Las Vegas Weather in April: Essential Climate Guide

Introduction

April is the best time to visit Las Vegas! Temperatures are warm and pools are in full swing. But it’s not too hot yet. This month sees the first 90F /32C on average by the 18th, but most days are in the 75F to 82F (24C-28C) range. Nights warm rapidly, often not getting below 60F, especially in the last 10 years. A few chilly days do still occur so don’t forget to bring a jacket or sweatshirt if it’s expected to be cool one day. Rain becomes more rare in April with usually only two days expected to be wet. Even it does rain, it will probably be pretty light and not last long. Spring break crowds have subside during the month as well. In this post I will detail what to expect when you visit Las Vegas in April.

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

Pink Cadillac in front of the Stratosphere Las Vegas

Pink Cadillac in front of the Stratosphere

Quick Stats

  • 3rd driest month

  • Temperatures not in the top 5 warmest or coldest

  • The first 90F (32C) day averages April 18th.

  • Normal highs range from 75F-82F (24C-28C)

  • Only 2 days of rain

  • Warmest ever 99F (34C) - Coldest ever 31F (-1C)

  • Most rain in a day 0.97”

  • Never recorded measurable snowfall.

  • 7th busiest month* (Source: LVCVA Research Center)

Temperatures

As an average, April is ranked neither in the top 5 warmest or top 5 coolest months. It’s right down the middle. The mean high temperature for the month is a nice 79F/26C. Normal highs range from 75F/24C to start the month, to 82F/28C at the end. This is statistically the first month with a high of 90F/32C or better - and on average this occurs April 18th. It’s has never hit 100F/38C in April but it has come close many times. The warmer temperatures mean resort pools are in full swing. Although the water could still be chilly early in the months due to overnight temperatures in 50s or sometimes even lower. Half the month is over 80F so outdoor recreation is still great idea, but keep the sunscreen and water handy. Get started early as mornings should still be cool but warm nicely by afternoon.

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 April temperatures (2023).

Some chilly days early in the month, not getting out of the 50s, but 6 days over 90F/32C. As I’ve said, if you catch a cold day in April it won’t last long. Almost all the days last year were in the “comfortable” category for Las Vegas, though the 98F/37C at the end of the month was pushing it.

Rainfall

The jet stream begins to move north leaving the desert Southwest high and dry. Rain becomes pretty rare in April but it does happen. It’s the 3rd driest month of the year and amounts are usually light. Odds are you can leave your umbrella at home in April. In fact, the last three years it has not rained in April enough to measure. Nearly 1/3 of all Aprils see no rain at all.

Snow

It has snowed three times in Las Vegas in April but it was never measureable. Basically, snow is done for the Strip. Rarely, a storm may impact some of the roads outside Las Vegas such as Mountain Pass, California on I-15. Mt. Charleston still regularly sees snow in April and in fact, has received a foot on a few occasions. For more information about snow in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas, check out my blog post on that topic below.

What To Pack

  • Start with shorts and short-sleeve shirts as this will be necessary most days. If the forecast calls for a cool day, bring one long-sleeve and a jacket to wear. Possibly more if you plan to be out at night…see below.

  • It can still be chilly from dusk to dawn and you may need a jacket and long pants if you’re out early or late.

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

  • Be sure to think about sun protection. Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen are essential in April - especially if you will be at the pool, hiking or golfing.

  • Reusable water bottle

  • By April you can leave the umbrella at home.

  • 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 open and temperatures rising, swimwear is necessary if you plan to swim. The water may still be chilly with temperatures dropping overnight. Some 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 April 1st starts at 6:25 AM. By the end of the month the sunrise is 5:48 AM. Sunset at the beginning of the month is 7:06 PM and by the end is 7:27 PM. There is about 13 hours of daylight each day. Remember, Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone - same as Los Angeles.

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: It’s starting to get warm and possibly hot. The desert is very 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 is intense in April in the desert. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re hiking or golfing.

  4. 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. This is especially true if you’re going to visit Mt. Charleston where winter may still be hanging on.

Planning to visit Death Valley?

Check out my weather guide for Death Valley.

Conclusion

The weather in April is awesome! I rank it #1 due to its combination of very dry weather, pools being open, and warm…but not hot temperatures. I would also say after spring break subsides it can actually be less busy on the Strip. Occasionally, there may still be some chilly days, but it’s not worth staying home. And again, the cold doesn’t last long. This is still a good month for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or golf but don’t let the warmth and bright sunshine sneak up you. Be prepared for the dry weather and sunshine by having lots of water on hand as well as sun protection.

My Rank For Best Month To Visit Las Vegas: 1st

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