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
The climate in Santa Cruz, Portugal, sees a moderate range of temperatures across the year, from 23°C (73°F) in August down to 15°C (59°F) in January.
The city receives around 672 mm (26 in) of rainfall per year. It experiences a distinct dry season from June to September. November is the wettest month and July the driest. The sunniest month is August, with 8.5 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. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in August to a moderate 15°C (59°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in August to 11°C (52°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Santa Cruz
On average, Santa Cruz receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 672 mm (26 in). The seasons in Santa Cruz bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, November, receives high rainfall, with an average of 100 mm (3.9 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, July, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 6 mm (0.2 in) over 3 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 8.5 hours in August. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. February sees a soft sun for only 4.1 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Santa Cruz by Month
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 89%. In March, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 80%. 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: June, July, August, September and October
- Warmest weather: July, August and September
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Fewest rainy days: July and August
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from June to September
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Santa Cruz
What is the best time to visit Santa Cruz?
June, July, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Santa Cruz. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Santa Cruz has a distinct dry season from June to September.
What temperatures can I expect in Santa Cruz?
Daytime highs range from 15°C (59°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 11°C (52°F) to 18°C (64°F).
How much rain does Santa Cruz get?
Annual rainfall is around 672 mm (26 in). November is the wettest month with 100 mm (3.9 in), while July is the driest with 6 mm (0.2 in).
How sunny is Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz receives around 2,206 hours of sunshine per year. August is the sunniest month with 255 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 122 hours. Overall, Santa Cruz enjoys abundant sunshine.
Santa Cruz 3-Day Forecast
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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