Santa Cruz Weather in December

In Santa Cruz, December brings pleasant daytime temperatures around 19°C (66°F), with nights cooling to 16°C (61°F). It is the wettest month of the year, so expect more rainfall than usual.

Rainfall in Santa Cruz in December

An umbrella might come in handy since it is the wettest month of the year. Historically, the month has about 12 days of rain, averaging 78 mm (3.1 in) in total. Expect a fairly normal spread of rainfall this month, with no particular pattern of very heavy or very persistent showers.

Temperature in Santa Cruz in December

Expect highs of 19°C (66°F) in Santa Cruz in December, with nights dropping to around 16°C (61°F). This creates a mild day-to-night pattern that is generally easy to manage with the right clothing. At 16°C (61°F) overnight, it can feel quite a bit cooler after dark. Worth packing something warmer for evenings, but the cooler temperatures are ideal for sleeping.

Sunshine in Santa Cruz in December

The city usually sees around 152 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.

Wind Speed in Santa Cruz in December

December sees wind speeds averaging 2 m/s (4 knots). You'll typically experience pleasant light breezes that move leaves slightly and feel refreshing. As an average, expect variation from very calm days to periods with more apparent air movement.

Average water temperature in December

With water at 19°C (66°F), swimming is comfortable for most people. It feels refreshing rather than cold, though it depends a bit on personal preference.

Should you favor a climate that's both dry and comfortably warm, May, June, July, August, September, October and November typically offer the most agreeable circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

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For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Portugal, check out our Santa Cruz's climate page.

Santa Cruz Temperature in December

Min Temperature 16°C (61°F)  

Max Temperature 19°C (66°F)  

Water Temperature 19°C (66°F) *  

Chance of Rain 40%  

Precipitation 78 mm (3.1 in)  

Rainy days 12 days  

Humidity 70% *  

Windspeed 2 m/s (4 knots) *  

Sunshine 152 hours *  

Percentage Sunshine 49% *  

* Data from: Funchal, Madeira (2 KM, 1 Miles).

What to Wear in Santa Cruz in December

For Santa Cruz in December, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. The water temperature sits at about 19°C (66°F), making it perfect for swimming and water activities. Don't forget to pack your favorite swimwear and perhaps some snorkel gear. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.

What To Do in Santa Cruz in December

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming

6/10

Cycling

9/10

Walking

9/10

Camping

8/10

Outdoor sports

9/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Portugal, check out our Santa Cruz's climate page.

More climate data for Santa Cruz

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

See the full Santa Cruz climate overview or explore weather in Portugal.