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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco to Big Sur: 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
177.2 kmDistance
2h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Big Sur 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, various
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  16m
Estimated price
$151-228
Recommended
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$135-168
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 177.2 km
Duration: 2h 41m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$25-40
Company
Caltrain, various
Train
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  57m
Estimated price
$151-228
Company
Caltrain, Amtrak, various
Train
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$152-262
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$243-540
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Big Sur

The journey from San Francisco to Big Sur presents you with vibrant city life and scenic coastal serenity.

Best Neighbourhoods in Big Sur

Big Sur boasts stunning neighborhoods, each with distinct charm and beauty.

Carmel Highlands
• Offers breathtaking coastal views.
• Known for upscale lodging and dining.
Pfeiffer Canyon
• Home to the iconic Pfeiffer Beach.
• Features hiking trails through giant redwoods.
Big Sur Village
• Serves as a hub for local attractions.
• Close to shops and art galleries.

Best Times To Visit Big Sur's Attractions

Planning your visit to Big Sur can maximize your experience at its stunning attractions.

Pfeiffer Beach
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and striking sunsets.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Weekdays in spring are ideal for peace and blooming wildflowers.
Big Sur River Inn
Summer evenings provide a cozy atmosphere with live music and family events.

Big Sur Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Big Sur enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures, making it a beautiful destination throughout the year. Spring and fall offer the best conditions for hiking and sightseeing, while summer can bring fog that enhances the coastal charm.

Dining Recommendation in Big Sur

Consider visiting Nepenthe, where the breathtaking views complement the rustic flavors of their famous Ambrosia Burger. This dining experience contrasts with San Francisco’s vibrant culinary scene, offering an intimate atmosphere and a menu rich in local ingredients that reflect the natural beauty surrounding you.

San Francisco - Big Sur operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Big Sur, 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 San Francisco to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$11-50
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$9-12
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2-70
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

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

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$50-60
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 831-424-1234
Website
yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Salinas Train Station to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$140-180
Contact phone
+1 831-422-7276

Taxi from Salinas Train Station to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$140-180
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$190-420

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Big Sur 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from San Francisco to Big Sur, spanning a driving distance of roughly 226.9 km. The road trip typically takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes, promising a delightful drive through the picturesque California coastline. 💰 Discover the flexibility of transportation costs as you plan your route from San Francisco to Big Sur by car, with prices ranging from $25 to $40. Enjoy the freedom of driving at your own pace and immersing yourself in the natural beauty that awaits along Highway 1. 🌄 Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you venture southward to Big Sur, where rugged cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean in a breathtaking fusion of land and sea. Take in the stunning vistas and make cherished memories on this remarkable road trip along the California coast.
Average price
$25 - $40
Useful tips for train travellers
• When traveling from San Francisco to Big Sur, check the services offered by Amtrak's Coast Starlight route. Onboard catering includes a café car that offers a variety of snack items, hot meals, and beverages, including local wines. Make sure to bring your appetite and explore their menu options to enjoy a scenic meal as you travel along the coast.
• Amtrak's Coast Starlight offers different seating options: Economy Class for budget travelers; Business Class with wider seating and complimentary beverages; and First Class, which includes enhanced amenities like premium meals and more spacious seating. If you’re looking for comfort, choose Business Class where you can enjoy both comfort and additional perks without breaking the bank.
• The main operators for this route are Amtrak and Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST). For scheduling and fare details, visit Amtrak's website at amtrak.com and MST’s site at mst.org Additionally, check out the local transportation options available to get to various attractions in Big Sur after you arrive.
🛫 Flying from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport is a quick and convenient option, with United Airlines offering direct flights that take only 1 hour and 15 minutes. 🚗 From Monterey Airport, it takes approximately 3 hours and 27 minutes to reach the beautiful coastal destination of Big Sur by car, allowing you to enjoy the scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. 💸 Flight prices between Big Sur and San Francisco can vary, typically ranging from $243 to $540 depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Big Sur is approximately 177 km, or 227 km by car. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes 3h 16m to reach Big Sur from San Francisco by taking a bus and then a taxi, 3h 4m by plane, and 5h 14m by ferry. Conversely, it takes 2h 41m to reach San Francisco from Big Sur by car.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Big Sur is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes and costs around $25 to $40 in fuel expenses.
When traveling from San Francisco to Big Sur the prices also vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. The prices of a ferry between Big Sur and San Francisco range from $130 to $168.
To get from San Francisco to Big Sur without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The driving distance is approximately 227 km and it takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes. The cost of driving from San Francisco to Big Sur is usually around $25 to $40, depending on various factors such as gas prices and vehicle type.
If you're looking to travel from San Francisco to Big Sur without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and taxi. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes, and costs between $150 and $230.
The flight time from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport, the nearest airport to Big Sur, is approximately 52 minutes. The cost of a flight between Big Sur and San Francisco can vary between $253 and $540, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of deals or discounts. It is important to note that there are no commercial airports in Big Sur itself, so travelers would need to land in Monterey and then take a ground transportation option, such as a rental car or taxi, to reach Big Sur.
There are several accommodation options available near Big Sur. There are at least 11 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $119 per night.

Trips to Big Sur