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San Luis Obispo, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $29: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Luis Obispo, United States of America
to
Santa Cruz, United States of America

How to Get from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$29 - DriveBest price
263 kmDistance
2h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Luis Obispo 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
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$17-63
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  7m
Estimated price
$10-97
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 263 km
Duration: 2h 50m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  50m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
$186-458
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Traveling From San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz

The journey from San Luis Obispo, with its charming downtown and laid-back vibe, to Santa Cruz, known for its vibrant beaches and surf culture, offers a striking contrast that showcases California’s diverse coastal experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and experiences.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Bustling shops and local eateries abound.
• Home to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Westside Santa Cruz
• Scenic beaches and surf spots nearby.
• Known for its craft breweries and local markets.
Seabright
• A laid-back beach vibe and waterfront views.
• Close proximity to charming cafes and restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Santa Cruz's top spots.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early mornings on weekdays for fewer crowds and calmer rides.
Natural Bridges State Beach
The best time is late afternoon, especially during low tide for tide pooling.
Mystery Spot
Book a tour during off-peak hours in the late afternoon or midweek.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by dry summers and wet winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are typically late spring and early fall when temperatures are pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning beaches and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

For a truly local experience, try the fish tacos at The Fish Hopper, where fresh seafood meets a vibrant coastal atmosphere, starkly different from the farm-to-table fare you might find in San Luis Obispo. The bold flavors and laid-back oceanfront setting create a dining experience that captures the essence of Santa Cruz's surf culture.

San Luis Obispo - Santa Cruz operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$633-1725

Bus from Watsonville Transit Center - Lane 2 to River St S. & Soquel Ave

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$634-631
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Watsonville Transit Center - Lane 2 to River St S. & Soquel Ave

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$634-631

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$634-631
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Luis Obispo to Salinas

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$172-173
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$631-10
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Luis Obispo County Apt (SBP) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$170-171

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

Traveling between San Luis Obispo 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 picturesque road trip from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz, covering a distance of 164 miles through beautiful California landscapes. 🌊 Along the way, enjoy the scenic coastal views as you drive for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, allowing for a leisurely journey to your destination. 🌴 Explore the charming seaside town of Santa Cruz upon arrival, with the freedom and flexibility of traveling by car at affordable prices ranging from $29 to $45.
Average price
$29 - $45
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz! The route spans 196 miles, with a transfer involved. 🚌 Step 1 entails a bus ride towards Oakland, lasting about 4 hours, with Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service to San Jose. Then, for Step 2, take the Highway 17 Express to Santa Cruz via SVTC for a quick 48-minute trip. 🌉 Enjoy the trip as you make your way from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz! With a total travel time of around 6.5 hours, including the bus and train transfers, the journey promises both convenience and picturesque views along the way.
🛫 Begin your journey from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to Santa Cruz with a quick 1 hour and 17 minute direct flight to San Francisco Airport on United Airlines.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz by bus requires a journey with transfers, taking approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes. 🎫 Prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo range from $17 to $63. There are multiple routes available for this trip, each offering a different travel time and number of transfers. 🛣️ Depending on the route chosen, travelers can expect a journey lasting between 5 to 6 hours, with transfers at various locations such as Watsonville and San Jose. It's essential to plan ahead and check the schedules for a smooth bus travel experience.
Departure Point
San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum station
Arrival Point
River St S. & Soquel Ave station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz is by driving. The approximate cost of gas for the trip is $29 to $45, depending on the type of vehicle and current gas prices. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, with the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the route.
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to plan the trip outside of peak travel times to avoid congestion.
The distance from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz is about 140 miles. If you choose to drive, the approximate distance would be 163.6 miles. It is important to note that these distances may vary depending on the specific route taken.
The best way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz without a car is by taking the bus. There are several bus companies that offer this route, including Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes. Tickets prices vary depending on the bus company and the time of travel.
The travel time from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz is approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes, including transfers. This duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen and any traffic conditions along the route. It is important to plan accordingly and allow for enough travel time to arrive at your destination in Santa Cruz.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels available, you'll be sure to find something that suits your needs. Prices for hotels in Santa Cruz start at $72 per night, so there are options available to suit various budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, there are plenty of choices.
Yes, you can drive from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz. The driving distance is approximately 164 miles, and it usually takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route primarily follows the US-101 N and CA-1 N highways, offering scenic views along the way. It is important to check for any road closures or construction updates before your trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus between San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz. However, you can take a bus from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz with transfers. The journey usually takes approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes, with transfers at Diridon Station. The final stop is at Water & Ocean in Santa Cruz. It's advisable to check the bus schedules and plan your journey accordingly.
You can catch the bus from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz at the San Luis Obispo station. The bus services are operated by Amtrak, and they have regular departures throughout the day. The San Luis Obispo station is conveniently located in downtown San Luis Obispo, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz bus services operated by Santa Cruz Metro arrive at Water & Ocean station in Santa Cruz. This is a convenient location in downtown Santa Cruz, close to various attractions and accommodations. From Water & Ocean station, travelers can easily explore the city and continue their journey to their desired destination.
Currently, there are no direct flights between San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz. However, United Airlines offers flights from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Francisco Airport, which is the closest major airport to Santa Cruz. From San Francisco, you can either rent a car or take a shuttle service to Santa Cruz, which is approximately 70 miles south of the airport. Other major airlines like American Airlines and Delta also offer flights from San Luis Obispo to San Francisco.
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz by plane is to take a direct flight from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Francisco Airport. This flight takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes. United Airlines offers flights on this route.
The flight from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz typically takes around 1 hour and 6 minutes. This is based on the quickest direct flight from San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport to San Francisco Airport. Please note that this duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is always advisable to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight times.
The cost of driving from San Luis Obispo to Santa Cruz can range from $29 to $45, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes the cost of gas and tolls, but not any additional expenses like food or accommodation along the way. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information before you begin your journey.

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