Last updated: February 24, 2025
April in Santa Cruz showcases a mild and inviting climate, with maximum temperatures reaching 24°C (75°F) and average temperatures settling at a comfortable 12°C (54°F). Residents and visitors can expect a cool yet pleasant atmosphere, as minimum temperatures dip to 7°C (44°F). The month experiences approximately 42 mm (1.6 in) of rainfall over five days, contributing to a humidity level of 78%, which adds a refreshing touch to the coastal air. Overall, April is a perfect time to enjoy the beauty of Santa Cruz amidst its fluctuating yet enjoyable weather conditions.
April in Santa Cruz ushers in a delightful seasonal shift, with temperatures gently rising as spring unfolds. The month sees a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and averages around 12°C (54°F), culminating in a pleasant maximum of 24°C (75°F). This upward trend from March, where the highs reached 20°C (68°F), signals an inviting warmth perfect for outdoor activities. The crisp air combined with the sun's increasing intensity invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the blossoming landscape. As April transitions towards summer, it becomes a vibrant time to explore the beaches and parks, all while basking in the mild yet uplifting climate.
April in Santa Cruz brings a noticeable shift in precipitation patterns, with rainfall dropping significantly to 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 5 days. This marks a sharp decrease from the wetter winter months, where January alone recorded 148 mm (5.8 in). Following the peak of winter rains, April often signals the beginning of a drier season, with May's average rainfall plummeting further to only 23 mm (0.9 in). This trend highlights the transition from the rainy season to the drier summer months, as Santa Cruz prepares for sunnier days ahead, where cumulative precipitation dwindles to a mere 4 mm (0.2 in) by June. The drop in both precipitation amount and rainy days showcases the region’s characteristic shift towards a Mediterranean climate, emphasizing the natural ebb and flow of Santa Cruz's seasonal weather.
In April, Santa Cruz experiences a noticeable dip in humidity, with levels dropping to 78% from the higher averages of 82% in March and 84% in February. This shift marks the beginning of a trend toward drier conditions as the city moves into the warmer months. Throughout the following months, humidity levels continue their decline, reaching a low of 54% in August. This gradual decrease not only reflects the seasonal transition but also contributes to the more comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experiences that define California's spring and summer. As April paves the way for this change, residents and visitors can relish the freshness of the Pacific air while basking in the sun.
In April, Santa Cruz experiences a notable increase in the UV Index, reaching 9, which falls into the very high exposure category. This marks a continuation of the upward trend seen since March, when the index climbed to 8. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it's essential for residents and visitors to protect their skin during this month as the sun’s intensity becomes increasingly intense. Following April, May and June will push the limits even further, hitting an extreme level of 11. As warmer months approach, staying informed about the Santa Cruz UV Index can help ensure safe outdoor experiences while enjoying the beautiful coastal sunshine.
UV Risk Categories
April brings a remarkable increase in sunshine to Santa Cruz, with 303 hours of golden rays gracing the skies, setting the stage for a vibrant spring. This surge in daylight is part of a delightful trend throughout the year, as the region transitions from the relatively modest 162 hours in January to a breathtaking 360 hours by May. The consistent climb in sunlight hours reaches its peak in the summer months, with June and July basking in even more sunlight, at 373 and 379 hours, respectively. As the year progresses, sunshine hours gradually taper off, but even in fall, the 310 hours in September keep the warmth lingering. Santa Cruz's evolving sunlight rhythm not only enhances the beauty of its landscapes but also invites residents and visitors alike to revel in the outdoor splendor that the city offers year-round.
In Santa Cruz, April presents a noteworthy opportunity for sunny skies, with a 56% chance of sunshine, mirroring the weather of March. As spring blossoms, this likelihood sets the stage for vibrant outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to enjoy the coastal charm. Interestingly, the trend shows a gradual increase in sunshine as the year progresses, with May and June significantly boosting the odds to 72% and 69%, respectively. This suggests a clear shift towards sunnier days, inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in the warmth of Santa Cruz’s delightful springtime.
As April arrives in Santa Cruz, the lengthening days herald a shift towards sunnier times, with daylight stretching to an inviting 13 hours. This month marks a significant increase from the 11 hours of March, showcasing a clear trend of increasing daylight as spring unfolds. Following a gradual rise from 9 hours in January, each month brings a steady gain, culminating in May's peak of 14 daylight hours. As the season progresses, residents can relish in the brighter skies, which ultimately set the stage for the sun-kissed summer days ahead. With each passing month, it’s clear that Santa Cruz is on a vibrant trajectory toward abundance in daylight, inviting outdoor adventures and the rejuvenation of springtime spirit.
In April, Santa Cruz experiences a slight uptick in wind speed, averaging 3.8 m/s (9 mph)—a gentle breeze that sets the tone for the coming warmer months. This increase marks a transition from the more tranquil winds of the earlier months, with January through March averaging around 3.5 to 3.7 m/s. As spring unfolds, the winds gradually intensify, a precursor to May's peak of 4.1 m/s (9 mph). The pattern reveals a distinct trend: as the year progresses, from the milder winter months to the vibrant spring, the winds dance with more vigor, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities along the picturesque Santa Cruz coastline. The fluctuating winds underscore the region's dynamic coastal climate, inviting both adventurers and casual strollers to embrace the refreshing air of late spring.
