University of California - Santa Cruz
- Weather

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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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Weather at University of California - Santa Cruz

riaperson

Visual Arts '14

4.2

A-

Beautiful Coastal Weather

It is cold in the mornings, and heats up towards the afternoon so I would advise dressing in layers. Because of all the trees, it never gets too hot out. Sometimes its a little too chilly for my taste, but it never gets unbearable.

May 29, 2012

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Weather at University of California - Santa Cruz

aliceyeah

Business Management '15

4.2

A-

Weather Is Above Average but Not the Best.

It gets cold but not super cold. It hot but not super hot. During the spring season, the weather feels great when it's sunny.

May 18, 2012

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Weather at University of California - Santa Cruz

yamaya

Legal Studies '15

4.2

A-

Weather Is Good Except for Rain

the weather is beautiful here. not too hot nor too cold. In winter it rains a lot though

May 17, 2012

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Photos of University of California - Santa Cruz's Weather

Squiggle (aka the Porter Wave)

Photo by heelliot

Squiggle (aka the Porter Wave) This sculpture is a hot spot on campus and usually makes it onto campus brochures, too. It's located in the Porter Meadow very close to College 8. It is very typical to see students watching the sunset, catching some rays, or just hanging out on the Squiggle most days and nights.

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Photo by heelliot

Natural Surroundings

Photo by heelliot

Natural Surroundings The Kresge apartments are situated in a grove of redwood trees. The entire campus is full of wildlife and natural plants, which is probably where the nickname "UC Summer Camp" came from.

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Photo by heelliot

Breathtaking Scenery

Photo by heelliot

Breathtaking Scenery UC Santa Cruz is known for its beautiful natural scenery. Some student housing is surrounded by Redwood trees and others overlook this scene of the Monterey Bay. Stevenson College and Cowell College, as well as the Wellness Center and sports field, are located on the East side of campus where this shot was taken.

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Photo by heelliot