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Joshua Tree, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $26: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Joshua Tree, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Joshua Tree to San Diego: 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.

$26 - OtherBest price
232 kmDistance
2h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Joshua Tree 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.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$119-208
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
8h  6m
Estimated price
$114-289
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 232 km
Duration: 2h 36m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  36m
Estimated price
$26-40
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  1m
Estimated price
$127-233
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  2m
Estimated price
$174-1190

Traveling From Joshua Tree to San Diego

The journey from Joshua Tree to San Diego takes you from the serene, rugged beauty of desert landscapes to the vibrant, coastal charm of the Pacific city, offering a rich contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique attractions and vibes.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic architecture and vibrant nightlife.
• Home to top restaurants and entertainment options.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and gorgeous beaches.
• Upscale shops and art galleries abound.
Little Italy
• Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine.
• A lively farmers' market every Saturday.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your San Diego experience, making it more enjoyable and less crowded.

Balboa Park
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for peaceful strolls and fewer visitors.
San Diego Zoo
Plan your trip during weekdays in the spring to enjoy pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
USS Midway Museum
Arrive right at opening or later in the afternoon to avoid peak lunch rushes.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with abundant sunshine, making it an inviting destination throughout the year; spring and fall offer the best weather and fewer tourists. This pleasant climate enhances outdoor activities, beach days, and exploration, ensuring a memorable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Savor the fresh fish tacos at Pablo's Taco Shop, where the vibrant flavors of the Pacific Coast meet locally sourced ingredients, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty, rustic fare you might find in Joshua Tree. The lively atmosphere and coastal vibe enhance your dining experience in San Diego, making each bite a celebration of coastal culture.

Joshua Tree - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Joshua Tree and San Diego, 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 Palm Springs North to Riverside

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$28.9-40

Bus from Riverside to San Diego

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$28.91-2083

Bus from Palm Springs North to San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$28.92-40

Bus from Palm Springs North to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$28.93-2089
Train
Website
metrolinktrains.com

Train from San Bernardino - Downtown station to Oceanside station

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
$1199-2080
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Palm Springs Amtrak to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 33m
Estimated price
$2085-20820

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$1144-20825
Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport (LAX) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$1195-1196
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport (LAX) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$1197-1198

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Joshua Tree to San Diego.

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The distance between Joshua Tree and San Diego is approximately 140 miles. By car, the journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. If you opt for a train, expect travel times to be around 3 to 4 hours, including transfers. Bus services usually take about 3 to 4 hours as well, with various stops along the way.
For the most cost-effective and time-efficient option from Joshua Tree to San Diego, driving a personal vehicle or renting a car is advisable, as it allows flexibility and takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours. If you don't have a car, taking a bus can be a budget-friendly alternative, with travel times of around 3 to 4 hours. Additionally, ridesharing services may offer a convenient option, especially if you're traveling with others to split costs. However, direct bus services typically provide the best combination of affordability and convenience.
When traveling from Joshua Tree to San Diego, prices can vary based on the mode of transportation. Driving your own car typically incurs costs for gas, which may range between $20 and $30 for the round trip. Bus fares usually range from $30 to $50, depending on the service and time of booking. If you opt for ridesharing, prices can fluctuate significantly, starting around $100 and increasing based on demand and the number of passengers.
To travel from Joshua Tree to San Diego without using public transportation, you could consider driving your own car or renting one for the trip. Additionally, ridesharing options like Lyft or Uber are available, making it possible to book a ride directly to your destination. Alternatively, you can arrange a private shuttle service or ask a friend or family member for a ride. Each option offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor your travel experience to your preferences.
If you need to travel from Joshua Tree to San Diego without a car, consider using ridesharing services like Lyft or Uber for a convenient point-to-point journey. You could also look into booking a private shuttle service, which can be a comfortable option for direct travel. Additionally, some local taxi companies may offer long-distance rides, although this can be more expensive. Finally, you might explore arranging a carpool with friends or other travelers heading to San Diego.
There is no direct public transportation link, such as a train or bus, between Joshua Tree and San Diego. However, several bus services operate in the region, and you may need to transfer in a nearby town, like Palm Springs, to complete your journey. Ridesharing services, private shuttles, or taxis can also connect the two locations directly. Planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience.
There is no commercial airport in Joshua Tree so you would need to travel to a nearby airport, like Palm Springs International Airport, for flights to San Diego. The flight duration from Palm Springs to San Diego is approximately 1 hour. Ticket prices can vary widely based on the time of booking and demand, but you can typically expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for a one-way ticket. It's advisable to check flight deals in advance to find better rates.
In San Diego, you have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, including luxury hotels, budget motels, and vacation rentals. Popular areas to stay include downtown San Diego, which offers convenient access to attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter and the San Diego Convention Center, as well as the beachfront communities of La Jolla and Mission Beach. If you're looking for a unique experience, consider staying in the charming neighborhood of Hillcrest, known for its vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Additionally, there are many family-friendly resorts, like those in Hotel Circle, which cater specifically to visitors with children.