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Portland, OR, USA to Santa Cruz, CA, USA from $34: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Portland 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.

$34 by trainBest price
958 kmDistance
5h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portland 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
Bus
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$106-388
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
21h  22m
Estimated price
$34-246
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 958 km
Duration: 5h 33m

See more options

Company
Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
18h  35m
Estimated price
$34-246
Company
various
Plane
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
$94-378
Company
various
Plane
BART
Bus
Average Duration
6h  14m
Estimated price
$112-370
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
11h  52m
Estimated price
$120-1060
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Traveling From Portland to Santa Cruz

Embarking on a journey from Portland to Santa Cruz offers a captivating contrast between the vibrant, coffee-fueled energy of the Pacific Northwest and the laid-back, sun-soaked beaches of Northern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions and charm.

Downtown Santa Cruz
• Bustling with shops and local eateries.
• Hosts the famous Santa Cruz Farmers Market.
Westside Santa Cruz
• Home to stunning Natural Bridges State Beach.
• Offers a mix of cafes and artisan shops.
Capitola Village
• Quaint seaside village with colorful buildings.
• Great dining options with ocean views.

Best Times To Visit Santa Cruz's Attractions

Planning your visit to Santa Cruz’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Visit on weekdays in early morning for fewer crowds and better rides.
Natural Bridges State Beach
Go during the late afternoon for stunning sunsets and peaceful views.
Downtown Santa Cruz
Explore on a weekday to enjoy the shops without the weekend rush.

Santa Cruz Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Cruz enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination throughout the year. Optimal visiting times are typically late spring and early fall, when pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and exploration.

Dining Recommendation

Try the fish tacos at The Picnic Basket, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients create a coastal twist that contrasts with Portland's farm-to-table fare. The casual beachfront vibe and ocean views transform your meal into a memorable experience that's distinctively Santa Cruz.

Portland - Santa Cruz operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$1065-1066

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$1067-1068

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 52m
Estimated price
$1069-1068
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$1063-3880

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$1067-1066
Website
united.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$1067-3881
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Portland to San Jose

Average Duration
19h 52m
Estimated price
$1061-341
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Portland Curbside Bus Stop to Sacramento

Average Duration
12h 55m
Estimated price
$342-346

Bus from Sacramento to Stockton

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Stockton to San Jose

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Front

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$345-3888

Bus from Diridon Station to Ocean & Water

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$345-3888
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Other from Coliseum to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Other from Millbrae Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$3888-3889

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

Traveling between Portland 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 an epic road trip from Portland to the vibrant coastal town of Santa Cruz journey covers approximately 698 miles and promises scenic views along the way. 💸 Depending on your route and stops, the cost to drive from Portland to Santa Cruz typically ranges from $120 to $190. Make sure to budget for fuel, snacks, and any roadside attractions you may want to explore. ⌚ Prepare for a thrilling 11-hour and 52-minute drive through diverse landscapes, quaint towns, and picturesque highways as you make your way from the Pacific Northwest to the sunny shores of Santa Cruz. Get ready to create unforgettable memories on this unforgettable adventure by car.
Average price
$120 - $190
🛫 Flying from Portland to Santa Cruz? The quickest and most convenient option is a direct flight from Portland Airport to San Jose Airport, taking just 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Departure Point
Portland Airport
Arrival Point
San Jose Airport
🛤️ The journey from Portland to Santa Cruz by bus, operated by Flixbus USA, takes approximately 18 hours and 35 minutes, including transfers along the way.
Departure Point
Portland Curbside Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Soquel Ave & Front station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Portland and Santa Cruz is 595 miles by air and 698 miles by road. The typical travel time by flying to San Jose and then taking a bus is 5 hours and 43 minutes. The travel time by car from Santa Cruz to Portland is approximately 11 hours and 52 minutes. Taking a bus from Portland to Santa Cruz can take around 19 hours and 28 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Portland to Santa Cruz is by taking a combination of train and bus, which typically costs between $30 and $250 and takes approximately 21 hours and 24 minutes. However, for a more time-efficient option, flying and then taking a bus is the fastest way to reach Santa Cruz, with a travel time of 5 hours and 43 minutes. This option usually costs between $100 and $370. It's important to consider both time and budget constraints when deciding on the best transportation option for your journey.
To get from Portland to Santa Cruz without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance is approximately 698 miles, which takes around 11 hours and 52 minutes. The prices for a car journey vary but can range from $120 to $190 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Portland to Santa Cruz without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey by bus takes approximately 19 hours and 28 minutes. The bus route typically includes stops along the way, but it is a convenient and affordable option for those without a car.
There is no direct link between Portland and Santa Cruz by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers that take approximately 19h 28m. The journey involves departing from Portland Curbside Bus Stop, transferring at Sacramento Bus Station, Stockton, and Diridon Station before arriving at Water & Ocean in Santa Cruz. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Santa Cruz Metro.
The flight from Portland to San Jose typically takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. However, it is important to note that this is just the flight time and does not include travel time to and from the airports. In terms of cost, ticket prices can vary depending on the airline, time of year, and how far in advance you book. On average, you can expect to pay around $100 to $300 for a one-way ticket between these two cities.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Cruz. There are over 113 hotels available ranging from budget to luxury accommodations. Prices start at $72 per night, making it possible to find a suitable hotel within various price ranges. It is recommended to search online travel platforms or contact the local tourist office for more information and to book accommodation that suits your preferences and budget.

Trips from Portland

Trips to Santa Cruz