines significant fluctuations in the temperature regime during the year. You will find average air and water temperatures in Orange County below.

Air temperatures

Those who want to catch the warmest days, head to Orange County from the beginning of July. The warmest period there lasts for 3 months, until the end of September. At this time the temperature is set at a comfortable level of 70-81°F (21-27°C).

Meanwhile, August is the hottest month of the year in Orange County, with an average high of 85°F (29°C) and a low of 65°F (18°C). Given the current weather in Orange County, the coldest period lasts from late November to the end of March. The average daily temperature is 50-65°F (10-18°C). The lowest temperatures are fixed in December, with an average low of 45°F (7°C) and a high of 68°F (20°C).

Water temperatures

Ocean temperature in Southern California undergoes some seasonal variation throughout the year. The Orange County weather conditions in summer allow you to fully enjoy swimming on the coast of the Pacific. Thus, if you prefer water activities, go on a trip in August, when the average water temperature is set at 69°F (20.5°C).

The period with the warmest water lasts in Orange for three months, from early July to early October, with an average temperature above 67°F (19°C). February is the month with the coldest ocean when the temperature of the Pacific is set at 57-59°F (14-15°C).

Sunny days in Orange County, CA

Orange County differs in the largest number of sunny days in the US. On average, there are 278 sunny days a year in the county, while the US average is 205 days.

The weather in Orange County in April is notable for the beginning of the sunniest and clearest period of the year, which lasts six months. The shortest day is fixed on December 21 and the longest is on June 21 with 14,5 hours of sunshine.

Cloudy weather in Orange County, California

In Orange County, cloudiness experiences substantial seasonal alteration during the year.

During September, the sky is clear or mostly clear 90% of the time. Other cloudless months are May, June, July, August, and October. The largest number of days when the sky is covered with clouds is observed in February (the sky is overcast 40% of the time). The cloudiest season begins in November and lasts for half a year.

Rainy season in Orange County

The Orange County weather in October changes, opening the rainy season which runs until the end of April. Thus, do not forget to put an umbrella in your suitcase if you intend to go on a trip to California at this time.

February is the month with the highest average rainfall (3.0 inches). The probability of catching the rain in July is almost zero. The rainless period of the year is observed from the end of April till the end of October.

What is the best time to visit Orange County, California?

The South Coast of California is a perfect four-season destination. Mild year-round temperatures and splendid sandy beaches make this place an excellent choice for a getaway at any time of year. Based on the tourists' estimates of the weather for Orange County, CA, starting from late May to the first half of October is the best time to visit it for active tourism.

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Winter weather in Orange County

Winter holidays are one of the most magical times of the year in Southern California. The temperature remains relatively warm during the day. It makes this area a perfect escape from the cold of many other regions during this season. You can fully enjoy outdoor activities and experience all the natural wonders Orange County has to offer such as hiking, biking, horse riding, yoga, or riding on a Duffy Boat.

Winter Holiday Events in Orange County will delight you with plenty of amazing events with visits from Santa, fallen snow, or the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. The Orange County weather in January is cloudy and wet with a high level of precipitation.

Spring activities in Orange County, CA

If you are searching for a quiet getaway, consider visiting Orange County in spring. This “secret season” brags fewer crowds and beautiful weather with average high temperatures of 70-74°F (21-23°C). This time is perfect for lovers of outdoor leisure like mountain hiking. You can also visit world-famous theme parks like Disney California Adventure Park, Disneyland, or Knott's Berry Farm. The fine spring weather in Anaheim, CA, opens the door for merry Easter events and festivals. Don'‎t miss the chance to visit the annual Dana Point Festival of Whales in March, the Laguna Beach Music Festival, and the Garden Fest.

Summer in Orange County

Summer is a high tourist season in all coastal areas, including Orange County. Air temperatures rarely rise above 82°F (28°C), which makes summer an excellent time for spending long days outdoors.

The mild Newport Beach weather and warm ocean temperature allow travelers to try Newport Beach surfing. It is one of the best must-try activities in California. More experienced surfers will be excited by shredding The Wedge. This famous stretch on the Balboa Peninsula cranks out 30-foot waves, so this place is only suited for professional surfers.

Besides water activities, you can take pleasure in the Festival of Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach, the Arts in Laguna Beach, and a Splash Pad. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the Orange County beach weather by visiting the Summer Orange County fair with cooking demonstrations and live performances.

Orange County in autumn

Autumn is another great time to visit Orange County for a quiet enjoyable break. During the fall, tourism winds down, but the weather remains comfortable. Thus, until November, you can enjoy sunny and cloudless days without rain. It'‎s also a great season to enjoy family-friendly activities and a quiet Newport Beach Thanksgiving!

TOP tourist spots in Orange County, California

Orange County is deservedly considered to be one of the state'‎s most iconic destinations, attracting more than 75 million travelers a year. Whether it i‎s stunning beach towns, celebrated theme parks, or majestic mountains, Southern California will offer you plenty of relaxation spots at any time of the year.

• Santa Ana, the place of cultural enrichment and world-famous art exhibits, is the closest city to John Wayne Airport. The best Santa Ana weather conditions are observed in winter and spring. Consider visiting Santa Ana in March, April, May, or August to catch warm, sunny, and rainless days.

• Disneyland Resort is the legendary theme park in Anaheim which is a real fairy tale and the biggest dream for families around the world. The best periods to visit Disneyland are March through May and September through October when the Anaheim weather is mild and comfortable, and school is still in session. In summer and during major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, Disneyland fills in crowds of tourists.
• Newport Beach offers countless spots for nature lovers, such as Crystal Cove State Park, the spectacular Wadge harbor, or Whale Watching experience. Those who are searching for a night of exceptional food, stunning views, and romantic music, will enjoy the Premier Dinner Cruise from Newport Beach. You can also go on a segway or helicopter tour, or wine-tasting excursion. The best time for visiting this coastal city is from July through September. The weather at Newport Beach is the warmest in summer, allowing travelers to take pleasure in swimming for days on end.