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Malibu, CA, USA to Big Sur, CA, USA from $50: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Malibu, United States of America
to
Big Sur, United States of America

How to Get from Malibu to Big Sur: 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.

$50 - DriveBest price
462 kmDistance
4h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Malibu to Big Sur 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
9h  3m
Estimated price
$268-456
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  2m
Estimated price
$193-403
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 462 km
Duration: 4h 47m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
11h  3m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  17m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Plane
Drive
Taxi
Average Duration
6h  54m
Estimated price
$198-2680
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$218-523
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Traveling From Malibu to Big Sur

The journey from Malibu, with its sunny beaches and vibrant atmosphere, to Big Sur, where rugged cliffs meet breathtaking coastal views, presents a striking contrast in landscapes and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Big Sur

Big Sur offers charming neighborhoods, each with distinct appeal and scenery.

Carmel Highlands
• Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Home to luxurious hillside accommodations.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
• Famous for McWay Falls waterfall.
• Access to scenic hiking trails and shoreline.
Big Sur Village
• Heart of Big Sur with local shops.
• Close to iconic restaurants and parks.

Best Times To Visit Big Sur's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your Big Sur experience.

McWay Falls
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Pfeiffer Beach
Go during weekdays to enjoy a serene atmosphere and scenic sunsets.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Plan your visit in spring or fall for mild weather and vibrant wildlife.

Big Sur Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Big Sur enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it accessible year-round. While summer is ideal for outdoor activities, the spring and fall months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Big Sur

At Nepenthe, indulge in their renowned Ambrosia Burger, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a stunning view of the rugged coastline that sets it apart from Malibu's beachside eateries. The cozy, rustic atmosphere and focus on fresh, farm-to-table flavors provide a unique culinary experience that highlights Big Sur's natural beauty.

Malibu - Big Sur operators

Explore transport companies operating between Malibu and Big Sur, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Simi Valley Amtrak to Salinas

Average Duration
7h 21m
Estimated price
$1930-4569
Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to Salinas

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
http://bigbluebus.com

Bus from 4Th Sb & Santa Monica Fs to Aviation/Lax

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1938-1939
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Civic Center / Webb to Santa Monica / 4th

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$1938-1939
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
https://groometransportation.com

Shuttle from San Jose International Airport to Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$4030-50

Shuttle from SFO - San Francisco Airport Domestic to Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$1932-2687
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 831-424-1234
Website
http://yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Salinas to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$4569-4562
Contact phone
+1 831-422-7276

Taxi from Salinas to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$0-0
Plane
Website
https://united.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to Monterey Airport

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$4562-26870

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$75-4563
Website
https://southwest.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$2686-2681

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$2687-2688
Website
https://alaskaair.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$2689-4560

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$2686-4561
Website
https://delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$4564-4565

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$75-4566
Website
https://aa.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$4567-4560

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$75-4560
Website
https://flyfrontier.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$4568-4569
Website
https://jetblue.com

Plane from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$2686-4565

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Malibu to Big Sur.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Malibu and Big Sur is approximately 236 miles, with a road distance of 287.1 miles. If you choose to travel by train and then taxi, it takes around 9 hours and 3 minutes to reach Big Sur from Malibu. On the other hand, driving by car takes an average of 5 hours and 17 minutes to reach Malibu from Big Sur. These travel times are estimates and can vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Malibu to Big Sur is to drive. It takes approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes and costs around $50 to $75. Alternatively, for a slightly quicker journey, you can take a bus and then fly, which takes around 4 hours and 50 minutes but costs between $210 and $550. The choice ultimately depends on personal preferences and budget constraints.
To travel from Malibu to Big Sur without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two locations is approximately 287 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 17 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Malibu to Big Sur can range between $50 to $75, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. Driving offers the flexibility to explore the scenic coastal routes and make stops along the way to enjoy the beautiful California coast.
To travel from Malibu to Big Sur without a car, the best option is to take a train and then a taxi. The journey takes about 9 hours and 3 minutes and can cost between $260 to $460. Unfortunately, there is no direct public transportation available between the two destinations, so taking a train and then a taxi is the most convenient way to travel. It is recommended to check the train schedules and book tickets in advance.
The flight between Malibu and Big Sur typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Monterey Airport. However, it's important to note that there are no direct flights from Malibu to Big Sur, as Big Sur does not have an airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and airline, but prices generally range from $200 to $400 round trip.
There are several options for accommodation near Big Sur. There are over 11 hotels available in the area to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $119 per night, making it possible to find a suitable place to stay within different budget ranges. Some popular hotel choices in the area include the Ventana Big Sur, the Big Sur Lodge, and the Post Ranch Inn. Each hotel offers its own unique amenities and experiences, ensuring that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay near Big Sur.