Santa Cruz weather benefits from an enviable Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers tempered by rolling fog along the coast. While the weather does vary throughout the year, it rarely reaches extremes so it is best to dress in layers. The temperature drops significantly once the sunsets even when the day is hot so it is wise to always keep a sweater or lightweight jacket nearby.
Spring in Santa Cruz
Spring is generally mild and bright with scattered showers throughout the season. County and state parks are blossoming with wildflowers at this time and the region’s farmers are busy planting a rich bounty of crops. Visitors to the area can make do with packing a windbreaker, light scarf, umbrella and hooded sweatshirt.
Summer in Santa Cruz
Summers are overall warm, with the hottest areas in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but coastal fog results in some overcast days especially in mid and south county. The weather can also vary significantly depending on your location within the county due to the region’s unique and varied topography. This is especially apparent in the summer. It can be hot and dry in the Santa Cruz Mountain towns of Felton and Boulder Creek while 15 miles south in the coastal community of Aptos it could be cool with a blanket of fog.
It is best to pack a sweater or lightweight jacket, shorts and short-sleeve shirts and sandals.
Fall in Santa Cruz
Autumns typically start off warm with some of the best weather of the year along the coast and ends cool and brisk. The period of warm weather usually occurs in October and the first half of November and coincides with the harvest season.
County wineries are buzzing at this time with special events and wine tastings while local farms host apple picking and pumpkin patch activities. October also marks the arrival of migrating monarch butterflies to a grove of eucalyptus trees at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz for the winter. It is by far one of the best times to visit the area.
Packing for the fall is a breeze if not varied. Visitors should bring layered clothing, a selection of both short and long sleeved shirts, pants and shorts. While rain is not usual during this time, an umbrella is still a good item to bring.
Winter in Santa Cruz
The county typically receives the bulk of its yearly rainfall during the winter months. The coldest months are generally in January and February so remember to pack a coat and umbrella. Visitors to the county during the winter should bring a selection of long and short sleeve shirts and a jacket, but it’s not uncommon for a few unseasonable T-shirt days.
