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Malibu, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $33: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Malibu, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

How to Get from Malibu to San Francisco: 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.

$33 by busBest price
538 kmDistance
4h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  34m
Estimated price
$66-244
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  52m
Estimated price
$33-113
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 538 km
Duration: 4h 34m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  44m
Estimated price
$58-305
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
BART
Average Duration
5h  59m
Estimated price
$75-296
Company
Various
Bus
Tram
Plane
Average Duration
6h  11m
Estimated price
$94-660
Company
Various
Bus
Tram
Plane
BART
Average Duration
6h  14m
Estimated price
$661-662
Company
Various
Bus
Tram
Bus
Plane
BART
Average Duration
6h  44m
Estimated price
$663-664
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
11h  33m
Estimated price
$665-666
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$667-668
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
13h  13m
Estimated price
$669-2440

Traveling From Malibu to San Francisco

The journey from Malibu to San Francisco showcases a stunning transition from the sun-soaked beaches of Southern California to the vibrant, fog-kissed streets of Northern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience.

Mission District
• Known for vibrant street art.
• Offers incredible food options and cafes.
Nob Hill
• Features stunning views of the city.
• Home to historic hotels and landmarks.
Chinatown
• One of the oldest Chinatowns in North America.
• Famous for authentic dining and shopping experiences.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience of San Francisco's highlights.

Golden Gate Bridge
Visit early in the morning for breathtaking views and fewer tourists.
Alcatraz Island
Book tours for mid-week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Fisherman's Wharf
Go during weekday mornings for a relaxing stroll and ample parking options.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters, which can often include fog, especially in August and September. Understanding this weather pattern helps you choose the best times to visit, allowing you to pack appropriately and enjoy your travels without weather-related surprises.

Dining Recommendation in San Francisco

Experience the rich flavors of a traditional sourdough clam chowder served in a freshly baked bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, a dish that truly reflects San Francisco’s maritime culture. This contrasts with Malibu’s beachside cuisine, offering a unique atmosphere bustling with local fishermen and vendors, along with a depth of flavor that highlights the freshest ingredients from the Pacific.

Malibu - San Francisco operators

Explore transport companies operating between Malibu and San Francisco, 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 Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
7h 15m
Estimated price
$669-668

Bus from Civic Center / Webb to 5th / Colorado

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$580-580

Bus from Del Amo Station Bay 2 to Del Amo & Lakewood Se

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$580-580
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Simi Valley Amtrak to Oakland

Average Duration
10h 17m
Estimated price
$2444-2445

Train from Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to San Jose

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to San Francisco Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$584-5812
Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$2446-2447

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$2448-2449

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$330-331
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$330-335

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$338-337
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$75-339

Plane from Burbank (BUR) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2440-1130
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$75-333

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$334-1131
Website
aa.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$75-337

Plane from Burbank (BUR) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$2443-6670
Website
spirit.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$330-335
Website
jsx.com

Plane from Burbank (BUR) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$669-1134
Website
jetblue.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$330-330

Plane from Burbank (BUR) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$669-1134
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
bart.gov

Subway from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$1136-1137

Subway from Coliseum to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$1138-1139
Tram
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Tram from Downtown Santa Monica Station to 7th Street / Metro Center Station - Metro A & E Lines

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$580-580

Tram from Downtown Santa Monica Station to Pico Station

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$580-580

Tram from Pico Station to Del Amo Station

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$582-582

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

Traveling between Malibu 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 picturesque road trip from the laid-back beaches of Malibu to the vibrant city life of San Francisco, covering a distance of 393 miles in approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes. 💸 The cost of this scenic drive can range from $70 to $110, offering flexibility in budgeting for gas, snacks, and any necessary pit stops along the way.
Average price
$70 - $110
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Malibu to San Francisco which takes approximately 11 hours and 33 minutes. 💰 Prices for the train ride between Malibu and San Francisco range from $135 to $300, offering travelers options to suit their budget and preferences.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Malibu to San Francisco is by taking a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Francisco Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus route from Malibu to San Francisco, travelers can still embark on this scenic journey via transfers through Santa Monica and Los Angeles. The total travel time, transfers included, is approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes. 🌉 Travelers can expect to depart from the Los Angeles station onboard a Flixbus USA service heading to the San Francisco station. The bus fare for this route can vary, typically costing between $33 to $113 for a one-way ticket.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Malibu to San Francisco.

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The distance between Malibu and San Francisco is approximately 334 miles. If you decide to travel by train, it would take approximately 11 hours and 33 minutes to reach San Francisco from Malibu. Alternatively, you can take a Line 3 bus to Los Angeles and then fly to San Francisco, which would take around 4 hours and 32 minutes. If you prefer driving, it takes approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes to travel from Malibu to San Francisco by car, while taking a bus would typically take around 9 hours and 52 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Malibu to San Francisco is by bus, with prices ranging from $30-$120. Although it takes longer, approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes, it is the most economical choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way is to take a line 3 bus to Los Angeles and then fly to San Francisco. This option takes about 4 hours and 32 minutes and costs between $65-$260.
The cost of traveling from Malibu to San Francisco by train ranges from $135 to $300. Alternatively, taking a bus from San Francisco to Malibu can cost anywhere between $33 to $113. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date prices and any potential discounts or promotions that may be available.
To get from Malibu to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 393 miles and it takes around 6 hours and 34 minutes to reach San Francisco. The prices for a car rental or using your own vehicle for the trip can range between $70 and $110.
The best way to travel from Malibu to San Francisco without a car is by taking a bus. This journey takes approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes and the cost is usually between $30 and $120. The bus provides a convenient and affordable option for those who prefer not to drive and allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
No, there is no direct link between Malibu and San Francisco. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by car, which takes approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes about 11 hours and 33 minutes, or fly by taking a bus to Los Angeles and then flying to San Francisco, with a travel time of 4 hours and 32 minutes. However, if you prefer taking a bus, it would take approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes, including transfers.
The flight between Malibu and San Francisco typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. This is based on the quickest direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Francisco Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the time of year and airline, but typically ranges from $100 to $300.
There are over 835 hotels available in San Francisco, offering a wide range of options to suit various budgets and preferences. Prices for these accommodations start at $74, providing affordable choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique resorts, or budget-friendly guesthouses, you will have plenty of options to choose from for a comfortable stay near San Francisco.

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