Las Vegas Weather in March: Essential Climate Guide

Introduction

March is an excellent time to visit Las Vegas. Temperatures are warming rapidly this month and in fact, half the month is usually 70F/21C or better. But remember, nights will still be chilly in the 40s and 50s (4C-15C). Winter rains are lessening but there are still about three days this month with measurable rain. Hotel pools begin to open toward the latter half of the month but the water temperature me yet be what you’re looking for. Check with your hotel to see if they are open yet. Spring break doesn’t hit Las Vegas quite as hard as say Florida, but there is definitely an increase in visitors. March madness basketball adds to that as well. Fortunately, spring break weeks are different all across America but it still ranks as the busiest month of the year. In this post I will detail what to expect when you visit Las Vegas in March.

Be sure to see how I ranked this month for best month to visit at the end!

Quick Stats

• 5th coldest month

• 4th wettest month

• The first 80F (27C) day averages March 17th.

• Normal highs range from 67F-75F (19C-24C)

• 3 days of rain

• Warmest ever 93F (34C) - Coldest ever 19F (-7C)

• Most rain in a day 1.20”

• Most snow in a day 0.1”. Only once in history.

• Busiest month* (Source: LVCVA Research Center)

Temperatures

As an average, March is the closest month to most people’s ideal comfort level. The mean high temperature for the month is a mild 71F/22C. Highs range from 67F/19C to start the month, to 75F/24C at the end. This is statistically the first month with a high of 80F/27C or better - and on average this occurs March 17th. The warmer temperatures and spring break coming means hotels begin to open their pools, although the water will still be very cold and personally I would never jump in it. There are 16 days that are 70F/21C or better so this is perfect weather for outdoor activities. In fact, this is the month I recommend if you plan on doing some hiking at Valley of Fire State Park or Red Rock Canyon. Mornings will be cool but warm nicely by afternoon. The sun is strong by now so don’t forget get hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

I find the best way to get a feel for the weather is by looking at what happened in a previous year. Here is the latest actual March temperatures (2024).

While it didn’t get to 80F/27C this year in March, there were still 8 days above 70F/21C. But overall it was a well below normal month. And the first 80F/27C day did occur in the first week of April. This goes to show you to plan for both shorts and sweater weather.

Rainfall

Rain does still occur in March but the amounts are usually less. But it’s still the 4th wettest month of the year. It’s quite rare to see two days in a row of rain, so if you are unlucky enough to get a wet day, chances are it won’t be again during your trip. Still, check the weather before you go to see if you may need to bring an umbrella one day.

If you’re driving or renting a car in Las Vegas and the forecast calls for rain, know two things:

1. Las Vegas drivers are always caught off guard when the roads are wet.

2. Oil from cars builds up on the roads. When it rains, the roads become very slick from the oil. Slow down and give extra space to the car in front of you.

Snow

Basically, snow is done for the Strip. The higher parts of the city, for example Summerlin or Red Rock, may still see a dusting of snow. Further outside of town, winter weather may still be a threat, especially if you’re headed to Mt. Charleston for spring skiing. For more information about snow in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas, check out my blog post on that topic below.

What To Pack

• Long-sleeve shirts for the cooler days. Shorts and t-shirts are good if it’s going to be warm.

• Remember it can still be chilly from dusk to dawn and you may need a jacket and long pants.

• Leave scarves, hats, and gloves at home unless you plan to visit Mt. Charleston.

• Reusable water bottle

• Time to think about sun protection. Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen become essential in March - especially if you will be at the pool.

• Umbrella or rain jacket if the forecast calls for rain. Finding an umbrella on the Strip after its already started to rain can be difficult.

• Comfortable shoes are a must. Las Vegas involves a lot of walking, especially along the Strip. Comfortable shoes are essential to prevent getting tired and blisters.

• With pools opening this month, swimwear may be necessary. The water will be pretty cold still with temperatures dropping overnight. But some of the resorts have heated pools including: The Venetian Resort, Caesars Palace, The Mirage, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, Aria Resort & Casino The Cosmopolitan, The Wynn, The Palazzo at The Venetian Resort, MGM Grand. Not all the pools at these locations will be heated.

Don’t Forget These Other Things:

• A portable charger. I know from experience if you forget one it’s gonna cost you an exorbitant amount to replace it if you have to buy it on the Strip.

• Remember to pack your necessary medications as well as personal care items like toiletries, hand sanitizer, and lip balm.

• Don't forget to bring your ID, credit cards, travel insurance information, and any other essential documents you may need for your trip. Seems obvious but I’ve done it.

Sunrise/Sunset

Sunrise on March 1st starts at 6:10 AM. By the end of the month the sunrise is 6:27 AM. Sunset at the beginning of the month is 5:36 PM and by the end is 7:02 PM. Remember Daylight Savings Time starts this month so clocks will move forward one hour and you will have more daylight in the evening. There is about 12 hours of daylight each day. Remember, Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone - same as Los Angeles.

Sunset over the Las Vegas Strip

Safety Tips

Most of these tips are for those of you who will venture off the strip to nearby parks for hiking or biking.

1. Stay hydrated: The desert is dry! Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, even if it’s a little cool. And remember alcohol adds to dehydration.

2. Dress in layers: Cool weather in the mornings or evenings may mean you need an outer layer such as a sweatshirt. When the sun comes out and it warms up, usually a t-shirt is fine.

3. Protect against sun exposure: The sun can be intense in the desert. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re hiking. I’d also recommend a hat.

4. Exercise caution on the roads: If it rain road conditions may become slick due to oil buildup from weeks without rain.

5. Check weather forecasts: Stay informed about current weather conditions and forecasts to plan your activities accordingly and avoid unexpected weather-related surprises, especially if you are driving to Las Vegas.

Planning to visit Death Valley?

Check out my weather guide for Death Valley.

Conclusion

The weather in March really begins to shape up. Occasionally, there may be some chilly days, but by the end of the month the pools open and pleasant weather is common. This is the best month for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or golf. Half the month is above 70F/21C but with cool mornings and evenings. Occasionally, a storm will come in from the Pacific bringing beneficial rains to the desert and surprising many tourists. But these wet days are few and far between and usually never last more than one day. Just remember this is the busiest month of the year.

My Rank For Best Month To Visit Las Vegas: 2nd