University of California - Santa Cruz - Weather

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

The weather in Santa Cruz is hard to predict, but remains sunny most of the time. Since it is on the ocean, sometimes it will be really foggy and cloudy in the morning, but it always burns off, and the afternoon is consistently hot and sunny. Summer is really hot, winter is very rainy, and spring and fall are mostly sunny with the occasional storm. Because of the quick weather changes, it’s necessary to bring proper clothing to UCSC. You will definitely wear sandals and tank tops for most of the year, but it’s important to carry a sweatshirt, since it is usually chilly in the shade or at night. Many UCSC students layer their clothes because downtown Santa Cruz is sometimes hotter or colder than on campus.

The rainy winter can sometimes get students down, but once March rolls around they are immediately cheered up because the weather is mostly fantastic. Sunny days in Santa Cruz are absolutely gorgeous, and it’s hard to be unhappy with all the stunning views here. Luckily, sunny days happen pretty frequently. Spring has an incredible feel, as students stampede outside to enjoy the outdoors after a rainy winter. During spring, the most popular study areas are outside on lawns and fields, thus making the libraries are pretty empty. The weather never gets below freezing, and it never snows in Santa Cruz. Sweaters or hoodies will suffice most of the year, although students my need something a little heavier at night and during the winter. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen!

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Students Speak Out

UCSzf says: University of California - Santa Cruz 2015 Undecided

I'm from SoCal, so Santa Cruz is a... I'm from SoCal, so Santa Cruz is a little colder than what I'm used to, but it's not too bad. During the winter it can rain quite a bit, but since the campus is in a Redwood forest you kind of need the rain to support it. The coldest night I can remember was something like 37 degrees in the dead of winter, but in the spring and summer, it will hit the 80s and be perfect beach weather. 12345 Weather: March 02, 2009 Report

UCSME says: University of California - Santa Cruz 2016 Other

Bring an umbrella, rain boots, and... Bring an umbrella, rain boots, and other waterproof gear. The winter quarter is all rain and wind. It can be foggy in the morning, but it will usually warm up. Learn to carry a light jacket with you at all times. 12345 Weather: March 01, 2009 Report

TRez says: University of California - Santa Cruz 2015 Social Sciences

I would dress warm for Santa Cruz.... I would dress warm for Santa Cruz. The ocean breeze keeps it chilly in the fall and winter. However, during the late spring and summer, it gets very warm. Pack for all the seasons and bring a swimsuit for the beach. 12345 Weather: February 23, 2009 Report

UCSkg says: University of California - Santa Cruz 2016 Undecided

It's beautiful central California... It's beautiful central California weather—sunny for the better part of the year, but there are definitely rainy periods. So, come equipped with rain boots and an umbrella. 12345 Weather: February 19, 2009 Report

Anonymous says:

The weather is mostly great here.... The weather is mostly great here. Even in the rain, Santa Cruz is really nice and relatively mild as far as temperature goes. It does rain quite a bit and gets pretty cold, but it’s mostly gorgeous, and I really have no complaints. Bring long pants, a few heavy coats and a beanie and you’ll be toasty in the winter months. 12345 Weather Report

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