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Stockton, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $6: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Stockton, United States of America
to
Santa Cruz, United States of America

How to Get from Stockton to Santa Cruz: 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.

$6 - Train, BusBest price
165 kmDistance
1h 52m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Stockton to Santa Cruz 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  42m
Estimated price
$6-81
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 165 km
Duration: 1h 52m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
3h  45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  52m
Estimated price
$18-27

Traveling From Stockton to Santa Cruz

The journey from Stockton to Santa Cruz offers a striking contrast between the urban charm of Stockton’s diverse culture and the laid-back coastal atmosphere of Santa Cruz, where beach life and redwood forests beckon.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Vibrant shopping and dining scene.
• Hosts local events and festivals year-round.
Westside
• Proximity to Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Quaint cafes and craft breweries abound.
East Cliff
• Scenic coastal views and walking paths.
• Ideal for peaceful beach strolls and picnics.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Santa Cruz experience.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit on weekdays during the late morning for smaller crowds and shorter lines.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Early mornings in spring and fall offer stunning views and fewer visitors.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Visit weekdays for serene walks among the majestic redwoods and less foot traffic.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, featuring warm summers and cool, foggy winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall, as the weather is typically warm and sunny, enhancing your outdoor adventures.

Dining Recommendation

Head to The Crow's Nest in Santa Cruz for a delightful seafood experience; their fresh Dungeness crab sandwich is a must-try. Unlike Stockton's culinary offerings, Santa Cruz’s dining scene emphasizes ocean-fresh ingredients and a relaxed beachfront atmosphere, creating a memorable meal that showcases the local flavors.

Stockton - Santa Cruz operators

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

Train
Contact phone
1800-411-7245
Website
acerail.com

Train from Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station to San Jose Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$14-18
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station to San Jose Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$3-75
Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from San Jose, CA to Santa Cruz, CA

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$67-68

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$67-68

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

Traveling between Stockton and Santa Cruz 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 Stockton to Santa Cruz covering a picturesque driving distance of 103 miles. Enjoy roughly 1 hour and 52 minutes of travel time through the charming landscapes of Northern California. ⛰️ Experience the flexibility of choosing from a range of price options, with car travel costs typically ranging between $18 to $27 for the journey from Stockton to Santa Cruz. Plan your budget accordingly and set forth on a budget-friendly adventure to this coastal gem.
Average price
$18 - $27
🛤️ Passengers will depart from Stockton station and arrive at Diridon Station before transferring to another bus that will take them to Santa Cruz. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes.
Departure Point
Stockton station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Stockton and Santa Cruz is approximately 80 miles or 102.8 miles by road. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation. If you take a combination of train and bus, it would take around 3 hours and 54 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Stockton. Alternatively, if you choose to drive by car, it would take around 1 hour and 52 minutes to reach Stockton from Santa Cruz. Traveling by bus would take around 3 hours and 27 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Stockton.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Stockton to Santa Cruz is by driving. It costs between $18-$27 and takes approximately 1 hour and 52 minutes. This option allows for maximum flexibility and convenience as you can travel at your own pace and make any necessary stops along the way. Additionally, driving allows for easy access to explore the surrounding areas during your trip.
To travel from Stockton to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 103 miles. The journey takes around 1 hour and 52 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving from Stockton to Santa Cruz varies, but it can range from $18 to $27, taking into account fuel and toll expenses.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Stockton to Santa Cruz is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes. The exact cost of the bus ticket may vary, so it's best to check with the bus service provider for the current fares. It is a convenient and affordable option for reaching Santa Cruz from Stockton without a car.
Yes, there is a link between Stockton and Santa Cruz but it is not direct. There are bus services operated by Amtrak that depart from Stockton station and arrive at Santa Cruz Metro Center. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes, including transfers at Diridon Station. There is no direct bus from Stockton to Santa Cruz, but this option allows travelers to reach their destination with one transfer.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. There are over 113 hotels available, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Prices start at around $72 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and location. Some popular areas to stay in Santa Cruz include downtown, near the beach, or in the nearby neighborhoods of Capitola or Aptos. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.

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