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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Clara, United States of America
to
Monterey, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Clara to Monterey: 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 trainBest price
115 kmDistance
1h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Clara to Monterey 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Coast Starlight, Monterey-Salinas Transit
Train
Bus
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$4-128
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 115 km
Duration: 1h 21m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  21m
Estimated price
$12-19
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
1h  35m
Estimated price
$40-50

Traveling From Santa Clara to Monterey

Journeying from Santa Clara to Monterey brings you from the bustling tech hub of Silicon Valley to the serene coastal charm of Monterey Bay, where eclectic marine life and stunning ocean views await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Monterey

Monterey's neighborhoods each offer distinct atmospheres and attractions.

Cannery Row
• Historic waterfront with charming shops and restaurants.
• Famous for its vibrant sea life and aquarium.
Pacific Grove
• Known for stunning coastal walks and breathtaking sunsets.
• Home to beautiful Victorian homes and Monarch butterflies.
Downtown Monterey
• Cultural hub with art galleries and local markets.
• Features a lively nightlife and diverse dining options.

Best Times To Visit Monterey's Attractions

Planning your visit to Monterey’s attractions can lead to a more enjoyable experience.

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Visit in the early morning during weekdays for smaller crowds.
Cannery Row
Explore in the late afternoon for a lively atmosphere and sunset views.
17-Mile Drive
Drive early on weekends to enjoy fewer cars and stunning scenery.

Monterey Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Monterey boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, with cool, foggy summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are typically late spring and early fall, when pleasant temperatures enhance outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Monterey

Try the fresh clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Cannery Row's iconic Fish Hopper, where ocean views complement the seafood-forward menu. This experience contrasts with Santa Clara's tech-centric dining scene, bringing you closer to local flavors and the vibrant coastal atmosphere.

Santa Clara - Monterey operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2-70
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
1-888-678-2871
Website
https://mst.org

Bus from Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7 to Tyler / Franklin

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$2-4
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
https://groometransportation.com

Shuttle from San Jose International Airport to Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$40-50

Santa Clara to Monterey: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Clara and Monterey 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 Santa Clara to Monterey, covering a distance of 71 miles in just over an hour. Feel the excitement of exploring the beauty of California's coastline at your own pace. 💰 Enjoy flexibility in your budget as the prices for this road trip range from $12 to $19. With affordable options available, you can make the most of your journey without breaking the bank.
Average price
$12 - $19
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Santa Clara to Monterey spanning approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning landscapes as you make your way to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Clara to Monterey.

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The distance between Santa Clara and Monterey is 52 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train and bus, it takes around 4 hours and 9 minutes. By ferry, it takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. By car, the travel time is roughly 1 hour and 21 minutes, and by bus, it takes about 3 hours and 34 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Clara to Monterey is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes to drive the distance of 52 miles, and the cost is around $12 to $19 for fuel. Taking a train and then a bus can also be an option, but it takes around 4 hours and 9 minutes and may not be as cost-effective.
The prices for a ferry between Monterey and Santa Clara can range from $40 to $50. This cost may vary depending on the specific ferry service and any discounts or promotions that may be available. It is advisable to check with the ferry operator for the most up-to-date pricing information before making travel arrangements.
To travel from Santa Clara to Monterey without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 71 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 21 minutes. The prices to rent a car and drive from Santa Clara to Monterey vary from $12 to $19, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle.
The best way to travel from Santa Clara to Monterey without a car is by using public transportation. You can take a bus from Santa Clara to Monterey, which takes approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket may vary. Once you arrive in Monterey, you can easily travel within the city using the line 20 bus or other local transportation options.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Monterey with over 251 hotels available. Prices begin at $65 per night, offering a range of affordable choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly motels, there is a wide selection to suit every traveler's needs.

Trips to Monterey