- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, architecture, and city views; one of Los Angeles’s signature cultural sites.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$86
Average price
$103
Fastest journey
11 h 15 m
Average duration
12 h 18 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
472 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Santa Cruz, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Mon, Jun 22, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct buses cover the 472 km distance in an average of 12 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 15 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest buses will take 13 h 21 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:55 PM11h15Santa Cruz, CA8:10 AMLos Angeles, CA$861One-way0 transfers- 4:25 AM13h21Santa Cruz, CA5:46 PMLos Angeles, CA$1211One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 PM11h15Santa Cruz, CA8:10 AMLos Angeles, CA$861One-way0 transfers
- 4:25 AM13h21Santa Cruz, CA5:46 PMLos Angeles, CA$1211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $86. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 10h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $86, and a flight costs an average of $512.
Distance: 293 miles (472 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$93 Average price Cheapest | $110 Average price | $926 Average price | $69 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 40m Average total duration Fastest 10h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 43m Average total duration 11h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 27h 41m Average total duration 24h 41m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $93 (€76).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $17 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $110 (€90).
A bus is $834 (€682) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $926 (€758).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 10h 10m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 11h 13m.
Flight takes on average 24h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Cruz, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:25AM | Arrival Time 05:46PM | Duration 13h21 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $87 |
Live departures
Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:25 PM Santa Cruz, CA | 13h50 | 7:15 AM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:45 PM Santa Cruz, CA | 11h25 | 8:10 AM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:50 PM Santa Cruz, CA | 11h05 | 7:55 AM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $86 (€70) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 20:37. The fastest bus covers the 293 miles (472 km) distance in 11h 5m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 293 miles (472 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 (€70) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 12:50 AM |
Last bus 8:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 35 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Bus providers: Santa Cruz Metro from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA with Santa Cruz Metro for as low as $86 (€70). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Santa Cruz Metro
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€56)
Santa Cruz Metro frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Los Angeles
Things to do in Los Angeles
Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The largest art museum in the western United States, known for broad global collections and the iconic Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Popular contemporary art museum in Downtown Los Angeles with works by Kusama, Warhol, and other major postwar artists.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to major attractions; a classic Los Angeles outdoor destination.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Iconic oceanfront boardwalk area with classic California views and broad appeal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, skate scenes, murals, and constant people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, served with rich jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
L.A.-Style Tacos
Street tacos are central to Los Angeles food culture, especially carne asada, al pastor, and grilled fish tacos served on corn tortillas with salsa, onion, and cilantro.
Korean Barbecue
A signature Los Angeles meal shaped by Koreatown, featuring grilled marinated meats, banchan, and shared dining. The city is especially known for its strong Korean barbecue scene.
Providence
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant known for refined seafood tasting menus and elegant service. One of Los Angeles’s top special-occasion destinations.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown institution famous for the French dip sandwich. Casual, old-school atmosphere and one of Los Angeles’s most iconic food stops.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for complex moles, tlayudas, and mezcal. Lively atmosphere and a landmark for regional Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is expensive for visitors. Hotels, parking, and dining add up quickly, though casual food and some neighborhoods offer better value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast-food spots.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $86 (€70) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $93 (€76) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 11h 5m to travel the 293 miles (472 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 8:37 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA which require at least one change with Santa Cruz Metro. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on Santa Cruz Metro for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Cruz, CA and Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from Santa Cruz, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Cruz, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither Santa Cruz, CA nor Los Angeles, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Santa Cruz, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and Santa Cruz, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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