The weather in Santa Cruz changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of April's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Santa Cruz and find detailed weather information for every month.
April typically brings slightly warmer temperatures compared to January, with averages of 12°C (54°F) and maximums reaching 24°C (75°F), while January's averages are around 11°C (53°F) and maxing out at 18°C (65°F). Precipitation in April is notably lower at 42 mm (1.6 in) over 5 days, compared to January's higher average of 148 mm (5.8 in) over 9 days. Both months experience similar humidity levels, with April at 78% and January slightly higher at 82%. For more details on January weather patterns, you can check Santa Cruz weather in January.
April generally offers a slightly warmer climate than February, with average temperatures reaching 12°C (54°F) compared to February's 11°C (53°F). The highs in April can soar up to 24°C (75°F), while February peaks at 21°C (70°F). However, April experiences significantly less rainfall, with only 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over 5 days, compared to February's 136 mm (5.3 in) over 7 days. Humidity levels are also a bit lower in April, averaging 78% compared to February's 84%. For more detailed insights into February's weather before visiting, check out Santa Cruz weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and April, we notice that April tends to be slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), compared to March's 6°C (42°F) to 20°C (68°F). Additionally, April experiences less precipitation, totaling 42 mm (1.6 in) over five days, whereas March receives a significant 110 mm (4.3 in) across 11 days, indicating that April is generally drier. Humidity levels are also marginally lower in April at 78%, compared to March's 82%. For more detailed insights on March weather, visit Santa Cruz weather in March.
April tends to be warmer than May, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 24°C (75°F) compared to May's peak of 20°C (68°F). Both months experience similar minimum temperatures, but April enjoys a higher average temperature of 12°C (54°F) versus May's 13°C (55°F). Interestingly, May is drier, registering only 23 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation over three days compared to April's 42 mm (1.6 in) over five days. Additionally, the humidity level is slightly lower in May at 71%, down from April's 78%. For more details on May weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in May.
April and June present distinct weather patterns. In April, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over five days, along with a notably high humidity level of 78%. In contrast, June enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging around 14°C (58°F). The month is significantly drier, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation occurring over just one day, and humidity decreases to 64%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Santa Cruz weather in June.
April and July exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In April, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month sees about 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over five days, coupled with a higher humidity level of 78%. In contrast, July has milder temperatures that peak at a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging 15°C (59°F), with a minimum of 11°C (52°F). Notably, July experiences significantly less rainfall, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, resulting in a drier atmosphere with lower humidity at 58%. For more detailed information, you can check Santa Cruz weather in July.
In comparing the weather of April and August, it's evident that April tends to be cooler and wetter. With a minimum temperature of 7°C (44°F) and average temperatures around 12°C (54°F), April sees a max temperature reaching 24°C (75°F). In contrast, August has a milder minimum temperature of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), with the same maximum of 24°C (75°F). Furthermore, April experiences about 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over five days, while August remains quite dry with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, and it typically has no rainy days. The humidity is also notably higher in April at 78%, compared to August's 54%. For more information, refer to Santa Cruz weather in August.
April and September present quite different weather experiences. In April, temperatures range from a cool minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month also sees about 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over five days and a higher humidity level at 78%. In contrast, September typically enjoys warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum reaching 31°C (88°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). This month is notably drier, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and zero rainy days, along with lower humidity at 55%. For more details, you can check Santa Cruz weather in September.
April and October present distinct weather trends, ideal for different activities. In April, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation at 42 mm (1.6 in) over about five days, alongside a higher humidity level of 78%. In contrast, October offers slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging around 16°C (60°F). This month sees less precipitation at 31 mm (1.2 in) over just two days and lower humidity at 62%. For more details on the specific weather patterns, you can check Santa Cruz weather in October.
April and November in Santa Cruz exhibit similar temperature ranges, with both months experiencing mild weather. In April, temperatures vary from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F). November, on the other hand, shows slightly warmer conditions with a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and a maximum of 23°C (73°F), averaging at 14°C (57°F). Precipitation levels are notably higher in November, with 61 mm (2.4 in) falling across the month compared to April's 42 mm (1.6 in), both experiencing rain on about 5 days. Humidity levels remain consistent at 78% for both months. For more details on November weather, visit Santa Cruz weather in November.
In April, temperatures typically range from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This month experiences relatively light precipitation of 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 5 days, and humidity hovers around 78%. In contrast, December sees similar temperature patterns, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). However, December is considerably wetter, receiving 126 mm (4.9 in) of rainfall over 9 days, and slightly higher humidity at 80%. For more detailed insights, you can explore the weather specifics through this link: Santa Cruz weather in December.
April in Santa Cruz brings a delightful shift in weather, characterized by mild temperatures and a notable increase in humidity. As the month transitions from the cooler grip of winter, the pleasant average temperature often invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy the great outdoors. While the area sees a moderate amount of rainfall over a few days, the overall precipitation is less than that of the winter months, allowing for more sun-filled adventures. This balance of warmth and occasional showers sets the stage for the blossoming of spring, making April a unique and inviting time to experience the coastal charm of the region. For a more comprehensive understanding of what to expect throughout the year, explore the detailed insights on Santa Cruz Climate.