Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Monterey, CA, USA from $7: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$7 - OtherBest price

69 kmDistance

46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Monterey 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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Santa Cruz - Monterey operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (831) 425-8600

Website

http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Front & Soquel Ave to Watsonville Transit Center

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2-7

Bus from Watsonville Transit Center / Lane 2 to Salinas Transit Center / Gate 1

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$2-4

Bus from Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7 to Tyler / Franklin

Average Duration

52m

Estimated price

$2-4

Contact phone

1-888-678-2871

Website

http://www.mst.org

Bus from Watsonville Transit Center / Lane 2 to Salinas Transit Center / Gate 1

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$2-4

Bus from Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7 to Tyler / Franklin

Average Duration

52m

Estimated price

$2-4

Taxi

Contact phone

+1 831-423-1234

Taxi from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$140-180

Contact phone

+1 831-246-1234

Taxi from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$140-180

Contact phone

+1 831-475-3232

Taxi from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$140-180

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Monterey 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 coastal journey from Santa Cruz to Monterey, spanning a delightful 43 miles of captivating California landscapes. 💰 Experience affordability and convenience, as the cost of traveling by car from Santa Cruz to Monterey ranges from $7 to $12, allowing you to focus on the enjoyment of the adventure ahead. 🌊 Arrive in Monterey after a leisurely 46-minute drive, ready to explore the renowned aquarium, historic Cannery Row, and breathtaking views that this coastal gem has to offer.

Average price

$7 - $12

🚆 Embark on a picturesque journey from Santa Cruz to Monterey by train. The route spans 59.9 miles and involves 2 transfers, offering a scenic and convenient travel experience through the coastal landscapes. 🚌 The first leg of the trip includes a bus ride towards Watsonville, lasting about 1 hour and 5 minutes. From Santa Cruz Metro Center, catch the bus towards 69W - Capitola/Cabrillo to reach Watsonville Transit Center, where you'll transfer for the next leg of the journey. 🏞️ The final stretch involves a bus journey towards Monterey, taking approximately 45 minutes. Departing from Salinas Transit Center, board the bus towards Monterey and enjoy the beautiful views as you arrive at Tyler/Franklin, completing your adventure from Santa Cruz to Monterey.

🚌 Traveling from Santa Cruz to Monterey by bus involves a journey of approximately 4 hours with transfers along the way.

Departure Point

Front & Soquel Ave station

Arrival Point

Tyler / Franklin station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Monterey is approximately 44 km or 69 km by road. The travel time by car varies depending on traffic conditions and can typically range from 30 minutes to 1 hour. Taking a bus from Santa Cruz to Monterey generally takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Santa Cruz to Monterey is by driving. This option typically takes around 46 minutes and costs between $7 and $12. However, the quickest option would be to take a taxi which also takes 46 minutes but is more expensive, costing between $140 and $180.-

The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Monterey range from $6 to $15.

To travel from Santa Cruz to Monterey without using public transportation, you can take a car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 69 km, and the journey usually takes around 46 minutes. The cost of fuel and tolls may vary, but typically ranges from $7 to $12.

If you're looking to travel from Santa Cruz to Monterey without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes and costs between $6 and $15. You can take a bus and transfer to lines 28 and 20, which will take you directly to Monterey.

There is no direct link between Santa Cruz and Monterey by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers, which take approximately 3 hours and 57 minutes. The journey includes departing from Soquel Ave & Front and arriving at Tyler / Franklin via Watsonville Transit Center and Salinas Transit Center.

There are plenty of options for accommodations near Monterey. With over 251 hotels available, you can find a variety of choices to suit your needs and budget. Prices start at $65 per night, offering affordable options for travelers.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Santa Cruz to Monterey by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 81 km, and it usually takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete the journey by bike.