Last updated: February 24, 2025
In December, Santa Cruz experiences a delightful blend of mild temperatures and refreshing ocean breezes. With a maximum temperature reaching 21°C (70°F), the days are comfortably warm, while the average hovers around 12°C (53°F), providing a cozy atmosphere. The nights cool down to a minimum of 7°C (45°F), making for crisp evenings. This month sees an average precipitation amount of 126 mm (4.9 in) over approximately 9 days, creating a lush environment as humidity levels soar to 80%. Embrace the charm of Santa Cruz in December, where nature flourishes and the air is filled with a sense of tranquility.
In December, Santa Cruz experiences a delightful shift in temperatures, marking the onset of winter while still holding onto a hint of warmth. With minimum temperatures averaging around 7°C (45°F) and averages of 12°C (53°F), the coolness is pleasantly tempered by daytime highs reaching up to 21°C (70°F). This mild climate is a picturesque backdrop for the holiday season, making it ideal for outdoor activities and gatherings. As the year winds down, the gradual cooling trend from the previous months is evident, but Santa Cruz's December still maintains a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both locals and visitors alike.
In Santa Cruz, December marks a notable uptick in precipitation, with 126 mm (4.9 in) of rain falling over 9 days. This increase reflects the onset of the winter season, contrasting sharply with the near-dry summer months, which receive negligible rainfall. While December's totals are lower than January’s peak of 148 mm, they still signify a substantial return to wetter weather, as the city transitions from the arid conditions of summer and early fall. The rainfall in December plays a crucial role in replenishing local water sources and fostering the lush greenery that characterizes Santa Cruz as the year wraps up.
In December, Santa Cruz experiences a notable increase in humidity, with levels reaching 80%. This rise follows a dip throughout the summer months, where humidity reaches its annual low in August at just 54%. As the year progresses, a gradual trend emerges: humidity generally decreases from 82% in January to 54% in August before creeping back up towards the year-end. Notably, November's humidity rebounds to 78%, setting the stage for December's moderate figures, which, while higher than mid-year lows, still reflect the coastal city's variable climate. Overall, December serves as a reminder of Santa Cruz's characteristic dampness as it transitions into the winter season.
As the year draws to a close, December in Santa Cruz welcomes a relatively mild UV Index of 3, categorized as moderate, with a burn time of 30 minutes. This marks a decline from the extremes of summer, where UV levels peaked at 11, urging residents and visitors to limit sun exposure to just 10 minutes. From the very high levels in spring and summer, the UV Index gradually decreased, showcasing the seasonal shift that brings cooler weather and safer sun exposure. With winter’s arrival, it's a great time to enjoy the outdoors with a sense of security, while still being mindful of the sun. For more details on UV trends throughout the year, check out the full guide at Santa Cruz UV Index.
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In Santa Cruz, December brings a delightful 206 hours of sunshine, marking a gentle descent from the height of summer’s brightness. As the year draws to a close, sunlight gradually wanes following a peak in June and July, where residents enjoyed nearly 380 hours of radiant days. The transition through autumn sees a steady decline, with November still boasting a respectable 233 hours. December's warmth, while diminished, continues to offer a cozy backdrop for holiday festivities and scenic coastal walks, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the area's charm during this sun-filled month. The consistent pattern of sunny hours throughout the year highlights Santa Cruz as a favored destination for those seeking a vibrant yet mild coastal climate, even in winter.
As December approaches, the likelihood of sunny weather in Santa Cruz tends to dip, with only a 43% chance of sunshine. This marks a continuation of a cooling trend as the year winds down, contrasting sharply with the vibrant month of August, which enjoys a 76% probability of sunny days. Following a consistently high summer, the chances of clear skies gradually decrease through the late fall months of October and November. By December, the cloudy days generally start to take precedence, emphasizing the cozy, albeit less radiant, atmosphere of the holiday season in this coastal town. While the sun may not shine as frequently, it creates a perfect backdrop for winter activities and festive gatherings.
As December unfolds in Santa Cruz, daylight hours begin to dwindle, offering just nine hours of light—a peak contrast to the longer days of summer when the sun graces the sky for up to fourteen hours. This seasonal progression reveals a rhythmic cycle, where the days gradually lengthen from the nine hours of early winter in January to a vibrant fourteen hours in June, before descending once again. As December settles in, the gradual decline from the autumn's ten hours reflects nature's embrace of rest as the year winds down, inviting residents to savor the cozy evenings that follow. The ebb and flow of daylight underscores a beautiful pattern: Santa Cruz beautifully balances golden summer days with the tranquil introspection of winter's shorter, yet still radiant, sunlit hours.
As December unfolds in Santa Cruz, the wind begins to pick up slightly, averaging 3.8 m/s (8 mph)—a refreshing gust that heralds the onset of winter. This uptick follows a gradual decline in wind speeds from the summer months; notably, August and September show the calmest conditions at around 3.1 to 3.2 m/s (7 mph). Interestingly, December's winds are a precursor to a more dynamic seasonal shift, echoing the breezy month of April, which also recorded a 3.8 m/s (9 mph) average. This pattern suggests a cool, invigorating atmosphere as the year draws to a close, making December a perfect time for beach walks and coastal adventures, harmonized with the rhythm of the ocean breezes.
