Business Casual
White Linen Blazer Day
A white linen blazer over matching wide-leg linen trousers and a blue collarless blouse stays entirely polished through warm rain. Slide sandals and gold aviators make it feel like summer despite the drizzle.
What to Wear in Long Beach in January
January in Long Beach averages 48–65°F — mild Southern California winter with cool, marine-influenced nights and pleasant afternoons along the Shoreline Aquatic Park and the Queen Mary waterfront. A medium-weight jacket or light coat handles the range from 48°F mornings to 65°F afternoons; about 6 days bring rain, usually as Pacific systems that move through within 24–48 hours. The marine layer is more persistent in January than in summer, often keeping mornings overcast through mid-morning.
What to wear
top / Short-Sleeve Top
classic tee
bottom / Jeans
straight-leg
chinos for a slightly smarter look
footwear / Waterproof Boots
ankle boots
rubber sole for traction — keep feet dry all day
outerwear / Rain Jacket
shell jacket
waterproof or DWR-treated — keep it packable
Consider bringing:
UmbrellaSunglasses
Based on typical January conditions in Long Beach. Weather varies year to year — check the live forecast when you're within two weeks of your trip.
Long Beach's January is the quiet, mild off-season that locals prefer — the summer's beach crowds are absent, the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Queen Mary waterfront are accessible without peak-season lines, and the mild marine air keeps temperatures in a comfortable 48–65°F range. The marine layer rolls in from the Pacific overnight and often lingers through mid-morning before burning off to reveal clear afternoon skies. About 6 days bring rain, arriving as Pacific systems that track through relatively quickly. The local beach-casual SoCal style tendency modulates only slightly in January — light jeans replace shorts, a denim jacket or bomber gives way to a medium-weight jacket or light puffer, and ankle boots or sneakers serve where sandals might in summer. The 17°F daily swing from cool mornings to mild afternoons rewards layering over single heavy pieces; the coastal marine air makes the 48°F mornings feel damper than the same temperature inland.
Curated Looks
Casual
Linen Under Rain Jacket
A black rain jacket over ivory linen trousers refuses to look sloppy in warm rain. Espadrilles and a crochet bucket hat keep the warm-weather mood alive below the waterline.
Chic
Blush Jacket Tortoise
A blush cropped jacket over a white linen blouse and ivory wide-leg trousers refuses to look heavy in warm rain. Tortoiseshell cat-eye sunglasses are the editorial punctuation.
Cozy
Parka and the Ivory Mules
A black longline parka over a crewneck sweatshirt in warm rain has a deliberateness that works. Ivory satin mules and a cream beanie are the contrasts that make it.
Cute
Double Denim Rainy Day
A light wash denim jacket over a denim mini skirt makes a strong case for double denim in warm rain. The black square neck top underneath adds structure.
Formal
Black Blazer Pleated Rain
A black blazer over an ivory blouse and pleated maxi skirt in warm rain is complete formal coverage. Black mule heels are the practical formal choice when espadrilles are off the table.
Sporty
Yellow Jacket Biker
A yellow hooded rain jacket over biker shorts and a longline tee handles warm rain with high-visibility attitude. Ivory pointed-toe mules are the surprising finishing note.
Packing List
What to Pack for Long Beach in January →
Other Months in Long Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear in Long Beach in January?+
A medium-weight jacket or light coat handles the range from 48°F marine-influenced mornings to 65°F sunny afternoons. Layer a light sweater or long-sleeve underneath for flexibility. Comfortable sneakers or ankle boots work for the Shoreline Aquatic Park promenade and the East Village Arts District's walkable streets. A light rain jacket covers the occasional Pacific shower without adding significant bulk.
Is January a good time to visit Long Beach?+
January is one of Long Beach's quietest and most underrated months. The Aquarium of the Pacific is accessible without summer lines, the Queen Mary waterfront and Museum of Latin American Art are uncrowded, and hotel rates reflect the off-peak season. The beach isn't swimming weather, but the Shoreline path and Belmont Shore's walkable Second Street are pleasant on dry, mild afternoons. Pacific rain systems can interrupt outdoor plans for 24–48 hours at a time.
What shoes are best for Long Beach in January?+
Comfortable sneakers or waterproof ankle boots handle the Shoreline Aquatic Park promenade, the Belmont Shore's Second Street walkable strip, and the East Village Arts District's flat, urban blocks. A waterproof sneaker or treated leather ankle boot handles the occasional Pacific rain day without sacrificing the comfort needed for higher-mileage walking days along the waterfront.
How cool does it get in Long Beach in January?+
Overnight lows average 48°F — noticeably cool in the marine-influenced coastal air, which feels damper than the same temperature inland. Daytime highs reach 65°F when the marine layer burns off, which happens reliably by midday on most January days. About 6 days bring measurable rain, typically as Pacific systems that move through within 24–48 hours. The marine layer keeps mornings gray and cool even on days without formal rain.
What should I pack for Long Beach in January?+
Pack light layers: a medium-weight jacket, light jeans, long-sleeve tops, a sweater or light fleece, and comfortable sneakers or ankle boots. A compact rain jacket handles the 6 rainy days without the bulk of a full winter coat. Sunscreen is still worth carrying for the clear afternoons when the marine layer burns off — Southern California's UV index stays moderate even in January on bright days.