Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Elk Grove, CA, USA from $20: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Elk Grove: 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.

$20 by trainBest price

214 kmDistance

2h 45m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Elk Grove 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Elk Grove

Santa Cruz offers vibrant beaches and a lively boardwalk, while Elk Grove presents a quieter suburban ambiance with lush parks and family-friendly neighborhoods.

Best Neighbourhoods in Elk Grove

Elk Grove boasts diverse neighborhoods with distinct charms for every visitor.

Laguna West

• Scenic lake views and walking trails

• Family-friendly parks for outdoor fun

Old Town Elk Grove

• Charming historic buildings and shops

• Great dining options with local flair

Stonelake

• Modern amenities and community events

• Access to beautiful parks and recreation areas

Best Times To Visit Elk Grove's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Elk Grove by timing your visits wisely.

Elk Grove Regional Park

Early mornings on weekdays provide peaceful strolls without crowds.

Old Town Elk Grove

Visit during weekdays for quieter exploration of shops and eateries.

Cameron Ranch

Fall offers stunning colors and fewer visitors for leisurely walks.

Elk Grove Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Elk Grove experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it appealing year-round. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit, as the comfortable temperatures enhance outdoor activities while avoiding the summer heat.

Dining Recommendation in Elk Grove

For a truly distinctive experience, try the tri-tip sandwich at the local favorite, J's Fish & Chips, where the smoky flavors celebrate Elk Grove's local barbecue culture. This contrasts with Santa Cruz's coastal seafood offerings, providing a heartier, down-home dining atmosphere that highlights regional ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Elk Grove.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Santa Cruz and Elk Grove is approximately 106 miles. If you choose to drive, it takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes, covering roughly 138.6 miles. Alternatively, if you opt for public transportation, taking the bus and then the train will take approximately 6 hours and 7 minutes. Another option is taking the bus, which has a travel time of around 6 hours and 24 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Elk Grove is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes and costs around $25-$40. This option allows you to have the flexibility of choosing your own schedule and stops along the way. It is also the quickest way to reach your destination without having to rely on public transportation schedules.

To get from Santa Cruz to Elk Grove without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 139 miles and it takes around 2 hours and 29 minutes to drive. The cost of the trip by car ranges from $25 to $40, depending on factors like fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.

The best way to travel from Santa Cruz to Elk Grove without a car is by taking a combination of bus and train. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 7 minutes and costs between $40 and $140. You can take a bus from Santa Cruz to a nearby train station, and then transfer to a train that will take you to Elk Grove. This option is convenient, cost-effective, and allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery during the trip.

The flight duration from San Francisco Airport to Sacramento Airport, which is the closest airport to Elk Grove, is approximately 51 minutes. However, please note that there are no direct flights available between Santa Cruz and Elk Grove, as Santa Cruz does not have an airport. To reach Elk Grove by air, travelers from Santa Cruz would need to drive or take transportation to San Francisco Airport or another nearby airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with airlines for specific pricing information.

There are more than 200 hotels available in Elk Grove. Prices for accommodations start at $57 per night. Some popular hotels in the area include the Hilton Garden Inn Sacramento Elk Grove and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Sacramento Elk Grove. Whether you're looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of choices available for your stay near Elk Grove.