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San Diego, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $24: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Diego, United States of America
to
Santa Cruz, United States of America

How to Get from San Diego 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.

$24 by trainBest price
653 kmDistance
3h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego 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
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$271-535
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
15h  17m
Estimated price
$24-235
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 653 km
Duration: 3h 30m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  59m
Estimated price
$45-350
Company
various
Plane
BART
Bus
Average Duration
5h  45m
Estimated price
$66-312
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$82-2710
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
12h  29m
Estimated price
$2711-2712
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$2713-2714
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  52m
Estimated price
$2715-2716
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Santa Cruz

From the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife of San Diego to the serene redwoods and laid-back atmosphere of Santa Cruz, your journey showcases the diverse beauty of California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz offers diverse neighborhoods that reflect its unique character and charm.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Bustling shops and local eateries abound.
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.
Westside Santa Cruz
• Close to beautiful Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Locally loved breweries and cafes to explore.
Seabright
• Scenic waterfront views and relaxing vibes.
• Unique beach access with a friendly atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Santa Cruz's popular spots.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit on weekdays during the off-peak summer hours for fewer crowds.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Early mornings or late afternoons provide fewer visitors and stunning light.
Mystery Spot
Book tours in the late afternoon to avoid peak tourist rush.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it enjoyable year-round. The best times to visit are typically spring and fall, as the pleasant weather enhances outdoor adventures and beach activities while avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

A must-try dish in Santa Cruz is the fresh Dungeness crab at The Fish Hopper, which showcases a richer seafood flavor unique to Northern California. Unlike San Diego's vibrant taco scene, the coastal charm and focus on locally sourced ingredients in Santa Cruz create a distinctly inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

San Diego - Santa Cruz operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$5358-5354

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$5359-240

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$5359-240
Website
united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration
3h 21m
Estimated price
$241-242

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$5355-243
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$5353-5354

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$245-246
Website
spirit.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$2717-244
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$247-5353

Train from Los Angeles to Salinas

Average Duration
8h 19m
Estimated price
$2355-2718
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$249-2350
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$5351-5355
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to San Jose Downtown

Average Duration
9h 40m
Estimated price
$23515-2716
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$2359-249
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-424-1234
Website
yellowcab1234.com

Other from Monterey to Santa Cruz

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$23550-2358

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

Traveling between San Diego 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 San Diego to Santa Cruz covering a distance of 462 miles. The journey offers a mix of coastal views, mountain ranges, and charming towns along the way. 💰 The cost of driving from San Diego to Santa Cruz ranges from $80 to $130, making it an affordable option for a memorable adventure. With proper planning, you can enjoy the trip without breaking the bank. 🏖️ Upon reaching Santa Cruz after approximately 7 hours and 52 minutes of driving, you'll be greeted with the iconic boardwalk, stunning beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere that make it a perfect destination for a fun-filled getaway.
Average price
$80 - $130
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Diego to Santa Cruz spanning approximately 15 hours and 17 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful coastal views along the way. 💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between San Diego and Santa Cruz range from $24 to $235, offering options to suit different budgets. Plan ahead to secure the best fare for your travel dates.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services such as catering will vary depending on the operator. Amtrak operates routes from San Diego to Santa Cruz, and they typically offer a café car with a variety of snack and meal options. Be sure to check the Amtrak menu online beforehand to know what’s available.
• The primary operator for your trip is Amtrak, which provides various seating options. You can choose from Economy Class for budget-friendly fares or upgrade to Business Class for more spacious seating and additional amenities. Keep in mind that First Class seating is typically not available on this route.
• When arriving in Santa Cruz, you will likely arrive at the Santa Cruz Amtrak Station. Currently, there is no luggage storage facility at the station. However, restrooms are available. To navigate the area, you’ll find local public transportation options nearby.
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Santa Cruz is a convenient way to travel, with the quickest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 28 minutes.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking an early morning flight with Alaska Airlines or United Airlines, as these flights are typically less crowded and give you more time to enjoy Santa Cruz upon arrival.
• Upon arriving at Monterey Airport, expect a small terminal; be sure to check the flight information displays for real-time updates, as some airlines might have changes in arrivals that are not always communicated through staff.
• Taxi fares from Monterey Airport to downtown Santa Cruz can range from $35 to $50 depending on traffic, so consider pre-arranging a shuttle service or ride-share, such as Uber, to potentially save time and money.
🚌 Starting from San Diego, the bus journey to Santa Cruz takes approximately 12 hours and 29 minutes, covering a distance of 528 miles. The ticket prices for this route range from $53 to $120, offering a budget-friendly travel option. 🚌 The route includes 2 transfers during the trip. The first transfer involves a bus towards Los Angeles, operated by Greyhound, with a duration of 3 hours and 35 minutes. The second transfer is a bus towards San Francisco, also operated by Greyhound, taking about 7 hours and 5 minutes. 🚌 The final leg of the journey includes a bus towards Santa Cruz on the 17 - Highway 17 Express route, taking around 51 minutes. This bus, operated by Santa Cruz Metro, completes the trip at the Santa Cruz Metro Center, offering a convenient and scenic transportation option to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to Santa Cruz.

