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
Santa Cruz, Madeira Islands, Portugal, experiences moderate temperature changes through the seasons. August is the warmest month with daytime highs of 25°C (77°F), while February is the coolest at 17°C (63°F).
Santa Cruz sees a moderate amount of rainfall, totalling around 507 mm (20 in) per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from May to September, creating some seasonal variation. The sunniest month is August, with 7.9 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 experiences moderate temperature changes, with mild shifts between seasons. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 17°C (63°F) during cooler months like February.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in August to around 14°C (57°F) during February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Santa Cruz
Generally, Santa Cruz has a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 507 mm (20 in) of rainfall annually. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, December it receives moderate rainfall, averaging 78 mm (3.1 in) of precipitation, recorded across 12 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month July brings less rainfall, with 10 mm (0.4 in) over 2 rainy days. 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
While the amount of sunshine in Santa Cruz varies throughout the year, all seasons offer their own charm. Enjoy up to 7.9 hours of daily sun in August, and experience slightly darker atmosphere in December, with about 5.1 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Santa Cruz
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 18°C (64°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Santa Cruz by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Santa Cruz.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 73%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 68%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Santa Cruz
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 1 m/s (2 knots) in May, June, July, August and September to 2 m/s (4 knots) in January, February, March, April, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
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: May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Fewest rainy days: July and August
- Best for swimming: June, July, August, September, October and November.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to September
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Santa Cruz
What is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?
May, June, July, August, September, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Santa Cruz. In contrast, February tends to have less optimal conditions. Santa Cruz has a distinct dry season from May to September.
What temperatures can I expect in Santa Cruz?
Daytime highs range from 17°C (63°F) in February to 25°C (77°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 14°C (57°F) to 20°C (68°F).
How much rain does Santa Cruz get?
Annual rainfall is around 507 mm (20 in). December is the wettest month with 78 mm (3.1 in), while July is the driest with 10 mm (0.4 in).
How sunny is Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz receives around 2,315 hours of sunshine per year. August is the sunniest month with 238 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 152 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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