Dana Point, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $11: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$11 - DriveBest price

106 kmDistance

1h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dana Point 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 Dana Point to San Diego

Traveling from Dana Point to San Diego offers a journey from laid-back coastal charm to bustling urban energy, allowing you to experience serene beaches and vibrant city life in just a short drive.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences to suit every traveler.

Gaslamp Quarter

• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs.

• Unique Victorian architecture blends with modern amenities.

La Jolla

• Stunning coastal views and beautiful beaches.

• Upscale dining and boutique shopping options abound.

Balboa Park

• Home to world-class museums and gardens.

• Perfect for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Maximize your San Diego experience by visiting at the right times.

San Diego Zoo

Go early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid peak crowds.

Balboa Park

Visit on a weekday morning for a peaceful stroll and fewer visitors.

USS Midway Museum

Aim for late afternoon visits to enjoy less crowded exhibits.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters, making it a desirable destination year-round. While the best times to visit typically fall between spring and fall, understanding seasonal variations can enhance your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

Head over to Juniper & Ivy, where you can indulge in the inventive flavors of contemporary Californian cuisine that stands in stark contrast to Dana Point's more classic seaside fare. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with a focus on local ingredients and a creative twist on traditional dishes, creates a memorable dining experience you won’t find back in Dana Point.

Dana Point - San Diego operators

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

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

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

Train from San Juan Capistrano Amtrak Station to San Diego

Average Duration

1h 38m

Estimated price

$3-75

Bus Show bus routes

Bus from Del Obispo-Stonehill to San Diego

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

$3-75

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

Traveling between Dana Point 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip spanning 66 miles from Dana Point to San Diego, soaking in the stunning coastal views along the way. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 8 minutes, offering a smooth journey filled with scenic delights. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with car prices ranging from $11 to $18 for the trip from Dana Point to San Diego, making it a cost-effective and convenient choice for exploring Southern California's vibrant destinations.

Average price

$11 - $18

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Dana Point to San Diego which takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views along the Pacific coastline as you travel southward towards San Diego. 💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between Dana Point and San Diego range from as low as $3 to $75, providing budget-friendly options for travelers. Whether you opt for a standard seat or upgrade to a premium class, there are choices to suit every budget and preference for this convenient mode of transportation.

🚌 Starting from Dana Point 🌴 to San Diego 🏖️ via bus takes approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes, covering a distance of 118 miles with 2 transfers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dana Point to San Diego.

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The cheapest way to travel from Dana Point to San Diego is by driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 68 miles and can be covered in about 1 hour and 8 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of gas for this journey ranges from $11 to $18, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

The fastest way to travel from Dana Point to San Diego is by driving. The journey usually takes around 1 hour and 8 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The approximate cost for gas and tolls is between $11 and $18. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a taxi or a rideshare service for a faster transportation option, although it may be more expensive.

It is approximately 61 miles from Dana Point to San Diego. The road distance between the two cities is about 65.6 miles. The journey can typically be completed in around 1 hour and 8 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. There are also other transportation options available such as trains and buses, but they may take longer and cost more than driving.

The best way to travel from Dana Point to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. You can take the Orange County Transportation Authority bus from Dana Point to the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, and from there, transfer to the North County Transit District bus to reach San Diego. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket may vary, so it is advisable to check the current fares and schedules.

The average travel time from Dana Point to San Diego is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, including any transfers. This duration may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to plan your journey in advance and allow for some flexibility in case of unexpected delays.

There are numerous accommodation options available in San Diego, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Some popular areas to consider staying in include Downtown San Diego and the Gaslamp Quarter. Prices for hotels in San Diego start at around $53 per night, but can vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Yes, you can definitely drive from Dana Point to San Diego. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 66 miles. It typically takes around 1 hour and 8 minutes to drive from Dana Point to San Diego, depending on traffic conditions. You can take the Interstate 5 South from Dana Point all the way to San Diego.

Yes, there is no direct bus between Dana Point and San Diego. However, you can take a bus from Dana Point to San Diego by first taking a bus from Pacific Coast-Del Obispo to San Juan Capistrano Amtrak Station. From there, you can transfer to another bus that will take you to San Diego Santa Fe Depot. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes.

To catch the bus from Dana Point to San Diego you need to go to the San Juan Capistrano Amtrak Station. This is where the bus services operated by Amtrak depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

The Dana Point to San Diego bus services operated by Amtrak arrive at the San Diego Santa Fe Depot station. The Santa Fe Depot is located in downtown San Diego, making it a convenient arrival point. From there, travelers can easily access other modes of transportation or explore nearby attractions. The Santa Fe Depot is a historic landmark and transportation hub, offering a convenient and central location for visitors arriving by bus.

The cost of a train ticket from Dana Point to San Diego can range from $3 to $75, depending on factors such as the type of train, time of travel, and booking in advance. For example, a one-way ticket on the Pacific Surfliner can cost around $25. It is recommended to check the official websites of Amtrak and local train operators for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

The cost to drive from Dana Point to San Diego typically ranges from $11 to $18, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. The distance between the two cities is approximately 67 miles, and the drive usually takes about 1 hour and 8 minutes. It is important to note that these estimates may vary based on traffic conditions and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.