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

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

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$3 by carBest price

28 kmDistance

20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Explore transport companies operating between Watsonville and Santa Cruz, 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 Watsonville Transit Center - Lane 2 to Water & Ocean

Average Duration

1h 2m

Estimated price

$2-7

Taxi

Contact phone

+1 831-423-1234

Website

yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Watsonville to Santa Cruz

Average Duration

20m

Estimated price

$65-80

Contact phone

+1 831-246-1234

Taxi from Watsonville to Santa Cruz

Average Duration

20m

Estimated price

$65-80

Contact phone

+1 831-475-3232

Taxi from Watsonville to Santa Cruz

Average Duration

20m

Estimated price

$65-80

Contact phone

+1 831-424-1234

Website

yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Watsonville to Santa Cruz

Average Duration

20m

Estimated price

$65-80

Contact phone

+1 831-422-7276

Taxi from Watsonville to Santa Cruz

Average Duration

20m

Estimated price

$65-80

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

Traveling between Watsonville 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 journey from Watsonville to Santa Cruz spanning a short 18-mile drive that promises picturesque views along the way. 💸 Enjoy affordable travel options with prices ranging from $3 to $5 for a car trip between these charming coastal cities, making it an accessible and budget-friendly adventure. 🏖️ Upon reaching Santa Cruz in just around 20 minutes, prepare to soak up the sun on its beautiful beaches, indulge in delicious seafood, and explore the vibrant Boardwalk for a memorable day trip.

Average price

$3 - $5

🚂 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Watsonville to Santa Cruz by train. The route spans approximately 21.5 miles and can be completed in just under one hour. 🚌 Choose from multiple bus options, such as the 71 - Soquel/Freedom or 69W - Capitola/Cabrillo, to reach your destination in Santa Cruz. With departures from Watsonville Transit Center, you'll easily arrive at Santa Cruz Metro Center to explore the coastal city.

The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes, with services departing every 20 minutes from Watsonville Transit Center. 🗺️ With multiple route options varying in time and distance, travelers can choose the best option that suits their schedule and preferences. Prices for the bus ride range from $2 to $7, offering an affordable transportation choice for the trip.

Departure Point

Watsonville Transit Center - Lane 2 station

Arrival Point

Water & Ocean station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Watsonville and Santa Cruz is approximately 25.7 km, or 28.5 km by road. The typical travel time by car is usually around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, taking the bus from Santa Cruz to Watsonville usually takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option from Watsonville to Santa Cruz is to drive. It costs approximately $3-$5 and takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the quickest option, taking the same amount of time but costing $65-$80.

The prices for a bus between Santa Cruz and Watsonville can range from $2 to $7.

To get from Watsonville to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 29.0 km, which takes approximately 20 minutes. The road route is convenient and well-connected between the two cities. The cost of the trip by car typically ranges from $3 to $5, depending on factors like gas prices and tolls.

To travel from Watsonville to Santa Cruz without a car, the best option is to take the line 71 bus. The bus journey typically takes 1 hour and 9 minutes and costs between $2 to $7.

Yes, there is a direct bus link between Watsonville and Santa Cruz. The bus services operated by Santa Cruz Metro depart from Watsonville Transit Center and arrive at Soquel Ave & Front in Santa Cruz. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes and departs every 30 minutes, operating every day.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels available, you will have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $72 per night, offering options for various budgets.

Yes, you can definitely get from Watsonville to Santa Cruz by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 35 km. It typically takes around 2 hours and 1 minute to bike from Watsonville to Santa Cruz.