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Madera, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $23: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Madera 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.

$23 - OtherBest price
212 kmDistance
2h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madera 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
Average Duration
4h  52m
Estimated price
$35-56
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  27m
Estimated price
$23-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 212 km
Duration: 2h 27m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  9m
Estimated price
$35-56
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$184-448

Traveling From Madera to Santa Cruz

Your journey from Madera, with its serene agricultural landscapes and charming small-town atmosphere, to the vibrant coastal charm and lively activities of Santa Cruz offers a delightful contrast that showcases California's diverse experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Filled with shops, restaurants, and local art galleries.
• Hosts lively events like the weekly farmers market.
Westside Santa Cruz
• Close to the picturesque Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Features a relaxed vibe with trendy cafes and breweries.
Capitola Village
• Known for its colorful houses along the beach.
• Offers quaint boutiques and delightful seaside dining.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Maximize your Santa Cruz experience by timing your visits right.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy rides with fewer crowds.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Weekdays in late spring offer lovely weather and a quieter atmosphere.
Santa Cruz Wharf
Visit during sunset for breathtaking views without the noon foot traffic.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it inviting for year-round visits. The best times to explore are typically late spring and early fall, when the weather is pleasant and activities can be enjoyed without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

For a taste of Santa Cruz, try the fish tacos at The Picnic Basket, where the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients shine with vibrant coastal flavors, contrasting with Madera's hearty farm-style dishes. The laid-back beachside atmosphere and innovative menu create a dining experience that embodies the spirit of Santa Cruz and its love for fresh, seasonal food.

Madera - Santa Cruz operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Madera, CA to Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$35-56

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$4-7
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$4-7
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Madera Bus Stop to Stockton

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$35-53

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$7-350
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$90-330

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

Traveling between Madera 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 Madera to Santa Cruz, covering 132 miles of picturesque California landscapes in just 2 hours and 27 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $23 to $35 for the journey by car, making it an affordable and convenient choice for travel between these two vibrant cities.
Average price
$23 - $35
🛫 Flying from Madera to Santa Cruz typically involves a connecting flight through San Francisco Airport. The quickest direct flight from Fresno Airport to San Francisco Airport takes just 1 hour and 12 minutes with United Airlines. 🌊 Upon reaching San Francisco, you can enjoy a layover before catching your connecting flight to Santa Cruz. The scenic drive from San Francisco to Santa Cruz takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, offering stunning views of the California coast.
Departure Point
Fresno Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Madera to Santa Cruz, travelers can reach their destination in approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes with transfers along the way. 🌉 The journey involves services departing from Madera and arriving at Soquel Ave & Front via various stops, including Santa Clara & 24th and Diridon Station. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Madera range from $35 to $56, offering an affordable and convenient transportation option for those looking to explore both cities.
Departure Point
Madera, CA station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Madera and Santa Cruz is 109 miles, or 132 miles by road. Typically, it takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes to drive from Santa Cruz to Madera. However, if you prefer to take a bus, the travel time can take around 5 hours and 3 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Madera to Santa Cruz is by car. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes, and the cost of fuel for the trip is estimated to be between $23 and $35. Driving also gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore any attractions or restaurants that catch your interest. Additionally, driving allows you to have control over your travel schedule and eliminates the need to rely on public transportation schedules.
The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Madera can range from $24 to $41, depending on the specific bus company and any discounts available. It is recommended to check with different bus operators to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, it's worth considering any additional fees or charges that may be applicable, such as baggage fees or reservation fees.
To get from Madera to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 132 miles, and it would take around 2 hours and 27 minutes to drive from Madera to Santa Cruz. The prices for renting a car and driving from Madera to Santa Cruz can vary between $23 to $35 depending on the rental company and type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Madera to Santa Cruz without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes and costs between $24 and $45. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, providing a convenient and affordable way to reach Santa Cruz from Madera. Simply check the bus schedules and purchase your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Yes, there is a link between Madera and Santa Cruz via bus. However, there is no direct bus route, so passengers would need to transfer at various stops, including Santa Clara & 24th, Santa Clara & 1st, and Diridon Station. The total travel time for this journey is approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes. The bus services are operated by Tufesa and Santa Cruz Metro.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels available, you can choose from a variety of price ranges and amenities. Prices start at $72 per night, providing options for those on a budget as well as those looking for more luxurious accommodations. Whether you prefer staying near the beach, downtown, or in the surrounding areas, there are hotels available to suit your needs and preferences.