Barstow, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $14: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Barstow to San Diego: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$14 by busBest price

285 kmDistance

2h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Barstow to San Diego 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.

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Traveling From Barstow to San Diego

Your journey from Barstow to San Diego showcases a striking contrast between Barstow's rugged desert landscape and San Diego's vibrant coastal charm.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods that cater to all interests.

Gaslamp Quarter

• Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment.

• Historic architecture blends with modern attractions.

La Jolla

• Stunning coastal views and beautiful beaches.

• Home to upscale dining and art galleries.

Pacific Beach

• Laid-back vibe perfect for beachgoers.

• Great local bars and surf culture.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your San Diego experience significantly.

Balboa Park

Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy quieter gardens.

San Diego Zoo

Arrive right at opening time to see animals more actively.

USS Midway Museum

Explore late afternoon midweek for fewer crowds and stunning seaside views.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, making it a favorite destination at any time. However, spring and fall often offer the most comfortable weather and fewer tourists, providing a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

Try the fish tacos at Las Cuatro Milpas, where fresh local fish meets vibrant flavors and a festive atmosphere that captures the essence of San Diego's coastal culture. This experience contrasts sharply with Barstow's hearty comfort food, offering a delightful taste of the region's culinary scene.

Barstow - San Diego operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Barstow Station to Santa Ana Bus Stop

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$243-240

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to San Diego

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

$1027-1022

Bus from San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center to San Diego

Average Duration

2h 35m

Estimated price

$142-240

Bus from Barstow Station to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$245-240

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Santa Ana to San Diego

Average Duration

2h 3m

Estimated price

$248-249

Contact phone

(800) 371-LINK (5465)

Website

https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from San Bernardino - Downtown station to Santa Ana station

Average Duration

1h 17m

Estimated price

$1027-2485

Plane Show flights

Website

https://www.delta.com/

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration

54m

Estimated price

$245-246

Website

https://www.united.com/

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration

59m

Estimated price

$180-247

Other Show other routes

Contact phone

(760) 948-3030

Website

https://vvta.org

Other from E Mountain View St EB FS Belinda Ave to SB Transit Center

Average Duration

2h 11m

Estimated price

$143-141

Website

https://www.crossborderxpress.com

Other from Virginia Way WB & Lookout Dr to San Bernardino

Average Duration

1h 10m

Estimated price

$1436-1020

Barstow to San Diego: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Barstow and San Diego 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.

🌵 Escape the desert landscape of Barstow and embark on a scenic road trip to vibrant San Diego, located 177 miles away. The journey will take you roughly 2 hours and 56 minutes, promising a smooth drive through diverse terrains. 🚗 Fuel up your car and hit the road for a budget-friendly adventure with transportation costs ranging from $30 to $50. Enjoy the freedom of the open highway as you make your way towards the sandy beaches and sunny shores of San Diego.

Average price

$30 - $50

🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Barstow to San Diego, with a total travel time of 6 hours and 19 minutes covering a distance of 230 miles. Transfer at Fullerton from the Southwest Chief to the Pacific Surfliner for a seamless ride through California's landscapes. 🚆 Another option for your trip is a route that takes 9 hours and 22 minutes, spanning 265 miles with 2 transfers. Start with the Southwest Chief to San Bernardino Depot, transfer to the Metrolink San Bernardino Line to L.A. Union Station, then board the Pacific Surfliner to complete your scenic adventure to San Diego. 🚌 For a quicker journey, consider taking a bus from Barstow to Tijuana, with a total travel time of 3 hours and 13 minutes over 158 miles. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of Las Vegas Shuttles for a direct trip to San Diego, making for a unique and efficient travel experience.

🛫 Experience a convenient and swift journey from Barstow to San Diego by catching a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport. This efficient flight time of just 52 minutes ensures a seamless travel experience.

Departure Point

Los Angeles Airport

Arrival Point

San Diego Airport

🚌 If you're traveling from Barstow to San Diego by bus, be prepared for a journey with transfers. There is no direct route available, but you can reach your destination in approximately 6 hours and 16 minutes. 🚏 The trip involves transfers at Barstow Station and Santa Ana Bus Stop before reaching San Diego. Services are operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA. Prices for the bus tickets can vary from $24 to $102 for this 158-mile route. 🛣️ For a total travel time of 3 hours and 13 minutes, consider taking a bus towards Tijuana with various options such as Bus Las Vegas Shuttles. Departure points include Barstow East Main Street 1611, with the final stop at San Diego University Avenue.

Departure Point

Barstow Station

Arrival Point

San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Barstow to San Diego.

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The distance between Barstow and San Diego is approximately 152 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 177.4 miles. If traveling by bus and train, it takes about 6 hours and 39 minutes to reach San Diego from Barstow. On the other hand, it takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes to drive by car from San Diego to Barstow. Lastly, taking a bus from Barstow to San Diego would typically take around 6 hours and 31 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Barstow to San Diego is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes and costs around $30 to $50 for fuel expenses. Driving allows for flexibility and convenience as you can also make stops along the way. Other transportation options such as buses or trains may take longer and be less convenient in terms of schedules and routes.

To travel from Barstow to San Diego without public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or take a taxi or rideshare service. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 177 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes by car. The cost of transportation by car can vary, typically ranging from $30 to $50 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

To travel from Barstow to San Diego without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes via Santa Ana. The bus route provides a convenient and cost-effective way to reach San Diego from Barstow without the need for a personal vehicle. It is recommended to check the bus schedules and fares in advance for a hassle-free journey.

Yes, there is a link between Barstow and San Diego although there is no direct bus connection. Travelers can take a bus from Barstow Bus Station to Santa Ana Amtrak Station, then transfer to a train which will take them to San Diego Santa Fe Depot. The total travel time for this journey, including transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 31 minutes. Both Greyhound USA and Amtrak operate bus services along this route.

The flight between Barstow and San Diego typically takes around 58 minutes if you opt for a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport. However, it is important to note that Barstow does not have its own airport so you would need to make arrangements to travel to a nearby airport such as Los Angeles Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking, airline, and availability, so it is best to check with different airlines or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a suitable place to stay catering to different budgets and preferences. Prices start at $53 per night, ensuring that there are choices available for those looking for affordable options. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly motel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, San Diego has a variety of options to suit your needs.