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San Francisco, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $8: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Francisco 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.

$8 by busBest price
96.56 kmDistance
1h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco 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  11m
Estimated price
$12-19
Recommended
Company
Greyhound USA, Santa Cruz Metro
Bus
Average Duration
3h  22m
Estimated price
$8-41
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 96.56 km
Duration: 1h 21m

See more options

Company
various
BART
Drive
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  21m
Estimated price
$13-20
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Traveling From San Francisco to Santa Cruz

This journey takes you from the urban hustle of San Francisco to the laid-back, beachy vibes of Santa Cruz, offering a delightful contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is home to diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown
• Vibrant dining scene with local restaurants.
• Ocean views from nearby parks.
Westside
• Close to popular beaches and surf spots.
• Boutique shops and artisanal markets abound.
Capitola
• Picturesque beachfront village atmosphere.
• Colorful cottages and charming shops near the shore.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

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

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and serene views.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Late spring showcases wildflowers, and weekdays attract smaller groups.
Downtown Santa Cruz
Explore on Sunday mornings for a quieter experience before the throng.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

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

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

For a delightful contrast to San Francisco’s upscale dining scene, try the fresh fish tacos at The Picnic Basket, where locally sourced ingredients create vibrant flavors. The laid-back atmosphere, combined with ocean views, provides a casual yet memorable experience that embodies the spirit of Santa Cruz.

San Francisco - Santa Cruz operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco 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 San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$9-12
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Subway from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$7-10
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
$2-7

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$2-7
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$5-35
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

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

Traveling between San Francisco 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 drive from San Francisco to Santa Cruz, covering a distance of 73 miles with a travel time of about 1 hour and 21 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque views along Highway 1 as you make your way south. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs, ranging between $13 to $20 for a trip by car from San Francisco to Santa Cruz. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the lower end of the spectrum, while those seeking more comfort can choose higher-priced options.
Average price
$13 - $20
Useful tips for train travellers
On your train journey from San Francisco to Santa Cruz, check for onboard catering services provided by Amtrak. They typically offer a café car featuring a selection of snacks, beverages, and light meals. Grab a local favorite like a burrito or some coffee to enjoy while taking in the scenic views along the coast.
For this route, you have the option of traveling with multiple operators like Amtrak's Coast Starlight service and Greyhound. Amtrak provides comfortable seating options including Coach Class (economy), with larger windows for scenic views, and Business Class, which offers more spacious seating and complimentary snacks. You can find more information at Amtrak's website. Greyhound also services this route; their seating is standard bus seating, and you can explore options at Greyhound's website.
When you arrive in Santa Cruz, the train station is centrally located. While there are no luggage storage facilities, you can easily grab a taxi or rideshare. For public transportation, the quickest route to downtown Santa Cruz is to take the Santa Cruz Metro Line 10 right outside the station, which connects directly to the city center. For further travel options, refer to the Santa Cruz Metro website at Santa Cruz Metro.
🚌 The journey from San Francisco to Santa Cruz by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, with a transfer along the way from San Francisco Bus Station to Soquel Ave & Front. 🚍 There are different routes available for travelers, with varying durations and distances, ranging from about 77 to 84 miles. Prices for the bus trip can vary from $12 to $19, offering flexibility for budget-conscious travelers. 🛤️ Travelers can expect a scenic ride through California, with options such as the Highway 17 Express route, operated by Santa Cruz Metro, making it convenient to reach Santa Cruz Metro Center from San Francisco, providing a hassle-free and affordable travel experience.
Departure Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your trip well, as there are no direct bus services from San Francisco to Santa Cruz; instead, you'll need to transfer at San Jose Diridon Station, where you can connect to the Highway 17 Express operated by Santa Cruz Metro, which offers a scenic ride to Santa Cruz.
• If you're looking for a quick meal or snack before your journey, consider stopping at one of the cafes or food options in the San Francisco Bus Station, or grab a bite at the San Jose Diridon Station during your layover as there are several eateries nearby.
• Upon arrival at Soquel Ave & Front in Santa Cruz, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Santa Cruz Metro Center, as it not only serves as a transit hub but also provides easy access to local attractions, shopping, and dining options, making it a convenient starting point for your adventures.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Santa Cruz is approximately 60 miles. By car, the typical travel time is around 1 hour and 21 minutes. Alternatively, taking the BART train and then a bus can take around 3 hours and 11 minutes. Using the bus to travel between the two cities can take about 2 hours and 52 minutes. These travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Santa Cruz is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes and the cost is around $13 to $20. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of departure time and the convenience of having your own vehicle. This option is both economical and convenient for travel between the two cities.
To get from San Francisco to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 73 miles, which takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes. The driving route between the two cities offers scenic views along the way. The cost of driving from San Francisco to Santa Cruz can vary, with prices ranging from $13 to $20 depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Santa Cruz without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes. Public transportation is readily available in the area, making it convenient for travelers to explore different destinations without needing a car. The bus ride also provides an opportunity to enjoy the scenic views along the way.
There is no direct bus link between San Francisco and Santa Cruz. However, there is a combination of transportation options available. You can take a bus from San Francisco to Diridon Station and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Water & Ocean in Santa Cruz. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes. The buses are operated by Amtrak and Santa Cruz Metro.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels to choose from, you won't have trouble finding one that suits your needs. Prices start at $72 per night, ensuring there are options available for various budgets. Whether you are looking for a luxurious resort or a cozy bed and breakfast, there is something for everyone in Santa Cruz.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Santa Cruz