Phoenix, AZ, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $56: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Phoenix to Santa Cruz: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$56 by busBest price

991 kmDistance

3h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Phoenix to Santa Cruz with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Phoenix - Santa Cruz operators

Explore transport companies operating between Phoenix and Santa Cruz, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

$3103-3109

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

2h 15m

Estimated price

$5506-5507

Website

aa.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration

2h 1m

Estimated price

$5508-5509

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

2h 14m

Estimated price

$5506-5505

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration

2h 1m

Estimated price

$5508-5509

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

2h 7m

Estimated price

$3103-31050

Website

united.com

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration

4h 11m

Estimated price

$562-563

Plane from Phoenix (PHX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

2h 13m

Estimated price

$5503-560

Bus

Contact phone

+1 833 766 3553

Website

tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Phoenix, AZ to Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose

Average Duration

14h 10m

Estimated price

$3107-3106

Bus from Phoenix to Gilroy

Average Duration

13h 20m

Estimated price

$3105-3103

Contact phone

+1 (831) 425-8600

Website

scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration

52m

Estimated price

$2261-568

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration

1h 16m

Estimated price

$568-569

Subway

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Subway from Coliseum to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$566-567

Phoenix to Santa Cruz: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Phoenix and Santa Cruz offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🌵 Embark on a scenic road trip from the desert city of Phoenix to the coastal beauty of Santa Cruz covering a distance of 713 miles. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you drive through multiple states on this adventure. 🚗 The journey typically takes around 11 hours and 45 minutes, allowing for plenty of stops along the way to stretch your legs and take in the sights. From the arid landscapes of Arizona to the lush scenery of California, each mile brings new excitement. 🌊 Prices for a road trip from Phoenix to Santa Cruz by car can range from $120 to $190, depending on factors such as gas prices and accommodation choices. Experience the freedom of the open road as you make memories on this unforgettable drive.

Average price

$120 - $190

🚂 Experience a scenic journey from Phoenix to Santa Cruz by train. The route spans 756 miles and includes 2 transfers, promising an adventure through diverse landscapes. 🌉 Travel through bustling cities and serene countryside on this 15-hour and 52-minute trip. From Phoenix to Los Angeles Union Station, then to San Francisco Bus Station, and finally, a short 48-minute ride to Santa Cruz via Highway 17 Express. 🚌 Embark on an approximately 17-hour and 37-minute train ride with 3 transfers, offering a longer but equally picturesque route to Santa Cruz. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of buses from Greyhound and FlixBus, making your trip memorable and hassle-free.

🛫 Flying from Phoenix to Santa Cruz is a convenient and efficient way to travel. The quickest direct flight from Phoenix Airport to Monterey Airport, the nearest airport to Santa Cruz, takes just 1 hour and 55 minutes.

Departure Point

Phoenix Airport

Arrival Point

Monterey Airport

🚏 The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 16 hours and 2 minutes. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Phoenix can range from $114 to $164.

Departure Point

Phoenix, AZ station

Arrival Point

Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Phoenix to Santa Cruz.

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The distance between Phoenix and Santa Cruz is approximately 991 km or 1148 km by road. The typical travel time by flying to San Jose and then taking a bus is around 5 hours and 31 minutes. If driving by car, the typical travel time from Santa Cruz to Phoenix is about 11 hours and 45 minutes. Taking a bus from Phoenix to Santa Cruz is a longer journey, taking around 16 hours and 4 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Phoenix to Santa Cruz is by bus via Gilroy, which typically costs between $65 and $150. However, this option does have a longer travel time of approximately 18 hours and 22 minutes. For a quicker option, flying and then taking a bus is the best choice, with a travel time of 5 hours and 31 minutes. This option can range in cost from $60 to $290, depending on various factors such as airline and booking time.

The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Phoenix can range from $106 to $152.

To get from Phoenix to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1148 km, and the drive takes about 11 hours and 45 minutes. The cost of driving from Phoenix to Santa Cruz can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but it typically ranges from $120 to $190.

The most convenient way to travel from Phoenix to Santa Cruz without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 16 hours and 4 minutes, and tickets typically cost between $100 to $160.

There is no direct link between Phoenix and Santa Cruz by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers that take approximately 16h 4m. These services are operated by Tufesa, with departures from Phoenix station and arrivals at Santa Cruz Metro Center - Lane 2 station. Alternatively, it takes 11h 45m to drive between Phoenix and Santa Cruz by car.

The flight between Phoenix and Santa Cruz typically takes 1 hour and 50 minutes. The quickest route is a direct flight from Phoenix Airport to San Jose Airport. As for the cost, it varies depending on factors such as the time of year, airline, and booking time. On average, a round trip ticket can range from $200 to $500.

There are a variety of options for accommodation near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels available, travelers can choose from a range of prices starting at $72.