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Los Angeles, CA, USA to Costa Mesa, CA, USA from $3: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Los Angeles, United States of America
to
Costa Mesa, United States of America

How to Get from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa: 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.

$3 by busBest price
64 kmDistance
43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa 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
various
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
1h  1m
Estimated price
$36-107
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$3-62
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 64 km
Duration: 43m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  14m
Estimated price
$4-4
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$9-17
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$210-260
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
43m
Estimated price
$360-361

Traveling From Los Angeles to Costa Mesa

Your journey from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the laid-back charm of Costa Mesa offers a refreshing contrast between the vibrant city life and the serene coastal vibes.

Best Neighborhoods in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

South Coast Metro
• Home to South Coast Plaza, a premier shopping destination.
• Features a vibrant arts scene with theaters and galleries.
Eastside Costa Mesa
• Known for its eclectic mix of local eateries and shops.
• Offers a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere and parks.
Westside Costa Mesa
• Popular for its craft breweries and trendy cafes.
• Close to the scenic beaches of Newport and Huntington.

Best Times To Visit Costa Mesa's Attractions

Planning your trip around optimal times will enhance your Costa Mesa experience.

South Coast Plaza
Visit weekdays during late morning for a quieter shopping experience.
OC Fair & Event Center
Check event calendars and go early on weekends for less congestion.
The Campbell Estate
Best explored in mid-week mornings when tours are less crowded.

Costa Mesa Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Costa Mesa enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it pleasant for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Costa Mesa

Try the Korean BBQ at Hanjip, where the lively atmosphere and grill-at-your-table experience take center stage, offering a distinct shift from the trendy dining scene of Los Angeles. This restaurant focuses on using locally sourced ingredients, resulting in vibrant flavors that highlight the region’s fresh produce in a way that sets it apart from the culinary offerings back in LA.

Los Angeles - Costa Mesa operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and Costa Mesa, 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 Los Angeles to Santa Ana

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$363-364

Train from Los Angeles to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$363-10700
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station station to Fullerton station

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$360-3636
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 714-560-6282
Website
http://octa.net

Bus from Fullerton Trans Ctr Dock 1 to Harbor-19Th

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$1077-1077

Bus from Harbor-East Shuttle Area to Harbor-19Th

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$1077-1077
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from 5th / Hill to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$1077-1077
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 714-905-5453
Website
http://aqtransportation.com

Taxi from Santa Ana to Costa Mesa

Average Duration
11m
Estimated price
$35-45

Los Angeles to Costa Mesa: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles and Costa Mesa 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 sunny Los Angeles to vibrant Costa Mesa, covering a distance of 40 miles in just 43 minutes of drive time. ⛽️ Fuel up and hit the road with costs ranging from $7 to $11 for the journey, providing a budget-friendly and convenient travel option for exploring Southern California.
Average price
$7 - $11
🚆 Traveling by train from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa is a convenient and efficient option. The journey covers a distance of 38.5 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes, with one transfer along the way. 🚌 The first step of the trip involves taking a bus towards San Diego from Union Station in Los Angeles. This leg of the journey lasts about 35 minutes and is operated by Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach. 🚌 The second step requires boarding a bus towards Costa Mesa - 18th and Newport from Fullerton. This segment of the trip takes around 59 minutes and is managed by the Orange County Transportation Authority.
🚌 Traveling from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa by bus involves a journey of approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes, with a transfer along the way. The services are operated by Metro Los Angeles and OCTA, departing from 5th / Hill and arriving at Harbor-19Th. 🚌 The route from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa covers a distance of 38.5 miles and includes a transfer at Fullerton. The first step is taking a bus towards San Diego from Union Station, followed by another bus towards Costa Mesa - 18th and Newport from Fullerton, provided by Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach and Orange County Transportation Authority. 🚌 The total duration of this bus trip from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa is 3 hours and 14 minutes, offering an affordable travel option with a fare of $4. While there is no direct bus, the transfer allows passengers to reach their destination conveniently, experiencing the sights and journey along the way.
Departure Point
5th / Hill station
Arrival Point
Harbor-19Th station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa.

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The distance between Los Angeles and Costa Mesa is approximately 34 miles by road. It takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to travel from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa by taking a train and then a taxi. The travel time from Costa Mesa to Los Angeles by car may vary depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, it takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to travel from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa is by taking the bus and line 43 bus, which costs $4 and takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. This option allows you to save money on transportation fees. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way is to take a taxi, which costs around $210-$260 and takes about 43 minutes. This option provides a more time-efficient travel experience but at a higher cost.
The price of a one-way bus ticket from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa is $4. However, there may be different fares depending on the bus company and whether it is a peak or off-peak time. It is always a good idea to check the bus company's website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information. Additionally, other modes of transportation such as trains or taxis may have different prices that can vary depending on factors such as time of travel, distance, and any additional fees or surcharges.
To get from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 40 miles, and it takes approximately 43 minutes to reach Costa Mesa from Los Angeles by car. The cost of driving can vary, with prices ranging from $7 to $11 depending on factors such as fuel consumption and tolls.
The best way to travel from Los Angeles to Costa Mesa without a car is by taking a train and then a taxi. This option takes approximately 1 hour and 1 minute and typically costs between $35 and $110. Taking public transportation is a convenient and affordable alternative to driving, allowing you to reach your destination without the hassle of finding parking or dealing with traffic.
Yes, there is a link between Los Angeles and Costa Mesa, but there is no direct bus service available. The journey requires a transfer at Harbor-East Shuttle Area and takes approximately 3h 15m. The bus services are operated by Metro Los Angeles and OCTA. Departure is from the 5th / Hill station in Los Angeles and arrival is at the Harbor-19Th station in Costa Mesa.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Costa Mesa. There are 718+ hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices starting at $69 per night. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly stay or a luxurious experience, you'll find a variety of options to choose from. It's advisable to check availability and book in advance to secure your preferred lodging option.