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Half Moon Bay, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Half Moon Bay, United States of America
to
Santa Cruz, United States of America

How to Get from Half Moon Bay 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.

$5 by busBest price
78 kmDistance
1h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Half Moon Bay 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
Bus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$10-20
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$5-22
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 78 km
Duration: 1h

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Drive
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$8-13
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$270-320

Traveling From Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz

The journey from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz takes you from coastal bluffs and tranquil beaches to vibrant boardwalks and lively surf culture, offering a diverse tapestry of experiences along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Downtown
• Bustling shops and restaurants within walking distance.
• Frequent local events and cultural activities.
The Boardwalk
• Iconic amusement park right on the beach.
• Ideal for family fun and oceanfront dining.
Westside
• Home to eclectic cafes and craft breweries.
• Access to scenic beaches and natural trails.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Planning your visit to Santa Cruz's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early mornings or weekdays to avoid long lines and enjoy rides.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Late afternoon is ideal for fewer crowds and stunning sunset views.
Mystery Spot
Opt for weekday tours during the late morning for a more relaxed experience.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Visiting during the spring or fall provides ideal conditions for exploring the outdoors, while summer brings warm beach days that attract more visitors.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

Head to The Penny Ice Creamery for a delightful treat that showcases local, seasonal ingredients with inventive flavors, providing a fun contrast to the seafood-centric dining scene of Half Moon Bay. The vibrant, communal atmosphere of this artisanal ice cream shop invites you to savor each bite in a lively setting, making it a memorable part of your Santa Cruz experience.

Half Moon Bay - Santa Cruz operators

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

Bus
Website
samtrans.com

Bus from Main / Miramontes to 28th Ave & S El Camino Real

Average Duration
31m
Estimated price
$5-5

Bus from El Camino Real & 27th Ave to Palo Alto Transit Ctr-Bay 1

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$5-5
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$6-10

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$6-10
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
vta.org

Bus from Palo Alto Transit Center to Santa Clara & 1st

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$5-5
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Hillsdale Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$101-102
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Other from San Jose, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$0-0

Other from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$270-320

Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Half Moon Bay 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.

🚗 Experience a scenic coastal drive from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz, covering 49 miles in just about 1 hour through picturesque coastal landscapes. 💰 Enjoy the cost-effective journey with prices ranging from $8 to $13, making it a budget-friendly option for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Average price
$8 - $13
🌊 While there's no direct route, the journey includes transfers and takes approximately 4 hours and 47 minutes. 🌞 Enjoy scenic views along the 75.2 miles journey, with ticket prices ranging from $5 to $22.
Departure Point
El Camino Real & 27th Ave station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz.

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The cheapest way to travel from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and the cost is around $8-$13 for fuel. This option allows for flexibility in terms of timing and allows you to enjoy the scenic coastal route along Highway 1.
The fastest way to travel from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz is by taking a taxi. While it is the quickest option, it is also the most expensive, with fares ranging from $270 to $320. The journey typically takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can also consider other car services or rideshare options for a potentially more affordable and convenient travel experience.
The distance from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz is approximately 41 miles. If you choose to drive, the road distance is about 49 miles. The journey typically takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Keep in mind that the distance and travel time may vary based on the specific route you take.
To travel from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz without a car, you can take a combination of Caltrain and bus. Start by taking the Caltrain from Half Moon Bay Station to San Jose Diridon Station. From there, you can transfer to the bus line 17, which will take you directly to Santa Cruz Metro Center. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes and costs between $9-$21, depending on the fare options you choose. It's important to note that the schedules for Caltrain and bus services may vary, so it's advisable to check the timetables before your trip.
The travel time from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz is approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes. This includes any necessary transfers during the journey. It's important to note that the total travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. You can choose from 113+ hotels in the area. Prices for hotels in Santa Cruz start at $72 per night. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly stay or a more luxurious experience, you'll find a range of options to suit your needs in Santa Cruz.
Yes, you can drive from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz. The driving distance between the two cities is 49 miles, and it usually takes about 1 hour to complete the trip. The most direct route is to take Highway 1 south towards Santa Cruz.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. However, you can take a combination of buses to reach Santa Cruz. The journey involves departing from Main / Miramontes in Half Moon Bay, then transferring at different locations such as El Camino Real & 27th Ave, Palo Alto Transit Center, Santa Clara & 1st, and finally arriving at Diridon Station in Santa Cruz. The total travel time for this route, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 2 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz at the El Camino Real & 27th Ave station. The bus service is operated by SamTrans. It is important to check the bus schedule and plan your timing accordingly to ensure you don't miss the bus.
The Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz bus services operated by Santa Cruz Metro arrive at the Water & Ocean station. This station is located in downtown Santa Cruz, near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Pacific Avenue shopping district. From this station, travelers can easily access various attractions and amenities in Santa Cruz. It is a convenient arrival point for visitors looking to explore the city.
The cost of a bus ticket from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz typically ranges from $9 to $20, depending on the specific bus company and any discounts available. It is recommended to check with the bus operators, such as Santa Cruz Metro or Greyhound, for the most up-to-date pricing information. Factors like the time and day of travel may also affect the ticket prices.
The cost of driving from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz can range from $8 to $13, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. The distance between the two cities is approximately 34 miles, and it takes around 1 hour to drive there. It is recommended to check the current gas prices and plan accordingly to ensure a budget-friendly journey.