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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $24: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to San Diego: 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.

$24 - Bus, TrainBest price
653 kmDistance
2h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to San Diego 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
2h  37m
Estimated price
$272-533
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
16h  35m
Estimated price
$24-252
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 653 km
Duration: 2h 37m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$45-350
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  53m
Estimated price
$61-2720
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  32m
Estimated price
$82-301
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  29m
Estimated price
$2721-2722
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
13h  47m
Estimated price
$2723-2724
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  6m
Estimated price
$2725-2726
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  55m
Estimated price
$2727-2728
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to San Diego

The journey from Santa Cruz to San Diego offers a delightful contrast, with Santa Cruz showcasing its laid-back coastal vibe and San Diego presenting a vibrant urban atmosphere enriched with sunny beaches and exciting attractions.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Known for vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Rich in history with stunning Victorian architecture.
La Jolla
• Pristine beaches and scenic coastal views.
• Great for outdoor activities like kayaking and snorkeling.
Little Italy
• Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine.
• Hosts weekly farmers markets and cultural events.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in San Diego's attractions.

Balboa Park
Visit in the early morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
San Diego Zoo
Go during the off-season in late fall or early spring to enjoy shorter lines.
USS Midway Museum
Explore on weekday mornings to skip the rush and fully appreciate the exhibits.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal destination at any time. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

Try the fish tacos at Oscar's Mexican Seafood, where fresh, local catch meets vibrant flavors in a relaxed coastal atmosphere. This experience contrasts with Santa Cruz's more laid-back dining scene, offering a lively atmosphere and a unique spin on traditional Mexican cuisine.

Santa Cruz - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and San Diego, 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
$452-248

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$452-248
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop

Average Duration
10h 20m
Estimated price
$5332-5338
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://vta.org

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to Monterey & 2nd

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2522-2521
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
http://tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Gilroy to San Ysidro

Average Duration
9h 15m
Estimated price
$2485-5338
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from San Jose Downtown to San Diego

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$2729-2728
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-423-1234

Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$252250-252280
Contact phone
+1 831-246-1234

Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$252250-252280
Contact phone
+1 831-475-3232

Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$252250-252280
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
$248-249
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$25227-252260

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$2521-5334
Plane Show flights
Website
http://www.alaskaair.com

Plane from Monterey Airport (MRY) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$240-5335

Plane from San Jose to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$241-242
Website
http://southwest.com

Plane from San Jose to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$5334-5335
Website
http://united.com

Plane from San Francisco to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$5338-243
Website
http://spirit.com

Plane from San Jose to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$244-245

Plane from Oakland to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$246-247
Website
http://flyfrontier.com

Plane from San Francisco to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$246-242

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and San Diego 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 down the Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Cruz to San Diego, covering 462 miles filled with breathtaking ocean views and picturesque landscapes. 💰 Budget-friendly options offer the journey from Santa Cruz to San Diego by car for as low as $80, giving you the freedom to explore the diverse coastal towns and attractions along the way. 🌞 Enjoy approximately 8 hours of driving time, immersing yourself in the beauty of California's coastline before arriving in vibrant San Diego, ready to discover all the city has to offer.
Average price
$80 - $130
🛫 Embark on a short and convenient journey from Santa Cruz to San Diego by catching a direct flight from Monterey Airport. With Alaska Airlines, Inc. offering quick and efficient flights, you can reach your destination in just 1 hour and 22 minutes.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Traveling from Santa Cruz to San Diego by bus is a scenic journey that takes approximately 12 hours and 29 minutes. The prices for bus tickets vary between $53 and $120, offering budget-friendly options for travelers. 🚌 Route options range from 12 to 15 hours, with distances varying from 444 to 541 miles. Each route involves multiple transfers, providing opportunities to explore different cities along the way and break up the long journey. 🚌 From the first step on Highway 17 Express to the final destination in San Diego, bus travelers can enjoy the convenience and comfort of the bus services provided by various agencies, making the trip a memorable experience highlighting the diverse landscapes of California.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Diego is by taking a bus or a night bus. This option typically costs between $35 and $140, depending on the specific bus service and any promotional deals available. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 1 minute. It's advisable to check different bus companies and their schedules to find the best fares for your desired travel dates.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Diego is by taking a taxi to the nearest airport and flying directly to San Diego. This option can take around 2 hours and 41 minutes, depending on the flight schedule. However, it's important to note that prices can vary between $260 and $550, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The distance between Santa Cruz and San Diego is approximately 406 miles. This is the direct distance, also known as the "as the crow flies" distance. However, the road distance between the two cities is about 462.1 miles. It is important to note that the road distance may vary depending on the route taken and any detours or traffic conditions encountered during the journey.
The best way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that offer direct routes between the two cities. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 25 minutes and fares typically range from $50 to $120. It is recommended to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure availability.
The journey from Santa Cruz to San Diego takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, including transfers. This duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen and the specific route. Flying is the fastest option, with direct flights available. Alternatively, you can also opt for a train or bus, which may take longer but offer a more scenic journey. Planning accordingly and considering various factors like cost, comfort, and convenience can help you choose the best option for your trip.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels available, you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay. Prices for hotels in the area start at $53 per night, catering to a range of budgets. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, mid-range hotels, or budget-friendly motels, there is something for everyone in San Diego.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Cruz to San Diego. The driving distance is 462 miles, and the journey takes around 7 hours and 55 minutes. It is important to consider traffic conditions and plan for rest stops along the way. Additionally, make sure to have a valid driver's license and insurance coverage for the duration of your trip.
Alaska Airlines, Inc. is the only airline that offers flights between Santa Cruz and San Diego. These flights operate from Monterey Airport and arrive at San Diego Airport. It is recommended to check the airlines' official website or a flight aggregator to find the availability, schedules, and prices for these flights.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz to San Diego is by plane. You can take a direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Diego Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. Alaska Airlines, Inc. offers flights between these two airports, providing a convenient and efficient option for travelers.
The flight from Santa Cruz to San Diego typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes. This duration applies to direct flights from Monterey Airport to San Diego Airport. However, please note that flight times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is always a good idea to check with the airline for the most up-to-date flight schedules and durations.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Cruz to San Diego can range from $53 to $120, depending on the type of bus service and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and websites to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, booking in advance can often result in lower fares, so it is worth planning ahead to save money on your trip.
Driving from Santa Cruz to San Diego typically costs between $80 and $130, depending on factors such as gas prices and the distance traveled. The cost can also vary based on the type and efficiency of the vehicle being used. Additionally, tolls or parking fees may apply along the route, adding to the overall cost of the journey. It is recommended to plan ahead and budget accordingly.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to San Diego