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Big Sur, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $25: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Big Sur, United States
to
San Francisco, United States

How to Get from Big Sur to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$25 by carBest price
228 kmDistance
2h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Big Sur to San Francisco with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Taxi
Bus
Average Duration
3h  12m
Estimated price
$157-222
Recommended
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$132-165
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 228 km
Duration: 2h 9m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  42m
Estimated price
$25-40
Company
various
Taxi
Bus
Train
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$157-254
Company
various
Taxi
Train
Train
Average Duration
4h  31m
Estimated price
$157-254
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  9m
Estimated price
$246-537
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Big Sur to San Francisco

The journey from Big Sur's stunning coastline to San Francisco's vibrant urban landscape showcases a remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct character and charm.

Mission District
• Known for its vibrant street art.
• A hub for delicious Mexican cuisine.
Chinatown
• The oldest Chinatown in North America.
• Famous for authentic dim sum experiences.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Offers beautiful waterfront views.
• Home to fresh seafood and street performers.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Alcatraz Island
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Golden Gate Park
Weekdays in spring and fall provide a peaceful experience with fewer visitors.
Fisherman's Wharf
Aim for weekday mornings to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and local vibe.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers, making it a year-round destination. However, be prepared for microclimates and fog, particularly in late spring and early summer, which can influence your travel plans and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

For a true San Francisco experience, head to the Ferry Building Marketplace and try the Dungeness crab sandwiches at Hog Island Oyster Co., where the bustling atmosphere sets it apart from Big Sur's serene dining spots. The fresh, briny flavors of local seafood showcase the city’s commitment to farm-to-table cuisine and vibrant culinary scene, offering a delightful contrast to the rustic simplicity of Big Sur.

Big Sur - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Big Sur and San Francisco, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to San Francisco

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$2226-1322
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$2220-2221
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salinas to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2224-2225
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Other from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to SFO Airport International Arrivals

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$22225-22230
Taxi

Taxi from Big Sur to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$22270-1325
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1578-1579

Big Sur to San Francisco: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Big Sur and San Francisco offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Discover the breathtaking beauty of California's coastal Highway 1 as you journey from Big Sur to San Francisco, covering a distance of 142 miles in just under 3 hours.
Average price
$25 - $40
🛫 Flying from Big Sur to San Francisco is a convenient option, with a quick direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport taking just 56 minutes. 💸 Depending on the timing and availability, flight prices between San Francisco and Big Sur typically range from $246 to $537, giving passengers flexibility in choosing a flight that suits their budget and schedule.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Big Sur to San Francisco.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Big Sur and San Francisco is approximately 177.0 km. If you choose to drive, it will take about 2 hours and 42 minutes to get from San Francisco to Big Sur, and approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes to travel by taxi and bus from Big Sur to San Francisco. Alternatively, you can choose to take a plane, which usually takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes, or a ferry which will take approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes to reach San Francisco from Big Sur.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Big Sur to San Francisco is to drive, costing around $25-$40 and taking approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option would be to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes and costs between $250-$550.
The prices for traveling from Big Sur to San Francisco vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a ferry between the two cities can range from $132 to $165.
To get from Big Sur to San Francisco without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is 228.5 km, and it takes approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes to drive from Big Sur to San Francisco. The cost of driving ranges from $25 to $40, depending on factors like gas prices and tolls.
If you are looking to travel from Big Sur to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take a taxi and then a bus. This route takes approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes and the cost ranges from $150 to $230.
The flight between Big Sur and San Francisco typically takes about 49 minutes on a direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport. The cost of a flight between these two cities can vary, ranging from $256 to $537.
There are many accommodation options available near San Francisco, with over 835 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $74. Some popular areas to stay in include Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Financial District, where you can find a range of hotels to fit your budget and preferences.