- Recommended
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Compact museum inside the lighthouse with exhibits on local surf culture, boards, and legends. An easy stop beside one of the city's best viewpoints.
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Bus tickets to Santa Cruz, CA
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Showing the fastest and cheapest results for Oct 14
Results include alternative arrival locations to Santa Cruz, CA
8:20 AM2h07San Francisco, CA10:27 AMSanta Cruz, CA$161One-way1 transfer
Popular buses to and from Santa Cruz, CA
Popular buses from Santa Cruz, CA
Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus
Direct buses available
Bus providers: FlixBus to BerlinTravel to Santa Cruz, CA on FlixBus buses with Omio. When comparing schedules and tickets, we will also show you other options with multiple connections or other travel modes if they’re available.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$16
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Complete guide to Santa Cruz, CA
Things to do in Santa Cruz, CA
Discover the best of Santa Cruz, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Cruz, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
Museum and research center focused on natural history and Monterey Bay ecology. Good for families, trails, and understanding local wildlife.
- Recommended
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History
Downtown history museum covering Santa Cruz County through photographs, artifacts, and rotating exhibits in a restored library building.
- Must visit
West Cliff Drive
Iconic surfing viewpoint with a cliffside path, benches, and frequent wave action. One of the best places to watch surfers and sunsets.
- Must visit
Natural Bridges State Beach
Oceanfront natural bridge and tide-pool area known for coastal scenery and seasonal monarch butterflies. A scenic stop on the west side.
- Recommended
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Redwood grove in the city with easy trails, ponds, and picnic areas. Popular for a calm nature walk close to downtown and the beach.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
Cioppino is a tomato-based seafood stew tied to Northern California coast fishing, often made with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a regional Pacific delicacy, served cracked or in simple preparations that highlight the sweet meat of the Central California coast.
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos reflect Santa Cruz surf-town dining, usually featuring local fish, cabbage, salsa, and crema in tortillas near the beach or wharf.
John's Fish House
Casual harbor seafood spot known for very fresh fish, oysters, and cioppino with a relaxed working-waterfront feel.
Taqueria Vallarta
Beloved local Mexican restaurant known for fresh tortillas, tacos, and traditional plates in a lively, longstanding downtown setting.
Stagnaro Bros Seafood
Historic wharf restaurant serving seafood, steaks, and chowder with broad bay views and a classic Santa Cruz atmosphere.
United States Dollar ($)
Santa Cruz is pricier than many U.S. beach towns, with higher hotel rates, dining costs, and parking; transit is limited, so visitors often spend more on driving.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or a basic latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and round up or tip about 10% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts for small tips.
Buses to Santa Cruz, CA: related information
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