Los Angeles to Santa Cruz: Road Trip Guide & Distance

293.4 miles 472.2 km · straight line
343.6 miles actual route 552.9 km · driving distance
6h 34min estimated drive time
$33 - $41 estimated fuel cost
~1h 5min flight time
315° NW bearing direction

How far is Los Angeles from Santa Cruz?

The distance from Los Angeles to Santa Cruz is 293.4 miles (472.2 km) as the crow flies. Santa Cruz is located NW of Los Angeles. By car, the driving distance is approximately 343.6 miles, taking about 6h 34min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 5min. Both are located in United States.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Los Angeles and Santa Cruz. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Los Angeles to Santa Cruz

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 6h 34min $33 - $41 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 5min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~7h 53min $27–$52* Budget
Train ~6h 14min $41–$120* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Los Angeles & Santa Cruz

Quick Facts

Los Angeles
34.05°N, 118.24°W
America/Los_Angeles
71m elevation
Santa Cruz
36.97°N, 122.03°W
America/Los_Angeles
9m elevation
Explore more routes from Santa Cruz

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 98 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 24 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 84.9 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM