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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), CA, USA from $13: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): 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.

$13 - Bus, trainBest price
269 kmDistance
3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  11m
Estimated price
$22-85
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  34m
Estimated price
$13-139
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 269 km
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
7h  42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  53m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
7h  27m
Estimated price
$19-71
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  21m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  30m
Estimated price
$188-460
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
7h  49m
Estimated price
$220-220
Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  41m
Estimated price
$224-225
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Traveling From Santa Cruz to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Embarking on a journey from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria offers you a shift from the beachy, laid-back vibe of the Central Coast to Santa Maria's agricultural charm, where rolling hills and vineyards await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

Santa Maria features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and experiences.

Downtown Santa Maria
• Bustling local shops and eateries abound.
• Hosts vibrant farmer's market every Friday.
Orcutt
• Known for its charming historic district.
• Easy access to nearby wineries and vineyards.
Creekside
• Scenic parks along the creek are perfect for picnics.
• Family-friendly atmosphere with community events.

Best Times To Visit Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)'s Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Santa Maria.

Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum
Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and more personal interaction.
Santa Maria's Wineries
Early mornings on weekends offer a serene tasting experience before crowds arrive.
Historic Santa Maria Town Center
Late afternoons during weekdays provide a relaxed shopping atmosphere.

Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Maria enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer the best visiting conditions, as temperatures are pleasantly moderate and crowds are thinner, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining in Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)

For an authentic taste of Santa Maria, try the famous Santa Maria-style barbecue at The Hitching Post II, where wood-fired cooking infuses a rich smoky flavor into perfectly grilled tri-tip. This dining experience stands in contrast to Santa Cruz's seafood-centric cuisine, offering you a warm, rustic atmosphere and local wines that celebrate the region's agricultural bounty.

Santa Cruz - Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County), 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
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Jose Downtown to Santa Maria

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$19-221

Bus from Salinas Train Station to Santa Maria

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$8565-134
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration
4h 58m
Estimated price
$228-226

Train from Salinas Amtrak Station to Santa Maria

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from San Luis Obispo to Santa Maria

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Salinas to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from UC Santa Barbara Amtrak Bus Stop to Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$222-223

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$224-225

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$222-550
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Oakland to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$226-227

Santa Cruz to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County): Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County) 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 Santa Maria covering a distance of 194 miles. Enjoy the beautiful coastal views as you journey southwards. 💸 Prices for the car journey from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria typically range from $35 to $55, offering an affordable travel option. 🌅 In just 3 hours and 21 minutes, you'll arrive in Santa Maria, located in the picturesque Santa Barbara County. Explore the charming town, experience the local cuisine, and take in the warm California sunshine.
Average price
$35 - $55
🛫 Start your trip by catching a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport, a journey that will only take you 1 hour and 13 minutes with United Airlines.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport
🚏 The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes, making it a longer but scenic bus ride through the beautiful California landscape. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria range from $22 to $85, offering a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore Santa Barbara County.
Departure Point
Salinas Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Santa Maria station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County).

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria is 167 miles, with a road distance of 194.5 miles. The typical travel time by bus and train from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria is 8 hours and 32 minutes. The travel time by car from Santa Maria to Santa Cruz is 3 hours and 21 minutes, and it takes 6 hours and 6 minutes by bus to travel from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria is the Amtrak Thruway, which costs $19-$75. This option takes approximately 7 hours and 42 minutes. However, if you are looking for a time-efficient option, driving is the quickest way to reach Santa Maria, taking only 3 hours and 21 minutes. Although it may cost slightly more, the convenience and time saved may outweigh the extra expense.
The prices of a bus between Santa Maria and Santa Cruz vary depending on factors such as the time of travel and the type of bus service. On average, the prices range from $22 to $85. It is important to check with the specific bus operators for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To get from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria without using public transportation, you can drive the route yourself. The distance between the two cities is 194 miles, and it takes approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes to drive. The cost of the trip will depend on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but it is estimated to range from $35 to $55.
To travel from Santa Cruz to Santa Maria without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 6 minutes and costs between $22 and $85. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities. There are several bus companies that offer service between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria, making it easy to plan your trip and reach your destination comfortably.
No, there is no direct bus service between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria. However, there are alternative routes available. You can take a bus from Santa Cruz to Salinas and then transfer to another bus that goes to Santa Maria. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 42 minutes. The buses are operated by Amtrak.
The flight between Santa Cruz and Santa Maria typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. The quickest route is a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt Airport. As for the cost, prices can vary depending on the time of year and availability. It's recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date pricing information.
There are many options for accommodation near Santa Maria. With over 64 hotels available, travelers can find something that suits their preferences and budget. Prices start at $59, offering a range of affordable options for visitors. From budget motels to luxury resorts, there are plenty of choices for travelers to choose from when looking for a place to stay near Santa Maria.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to Santa Maria (Santa Barbara County)