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How to get fromPalo Alto to Santa Cruzby train, bus, car, or taxi

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There are 3 ways to get from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz by train, bus, car, or taxi

Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner.

  1. Caltrain, bus

    best
    1. Take the train from California Avenue Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southboundtrain train Local Weekday / ...
    2. Take the bus from Diridon Station to Soquel Ave & Frontbus bus 17
    1h 27m
    $15–21

  2. Drive 41.8 mi

    cheapest
    1. Drive from Palo Alto to Santa Cruzcar car 41.8 mi
    50 min
    $8–11

  3. Taxi

    1. Take the taxi from Palo Alto to Santa Cruztaxi taxi 41.8 mi
    50 min
    $140–170

Palo Alto to Santa Cruz by train and bus

Calendar291Weekly Services
Duration1h 27mAverage Duration
Ticket$15Cheapest Price
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Questions & Answers

Map of how to get from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz.ExpandLaunch map view
  • Distance: 45.6 mi
  • Duration: 1h 27m

What companies run services between Palo Alto, CA, USA and Santa Cruz, CA, USA?

There is no direct connection from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz. However, you can take the train to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound, walk to Diridon Station, then take the bus to Soquel Ave & Front. Alternatively, you can drive from Palo Alto to Santa Cruz in around 50 min.

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