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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Oakland 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.

$4 - Train, BusBest price
114 kmDistance
1h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oakland 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
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
2h  42m
Estimated price
$7-39
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
2h  46m
Estimated price
$4-71
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 114 km
Duration: 1h 18m

See more options

Company
various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
$9-20
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  18m
Estimated price
$12-19
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Traveling From Oakland to Santa Cruz

The journey from Oakland to Santa Cruz offers a striking contrast between the urban vibrancy of Oakland and the serene coastal charm found in Santa Cruz.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

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

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Vibrant shops and restaurants line the streets.
• Hosts local events and festivals year-round.
Westside
• Home to iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
• Features scenic ocean views and parks.
Capitola Village
• Picturesque coastal village atmosphere.
• Known for charming boutiques and colorful homes.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

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

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Early weekday mornings offer fewer crowds and shorter lines, perfect for enjoying rides.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Visit during weekday afternoons, especially in the fall, for peace and stunning sunsets.
Mystery Spot
Reserve tours in the morning to beat the afternoon rush and enjoy a clearer experience.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild coastal climate with warm, dry summers and cool, foggy winters. Visiting in late spring or early fall often provides the best weather for outdoor activities, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

Try the fish tacos at The Fish Hopper, where fresh, locally-sourced seafood meets a laid-back coastal atmosphere, creating a refreshing contrast to Oakland's urban dining scene. The vibrant flavors and ocean views make this experience uniquely Santa Cruz, showcasing the region's rich coastal heritage.

Oakland - Santa Cruz operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Oakland to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$4-74

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$75-7
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$75-7

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$75-7
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Oakland to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$70-65
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$6-9

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

Traveling between Oakland 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 Oakland to Santa Cruz, covering a distance of 71 miles in just over an hour. Enjoy the picturesque drive along the California coast, passing through charming towns and lush landscapes. ⛽️ Fuel up for the road trip ahead, with gas prices ranging from $12 to $19 for the journey from Oakland to Santa Cruz. Make a pit stop along the way to stretch your legs and grab a snack at one of the local eateries.
Average price
$12 - $19
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Oakland to Santa Cruz, travelers can easily make the trip with transfers. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes. Greyhound USA operates the bus service from Oakland to Santa Cruz. 🌉 Route 1 involves a total travel time of 3 hours and 47 minutes covering a distance of 82.6 miles from Oakland to Santa Cruz. The first step is to take a bus towards Santa Barbara from Oakland Jack London, then transfer to the San Francisco Shuttle to reach San Jose operated by Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach. 🏖️ The final leg of the journey involves taking the Highway 17 Express to Santa Cruz via SVTC. This approximately 52-minute ride is managed by Santa Cruz Metro, with departures from San Jose Diridon Station and arrivals at Santa Cruz Metro Center. The prices for this bus route can range from $7 to $39.
Departure Point
Oakland station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Oakland and Santa Cruz is approximately 59 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation vary. It takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Oakland by taking a train and then a bus. The journey by car from Santa Cruz to Oakland typically takes 1 hour and 18 minutes, while the bus ride from Oakland to Santa Cruz usually takes around 2 hours and 52 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Oakland to Santa Cruz is taking the BART and bus. This option costs between $9 and $21 and takes approximately 2 hours and 57 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving would be the quickest option, taking only 1 hour and 18 minutes and costing between $12 and $19. Taking into consideration both cost and time, the BART and bus option is the best choice for budget-conscious travelers while still offering a reasonable travel duration.
The prices for a bus journey between Santa Cruz and Oakland can range from $7 to $39, depending on factors such as the bus company, the time of day, and whether you have purchased a ticket in advance. Prices may also vary depending on any discounts or promotions that the bus company is offering at the time of travel. It is recommended to check the websites or contact the bus companies directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on ticket prices.
To get from Oakland to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent one. The distance between the two cities is about 71 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes to drive from Oakland to Santa Cruz. The cost of driving varies depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls, but it typically ranges from $12 to $19. Having your own transportation gives you the flexibility to explore Santa Cruz and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
To travel from Oakland to Santa Cruz without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes and can cost anywhere between $6 and $40, depending on the specific bus service and fare type. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenery while avoiding the hassle of driving and parking.
No, there is no direct link between Oakland and Santa Cruz. However, you can take a bus from Oakland to Santa Cruz with a transfer at Diridon Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Cruz with over 113 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $72 and can vary depending on the amenities and location. Some popular options near Santa Cruz include beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, and cozy bed and breakfasts. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best option for your stay.

Trips from Oakland

Trips to Santa Cruz