Sacramento, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $26: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Sacramento to Santa Cruz: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$26 - OtherBest price
236 kmDistance
2h 35m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento 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.
Sacramento - Santa Cruz operators
Explore transport companies operating between Sacramento and Santa Cruz, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Sacramento to San Jose
Average Duration
3h 6mEstimated price
$80-81Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287Website
http://www.caltrain.com
Train from Millbrae to San Jose Diridon
Average Duration
1h 16mEstimated price
$7-930Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600Website
http://www.scmtd.com
Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water
Average Duration
50mEstimated price
$932-7Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front
Average Duration
52mEstimated price
$932-7Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Bus from Sacramento to Stockton
Average Duration
1hEstimated price
0-0Bus from Stockton to San Jose
Average Duration
2h 5mEstimated price
0-0Website
united.com
Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to San Francisco (SFO)
Average Duration
1h 9mEstimated price
$180-420Sacramento to Santa Cruz: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Sacramento 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.
Average price
$26 - $40
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Sacramento to Santa Cruz may vary by operator, but Amtrak's Coast Starlight offers catering services with options like pre-packaged meals, snacks, and beverages available for purchase. There is usually a cafe car where you can grab a quick bite or enjoy a drink while you relax and take in the scenery.
• If you're traveling with Amtrak on this route, you can choose from various seating options. Economy Class features comfortable seating with standard amenities, while Business Class offers more spacious seats with added legroom and complimentary beverages. First Class is typically not available on this line, so Business Class would be your best premium option for extra comfort as you travel.
• For your trip from Sacramento to Santa Cruz, Amtrak is the primary operator, and you can book your tickets or find more information on their website at ">">amtrak.com Upon arrival in Santa Cruz, the station is centrally located, and while there are no luggage storage services, restrooms are available. As for navigating, the fastest way to get to the city center is to take the Santa Cruz Metro bus #4, which runs regularly and will get you there in about 15 minutes.
The quickest flight from Sacramento to Santa Cruz involves a direct flight from Sacramento Airport to San Francisco Airport, which takes just 1 hour and 2 minutes. United Airlines provides flights for this route, offering a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities. Upon arrival at San Francisco Airport, travelers can easily transfer to a connecting flight or choose to drive to Santa Cruz, which is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by car. The scenic drive down the coast offers a beautiful introduction to the natural beauty awaiting in Santa Cruz, making it a wonderful start to an enjoyable trip. Whether embarking on a business venture or a relaxing getaway, this quick and efficient journey allows travelers to easily reach their destination.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
The trip from Sacramento to Santa Cruz by bus involves a journey of approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes, including transfers. While there is no direct route, travelers can catch a bus operated by Amtrak from Sacramento station, making a stop in Stockton before reaching Diridon Station. From there, passengers will transfer to a bus operated by Santa Cruz Metro, ultimately arriving at Water & Ocean station in Santa Cruz. The scenic route allows for a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy the journey, offering the opportunity to relax and take in the beautiful California scenery along the way.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Sacramento to Santa Cruz.
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The cheapest way to travel from Sacramento to Santa Cruz is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 140 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to reach Santa Cruz. The estimated cost for fuel and tolls ranges from $26 to $40, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The fastest way to travel from Sacramento to Santa Cruz is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route involves taking US-50 and then connecting to CA-17, which will lead you directly to Santa Cruz.
The distance between Sacramento and Santa Cruz is approximately 187 km. If you prefer driving, the road distance is 236 km. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.
The most convenient way to travel from Sacramento to Santa Cruz without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. First, you can take an Amtrak train from Sacramento to San Jose, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. From San Jose, you can then catch a bus operated by Santa Cruz Metro, which will take you directly to Santa Cruz in about 1-2 hours. The cost for this journey ranges from $7 to $95, depending on the specific train and bus options you choose, and the time it takes is approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes.
The travel time from Sacramento to Santa Cruz can vary depending on the mode of transportation. If you choose to drive, it takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to cover the distance of around 130 miles. However, if you opt for public transportation, such as a combination of trains and buses, the journey can take around 4 hours and 38 minutes.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at around $72 per night.
Yes, you can drive from Sacramento to Santa Cruz. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 237 km. It typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to drive from Sacramento to Santa Cruz, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Sacramento to Santa Cruz. However, you can take a bus from Sacramento to Santa Cruz with transfers. The journey typically includes transfers at Stockton and Diridon Station. The total travel time can take approximately 4 hours and 49 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Sacramento to Santa Cruz at the Sacramento station. The bus services are operated by Amtrak. The Sacramento station is located at 401 I Street, Sacramento 95814.
The Sacramento to Santa Cruz bus services, operated by Santa Cruz Metro, arrive at the Water & Ocean station in Santa Cruz. This station is conveniently located near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the ocean, making it easy for travelers to access popular tourist attractions. Once you arrive at the Water & Ocean station, you can easily explore the beautiful city of Santa Cruz and enjoy its stunning coastal views.
United Airlines offers flights from Sacramento Airport to San Francisco Airport. From there, travelers can rent a car or take public transportation to get to Santa Cruz. Another option is to take a connecting flight from San Francisco Airport to the Watsonville Municipal Airport, which is located near Santa Cruz.
The fastest way to travel from Sacramento to Santa Cruz is to take a flight. You can book a direct flight from Sacramento Airport to San Francisco Airport, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes. United Airlines offers flights on this route. From San Francisco Airport, you can then take a taxi or use public transportation to travel the remaining distance to Santa Cruz.
The flight from Sacramento to Santa Cruz typically involves a layover in San Francisco. The direct flight from Sacramento Airport to San Francisco Airport takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes.
The cost to drive from Sacramento to Santa Cruz can range between $26 and $40. The actual price will depend on factors such as the vehicle's fuel efficiency, current gas prices, and any tolls along the route. It's a good idea to estimate your travel expenses based on the distance of about 140 miles and an average fuel consumption of 25 miles per gallon.