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Gilroy, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $3: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

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

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$3 by busBest price
56 kmDistance
47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Gilroy 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
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
2h  22m
Estimated price
$9-16
Recommended
Company
Santa Clara VTA, Santa Cruz Metro
Bus
Average Duration
3h  11m
Estimated price
$3-12
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 56 km
Duration: 47m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$6-10
Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
3h  29m
Estimated price
$7-9
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$120-150
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Traveling From Gilroy to Santa Cruz

Your journey from Gilroy to Santa Cruz takes you from rolling hills and garlic fields to vibrant coastlines and lively boardwalks, offering a delightful contrast between serene countryside and bustling beach life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz features diverse neighborhoods, each showcasing its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Vibrant shops and local eateries abound.
• Home to live music and cultural events.
Westside Santa Cruz
• Beautiful beaches and scenic views.
• Close to breweries and surf spots.
Capitola Village
• Picturesque beachfront and colorful cottages.
• Quaint shops and waterfront dining options.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Timing can transform your experience at Santa Cruz's main attractions.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit on weekdays in early afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Early morning is ideal for peaceful walks and great photography.
Mystery Spot
Book weekday tours to avoid long lines and enjoy a quieter visit.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it a pleasant getaway throughout the year. Planning your visit around the sunniest, drier months, from May to October, can enhance your outdoor adventures and beach experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

Try the fresh fish tacos at The Picnic Basket, where the focus on local and sustainable ingredients creates a vibrant, beachy atmosphere that sets it apart from Gilroy’s famed garlic-centric cuisine. The burst of flavors from fresh produce and local catch showcases Santa Cruz’s coastal charm, offering a refreshing culinary experience.

Gilroy - Santa Cruz operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Gilroy Caltrain Northbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$7-9
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$1-7

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$1-7
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://vta.org

Bus from Monterey & 5th to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$1-3
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Gilroy to Santa Cruz

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$120-150

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

Traveling between Gilroy 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 Gilroy to Santa Cruz, spanning a distance of 35 miles that can be covered in just under an hour. 💸 Prices for this delightful road trip from Gilroy to Santa Cruz range between $6 to $10, offering an affordable and convenient travel option.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚌 To travel from Gilroy to Santa Cruz by bus, you'll need to make a transfer at Diridon Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes. 🌊 The bus services from Gilroy to Santa Cruz are operated by Santa Clara VTA and Santa Cruz Metro. The total travel time to reach Santa Cruz from Gilroy by bus is 2 hours and 22 minutes, with prices ranging from $9 to $16. 🌴 Route 1 from Gilroy to Santa Cruz involves a transfer at San Jose Diridon and then taking the Highway 17 Express to Santa Cruz Metro Center. The total distance covered is 65.2 miles, with a travel time of about 2 hours and 29 minutes.
Departure Point
Monterey & 5th station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Gilroy and Santa Cruz is approximately 26 miles. By car, it typically takes about 35 minutes to travel this distance, considering the road distance of 35.1 miles. If traveling by bus, it takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Gilroy.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Gilroy to Santa Cruz is to drive. It costs around $6-$10 and takes approximately 47 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, if time is of the essence, taking a taxi is the fastest option, taking also 47 minutes but with a higher cost of $120-$150.
The prices for a bus ticket from Gilroy to Santa Cruz vary between $9 and $16. This price range allows you options when choosing your mode of transportation. It's essential to compare rates from different bus companies and book in advance to secure the best price.
To travel from Gilroy to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 35 miles, which takes around 47 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The route typically involves taking CA-152 W and CA-1 N. Gas prices in the area range from $6 to $10 for the one-way trip. Driving allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and take in the scenic coastal views along the way.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Gilroy to Santa Cruz is by taking Caltrain and a bus. This journey typically takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes and the cost is usually between $9 and $16. The Caltrain can be boarded at the Gilroy station and will take you to the Diridon Station in San Jose. From there, you can catch a bus to Santa Cruz.
Yes, there is a link between Gilroy and Santa Cruz but there is no direct bus service between the two cities. If you wish to travel by public transportation, you can take a bus from Gilroy's Monterey & 5th station to Diridon Station in San Jose, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Santa Cruz Metro Center. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer to drive, the distance between Gilroy and Santa Cruz is about 26 miles, or 35.1 miles by road, and travel time will depend on traffic conditions.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. There are over 113 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $72 and varying depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. Some popular options include beachfront hotels, boutique inns, and vacation rentals. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
Yes, you can get from Gilroy to Santa Cruz by bicycle. The distance of the route is 26 miles, which is manageable for most cyclists. Depending on your fitness and speed, it may take you around 2-3 hours to reach Santa Cruz from Gilroy by bike. However, please note that this estimate can vary based on factors such as the terrain and your cycling abilities.

Trips to Santa Cruz