March Weather in Santa Cruz, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In March, Santa Cruz experiences a comfortable climate characterized by a maximum temperature of 20°C (68°F) and a minimum of 6°C (42°F), leading to an average of 11°C (53°F). This month is marked by moderate rainfall, totaling approximately 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, contributing to a relative humidity of 82%. As spring unfolds, the city’s weather offers a refreshing blend of cool and mild days, perfect for exploring its stunning coastal landscapes and vibrant local culture.

March Temperature in Santa Cruz

In March, temperatures in Santa Cruz exhibit a delightful transition as spring approaches. With minimums around 6°C (42°F) and maximums peaking at 20°C (68°F), this month offers a comfortable average of 11°C (53°F), resembling the preceding months. Compared to February, which saw a warm edge with a higher maximum of 21°C (70°F), March reflects a slight cooling yet maintains a pleasant ambience for outdoor activities. The gradual increase in daytime warmth hints at the sunnier days to come, setting the stage for April's even warmer embrace. As spring unfolds, residents and visitors alike can relish in the mild and inviting temperatures that Santa Cruz has to offer.

March Weather in Santa Cruz: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Santa Cruz, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec535253545557586061605653
Data source: Temperature data for Santa Cruz generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Santa Cruz

March in Santa Cruz marks a notable transition in precipitation patterns. With 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain recorded over 11 days, the month signals a significant decrease from the wetter winter months of January and February, which saw 148 mm (5.8 in) and 136 mm (5.3 in) respectively. As winter begins to fade, the rainfall becomes less intensive, paving the way for the drier days of spring ahead. By April, precipitation plummets to just 42 mm (1.6 in), highlighting a clear trend toward lower rainfall as the year progresses. This gradual decrease not only influences local ecosystems but also sets the stage for the sunny summers characteristic of the region.

March Precipitation Trends in Santa Cruz

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Santa Cruz, with values for each month alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how March's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec148136110422342223161126
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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March Humidity in Santa Cruz

In March, Santa Cruz experiences an average humidity of 82%, maintaining a level similar to the preceding months of January and February. This steady humidity suggests that the coastal climate continues to be influenced by the lingering Pacific Ocean moisture, allowing for a comfortable yet slightly damp atmosphere. As spring approaches, humidity begins its gradual decline, with April showing a drop to 78%. This trend heralds a shift towards drier conditions as the warmer months approach, culminating in much lower humidity levels by July, where it reaches a refreshing 58%. Overall, March stands as a bridge between the wetter winter months and the drier, sun-soaked summer, making it a perfect time to enjoy Santa Cruz's beautiful scenery before the humidity takes a dip.

March Average Humidity in Santa Cruz

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Santa Cruz, with March's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how March's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec82%84%82%78%71%64%59%54%55%62%78%80%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Santa Cruz

In March, Santa Cruz experiences a notable increase in UV exposure, with the UV Index peaking at 8, which falls into the very high category. This shift from the previous months' moderate levels signifies a dramatic decrease in safe sunburn time to just 15 minutes. As the spring season unfolds, residents and visitors alike should take precautionary measures to protect their skin. This trend of rising UV levels continues into April, hinting at a warmer sun as summer approaches. For those planning outdoor activities, it’s essential to stay informed about UV conditions—check the detailed forecasts at Santa Cruz UV Index to ensure a safe and enjoyable sun-filled month.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Santa Cruz for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Santa Cruz in March, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4589111111109753
Data source: Santa Cruz March UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

March Sunshine in Santa Cruz

March in Santa Cruz ushers in a delightful transition as the days grow longer and sunnier, boasting 269 hours of sunshine—a notable increase from February's 222 hours. This upward trend continues as the region gears up for spring, setting the stage for even brighter days ahead. With April expected to rise further to 303 hours, it's clear that the warmth and light of the season are just around the corner. This progression not only enhances the scenic beauty of Santa Cruz but also invites locals and visitors alike to embrace outdoor activities and bask in the vibrant coastal atmosphere. As winter recedes and spring blooms, the growing hours of sunshine mark a joyful return to the sunny days that define this beautiful coastal community.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Santa Cruz: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Santa Cruz experiences direct sunlight during the month of March, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of March with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec162h222h269h303h360h373h379h348h310h286h233h206h
Data source: Santa Cruz March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Santa Cruz During March

