Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Ventura, CA, USA from $15: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Cruz to Ventura: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$15 by trainBest price

391 kmDistance

4h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

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Traveling From Santa Cruz to Ventura

Traveling from Santa Cruz to Ventura offers a shift from the coastal redwoods and surf culture of the former to the sun-kissed beaches and laid-back vibe of the latter.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ventura

Ventura boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Ventura

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and studios.

• Numerous dining options along Ventura Avenue.

Pierpont Bay

• Scenic beachfront access and stunning ocean views.

• Close to family-friendly activities and parks.

Ventura Harbor

• Marina with boat rentals and water sports.

• Charming shops and fresh seafood dining.

Best Times To Visit Ventura's Attractions

Timing your visits to Ventura's attractions can enhance your experience and help you avoid crowds.

Ventura Pier

Visit early morning or late afternoon for stunning views with fewer tourists.

Channel Islands National Park

Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer visitors for hiking.

Ventura Harbor Village

Weekdays are best to explore shops and enjoy dining without the weekend rush.

Ventura Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ventura enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it an appealing destination throughout the year. The clarity of the skies is particularly striking in spring and fall, allowing for outdoor activities and sightseeing to be enjoyed at their best.

Dining Recommendation in Ventura

For a truly unique experience, try the seafood tacos at Lure Fish House, where the fresh, local catch introduces a distinctly Mexican flair that contrasts with the farm-to-table ethos of Santa Cruz. The lively atmosphere, paired with vibrant flavors and a beachy vibe, brings a refreshing twist to your dining in Ventura.

Santa Cruz - Ventura operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (831) 425-8600

Website

http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration

58m

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from San Jose to Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Average Duration

7h 5m

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from Salinas to Oxnard

Average Duration

6h 10m

Estimated price

0-0

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Salinas to San Luis Obispo

Average Duration

3h 18m

Estimated price

$507-508

Train from San Luis Obispo to Ventura Amtrak

Average Duration

3h 29m

Estimated price

$804-508

Train from San Jose to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak

Average Duration

55m

Estimated price

$3160-8045

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

$3165-31600

Plane

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

Average Duration

1h 23m

Estimated price

$1910-1911

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$1910-1911

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

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$1912-1913

Taxi

Contact phone

+1 831-423-1234

Taxi from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration

47m

Estimated price

$150-1918

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

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Ventura 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 picturesque road trip from Santa Cruz to Ventura, spanning 297 miles of stunning California scenery. Prepare for a journey that takes approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes of leisurely driving. 💸 Experience the flexibility of prices ranging from $50 to $80 for the adventure from Santa Cruz to Ventura by car. Enjoy the cost-effective option of driving through charming towns and along beautiful coastal highways, making memories along the way.

Average price

$50 - $80

🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Santa Cruz to Ventura spanning approximately 11 hours and 34 minutes. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful California landscapes passing by your window as you make your way down the coast. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train ride between Santa Cruz and Ventura can range from $15 to $191, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Whether you opt for economy class or splurge on a premium seat, the journey promises to be a relaxing and comfortable experience.

🛫 Start your journey from Santa Cruz by taking a short drive to Monterey Airport, where you can catch a direct flight operated by United Airlines to Los Angeles Airport. The flight duration is just 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a quick and convenient way to reach Ventura.

Departure Point

Monterey Airport

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Airport

🚌 The bus journey from Santa Cruz to Ventura involves multiple transfers and takes approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes.

Departure Point

Soquel Ave & Front station

Arrival Point

Santa Barbara Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Ventura.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Ventura is 243 miles by air. By train, it takes 11 hours and 34 minutes to reach Ventura from Santa Cruz. Another option is to take a taxi to Monterey and then fly to Los Angeles, which takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes. Driving between the two cities takes approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes, while taking the bus will take around 10 hours and 33 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Ventura is to drive, with costs ranging from $50 to $80 and a travel time of approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes. For those seeking a more time-efficient option, taking a combination of taxi, flight, and bus is the fastest route, taking 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete at a cost of $310 to $650. It's recommended to consider both budget and convenience when choosing the best transportation option for this journey.

When traveling from Santa Cruz to Ventura by train, the ticket prices typically range between $15 and $191, depending on factors such as class of service and time of booking. Additionally, taking a taxi to Monterey and flying to Los Angeles before continuing on to Ventura may have varying costs based on airline and availability. It's recommended to check for updated prices and promotions to find the best deal for your journey between these two destinations.

To travel from Santa Cruz to Ventura without using public transportation, you can drive the 297-mile distance, which typically takes around 5 hours and 4 minutes by car. The cost of the trip by car can vary from $50 to $80 depending on factors like gas prices and vehicle efficiency. Driving allows for flexibility in timing and the ability to enjoy scenic views along the way.

The best way to travel from Santa Cruz to Ventura without a car is by taking a bus, which typically takes around 10 hours and 33 minutes. The bus provides a comfortable and convenient option for travelers looking to make the journey without driving. Additionally, it offers the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

There is no direct bus link between Santa Cruz and Ventura. Travelers would need to take a bus from Santa Cruz to San Jose, then transfer to another bus to Santa Barbara, and finally reach Ventura via train. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes. While there is no direct route, this option allows for exploring different cities along the way.

The quickest flight from Monterey Airport to Los Angeles Airport, which is the closest major airport to Santa Cruz and Ventura respectively, takes approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes. The cost of a one-way flight ticket between these two cities typically ranges between $100 to $300, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It's recommended to check for deals and compare prices from different airlines to find the best option for your travel budget.

In Ventura there are various accommodation options available to suit different preferences and budgets. With over 193 hotels in the area, travelers can choose from a range of options, starting at a reasonable price of $63 per night. Whether looking for beachfront resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly motels, there are plenty of choices for visitors to stay near Ventura, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay during their travels.

Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Ventura, CA, USA from $15: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Ventura: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Ventura

Best Neighbourhoods in Ventura

Best Times To Visit Ventura's Attractions

Ventura Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Ventura

Santa Cruz - Ventura operators

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

Frequently asked questions

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