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Palo Alto, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $4: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palo Alto, United States of America
to
Santa Cruz, United States of America

How to Get from Palo Alto 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 by busBest price
68 kmDistance
50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto 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  7m
Estimated price
$7-13
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$4-17
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 68 km
Duration: 50m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Drive
Average Duration
2h  27m
Estimated price
$7-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$7-11
Company
Taxi San Jose
Taxi
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$140-180
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Traveling From Palo Alto to Santa Cruz

The journey from the tech-savvy innovation hub of Palo Alto to the laid-back coastal charm of Santa Cruz offers a delightful contrast between bustling urban life and serene beachside relaxation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Vibrant local shops and dining options.
• Cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
Westside
• Close to the beach and Natural Bridges State Park.
• Popular for its breweries and casual eateries.
Seabright
• Scenic waterfront views and sandy beaches.
• Eclectic mix of shops and restaurants along the coast.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Santa Cruz experience.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early in the morning or weekdays to dodge crowds and enjoy rides.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Come during late afternoon or weekdays for stunning sunsets and tranquility.
Santa Cruz Wharf
Early mornings or late afternoons offer a serene atmosphere and fewer visitors.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Visiting in late spring or early fall can offer the best weather, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

Try the fresh fish tacos at The Fish Hopper, where the vibrant coastal atmosphere and emphasis on local seafood create a delightful dining experience that stands apart from Palo Alto’s upscale dining scene. The burst of flavors from locally sourced ingredients reflects the laid-back beach culture of Santa Cruz.

Palo Alto - Santa Cruz operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palo Alto 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 California Avenue Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$5-7

Train from San Jose, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$0-0
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
$0-0

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://www.vta.org

Bus from El Camino & California to Santa Clara & 1st

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$0-0
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
Contact phone
+1 408-459-8010
Website
http://www.taxisanjose.com

Other from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$140-180

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

Traveling between Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto to Santa Cruz, covering a distance of 42 miles, with picturesque views along the way. The drive typically takes about 50 minutes, making it a perfect day trip destination. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of car travel with prices ranging between $7 to $11 for the journey from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz. Experience the convenience of having your own vehicle to explore the charming coastal town at your own pace.
Average price
$7 - $11
🚌 A trip from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz by bus requires a transfer and takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes. The journey involves services from El Camino & California to Soquel Ave & Front via Santa Clara & 1st and Diridon Station. 🛑 Route 1 includes a transfer with the first step on the bus towards Rapid Eastridge departing from Palo Alto Transit Center to Santa Clara & Almaden Blvd via VTA. The second step is on the bus towards 17 - Highway 17 Express to Santa Cruz via SVTC from Santa Clara & Almaden Boulevard to Santa Cruz Metro Center via Santa Cruz Metro. 💰 Prices for the bus between Santa Cruz and Palo Alto range from $7 to $13. The total duration of the journey from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz by bus is approximately 2 hours and 7 minutes, covering a distance of 54.3 miles.
Departure Point
El Camino & California station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz.

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The cheapest way to get from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz is by taking the line 22 bus and bus combination. This option typically costs between $4 and $17, depending on the specific fares and transportation providers. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes. This is a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel between these two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz is by taking a taxi. It typically takes around 50 minutes to get to Santa Cruz by taxi, depending on traffic conditions. However, it is important to note that this is also the most expensive option, with taxi fares ranging from $140 to $180. Alternatively, you can explore other transportation options such as ridesharing services, which may offer a quicker journey compared to public transportation options.
The distance from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz is approximately 33 miles. If you are driving, the distance is approximately 42 miles. The drive takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can take public transportation, such as buses or trains, which may require transfers and can take longer.
The best way to travel from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz without a car is to take a combination of Caltrain and bus. Firstly, you can take Caltrain from Palo Alto Station to Diridon Station in San Jose. From there, you can transfer to the Highway 17 Express bus that will take you directly to Santa Cruz. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes and the cost is between $7 and $14 depending on the specific fares. This is a convenient and affordable option for those who prefer not to drive.
The travel time from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes, including transfers. The duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The fastest way to reach Santa Cruz from Palo Alto is by car or taxi, which would take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. It is important to plan accordingly and consider traffic and any delays that may occur.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Santa Cruz. There are over 113 hotels to choose from, offering varying rates and amenities to suit different preferences and budgets. Prices start at around $72 per night, depending on factors such as location, star rating, and season. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best deals and availability for your stay in Santa Cruz.
Yes, you can drive from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz. The driving distance is approximately 42 miles. The estimated driving time is around 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to check for any road closures or construction before your trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz. However, there are bus services available with transfers. You can take the line 22 bus from El Camino & California to Santa Clara & 1st and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Santa Cruz. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 6 minutes. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly and check the schedules to ensure a smooth journey.
To catch the bus from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz you need to go to the El Camino & California station. This is where the bus services operated by Santa Clara VTA depart from. Make sure to check the schedule in advance and arrive at the station in time for your departure. Remember to have your ticket or exact change ready when boarding the bus.
The bus from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz arrives at the Water & Ocean station in Santa Cruz. This station is located near downtown Santa Cruz, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city's attractions. From there, you can easily access other modes of transportation or continue your journey on foot to nearby destinations. The Water & Ocean station is a central hub for local buses, making it easy to navigate around Santa Cruz.
The cost of a bus from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz can range from $7 to $13. However, it's important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and the bus company you choose. It's recommended to check with the specific bus service for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
The cost to drive from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz typically ranges from $7 to $11, depending on various factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes both fuel expenses and any tolls that may be incurred during the journey. It's important to note that the cost may be higher during peak travel times or if there are any detours or alternative routes taken.

Trips to Santa Cruz