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The cheapest way to travel from San Diego to Santa Cruz is by taking a night bus and then a regular bus. This option can cost between $40 and $140 and takes approximately 11 hours and 37 minutes. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure the best prices and avoid any last-minute surcharges.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Santa Cruz is to fly and then take a bus. You can book a flight from San Diego International Airport to San Jose International Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From there, you can take a bus to Santa Cruz, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. This option typically ranges in cost from $45 to $320, depending on the airline and booking time.
It is approximately 406 miles from San Diego to Santa Cruz. By car, the distance is about 462.3 miles. The drive typically takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Other modes of transportation, such as flying, may offer a quicker option, but driving is a popular choice for those who prefer a scenic journey.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Santa Cruz without a car is by taking a bus. Several bus companies, such as Greyhound and FlixBus, offer routes between the two cities. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 39 minutes, and ticket prices range from $50 to $120. It is a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers looking to explore Santa Cruz without driving.
The journey from San Diego to Santa Cruz takes approximately 5 hours and 1 minute, including transfers. The duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation and any layovers or delays. It is recommended to check the specific schedules and routes of buses or flights to plan accordingly.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Santa Cruz. From budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, travelers can find a suitable place to stay. Some popular options include Hotel Paradox, Best Western Plus All Suites Inn, and Dream Inn Santa Cruz. Prices for hotels start at $72 per night, depending on the location and amenities. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or events.
Yes, you can drive from San Diego to Santa Cruz. The distance between the two cities is approximately 462 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 52 minutes to drive, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is recommended to check for any road closures or construction updates before embarking on your journey.
To get to Santa Cruz from San Diego Airport, you can take the line 992 bus. The bus ride takes around 12 minutes and costs between $1 and $5. Simply head to the nearest bus stop and look for the line 992 bus. It's a convenient and affordable option to travel from the airport to Santa Cruz.
Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines are the airlines that offer flights between San Diego and Santa Cruz. These flights usually depart from San Diego Airport and arrive at San Jose Airport, which is the closest airport to Santa Cruz. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to get from San Diego to Santa Cruz is by taking a direct flight from San Diego Airport to San Jose Airport. This flight typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines like Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines offer flights on this route. Once you land at San Jose Airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car for the remaining 30-mile drive to Santa Cruz.
The flight from San Diego to Santa Cruz takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, please note that there are no direct flights from San Diego Airport to Santa Cruz. The quickest option would be to take a direct flight from San Diego Airport to San Jose Airport, which is the closest major airport to Santa Cruz. From there, you can take ground transportation such as a bus or rental car to reach Santa Cruz, which should take around 1-2 hours depending on traffic and your preferred mode of transportation.
The cost of a train ticket from San Diego to Santa Cruz can range between $24 and $235, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. Prices may also vary depending on any ongoing promotions or discounts. It is recommended to check with the train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Diego to Santa Cruz can range from $53 to $120. The price may vary depending on factors such as the specific bus company, time of travel, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or online booking platforms to find the best and most affordable option for your journey.
The cost to drive from San Diego to Santa Cruz can vary depending on factors such as the type of car, gas prices, and the route taken. On average, you can expect to spend between $80 and $130 on gas for the round trip. Additionally, consider any tolls, parking fees, and potential overnight accommodations if needed. It's always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly for unexpected expenses during the trip.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Santa Cruz