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Santa Cruz
Water Temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz, California: Current, Historical Data and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the sea temperature in Santa Cruz in California, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature in Santa Cruz
53°F
TODAY
53°F
YESTERDAY
53°F
A WEEK AGO
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Today sea water temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz is 11.7°F. The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used.
It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart for Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz Over the Last 30 Days
The water temperature in Santa Cruz today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Today's sea temperature is generally in line with historical values for this day.
According to our forecast, the sea temperature in Santa Cruz will remain nearly unchanged in the coming days, its value will be 54°F.
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts across United States to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for Santa Cruz and nearby towns and resorts is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 17 | 53°F | 53°F | |
| Feb 18 | 53°F | 52°F | |
| Feb 19 | 53°F | 54°F | |
| Feb 20 | 53°F | 55°F | |
| Feb 21 | 53°F | 54°F | |
| Feb 22 | 53°F | 52°F | |
| Feb 23 | 53°F | 54°F | |
| Feb 24 | 53°F | 56°F | |
| Feb 25 | 55 | 53°F | |
| Feb 26 | 55 | 53°F | |
| Feb 27 | 55 | 54°F | |
| Feb 28 | 55 | 54°F | |
| Mar 1 | 55 | 54°F | |
| Mar 2 | 56 | 54°F | |
| Mar 3 | 56 | 54°F | |
| Mar 4 | 56 | 54°F |
Sea Temperature in Santa Cruz Throughout the Year
Throughout the year, the sea temperature in Santa Cruz never exceeds 64°F (18°C).
Below is the annual chart of sea temperature changes in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz.
January
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 48°F | 54°F | 59°F |
February
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 50°F | 55°F | 59°F |
March
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 48°F | 55°F | 61°F |
April
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 48°F | 55°F | 61°F |
May
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 50°F | 57°F | 64°F |
June
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 50°F | 57°F | 64°F |
July
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 52°F | 59°F | 66°F |
August
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 52°F | 59°F | 66°F |
September
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 54°F | 60°F | 66°F |
October
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 54°F | 60°F | 66°F |
November
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 52°F | 58°F | 64°F |
December
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 50°F | 55°F | 59°F |
Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz
You can explore detailed data on how the water temperature in Santa Cruz varies each month:
What Beaches Are There In and Around Santa Cruz?
Cowell's Beach
Cowell's Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Cowell's Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing.
Santa Cruz Beach
Santa Cruz Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Its Beach
Its Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms. It is suitable for surfing.
Lighthouse Field State Beach
Lighthouse Field State Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms. Lighthouse Field State Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing.
Steamer Lane
Steamer Lane is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms. It is suitable for surfing.
Moran Lake Beach
Moran Lake Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms. Moran Lake Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing.
Seabright Beach
Seabright Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, is located directly in Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. Seabright Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Twin Lakes State Beach
Twin Lakes State Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Santa Cruz Harbor Beach
Santa Cruz Harbor Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Santa Cruz Harbor Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Twin Lakes State Beach - Blacks Beach
Twin Lakes State Beach - Blacks Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. Twin Lakes State Beach - Blacks Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Mitchell's Cove Beach
Mitchell's Cove Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms.
Twin Lakes State Beach - Schwan Lake Park
Twin Lakes State Beach - Schwan Lake Park is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 2 km (1 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Twin Lakes State Beach - Schwan Lake Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Sunny Cove Beach
Sunny Cove Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking. It is suitable for surfing. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Corcoran Lagoon Beach
Corcoran Lagoon Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking.
Santa Maria's Beach
Santa Maria's Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking. It is suitable for surfing.
Two-Six Beach
Two-Six Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking. It is suitable for surfing.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Natural Bridges State Beach is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. Natural Bridges State Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. It is suitable for surfing.
2222 Beach
2222 Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking.
26th Avenue Beach
26th Avenue Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. For those who prefer clothing-optional beaches, 26th Avenue Beach is a designated nudist beach. There is parking. It is suitable for surfing.
Younger Lagoon Beach
Younger Lagoon Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Santa Cruz. There is parking. There are restrooms.
Santa Cruz Weather
FEBRUARY 25
50°F / 64°F
clear skyhumidity: 51% | wind: 1 mph
FEBRUARY 26
55°F / 72°F
clear skyhumidity: 54% | wind: 1 mph
FEBRUARY 27
52°F / 70°F
overcast clouds: 85-100%humidity: 71% | wind: 1 mph
Sea Temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
The coastal region of California, United States, exhibits a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Marked by moderate temperatures year-round, it experiences more fog and significantly cooler temperatures than the inland areas due to proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Cruz is located in North America in the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of 37 degrees, along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Santa Cruz lies within the California in United States.
The average annual daytime air temperature in Santa Cruz is 66°F (19°C), with the average nighttime temperature being 48°F (9°C). The highest average daily temperature occurs in September, reaching 73°F (23°C), while the lowest is in January at 61°F (16°C). As for nighttime temperatures, the minimum average temperature of 41°F (5°C) is recorded in December, and the maximum is in July, reaching 54°F (12°C).
According to historical data, Santa Cruz experiences 56 rainy days per year, which accounts for 15 percent of all days in the year. On average, there are 5 rainy days each month. The wettest month is February, with 9 rainy days and 5.6 inches (142 mm) of precipitation, while the driest month is July, which typically has 0 rainy days and only 0.0 inches (1 mm) of precipitation.
The average annual water temperature in Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz is 57°F (14°C). In January, the water reaches its lowest point of the year at 48°F (9°C), while in July, it peaks at 66°F (19°C). In Santa Cruz, the water temperature in the Pacific Ocean never consistently reaches a comfortable level for swimming in any month.
Geographical Location of Santa Cruz
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Cruz and its Water Temperatures
What is the current sea temperature in Santa Cruz?
The water temperature today in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz is 53°F (11.7°C).
In which months is the water temperature in Santa Cruz comfortable for swimming?
It cannot be guaranteed that the water temperature in Santa Cruz will be comfortable for swimming in any month of the year.
What is the water temperature in Santa Cruz during the winter?
The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz during the winter ranges from 48°F to 59°F (9°C to 15°C).
What is the water temperature in Santa Cruz during the spring?
The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz during the spring ranges from 48°F to 64°F (9°C to 18°C).
What is the water temperature in Santa Cruz during the summer?
The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz during the summer ranges from 50°F to 66°F (10°C to 19°C).
What is the water temperature in Santa Cruz during the fall?
The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz during the fall ranges from 52°F to 66°F (11°C to 19°C).
Is it possible to swim in the sea in Santa Cruz at any time of the year?
In Santa Cruz, the Pacific Ocean is quite cold, and swimming is almost impossible as the water temperature never reaches 70°F (21°C).
Is Santa Cruz a popular tourist destination for beach vacations?
Santa Cruz a fairly popular beach destination, offering good conditions for swimming and relaxation, with a steady flow of tourists, especially during peak seasons.
What sea temperatures can I expect in Santa Cruz in the next month?
In March, the water temperature in the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz will range between 48°F (9°C) and 61°F (16°C)