Costa Mesa, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $32: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Costa Mesa to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$32 by busBest price

682 kmDistance

2h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Costa Mesa 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.

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Traveling From Costa Mesa to San Francisco

The journey from Costa Mesa to San Francisco presents a striking contrast: you’ll leave behind the sunny, laid-back vibe of Southern California for the eclectic urban energy and iconic landmarks of Northern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco's neighborhoods offer a variety of distinct vibes and experiences.

Mission District

• Known for its vibrant street art.

• Home to trendy cafes and eateries.

Fisherman's Wharf

• Famous for fresh seafood and stunning bay views.

• Offers family-friendly attractions and shops.

Chinatown

• One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America.

• Explore unique shops and authentic dining experiences.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.

Alcatraz Island

Book your tickets for a mid-morning tour to avoid peak times.

Fisherman's Wharf

Explore on weekdays for a quieter experience and less tourist traffic.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild climate with cool summers and relatively wet winters, characterized by its famous fog. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when the weather is typically pleasant and allows you to enjoy the city's attractions without the chill and cloud cover.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Try the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman's Wharf for a taste that embodies San Francisco’s coastal culinary identity, setting it apart from the Mexican and Asian influences prevalent in Costa Mesa. This hearty dish not only showcases the freshness of local seafood but also immerses you in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling waterfront.

Costa Mesa - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Costa Mesa and San Francisco, 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 Santa Ana Bus Stop to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration

9h 55m

Estimated price

$949-2664

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration

8h 25m

Estimated price

$947-2664

Plane Show flights

Website

http://www.alaskaair.com

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2665-2666

Website

http://www.united.com

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

1h 39m

Estimated price

$2664-322

Website

http://www.southwest.com

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$0-0

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

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

Train from Santa Ana to Los Angeles

Average Duration

56m

Estimated price

$328-3265

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration

11h 15m

Estimated price

$3289-32870

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

http://www.bart.gov

Train from Coliseum to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration

24m

Estimated price

$324-325

Drive

Drive from Costa Mesa to San Francisco

Average Duration

Estimated price

$945-946

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

Traveling between Costa Mesa 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Costa Mesa to San Francisco, spanning 424 miles of diverse California landscapes. The journey typically takes around 7 hours, offering ample opportunities to explore along the way. 💰 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the range of prices to drive from Costa Mesa to San Francisco, with options from $75 to $120. Plan ahead to find the best deals on gas, snacks, and any potential pit stops for a smooth and cost-effective ride.

Average price

$75 - $120

🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Costa Mesa to San Francisco by train, covering a distance of approximately 13 hours and 57 minutes. Relax and enjoy the diverse landscapes of California passing by your window. 💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between Costa Mesa and San Francisco range from $58 to $282, offering flexibility to choose a fare that suits your budget. Plan ahead to secure the best deals and travel comfortably within your means.

🛫 Flying from Costa Mesa to San Francisco is quick and convenient with direct flights lasting just 1 hour and 29 minutes. Both Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines operate flights from Santa Ana Airport to San Francisco Airport. 🌁 Upon boarding your flight, you can expect to reach San Francisco in approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes. This efficient travel time allows you to explore the iconic city by the bay without delay. 💸 Prices for flights between San Francisco and Costa Mesa typically range from $94 to $266, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and schedule.

Departure Point

Santa Ana Airport

Arrival Point

San Francisco Airport

🛣️ The estimated time of travel from Costa Mesa to San Francisco by bus is approximately 12 hours and 16 minutes. You will depart from the Santa Ana Bus Stop and arrive at the San Francisco Bus Station after a scenic drive through California. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus ride between San Francisco and Costa Mesa range from $32 to $112, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the West Coast by road. Make sure to check the schedule and plan your trip accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Departure Point

Santa Ana Bus Stop station

Arrival Point

San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Costa Mesa to San Francisco.

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The distance between Costa Mesa and San Francisco is approximately 383 miles by air and 424 miles by road. Traveling by plane takes about 2 hours and 2 minutes, while a train journey takes approximately 13 hours and 57 minutes. If traveling by car, it typically takes around 7 hours to reach San Francisco from Costa Mesa, while taking a bus may take around 12 hours and 30 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Costa Mesa to San Francisco is to fly. It takes about 2 hours and 2 minutes to reach San Francisco by plane, making it the quickest option. The cost of a flight ticket ranges from $90 to $250, which is relatively affordable considering the time saved. If cost is more of a concern, taking a bus via Los Angeles is a cheaper alternative, but it takes significantly longer, with a travel time of 12 hours and 30 minutes.

When traveling from Costa Mesa to San Francisco the prices for a train ticket can range from $58 to $282. For those looking to take a bus, the prices vary from $32 to $112. It is important to check for any discounts or promotions that may be available to help reduce the cost of travel.

To get from Costa Mesa to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 424 miles, and it takes around 7 hours to drive from Costa Mesa to San Francisco. The estimated cost of gas for this journey would be between $75 to $120, depending on factors such as gas prices and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

To travel from Costa Mesa to San Francisco without a car, the best option is to take a bus. It takes approximately 12 hours and 22 minutes and costs between $45 and $120. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 2 minutes and costs between $90 and $250. There is also a train option available, which takes approximately 13 hours and 57 minutes and costs between $55 and $290.

Yes, there is a indirect link between Costa Mesa and San Francisco. Unfortunately, there is no direct bus from Costa Mesa to San Francisco. However, you can take a bus from Costa Mesa to Santa Ana Bus Stop, transfer to another bus at Flower-6th, and then transfer again at Harbor-Bernard to reach San Francisco. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 12 hours and 22 minutes. The buses are operated by Greyhound USA and arrive at the San Francisco Bus Station.

The flight between Costa Mesa and San Francisco typically takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. The prices of flights can vary, with prices ranging from $94 to $246. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

There are a wide range of accommodation options available near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels to choose from, there is something for everyone's budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly options, you can find a suitable place to stay near San Francisco.