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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Half Moon Bay, CA, USA from $10: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
Half Moon Bay, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay: 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.

$10 by busBest price
78 kmDistance
1h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay 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
Drive
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$10-26
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 78 km
Duration: 1h

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Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$8-13
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$270-330
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay

The journey from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay offers a striking contrast, as you transition from the laid-back beaches and lively boardwalk of Santa Cruz to the serene cliffs and coastal charm of Half Moon Bay.

Best Neighbourhoods in Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay features charming neighborhoods that cater to diverse interests.

Downtown Half Moon Bay
• Vibrant dining and shopping options.
• Hosts seasonal festivals and events.
Mavericks Beach
• Known for its famous surf breaks.
• Stunning coastal views and walking trails.
Devil's Slide
• Scenic coastal cliffs and trails.
• Excellent spot for whale watching.

Best Times To Visit Half Moon Bay's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment by timing your visits to these popular sites in Half Moon Bay.

Half Moon Bay State Beach
Visit early mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds and tranquil views.
Mavericks Beach
Weekdays are less busy, offering a peaceful environment for ocean activities.
Farallon Islands (via boat tour)
Choose spring for whale watching and mild weather while avoiding peak tourist times.

Half Moon Bay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Half Moon Bay enjoys a mild coastal climate, characterized by cool summers and temperate winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. Visiting during the spring and early fall often provides the best weather, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning scenery and outdoor activities without the chill of fog.

Dining Recommendation in Half Moon Bay

For a distinctive experience, try the fresh Dungeness crab at Sam's Chowder House, where the coastal views enhance the flavors of the locally sourced seafood. This dining experience contrasts with Santa Cruz’s casual beach eats, offering a more refined atmosphere and a focus on the rich maritime traditions of the area.

Santa Cruz - Half Moon Bay operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Santa Cruz, CA to San Jose, CA

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
0-0
Website
http://www.samtrans.com

Bus from Hillsdale Blvd & Edison St-Hillsdale Shopping Ctr to Main St & Miramontes St

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$2-3
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$4-5
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to Hillsdale Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$6-9
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$270-330

Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay 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 coastal journey as you drive 49 miles from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay in just under an hour. Feel the ocean breeze and admire the stunning views along Highway 1. 💸 Enjoy flexible pricing options ranging from $8 to $13 for the road trip from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay by car. Choose the route that suits your budget and explore the charming coastal town at your own pace.
Average price
$8 - $13
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay by bus, lasting approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay is 41 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 48.6 miles. If traveling by bus and then Caltrain from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay, the typical travel time is 3 hours and 48 minutes. On the other hand, if traveling by car from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz, it takes approximately 1 hour.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay is driving, which costs approximately $8 to $13 and takes around 1 hour. This option allows you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and provides a relatively quick journey. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the quickest way to reach Half Moon Bay, taking approximately 1 hour. However, it is significantly more expensive, with fares ranging from $270 to $330. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget and time constraints.
To get from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 49 miles, which would take approximately 1 hour depending on traffic conditions. The driving route typically follows CA-1 N along the scenic Pacific coastline. The cost of driving from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay by car can vary, but it is estimated to be around $8 to $13 for tolls and fuel expenses.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay without a car, the best option is to take a bus and Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 48 minutes and may cost between $10 and $26. First, you can take a bus from Santa Cruz to San Jose Diridon Station, then transfer to Caltrain and take it to Millbrae Station. From there, you can catch the line 294 bus, which will take you to Half Moon Bay.
There are numerous accommodation options for visitors near Half Moon Bay. There are 393+ hotels available in the area, offering a variety of amenities and price ranges to suit different budgets. Prices for hotels in Half Moon Bay start at $58 per night. Visitors can choose from a range of options including luxury resorts, quaint bed and breakfasts, and budget-friendly motels. It is recommended to book in advance and compare different options to find the best accommodation for your needs.

Trips from Santa Cruz