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Bakersfield, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $15: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Bakersfield, United States of America
to
Santa Cruz, United States of America

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$15 - Train, Bus via Ocean & WaterBest price
390 kmDistance
4h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bakersfield 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.

Company
Tufesa Mexico
Bus
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$29-76
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  57m
Estimated price
$15-192
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 390 km
Duration: 4h 16m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$15-192
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
8h  4m
Estimated price
$15-192
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  7m
Estimated price
$48-74
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$139-290
Company
various
Bus
Plane
BART
Bus
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$192-290
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  53m
Estimated price
$192-290
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  56m
Estimated price
$291-292
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  39m
Estimated price
$291-292
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Traveling From Bakersfield to Santa Cruz

The journey from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz showcases a striking contrast, with Bakersfield's expansive landscapes and agricultural heritage giving way to Santa Cruz's vibrant coastal charm and lush redwood forests.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct vibes and attractions.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Bustling shops and restaurants line Pacific Avenue.
• Frequent events and live music create a vibrant atmosphere.
Capitola Village
• Charming seaside village with unique boutiques.
• Beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
Seabright
• Scenic coastal views and relaxed beach vibe.
• Close access to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Santa Cruz by timing your visits right.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for shorter lines and quiet rides.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Late afternoon visits offer stunning sunsets and fewer crowds on the beach.
Mystery Spot
Booking a tour during mid-week can provide a more personal experience.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with comfortable temperatures year-round, making it an attractive destination at any time. While summer brings warm, sunny days perfect for beach outings, spring and fall offer cooler, refreshing weather, ideal for exploring the outdoors without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

Try the fresh fish tacos at The Taco Bar, where coastal flavors take center stage, offering a stark contrast to the hearty, meat-centric cuisine found in Bakersfield. The vibrant beachy atmosphere and emphasis on local seafood create a dining experience that celebrates Santa Cruz’s coastal bounty, delivering a unique taste of California's culinary scene.

Bakersfield - Santa Cruz operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+52 644 410 2444
Website
tufesa.com.mx

Bus from Bakersfield to San Jose

Average Duration
4h 35m
Estimated price
$769-153

Bus from Bakersfield, CA to Gilroy

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$1921-65
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$1929-1925

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$1929-1925
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Bakersfield to Stockton

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$767-768

Train from Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station to San Jose Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$1924-1922
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$1925-1926
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Bakersfield Airport to San Francisco Airport

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$762-763
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Bakersfield Airport to San Francisco Airport

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$294-295

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

Traveling between Bakersfield 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 Bakersfield to Santa Cruz, covering a distance of 242 miles. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes as you head towards the coast. 💸 The cost of driving from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz ranges from $40 to $65, offering an affordable travel option. Make sure to budget for fuel and potential meal stops along the way. 🏖️ Arrive in Santa Cruz after approximately 4 hours and 16 minutes of driving, ready to explore its picturesque beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and charming coastal atmosphere. Start your coastal adventure with memories to last a lifetime.
Average price
$40 - $65
🛫 Flying from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz involves a quick and convenient journey. The fastest option is a direct flight from Bakersfield Airport to San Francisco Airport with a duration of 1 hour and 37 minutes operated by United Airlines.
Departure Point
Bakersfield Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Starting from Bakersfield there is no direct bus to Santa Cruz. The journey involves transfers at McLaughlin & Sunny, Santa Clara & 1st, and Diridon Station, taking approximately 6 hours and 41 minutes. 🌉 Route 1 entails a 12-hour 12-minute trip covering a distance of 483 miles with 2 transfers. From Bakersfield to Santa Cruz, travelers switch buses in Los Angeles and San Francisco before reaching their final destination via the Highway 17 Express. 🗺️ Route 2 offers an 11-hour 37-minute journey spanning 448 miles with 3 transfers at Tejon Ranch Commerce Center, San Ysidro Arrival, and San Francisco Bus Station before connecting to Highway 17 Express for Santa Cruz.
Departure Point
Bakersfield station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Bakersfield and Santa Cruz is approximately 202 miles. If you prefer public transportation, it will take you around 9 hours and 9 minutes to travel from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz by taking a train and then a bus via Bakersfield. If you decide to drive, the travel time will be around 4 hours and 16 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a bus, which will take approximately 6 hours and 56 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Bakersfield.
For a cost-effective option, taking a bus from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz is the best choice. It costs between $27 and $75 and takes approximately 6 hours and 56 minutes. However, if time is the main concern, driving is the fastest option, taking around 4 hours and 16 minutes for the journey and costing between $40 and $65. This way, travelers can reach their destination in Santa Cruz in the shortest amount of time possible.
When traveling from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz the prices for a bus ticket can range from $27 to $71. The exact cost will depend on various factors such as the date and time of travel, the bus company, and any promotions or discounts available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
To travel from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 242 miles. The journey typically takes about 4 hours and 16 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz can range from $40 to $65, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
The best way to travel from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 56 minutes and the ticket prices range from $27 to $75. The bus is a convenient and affordable option for transportation between the two cities.
There is no direct link between Bakersfield and Santa Cruz. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey involves departing from Bakersfield and arriving at Water & Ocean station in Santa Cruz. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 56 minutes. The bus services are operated by Tufesa Mexico and Santa Cruz Metro.
The flight duration from Bakersfield to Santa Cruz is not available since there are no direct flights between the two cities. The quickest flight option is to fly from Bakersfield Airport to San Francisco Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 8 minutes. Travelers can expect to pay varying prices depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability, but flights between the two airports generally range from around $200 to $400. It's recommended to check with different airlines and travel agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Santa Cruz. You can choose from over 113 hotels, with prices starting at $72 per night. From budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, there are options to suit every traveler's needs. Some popular hotels include the Dream Inn, Hotel Paradox, and Chaminade Resort and Spa. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred choice of accommodation.

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