As March rolls into Santa Cruz, residents can expect a 56% chance of sunny weather, marking a slight dip compared to the sunnier months that follow. This pleasant transition from winter to spring showcases a fairly consistent likelihood of sunshine when compared to February's 61% but aligns closely with April's forecast. Notably, the trend of increasing sunshine becomes strikingly clear in the months ahead, with May and June boasting 72% and 69% chances, respectively. As summer approaches, the probability of sunny days continues to rise, peaking in August and September at an impressive 76%. March, then, serves as a gentle promise of the bright days that lie ahead, inviting residents to savor the mild sun before the summer warmth fully takes hold.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Santa Cruz

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Santa Cruz throughout the year, with March highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Santa Cruz experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%61%56%56%72%69%66%76%76%60%57%43%
Data source: Santa Cruz March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Santa Cruz in March

As winter gives way to spring, March in Santa Cruz ushers in an inviting increase in daylight, with the sun gracing the sky for 11 hours. This gradual lengthening of days marks a significant shift from January’s mere 9 hours, highlighting a trend that continues through April and May, when daylight reaches its peak at 14 hours. The steady climb from the earlier months sets the stage for longer, warmer days, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and blossoming nature. As we anticipate the vibrant months ahead, March serves as a bridge, promising more sunshine and energy that invigorates both the scenery and the spirit.

Average Daylight Hours in Santa Cruz for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Santa Cruz throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 56m10h 50m11h 59m13h 10m14h 9m14h 38m14h 22m13h 29m12h 21m11h 11m10h 10m9h 39m
Data source: Santa Cruz daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Santa Cruz

March in Santa Cruz often mirrors the gentle breeze of February, with an average wind speed lingering at a consistent 3.5 m/s (8 mph). This stability precedes a subtle increase in April, where the winds pick up slightly to 3.8 m/s (9 mph). As the months shift toward summer, a gradual ascent becomes evident, with May showcasing the strongest winds of the spring at 4.1 m/s (9 mph). Following this peak, the winds start to taper off during the warmer months, hinting at a seasonal rhythm that brings both calm and refreshment to this coastal paradise. It’s a delightful reminder of the ocean's influence, where each breezy day invites both relaxation and adventure.

Average March Wind Speed in Santa Cruz

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Santa Cruz, with values for each month shown alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how March's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.53.73.5 m/s3.84.13.93.53.23.13.33.03.8
Data source: Santa Cruz March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Santa Cruz Compares to Other Months

The weather in Santa Cruz changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of March'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 March and January, we find that both months exhibit similar temperature ranges, with a minimum temperature of 6°C (42°F) and an average temperature of around 11°C (53°F). However, March tends to be slightly warmer with a maximum temperature reaching 20°C (68°F), compared to January's 18°C (65°F). Additionally, March experiences more precipitation, averaging 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, compared to January's 148 mm (5.8 in) across 9 days. Notably, both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 82%. For a more detailed overview of January's weather, you can check Santa Cruz weather in January.

In comparing the weather of March and February, we see some interesting similarities and differences. Both months have a similar average temperature of 11°C (53°F), but February tends to be slightly warmer on the maximum end, reaching up to 21°C (70°F) compared to March's maximum of 20°C (68°F). February also experiences more precipitation, with 136 mm (5.3 in) over just 7 days, compared to March's 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days. Humidity levels are quite comparable, with February at 84% and March at 82%. Overall, while conditions remain relatively mild, February is slightly wetter and warmer than March. For more detailed insights, you can check Santa Cruz weather in February.

March and April present a shift in weather patterns, with April generally being warmer and drier. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (53°F). The month also experiences significant rainfall, receiving about 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days and with humidity levels at 82%. In contrast, April sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 24°C (75°F), averaging 12°C (54°F). Precipitation decreases to 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 5 days, and humidity levels drop to 78%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Santa Cruz weather in April.

