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Berkeley, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $6: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Berkeley 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.

$6 by trainBest price
122 kmDistance
1h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Berkeley 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
2h  57m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  59m
Estimated price
$6-76
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 122 km
Duration: 1h 27m

See more options

Company
Various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
3h  9m
Estimated price
$10-21
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  27m
Estimated price
$13-20
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Traveling From Berkeley to Santa Cruz

Traveling from Berkeley to Santa Cruz offers a fascinating shift from the academic vibe of the East Bay to the laid-back, beach-town atmosphere of the coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Vibrant shops and eateries line the streets.
• Frequent events and festivals attract crowds.
Westside
• Close to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
• A mix of local breweries and cafes.
Seabright
• Charming, relaxed atmosphere near the beach.
• Great spot for waterfront dining and views.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Santa Cruz's top spots.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit on weekdays in September for smaller crowds and pleasant weather.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Early mornings in spring offer stunning views and fewer visitors.
Santa Cruz Wharf
Late afternoon during weekdays lets you enjoy sunset views with less bustle.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are lighter, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

A visit to Santa Cruz isn’t complete without trying the fish tacos at The Fish Hopper, where fresh, local ingredients create a vibrant contrast to Berkeley’s farm-to-table scene. The coastal atmosphere and ocean views enhance the experience, allowing you to savor the unique flavors of the sea while enjoying the laid-back vibe of the beach.

Berkeley - Santa Cruz operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Downtown Berkeley to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$6-9
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$1-65
Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Emeryville to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$69-68

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$69-68

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

Traveling between Berkeley 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 Berkeley to Santa Cruz, covering a distance of 76 miles with an estimated drive time of 1 hour and 27 minutes. 💰 Experience affordable travel options with car prices ranging from $13 to $20 for the journey from Berkeley to Santa Cruz, offering flexibility for different budgets.
Average price
$13 - $20
🚂 The journey from Berkeley to Santa Cruz by train takes approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes covering a distance of 83.4 miles. There is one transfer involved during the trip. 🚌 The first step of the journey involves taking a bus towards Santa Barbara as part of the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service. The bus departs from Emeryville and arrives in San Jose, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes. 🚌 The second step of the journey includes boarding a bus towards Santa Cruz on the Highway 17 Express. This leg of the trip lasts for approximately 48 minutes, departing from Diridon and arriving at the Santa Cruz Metro Center.
🚌 Unfortunately, there is no direct bus route from Berkeley to Santa Cruz. However, travelers can take a combination of bus services with transfers to reach their destination in approximately 2 hours and 57 minutes. 🛣️ One option for the journey involves multiple steps, including a bus towards San Francisco, another towards Santa Barbara, and finally the Highway 17 Express to Santa Cruz. These transfers can take a total of 4 hours and 54 minutes to complete, covering a distance of 94.3 miles.
Departure Point
Emeryville station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Berkeley and Santa Cruz is approximately 64 miles. By car, it typically takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you prefer public transportation, taking a train and then a bus can take around 4 hours and 11 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus directly can take approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Berkeley to Santa Cruz is to take the BART and bus. This option costs between $9-$21 and takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to travel would be to drive, which takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes and costs between $13-$20. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on the individual's preferences.
To travel from Berkeley to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 76 miles, and it takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to drive from Berkeley to Santa Cruz. The cost of driving can vary, with prices ranging from $13 to $20, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. It is recommended to check the current prices and plan accordingly for a smooth journey.
The best way to travel from Berkeley to Santa Cruz without a car is by taking the bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes. It is a convenient and cost-effective option for transportation between the two cities. Other options such as taking the train and then a bus or using other modes of transportation may take longer or be less accessible.
Yes, there is a direct link between Berkeley and Santa Cruz. Although there is no direct bus, there are bus services operated by Amtrak that depart from Emeryville and arrive at Water & Ocean station in Santa Cruz with a journey time of approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes, including transfers at Diridon Station. This is a convenient option for travelers looking to make the trip between the two cities.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels, travelers can choose from a range of choices that suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at $72 and vary depending on the location and amenities offered. Visitors can select from beachfront hotels, luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly motels to make their stay in Santa Cruz comfortable and enjoyable.

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