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Manteca, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $17: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Manteca 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.

$17 - OtherBest price
154 kmDistance
1h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manteca 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
3h  23m
Estimated price
$5-78
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  46m
Estimated price
$17-26
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 154 km
Duration: 1h 46m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Drive
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$3-50
Company
Santa Cruz Metro
Bus
Average Duration
4h  27m
Estimated price
$5-78
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Traveling From Manteca to Santa Cruz

The journey from Manteca to Santa Cruz will take you from the quiet suburban vibes of the Central Valley to the vibrant coastal scene, where the ocean meets a lively boardwalk and a backdrop of stunning redwoods.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers diverse neighborhoods that cater to a variety of interests.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Lively shops and restaurants abound.
• Home to the historic Rio Theatre.
Capitola Village
• Charming coastal vibe and colorful buildings.
• Spectacular beach views and local boutiques.
Westside Santa Cruz
• Close to Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Renowned for its vibrant artisan community.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

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

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early mornings on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and shorter lines.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Head there during low tide in the late afternoon for stunning views and calm waves.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Opt for a mid-afternoon visit on weekdays for a more serene experience.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, marked by warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it a year-round destination. For the most enjoyable experience, consider visiting in late spring or early fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner.

Dining Recommendation

When in Santa Cruz, indulge in the ocean-fresh fish tacos at The Picnic Basket, where the vibrant flavors and locally-sourced ingredients reflect the coastal charm. This dining experience contrasts sharply with Manteca's heartier fare, offering a relaxed atmosphere with views of the beach that elevate your meal to something truly memorable.

Manteca - Santa Cruz operators

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

Train
Contact phone
1800-411-7245
Website
acerail.com

Train from Lathrop Amtrak Station to San Jose Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 53m
Estimated price
$12-16
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Lathrop-Manteca Amtrak Station to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 53m
Estimated price
$3-50
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
$780-781

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$780-781
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

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Manteca 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 Manteca to Santa Cruz, covering a driving distance of 96 miles in just 1 hour and 46 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of varied pricing options ranging from $17 to $26 for a convenient car trip from Manteca to the beautiful coastal city of Santa Cruz.
Average price
$17 - $26
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus route from Manteca to Santa Cruz, travelers can still make the journey with a few transfers. The overall trip duration, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes.
Departure Point
Stockton station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Manteca and Santa Cruz is approximately 73 miles. By car, it takes around 1 hour and 46 minutes to drive from Santa Cruz to Manteca. By train and bus, it takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes to travel from Manteca to Santa Cruz. If you prefer taking the bus, it will take approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Manteca.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Manteca to Santa Cruz is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes to reach Santa Cruz by car and costs between $17 and $26 in gas expenses. This option provides the quickest and most convenient way to reach your destination. Other modes of transportation, such as taking a train and bus combination or a bus alone, take longer and may not be as cost-effective for this particular route.
To get from Manteca to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the 96 miles which takes approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes. The driving route provides the flexibility to stop and explore different attractions along the way. The cost of this option can vary, with prices ranging from $17 to $26, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from Manteca to Santa Cruz without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $5 and $80. You can start by taking a train from Manteca to San Jose, and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Santa Cruz. This mode of transportation allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of driving.
No, there is no direct bus route from Manteca to Santa Cruz. However, there are alternative routes that involve transfers at various locations such as Stockton and Diridon Station. The total travel time for this journey, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 41 minutes. The bus services are operated by Amtrak and Santa Cruz Metro.
There are many options for accommodation near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels available, there is something for every budget. Prices start at $72 per night, and you can find a variety of hotels ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Some popular areas to stay in Santa Cruz include the beachfront area near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk or the downtown area, which offers convenient access to restaurants and shops. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Trips to Santa Cruz