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Ventura, CA, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $16: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Ventura 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.

$16 - Train, BusBest price
391 kmDistance
5h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Ventura 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
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  32m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
10h  40m
Estimated price
$16-207
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 391 km
Duration: 5h 6m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
11h  42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$124-332
Company
various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$146-160
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  36m
Estimated price
$161-162
Company
various
Bus
Plane
BART
Bus
Average Duration
6h  17m
Estimated price
$163-164
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$270-647
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Traveling From Ventura to Santa Cruz

The journey from Ventura to Santa Cruz offers a fascinating change of pace, where you can transition from the laid-back beach vibe of Ventura to the rugged coastal charm and vibrant redwoods in Santa Cruz.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Lively atmosphere with shops and cafes
• Host to local events and street performances
Westside Santa Cruz
• Close to natural wonders like Natural Bridges
• Features unique breweries and restaurants
Capitola Village
• Picturesque waterfront with colorful cottages
• Great dining options with ocean views

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Planning your visits around crowds can enhance your Santa Cruz experience.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit early on weekdays or in the late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Mornings during the weekdays offer a peaceful experience and stunning views.
Downtown Santa Cruz
Explore early Saturday mornings before shops and cafes get busy.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Spring and fall are particularly lovely for outdoor activities, as the weather is comfortable, and the crowds are thinner.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Cruz

For a truly unique experience, try the fish tacos at The Picnic Basket, where you can savor fresh, locally-sourced ingredients combined with innovative flavors that contrast the traditional beach fare often found in Ventura. The laid-back atmosphere, infused with the scent of the ocean, enhances the enjoyment of each bite and showcases Santa Cruz's commitment to farm-to-table dining.

Ventura - Santa Cruz operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Ventura Amtrak to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$500-501

Bus from Santa Barbara to San Jose

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$5003-2076

Bus from Oxnard to Salinas

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$5005-503

Bus from Ventura Amtrak to Santa Barbara

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Santa Barbara to San Jose

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Ventura Station to Santa Barbara Bus Stop

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$509-503
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$809-502

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$809-502
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Ventura - Downtown / Beach Amtrak Station to Burbank Airport - South

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$5002-504
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$502-5000
Plane Show flights
Website
http://southwest.com

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

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$166-167
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-470-8818
Website
https://centralcoastshuttle.com

Other from Ventura, CA to Los Angeles Airport, CA

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$5095-5020

Other from Ventura, CA to Santa Barbara Airport

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$801-501
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 831-424-1234
Website
http://yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Monterey to Santa Cruz

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$50050-50080
Contact phone
+1 831-422-7276

Taxi from Monterey to Santa Cruz

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Ventura 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 covering 297 miles from Ventura to Santa Cruz. Enjoy the coastal views and picturesque landscapes as you cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway. 💰 The cost of fuel and potential tolls range from $50 to $80 for the journey by car, making it an affordable and flexible option for travel between these two charming California cities. 🌊 Arrive in Santa Cruz after approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes of driving, ready to explore its famous boardwalk, stunning beaches, and vibrant surf culture. It's a perfect coastal getaway for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Average price
$50 - $80
🛫 The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Ventura to Santa Cruz is by taking a flight from Los Angeles Airport to Monterey Airport. This direct flight with United Airlines typically takes around 1 hour and 19 minutes. 🌊 Once you land at Monterey Airport, you can easily rent a car or take a shuttle to reach the charming coastal town of Santa Cruz. The drive from Monterey to Santa Cruz is approximately 45 minutes, offering scenic views of the Pacific Ocean along the way.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus route from Ventura to Santa Cruz, travelers can easily make the journey with a combination of services. The trip involves transfers at Santa Barbara and Diridon Station, taking approximately 9 hours and 32 minutes in total.
Departure Point
Ventura Amtrak station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Ventura and Santa Cruz is approximately 243 miles, with a road distance of 297.3 miles. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By taking a train and then a bus, it typically takes about 10 hours and 52 minutes to travel from Ventura to Santa Cruz. Alternatively, driving by car usually takes around 5 hours and 7 minutes. Finally, taking a bus directly from Ventura to Santa Cruz typically takes approximately 9 hours and 42 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Ventura to Santa Cruz is by driving. It costs between $50 and $80 and takes approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes. Taking a train and then a bus is also an option, but it takes longer, around 10 hours and 52 minutes, and may not be as cost-effective as driving.
To travel from Ventura to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 297 miles, which takes about 5 hours and 7 minutes. The drive offers the flexibility to stop at any desired locations along the way. Depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and gas prices, the approximate cost for the trip ranges from $50 to $80.
The best way to travel from Ventura to Santa Cruz without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 9 hours and 42 minutes. No transfers are required, making it a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive. Bus tickets can be purchased at the station or online.
There is no direct link between Ventura and Santa Cruz. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 42 minutes, including transfers. The bus services are operated by Amtrak and Santa Cruz Metro.
The flight time between Ventura and Santa Cruz is typically around 1 hour and 10 minutes on a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Jose Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is advisable to check with different airlines and travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Santa Cruz. With over 113 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Santa Cruz start at $72 per night. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, visitors have a variety of choices when it comes to finding a place to stay near Santa Cruz.

Trips from Ventura

Trips to Santa Cruz