March and May present notable differences in their weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 82%. In contrast, May sees a slight rise in temperatures, with the minimum at 8°C (47°F) and the average reaching 13°C (55°F), while still peaking at 20°C (68°F). Precipitation drops dramatically to just 23 mm (0.9 in) over only 3 days, leading to a more comfortable humidity of 71%. For those looking to explore the weather specifics of May, further details can be found at Santa Cruz weather in May.

March weather is characterized by cooler temperatures and higher precipitation, with an average of 11°C (53°F) and around 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain spread over 11 days, resulting in a relatively humid atmosphere at 82%. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of 11°C (51°F) and reaching highs of up to 29°C (84°F), with significantly lower rainfall totaling just 4 mm (0.2 in) over only one day. This shift to drier and sunnier weather is reflected in the decreased humidity of 64%. For more detailed information, check out Santa Cruz weather in June.

March and July exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average of 11°C (53°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days and high humidity at 82%. In contrast, July experiences milder temperatures with a minimum of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), averaging 15°C (59°F). Notably, July is significantly drier, receiving only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation across the month and enjoying a lower humidity level of 58%. For more detailed information, you can check Santa Cruz weather in July.

When comparing the weather in March and August, notable differences emerge. March experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), while August offers warmer conditions, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F). Additionally, March is characterized by significantly higher precipitation, totaling 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days, contrasted with August's notably dry conditions, which see only 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days. Humidity levels also differ, with March retaining a humid 82% compared to August's much drier 54%. For more details on August weather specifics, refer to Santa Cruz weather in August.

In March, the weather is cool and often wet, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), alongside significant precipitation of 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days and a high humidity of 82%. In contrast, September enjoys much warmer temperatures, with minima of 11°C (53°F) and maxima soaring to 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is scarce in September, totaling just 2 mm (0.1 in) and occurring over 0 days, resulting in a much lower humidity level of 55%. For those interested in specific details about weather conditions in September, you can check Santa Cruz weather in September.

In March, the weather tends to be cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F). It experiences significant precipitation of 110 mm (4.3 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 82%. In contrast, October brings warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F), an average of 16°C (60°F), and a peak of 29°C (84°F). This month sees much less rain, totaling only 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 2 days, and a drop in humidity to 62%. For more details on October weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in October.

When comparing the weather in March and November, we notice some interesting contrasts. March often experiences lower average temperatures, with a min of 6°C (42°F) and an average of 11°C (53°F), compared to November, which boasts a milder average of 14°C (57°F) with similar minimum temperatures. Additionally, while March is wetter with 110 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation over 11 days, November has significantly less precipitation at 61 mm (2.4 in) over just 5 days. Both months exhibit fairly high humidity levels, but March tends to be slightly more humid at 82%, compared to November's 78%. For those interested in diving deeper into the specifics of November weather, you can check out Santa Cruz weather in November.

The weather in March and December offers some similarities and differences. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (42°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), with an average temperature of 11°C (53°F). It tends to be wetter during this month, experiencing around 110 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation over approximately 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 82%. In contrast, December shows slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and a maximum of 21°C (70°F), maintaining the same average of 12°C (53°F). However, the precipitation is higher at 126 mm (4.9 in) but over fewer days—only 9 days—keeping humidity at a lower 80%. For more details on December weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in December.

Compare Santa Cruz's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Santa Cruz

As winter melts into spring, March in Santa Cruz brings a refreshing shift in weather, with milder temperatures and a notable increase in both humidity and precipitation. While the maximum temperatures begin to rise, the overall climate remains cooler compared to the sunnier months ahead. With approximately 11 days of rain, residents experience the characteristic mix of sunshine and showers that help the lush landscapes thrive. This transition period prepares the region for the warmer, drier days of April and May, making March a uniquely vibrant time to explore the beauty of Santa Cruz. For more detailed insights, check out Santa Cruz Climate.