The weather in Santa Cruz changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December'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.
In comparing the weather of December and January, both months experience relatively mild temperatures with December slightly warmer overall. December's temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), while January sees temperatures dip slightly, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation increases in January, totaling 148 mm (5.8 in) compared to December's 126 mm (4.9 in), although both months share a similar number of rainy days at 9, making January a bit wetter. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in January at 82%, compared to December's 80%. For more details, check out Santa Cruz weather in January.
In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F) and significant precipitation totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over 9 days. The humidity levels are relatively high at 80%, contributing to a damp atmosphere. In contrast, February sees slightly cooler nights with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a similar maximum of 21°C (70°F), while the average temperature remains close at 11°C (53°F). Precipitation increases to 136 mm (5.3 in) but occurs over just 7 days, resulting in a humidity level of 84%. For more specific information about February's weather, you can visit Santa Cruz weather in February.
In December, the weather features a mild range of temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). The average temperature hovers around 12°C (53°F), accompanied by relatively high humidity at 80% and approximately 126 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over 9 days. In contrast, March sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), but the average remains similar at 11°C (53°F). The precipitation is a bit less, totaling around 110 mm (4.3 in) across 11 days, while the humidity is slightly higher at 82%. For more detailed information, you can check Santa Cruz weather in March.
When comparing December and April weather, we find some notable similarities and differences. Both months share a similar minimum temperature of around 7°C (45°F), but April tends to be slightly warmer, with a maximum average of 24°C (75°F) compared to December's 21°C (70°F). Additionally, April is much drier, experiencing only 42 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over about 5 days, in stark contrast to December's 126 mm (4.9 in) spread across 9 days. The humidity levels are also slightly lower in April at 78%, compared to December's 80%. Overall, while both months are mild, April offers a more pleasant and drier experience. For more detailed insights into April weather, you can check Santa Cruz weather in April.
In December, the weather tends to be cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over about 9 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 80%. In contrast, May offers a milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 13°C (55°F). Precipitation in May is much lower, at only 23 mm (0.9 in) over approximately 3 days, and the humidity decreases to 71%. For more details on weather conditions in May, you can visit Santa Cruz weather in May.
December and June present contrasting weather patterns. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 126 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 9 days, and humidity levels are high at 80%. In contrast, June features a milder climate, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 11°C (51°F) and reaching up to 29°C (84°F), resulting in an average of 14°C (58°F). Rain is sparse in June, with only 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation falling over just 1 day and humidity dropping to a more comfortable 64%. For more details on the weather in June, check out Santa Cruz weather in June.
December and July present markedly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). This month tends to be quite wet, with approximately 126 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over about 9 days and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July offers a milder climate, featuring temperatures that range from a low of 11°C (52°F) to a high of 21°C (70°F), maintaining an average of 15°C (59°F). This summer month is notably dry, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation recorded on a single day and a lower humidity level of 58%. For more insights on July's pleasant weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in July.
December and August present markedly different weather conditions. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), with an average of 12°C (53°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) across about 9 rainy days, and a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging 16°C (61°F). Remarkably, August experiences minimal rainfall, only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, coupled with much lower humidity at 54%. For a detailed look at August’s weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in August.
In comparing the weather between December and September, it is clear that September is generally warmer and drier. September experiences average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F), while December's temperatures are cooler, averaging between 7°C (45°F) and 21°C (70°F). Additionally, September boasts negligible precipitation with only 2 mm (0.1 in) over 0 days, contrasting sharply with December's 126 mm (4.9 in) spread over 9 rainy days, indicating a much wetter month. Humidity levels also differ significantly, with September at 55% compared to December's higher 80%. For more detailed insights on September weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in September.
When comparing the weather in December to October, notable differences emerge. December generally has cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and an average of 12°C (53°F), while October tends to be warmer, featuring a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F). Additionally, October offers drier conditions, with only 31 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over just 2 days, compared to December's 126 mm (4.9 in) of rain over 9 days. Furthermore, humidity levels are higher in December at 80%, in contrast to October's more comfortable 62%. For a more detailed look at October's weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in October.
In comparing the weather between November and December, December tends to be slightly cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F), compared to November’s minimum of 6°C (44°F) and maximum of 23°C (73°F). Additionally, December experiences significantly more rainfall, with 126 mm (4.9 in) over 9 days, whereas November has only 61 mm (2.4 in) across 5 days. The humidity is also marginally higher in December at 80%, compared to November's 78%. For more detailed insights about November weather, you can check Santa Cruz weather in November.
As December unfolds in Santa Cruz, the weather takes a notable turn, offering a refreshing contrast to the warmer months. With average temperatures hovering around a mild 12°C, the month is characterized by cool, crisp days and increased humidity that reaches 80%. Rainfall becomes more frequent, as residents can expect about nine rainy days, culminating in a total precipitation of 126 mm. This shift not only brings a cozy atmosphere but also enhances the vibrant green landscapes typical of this coastal paradise. For more detailed insights into Santa Cruz's unique climate patterns, check out Santa Cruz Climate.