Bus
Driving
Mountain View to Santa Cruz
Updated: 28 May 2026
Santa Cruz, a coastal city known for its beaches and boardwalk, is easily accessible from Mountain View by car or bus. The most common route is via Highway 17, which winds through the Santa Cruz Mountains. This journey offers beautiful scenery and a quick transition from the Silicon Valley to the Pacific coast. Plan for potential traffic on Highway 17, especially on weekends.
Total Distance: Driving distance 60 km, straight-line air distance 40 km.
Fastest Way
Driving via Highway 17 is the fastest, taking roughly 1 hour.
Cheapest Way
Bus via Santa Cruz Metro and Highway 17 Express.
Compare Mountain View to Santa Cruz Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours | 1 hour |
| Avg Price | $5 - $15 | $10 - $20 (fuel) |
| Operator | Santa Cruz Metro | Personal Car |
| Route | Bus from Mountain View to San Jose, then Highway 17 Express to Santa Cruz. | Highway 85 to Highway 17 South. |
| Tip | The Highway 17 Express is a convenient and affordable option. | Highway 17 can be winding and busy; drive carefully. |
Travel Tips
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TrafficAvoid Highway 17 during peak commute hours and weekends.
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ParkingParking in Santa Cruz can be difficult; use public parking lots.
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WeatherCoastal weather can be cool; bring a light jacket.
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WalkingThe downtown area and boardwalk are very walkable.
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SafetyBe aware of your surroundings on the boardwalk at night.
Safety Tips
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DrivingDrive slowly on the winding sections of Highway 17.
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Beach SafetyBe aware of rip currents when swimming.
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Personal SafetyKeep your belongings secure in your car.
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EmergencyDial 911 for emergency services.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train?No, there is no direct train service.
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How long is the drive?Approximately 1 hour.
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What is the best way to get around?Walking and public transit.
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Is Santa Cruz safe?Like any city, exercise caution in unfamiliar areas.
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What is the best time to visit?Summer months.
Quick Info
- From Mountain View, California, United States
- To Santa Cruz, California, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
Summer for beach activities and spring for hiking.
Things to Do in Santa Cruz
1
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
A historic amusement park on the beach, featuring rides and games.
2
Natural Bridges State Beach
A beautiful beach known for its natural rock arch and tide pools.
3
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
A park featuring old-growth redwood trees and hiking trails.
4
Santa Cruz Wharf
A long wharf with shops, restaurants, and views of the ocean.
Tags
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