Santa Cruz Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Santa Cruz.
Climate overview of Santa Cruz
With consistently stable weather, Santa Cruz, Costa Rica, sees little seasonal temperature change. Daytime highs average 33°C (91°F), ranging from 36°C (97°F) in April to 31°C (88°F) in October.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 2017 mm (79 in) of rainfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has distinct dry (December to March) and wet (May to October) seasons. October is the wettest month. The sunniest month is March, with 10.2 hours of sunshine per day on average.
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.
Monthly Temperature in Santa Cruz
The climate in Santa Cruz remains fairly constant, offering very warm temperatures throughout the year. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very hot 36°C (97°F) in April to a very warm 31°C (88°F) in October.
Nighttime temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) in April to 23°C (73°F) in October.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is known for its substantial rainfall, with annual precipitation reaching 2017 mm (79 in). The seasons in Santa Cruz bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, October, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 365 mm (14 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 21 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, January, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 7 mm (0.3 in) over 8 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. 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
Sunshine Hours in Santa Cruz
In Santa Cruz, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 10.2 hours in March. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. September sees a soft sun for only 5.3 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Santa Cruz by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Santa Cruz.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 86%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 60%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: December
- Warmest weather: March and April
- Most sunshine: January and March
- Fewest rainy days: February and March
- Wettest months: May, June, July, August, September and October, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: Distinct dry (December to March) and wet (May to October) seasons
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Santa Cruz
What is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?
December typically offers the most optimal weather in Santa Cruz. In contrast, January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October tend to have less optimal conditions. Santa Cruz has distinct dry (December to March) and wet (May to October) seasons.
What temperatures can I expect in Santa Cruz?
Daytime highs range from 31°C (88°F) in October to 36°C (97°F) in April. Nighttime lows range from 23°C (73°F) to 25°C (77°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Santa Cruz get?
Annual rainfall is around 2017 mm (79 in). October is the wettest month with 365 mm (14 in), while January is the driest with 7 mm (0.3 in).
How sunny is Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz receives around 2,675 hours of sunshine per year. March is the sunniest month with 305 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 158 hours. Overall, Santa Cruz enjoys abundant sunshine.
Santa Cruz 3-Day Forecast
Santa Cruz on the map
Santa Cruz is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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Tamarindo
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