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Newark, NJ, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $879: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Newark 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.

$879 by busBest price
4782 kmDistance
10h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Newark 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
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
10h  54m
Estimated price
$87-320
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
46h  14m
Estimated price
$879-3200
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 4782 km
Duration: 10h 47m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
BART
Bus
Average Duration
10h  47m
Estimated price
$91-361
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
12h 
Estimated price
$145-669
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
12h  56m
Estimated price
$147-870
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
11h  46m
Estimated price
$184-622
Company
various
Train
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  16m
Estimated price
$871-872
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
14h  37m
Estimated price
$873-874
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$877-878
Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$877-878
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Traveling From Newark to Santa Cruz

Traveling from Newark to Santa Cruz offers a stark transition from the bustling city life of the East Coast to the laid-back coastal vibe of California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

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

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Home to vibrant shops and restaurants.
• Hosts local events and art festivals.
East Side
• Known for its scenic beaches and parks.
• Offers a relaxed, residential vibe.
Westside
• Features the iconic Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Close to many artisan breweries and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Finding the right time to visit Santa Cruz's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit on weekdays during the summer for shorter lines and less congestion.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Early mornings or late afternoons offer quieter beach experiences and stunning sunsets.
Mystery Spot
Consider a weekday visit to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more personal tour.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant to explore year-round, although late spring and early fall offer the most comfortable conditions. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan your activities, from beach days to outdoor adventures.

Dining in Santa Cruz

At The Picnic Basket, savor the locally sourced farm-to-table dishes, with their famous grilled cheese sandwich featuring artisanal bread and locally made cheese, a delightful contrast to the more urban dining scene in Newark. The relaxed beach town atmosphere and use of fresh, seasonal ingredients provide a different culinary adventure that emphasizes the natural flavors of California.

Newark - Santa Cruz operators

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

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
6h 27m
Estimated price
$3202-3204

Plane from Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO) via Denver

Average Duration
8h 33m
Estimated price
$3202-3204

Plane from Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO) via Las Vegas

Average Duration
8h 38m
Estimated price
$3202-3204
Website
delta.com

Plane from Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO) via Salt Lake City

Average Duration
8h 39m
Estimated price
$3208-3209
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$3202-3204
Website
aa.com

Plane from Newark (EWR) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$3202-3204
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Newark Penn Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
22h 20m
Estimated price
$3208-3610

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Amarillo Bus Station

Average Duration
14h 45m
Estimated price
$14510-3612

Bus from Amarillo Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
22h 55m
Estimated price
$911-3611

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Jose Diridon Station

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$36195-3202
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$1843-3617
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Newark Penn Station to 30th Street Station

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
$3619-3615

Train from 30th Street Station to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$3617-3618
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Millbrae Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$3617-3618
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Train from Coliseum to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$1450-1451

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Newark and Santa Cruz is approximately 2800 miles. By air, direct flights might take around 6 hours, but considering layovers, total flight time could be closer to 8-10 hours. Driving the distance would typically take about 42-45 hours, not counting stops. Alternatively, traveling by train or bus would take significantly longer, often exceeding 3 days due to route and schedule constraints.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Newark to Santa Cruz is typically to fly directly into a nearby airport, such as San Jose International Airport, which is about 30 miles away. Booking flights in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help secure lower fares. Once in San Jose, renting a car or taking a shuttle to Santa Cruz is usually the best option for convenience. Alternatively, for budget-conscious travelers willing to allocate more time, a Greyhound or Amtrak journey could provide a more economical route, but it will take significantly longer.
Prices for traveling from Newark to Santa Cruz can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation chosen. A round-trip flight typically ranges from $200 to $600, depending on the time of booking and the season. If you opt for a bus or train, the cost can be lower, generally around $150 to $300, but this will also require more travel time. Additionally, renting a car for the road trip could cost between $150 to $300 for the rental plus fuel expenses, making it a viable option for groups or those seeking more flexibility.
To travel from Newark to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent a vehicle for the journey. Driving allows for flexibility, as you can choose your route and make stops along the way, but be prepared for a long journey of approximately 42-45 hours of driving time, not including rest breaks. Alternatively, you could consider hiring a private driver or a rideshare service for the trip, although this option may be quite costly. Lastly, if you're looking for a more unique experience, you could explore carpooling with friends or acquaintances who are also interested in traveling to California.
To travel from Newark to Santa Cruz without a car, you can consider flying as the quickest option. You'll find several airlines that operate flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to nearby airports such as San Jose International Airport, followed by a short rideshare, taxi, or rental car ride to Santa Cruz. Alternatively, you could travel by bus or train to a major city like Los Angeles or San Francisco and then find a local bus or rideshare service to reach Santa Cruz. While these options may take longer, they can be more affordable and allow you to enjoy the journey.
There are no direct commercial flights between Newark and Santa Cruz as Santa Cruz does not have a major airport. The closest airports are San Jose International Airport and Monterey Peninsula Airport, which usually require at least one layover when flying from Newark. Travelers often connect through major hubs like Los Angeles or San Francisco. Once you arrive at one of these airports, you can take a shuttle, rideshare, or rental car to reach Santa Cruz.
Since there are no direct flights from Newark to Santa Cruz travelers typically fly into nearby airports, such as San Jose International Airport. The total flight time, including layovers, generally ranges from 8 to 10 hours. Ticket prices can vary significantly based on the season and how far in advance you book, typically ranging from $200 to $500 for a one-way ticket. It's recommended to compare prices across different airlines and travel dates for the best deals.
In Santa Cruz you have a variety of accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Popular choices include beachfront hotels like the Dream Inn, which offers stunning ocean views, and the Santa Cruz Beach Hotel for easy access to the boardwalk. If you prefer a more home-like experience, consider renting a cabin or cottage through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. Additionally, there are several campgrounds in the area for those looking to enjoy the natural surroundings.

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