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San Francisco, CA, USA to Monterey, CA, USA from $20: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States
to
Monterey, United States

How to Get from San Francisco to Monterey: 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.

$20 - OtherBest price
140.1 kmDistance
2h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Monterey 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
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  36m
Estimated price
$13-52
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  4m
Estimated price
$20-30
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 140.1 km
Duration: 2h 4m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
$13-55
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$14-86
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
3h  49m
Estimated price
$58-70
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
2h  49m
Estimated price
$162-438
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Traveling From San Francisco to Monterey

Traveling between San Francisco and Monterey offers a dramatic shift from the bustling cityscape to tranquil coastal views, each destination providing its own rich array of experiences that cater to nature lovers and urban explorers alike.

Best Neighbourhoods in Monterey

Monterey’s neighborhoods offer diverse experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.

Cannery Row
• Historic waterfront area with charming shops.
• Home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Pacific Grove
• Beautiful coastal views and scenic walking paths.
• Known for vibrant butterfly migrations in spring.
Downtown Monterey
• Rich in history with well-preserved architecture.
• Offers a variety of restaurants and art galleries.

Best Times To Visit Monterey's Attractions

Visiting Monterey can be delightful, especially with well-timed plans for attractions.

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Early mornings or weekdays offer fewer crowds and intimate viewing.
Cannery Row
Visit in the early afternoon for pleasant strolls and fewer tourists.
17-Mile Drive
Early mornings or late afternoons provide stunning light and quieter roads.

Monterey Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Monterey enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with cool, foggy summers and mild, rainy winters, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are late spring and early fall, as the weather enhances outdoor activities and the stunning coastal scenery.

Dining Recommendation in Monterey

Try the clam chowder at Cannery Row’s famous Monterey Fish Market, where the flavors of fresh local seafood shine in a simple yet hearty dish. The laid-back coastal atmosphere and emphasis on locally sourced ingredients create a culinary experience that feels distinct from San Francisco's bustling dining scene.

San Francisco - Monterey operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
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
Contact phone
1-888-678-2871
Website
mst.org

Bus from Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7 to Tyler / Franklin

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$2-4
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$9-12

Train from San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2-70
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2-70
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$190-420
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

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

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$50-60

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Monterey 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 Monterey, covering a distance of 181.9 km in just over 2 hours. Traverse along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway for breathtaking views of the coastline. 💸 Budget-friendly road trip options abound, with car travel costs ranging from $20 to $30 for the San Francisco to Monterey route. 🌊 Explore the coastal beauty of Monterey upon arrival, from the iconic Cannery Row to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Average price
$20 - $30
🚂 Start your journey in San Francisco and hop on a train heading to the picturesque coastal town of Monterey. The scenic train ride takes approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes, offering stunning views along the way. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the train between San Francisco and Monterey range from $14 to $86, depending on the class and amenities you choose.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: When traveling from San Francisco to Monterey, Amtrak is one of the primary operators providing the service. Onboard, they typically offer a café car with a selection of snacks and beverages, including sandwiches, salads, and soft drinks. Be sure to check the selection as it may vary, and consider bringing your own meal if you're looking for something specific.
• Seating Options: Amtrak offers several seating options for this route. In their trains, you can choose from Business Class and Standard Coach. Business Class offers more spacious seating and additional amenities, while Standard Coach provides comfortable seating at a lower fare. Make your choice based on your budget and the experience you'd like for the trip.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at the Monterey station, be aware that there are restrooms available, but unfortunately, no shower facilities exist, and no luggage storage options are available. It's best to plan your luggage arrangements ahead of time. To navigate the area after your arrival, consider walking to nearby attractions, as many are within walking distance.
• Fastest Way to City Center: From the Monterey station, the fastest way to the city center is to take the Monterey-Salinas Transit Bus Route 1, which connects you to downtown Monterey. Buses typically run every 30-60 minutes, so check the local schedule at their website: mst.org This route will take you directly to the heart of the city, making your entry smooth and efficient.
🛫 The quickest flight from San Francisco to Monterey is a direct one that takes just 1 hour and 15 minutes on United Airlines. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Monterey can range from $162 to $438, providing options for different budgets.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus, you can travel from San Francisco to Monterey via a transfer at the Salinas Transit Center. The journey, with transfers, takes about 3 hours and 36 minutes. 💰 Bus tickets for this route range from $13 to $52, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel from one beautiful California city to another.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
Tyler / Franklin station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to book your bus tickets in advance as prices fluctuate between $13 and $52, and consider checking both Flixbus USA (flixbus.com) and Monterey-Salinas Transit (mst.org) for the best options.
• As transfers are required on this route, familiarize yourself with the Salinas Transit Center layout to minimize any waiting times; you can view the station map at Salinas Transit Center Map.
• Upon arriving at Tyler / Franklin in Monterey, look for the local MST buses or rideshare services to navigate easily to your final destination; the Monterey-Salinas Transit also provides a helpful arrival schedule online.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Monterey.

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The distance between San Francisco and Monterey is approximately 140.0 km by air and 181.5 km by road. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 5 hours and 41 minutes to reach Monterey from San Francisco. By plane, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes. By ferry, it takes about 3 hours and 49 minutes, while by car, it takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes. Finally, by bus, it takes approximately 3 hours and 36 minutes to travel from San Francisco to Monterey.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Monterey is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes, and the cost is around $20 to $30, making it the cheapest and quickest way to reach your destination. Other modes of transportation, such as train, ferry, plane, or bus, have longer travel times and may be more expensive. However, if you prefer not to drive, you can consider taking a bus, which takes around 3 hours and 36 minutes but may offer a more affordable option.
The prices for traveling from San Francisco to Monterey vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a train can cost anywhere from $14 to $86. Riding a bus can be priced between $13 and $52. If you prefer to travel by ferry, the cost ranges from $53 to $70.
To get from San Francisco to Monterey without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 181.9 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 4 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from San Francisco to Monterey can vary, ranging from $20 to $30 depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Monterey without a car is by taking the bus and transferring to the line 20 bus, which takes approximately 3 hours and 36 minutes and costs between $13 and $55. Another option is to take the Caltrain and train, which takes 5 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $13 and $90. Alternatively, flying is a faster option, taking 3 hours and 33 minutes and costing between $160 and $430.
Unfortunately, there is no direct link between San Francisco and Monterey by bus. However, there are bus services available departing from San Francisco and arriving in Monterey with a transfer at Salinas Transit Center/Gate 7. The journey duration, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 36 minutes. Bus services are operated by Flixbus USA and Monterey-Salinas Transit.
The flight between San Francisco and Monterey typically takes around 52 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from $160 to $422.
There are many options for accommodation near Monterey. There are over 251 hotels available, offering a range of prices starting at $65 per night.

Trips to Monterey