December is one of the most profitable and enjoyable months for rideshare drivers in Los Angeles. Cooler weather, holiday celebrations, year-end parties, and increased tourism create strong late-night demand across the city. For Uber and Lyft drivers partnered with LA Elite Rentals, this season offers the perfect opportunity to maximize earnings while driving reliable, well-maintained vehicles.
Here are the best December spots for late-night rides in Los Angeles, handpicked to help rideshare drivers work smarter and earn more.
1. Sunset Boulevard & The Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip is a late-night hotspot all year, but December takes it to another level. Concerts, comedy shows, bars, and private holiday parties generate nonstop ride requests.
Why this area is profitable:
- High surge pricing between 9 PM–2 AM
- Frequent short trips with quick turnarounds
- Passengers often tip generously after events
LA Elite Tip: Vehicles with clean interiors and smooth rides help boost ratings and tips in nightlife-heavy areas.
2. Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
DTLA becomes especially active during December with corporate holiday events, rooftop parties, and concerts. Late-night rides here often lead to longer-distance trips.
Key pickup zones:
- LA Live
- Arts District
- Financial District
- Echo Park
Why drivers love DTLA:
- Consistent ride demand even on weekdays
- Higher fares during late hours
- Easy freeway access for fast repositioning
3. Santa Monica & Venice Beach
Coastal areas stay busy well into the night during December. Tourists, hotel guests, and locals rely heavily on Uber and Lyft for safe nighttime transportation.
Best driving hours:
- 7 PM–12 AM on weekdays
- Until 2 AM on weekends
Why it works:
- Lighter traffic compared to summer
- Scenic routes that make driving more enjoyable
- Steady hotel and restaurant pickups
4. Beverly Hills & West Hollywood (WeHo)
Luxury shopping, fine dining, and beautifully decorated streets make Beverly Hills and West Hollywood prime rideshare zones in December.
Driver advantages:
- Higher-value fares
- Premium clientele
- Increased holiday tipping
Pro Tip: Be mindful of valet zones and one-way streets for smoother pickups.
5. Hollywood & Highland Area
Hollywood remains active year-round, especially at night. December brings tourists, theater-goers, and nightlife crowds.
Why it’s a smart spot:
- Back-to-back short rides
- Strong surge potential after shows
- Easy to stay within a high-demand zone
6. Late-Night Airport Runs (LAX)
Holiday travel makes LAX one of the most profitable locations for late-night rides in December.
Best time windows:
- 10 PM–2 AM
- Early mornings (4 AM–6 AM)
Why airport rides pay off:
- Longer trips
- Higher base fares
- Less traffic late at night
Smart Driving Tips for December
- Monitor in-app heat maps for surge opportunities
- Keep your vehicle clean, warm, and comfortable
- Plan routes to avoid holiday road closures
- Always prioritize well-lit pickup locations
Why Drive with LA Elite Rentals
LA Elite Rentals supports Uber and Lyft drivers with:
- Reliable, rideshare-ready vehicles
- Flexible rental options
- Well-maintained cars for comfort and safety
- Support designed for professional drivers
Driving with the right vehicle in high-demand areas can significantly impact your earnings and ratings.
Final Thoughts
December nights in Los Angeles offer some of the best opportunities for Uber and Lyft drivers. With the right strategy, the right locations, and a dependable vehicle from LA Elite Rentals, you can maximize trips, increase tips, and enjoy smoother late-night rides.
Drive smart, stay safe, and make the most of December with LA Elite Rentals.
