Santa Cruz (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Santa Cruz.

Full Climate overview Temperature Rainfall

Climate overview of Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, United States of America, enjoys a steady climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures typically around 17°C (63°F). September is the warmest month at 20°C (68°F), while December is the coolest at 14°C (57°F).

Annual rainfall is moderate at around 627 mm (25 in), with December being the wettest month. The city also has a distinct dry season from May to October.

Santa Cruz Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Santa Cruz - and find the best time to visit.

January

15°C (59°F)View January → February

16°C (61°F)View February → March

17°C (63°F)View March → April

16°C (61°F)View April → May

17°C (63°F)View May → June

19°C (66°F)View June → July

19°C (66°F)View July → August

19°C (66°F)View August → September

20°C (68°F)View September → This monthOctober

19°C (66°F)View October → November

17°C (63°F)View November → December

14°C (57°F)View December →

Monthly Temperature in Santa Cruz

The temperature in Santa Cruz remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently pleasant climate. Average daytime temperatures reach a pleasant 20°C (68°F) in September. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a moderate 14°C (57°F).

At night, temperatures range from around 13°C (55°F) in September to 5°C (41°F) in December.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

More Temperature details →

Rainfall in Santa Cruz

Generally, Santa Cruz has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 627 mm (25 in) of rainfall annually. Santa Cruz can be quite wet during December, receiving approximately 138 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation over 12 rainy days.

In contrast, during the driest month (July), you will experience much drier conditions, with 0.4 mm (0.02 in) of precipitation spread across a single rainy day. For more details, please visit our Santa Cruz Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

The average number of days each month with precipitation

More Rainfall details →

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz

Conditions in Santa Cruz are generally most comfortable in June, July, August and September. They are typically least comfortable in January, February, March and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

Jan mixed Feb mixed Mar mixed Apr good May very good Jun excellent Jul excellent Aug excellent Sep excellent Oct very good Nov good Dec mixed

Best overall: June, July, August and September
Warmest weather: June, July, August, September and October
Fewer rainy days: May, June, July, August and September
Wettest months: January, February, March, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to October

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Santa Cruz

What is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?

June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Santa Cruz. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Santa Cruz has a distinct dry season from May to October.

What temperatures can I expect in Santa Cruz?

Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in December to 20°C (68°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (55°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.