Getting Around Santa Cruz. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation: METRO Bus System

The Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (METRO) provides the main public transportation service in Santa Cruz County. This agency operates a network of bus routes throughout the city of Santa Cruz. These buses also connect to surrounding communities like Capitola, Aptos, Watsonville, and Scotts Valley. The system aids residents and visitors, making popular areas accessible.

The Downtown Santa Cruz Metro Center (920 Pacific Ave) serves as the main hub for local and regional bus routes. It is located conveniently near Pacific Avenue and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it a central point for starting your explorations.

METRO Information

You find route maps and schedules on the official Santa Cruz METRO website. This website also has service updates and trip planning tools.
Single Ride: A local route single ride costs $2.00 for adults. A day pass costs $6.00, allowing unlimited rides.
Payment: You can pay with cash (exact change is required; drivers do not make change). Use the "METRO Base" app for mobile ticketing.
Hours: Service runs from early morning (around 5-6 AM) until late evening (around 10-11 PM). Weekend/holiday service operates on a reduced schedule.

Frequency

Frequency varies by route. Major routes typically operate every 15-30 minutes during peak hours. Buses operate less frequently during off-peak times and on weekends.

Accessibility

All Santa Cruz METRO buses are wheelchair accessible. They also come equipped with bike racks on the front, allowing combination of bus travel with cycling.

Navigating Efficiently

Use the Santa Cruz METRO website or Google Maps for real-time bus tracking and trip planning. Arrive at bus stops a few minutes early. Signal the driver clearly when the bus approaches your stop.

Public Transit Tips

Cost Savings

Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan to use the bus more than twice in one day.
A day pass saves money compared to multiple single rides.
A 7-day pass costs $25.00, suitable for longer stays and offers consistent value.

Convenience Notes

Mobile ticketing via the "METRO Base" app for ease.
Signal the driver clearly when the bus approaches your stop to ensure they stop.
The Clipper Card (Bay Area transit card) is not valid on Santa Cruz METRO.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Available but less common than ride-sharing. Look for roof-mounted "Taxi" signs.

Typical Fares

Short ride within Santa Cruz might cost $10-$25. Fares are metered.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular. Download apps before your trip.

Safety Checks

Always verify driver's name, car make/model, and license plate in the app before entering.

Rental Options

Rental options are available for cars and bicycles, allowing for independent exploration of the city and surrounding natural areas.

Car Rental Procedures & Requirements

You need a valid driver's license (U.S. Or International Driving Permit with foreign license).
The minimum age for rental cars is typically 21, with surcharges often applied for drivers under 25.
A credit card in the driver's name is usually required for a deposit.
Booking your rental car in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.

Bicycle Sharing Programs & Rentals

Santa Cruz is a bike-friendly city, and bicycle rentals are a popular way to explore.
Several local bike shops offer daily or weekly bicycle rentals.
Electric bikes are also available for rent, making hilly areas more accessible.
Expect to pay around $30-$60 per day for a standard bike, with higher prices for specialty bikes.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Speed limits are strictly enforced. A right turn on red after stopping is generally permitted unless signs indicate otherwise.
Major highways like CA-1 and CA-17 are generally well-maintained.

CA-17 (from San Jose) is a scenic but winding mountain pass that can present challenges in heavy traffic or adverse weather.
Be aware of wildlife on rural roads, especially at dawn or dusk.
Traffic can be heavy on weekends and during peak commute times, especially on CA-17.

Parking Information

Parking Challenges

Parking can feel challenging and expensive, especially near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and downtown during peak season.

Parking Options

Parking garages are available downtown (e.g., Front Street Garage). Street parking is metered downtown and near the beach.

Boardwalk Parking

Large paid lots are available. Arrive early on busy days for a better chance at securing a spot.

Walking & Cycling

Santa Cruz has many pedestrian-friendly areas and scenic routes for walking and cycling.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Pacific Avenue (Downtown): A pedestrian-friendly main street with shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for a stroll.
Santa Cruz Wharf: A walk along the wharf has excellent scenic views and opportunities for marine life spotting.
Coastal Paths: West Cliff Drive is a popular scenic walking and biking path along the ocean, delivering continuous ocean views.
State Parks: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Wilder Ranch State Park present extensive walking and hiking trails.

Walking Tour Options

Self-Guided: Many points of interest are easily walkable. Use apps like Google Maps to plan your route.
Guided: Formal walking tours specific to Santa Cruz are limited, but some local history or nature groups may offer them occasionally.
Check with the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History for local history walks.
No-go areas: Generally, Santa Cruz is safe for walking and cycling. Exercise caution at night in less-trafficked areas.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes

Santa Cruz is a bike-friendly city with designated bike lanes on many major roads.

West Cliff Drive is a popular and safe paved path for cycling.

Rail Trail

Parts of this multi-use path along the former rail corridor are open for cycling.

The trail, still under development, has growing segments for biking.

Mountain Biking

Excellent trails exist in the surrounding hills and state parks.

Includes Wilder Ranch State Park and Soquel Demonstration State Forest.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

No dedicated hop-on-hop-off bus services operate in Santa Cruz.
Some private tour operators offer bus tours to redwood forests or wine country.
Boat taxis are not common for general transport. Private boat charters are available for tours from Santa Cruz Harbor.

Unique Local Transport & Accessibility

No cable cars, funiculars, or unique public transport systems operate in Santa Cruz, except a private funicular at Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola.
Santa Cruz METRO buses are accessible for travelers with mobility needs.
Many attractions have accessible pathways. Check individual venue websites for specific details.

Safety Considerations for Cycling & Walking

Helmets are required by law for cyclists under 18 and are highly recommended for all riders.
Be aware of traffic, especially downtown, and at intersections.
Generally, Santa Cruz is safe for walking and cycling.

Exercise caution at night in less-trafficked industrial or less-developed areas.
Stick to well-lit, populated routes when walking or cycling at night.
Avoid poorly lit alleys or isolated paths after dark.

West Cliff Drive Experience

Rent a bike and ride West Cliff Drive. This path has some of the best coastal views and a pleasant experience.

The Rail Trail, while under development, also offers growing segments for biking.

Getting Around Santa Cruz