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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Los Angeles, CA, USA from $19: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
Los Angeles, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles: 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.

$19 - Bus, TrainBest price
475 kmDistance
3h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles 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
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  29m
Estimated price
$271-578
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
12h  41m
Estimated price
$19-167
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 475 km
Duration: 3h 29m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  20m
Estimated price
$69-345
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  21m
Estimated price
$109-434
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Tram
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$360-2710
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$2711-2712
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  15m
Estimated price
$2713-2714
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  58m
Estimated price
$2715-2716
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
11h  27m
Estimated price
$2717-2718
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$2717-2718

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Los Angeles

Your journey from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles showcases the scenic beauty and relaxed vibe of the coastal town, shifting to the vibrant hustle and dynamic entertainment scene of the sprawling city.

Best Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinct charm and vibe.

Hollywood
• Iconic Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame.
• Vibrant nightlife with theaters and bars.
Santa Monica
• Beautiful beaches and scenic pier attractions.
• Bustling shopping district along Third Street Promenade.
Venice Beach
• Famous for its bohemian culture and street performers.
• Picturesque canals and vibrant boardwalk scenes.

Best Times To Visit Los Angeles's Attractions

Timing your visits can truly enhance your experience in Los Angeles.

Griffith Observatory
Visit during early mornings or weekdays for fewer crowds and clearer views.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Arrive right at opening on weekdays to enjoy shorter lines for rides.
The Getty Center
Weekdays, especially in the morning, offer a quieter atmosphere and easier access.

Los Angeles Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters, making it a fantastic destination year-round. To maximize your experience, visiting in spring or fall often means pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Los Angeles

Try the spicy tuna tartare at Sugarfish, an iconic sushi spot in Los Angeles that reflects the city's diverse culinary landscape. This dish contrasts with Santa Cruz's laid-back seafood offerings by delivering bold flavors and a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates fresh, high-quality ingredients from the eye-catching sushi bar.

Santa Cruz - Los Angeles operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$196-198

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$196-198
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$1995-2718

Bus from Salinas to Los Angeles

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 714-839-3500
Website
https://xedohoang.com/en

Bus from San Jose - Huong Lan Sandwich to Chinatown Station

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$198-1970
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$1977-19760
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$5782-5783
Website
united.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$5787-27170
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-423-1234

Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$19750-5787

Santa Cruz to Los Angeles: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Los Angeles 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 Cruz to Los Angeles, covering a distance of 341 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of California along the way, from coastal views to picturesque mountains. 💸 Budget-friendly options are available for this journey, with car travel costs ranging from $60 to $90. Plan for pit stops at charming towns and eateries to break up the drive and experience the local culture. 🌆 Arrive in the vibrant city of Los Angeles after approximately 5 hours and 51 minutes on the road. Explore iconic attractions like Hollywood Boulevard, the Santa Monica Pier, and indulge in the city's diverse culinary scene.
Average price
$60 - $90
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles, consider taking Amtrak as your operator. Their onboard services include a café car with a range of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages available for purchase. They provide a selection of food items that are ideal for a light meal or snack during your journey.
• Amtrak offers several seating options on this route: Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class seats are comfortable but more basic, while Business Class offers wider seats and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. First Class provides spacious seating, more privacy, and enhanced services, which can make your trip more enjoyable if you're looking for added comfort.
• After arriving at Los Angeles Union Station, keep in mind that there are facilities available. You can leave your luggage at the Amtrak checked baggage service if you need to explore the city before checking into your accommodation. The station features clean restrooms but no showers. To get to the city center quickly, use the Metro Gold Line—take the train towards the Sierra Madre Villa Station, which takes about 15 minutes.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles is by taking a direct flight from Monterey Airport to Los Angeles Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 23 minutes.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 The journey from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles by bus takes approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes with transfers along the way. There is no direct bus service available for this route. 🛤️ Route 1 involves a total travel time of 9 hours and 3 minutes covering a distance of 382 miles. The first step includes a bus ride on the Highway 17 Express to San Jose via SVTC, followed by a second bus towards Los Angeles with a total duration of 7 hours and 15 minutes. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Cruz and Los Angeles range from $53 to $64. Passengers will need to transfer at different stations during the journey, making stops at San Jose Diridon Station and Santa Clara & Delmas before arriving at the final destination of Chinatown Station in Los Angeles.
Departure Point
Soquel Ave & Front station
Arrival Point
Chinatown Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Los Angeles is approximately 295 miles or 341 miles by road. Traveling by air, it takes around 3 hours and 27 minutes to reach Los Angeles from Santa Cruz, including a taxi to Monterey. Driving by car, the typical travel time is about 5 hours and 51 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus, it takes around 8 hours and 11 minutes to travel from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles.
The most cost-effective means of transportation from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles is by taking a bus via San Jose, with prices ranging from $30 to $65. This option may take the longest, with a travel time of approximately 8 hours and 11 minutes. However, for those seeking a faster alternative, the quickest option is to take a taxi to Monterey and then fly to Los Angeles, which costs between $270 and $600 and takes about 3 hours and 27 minutes.
The prices for traveling between Santa Cruz and Los Angeles by bus range from $33 to $64. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time and day of travel, as well as the company providing the service. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or online ticketing platforms to compare prices and find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles without using public transportation, your best option is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 341 miles, and it usually takes around 5 hours and 51 minutes to drive from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles. You can expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $90 for fuel and tolls, depending on the type of vehicle and current gas prices.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles without a car, the best option is to take a bus via San Jose. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and 11 minutes and ticket prices range from $30 to $65. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles.
There is no direct link between Santa Cruz and Los Angeles. However, there are bus services available that require transfers along the way. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 8h 11m. The bus services are operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Hoang Express, with departures from Ocean & Water station in Santa Cruz and arrivals at Chinatown Station in Los Angeles.
The flight from Santa Cruz to Los Angeles typically takes 1 hour and 24 minutes on the quickest direct flight from Monterey Airport to Los Angeles Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. On average, prices for this route range from $150 to $300. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deals.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Los Angeles with over 1604 hotels available. Prices for hotels in the area start at $87 per night. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury stay, there are plenty of choices to suit every budget and preference near Los Angeles. It's recommended to check online booking platforms or contact travel agencies for more options and specific accommodations that match your needs.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to Los Angeles