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Oakland, CA, USA to Big Sur, CA, USA from $25: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Oakland 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.

$25 - DriveBest price
225 kmDistance
2h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oakland 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  41m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
BART
Drive
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$136-169
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 225 km
Duration: 2h 34m

See more options

Company
Personal Vehicle
Drive
Average Duration
2h  34m
Estimated price
$25-40
Company
Amtrak
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$145-260
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  43m
Estimated price
$244-541
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Oakland to Big Sur

The journey from Oakland to Big Sur offers a striking contrast between the urban pulse of the East Bay and the serene, rugged beauty of California's coastline.

Best Neighbourhoods in Big Sur

Big Sur features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique charms and stunning views.

Carmel Highlands
• Stunning panoramic ocean views
• Close proximity to Carmel-by-the-Sea
Fernwood
• Quaint, rustic ambiance
• Nearby hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts
Big Sur Village
• Central location for local attractions
• Hosts a variety of dining options

Best Times To Visit Big Sur's Attractions

Planning your visit can enhance your experience at Big Sur's stunning attractions.

Pfeiffer Beach
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting.
McWay Falls
Late spring to early summer offers the best views and blooming wildflowers.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Weekdays in the off-season provide a peaceful hiking experience with fewer visitors.

Big Sur Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Big Sur enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cooler winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in late spring and early fall often offers the best weather, allowing you to fully appreciate the area’s stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Dining in Big Sur: A Unique Experience

At Nepenthe, you can savor their famous Ambrosiaburger while overlooking breathtaking ocean views, a stark contrast to the bustling food scene of Oakland. The focus on fresh, local ingredients and the rustic, laid-back atmosphere create a dining experience that feels distinctly connected to Big Sur’s natural beauty.

Oakland - Big Sur operators

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

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

Bus from Emeryville to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Oakland to Salinas

Average Duration
2h 57m
Estimated price
1365-1366
Train

Train from Oakland to Salinas

Average Duration
Estimated price
0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
198-244
Subway
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Subway from 12th Street / Oakland City Center to San Francisco International Airport

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
1361-1362
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from SFO Airport International Arrivals to Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
1690-1695

Oakland to Big Sur: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Oakland and Big Sur 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 journey from Oakland to Big Sur, covering a distance of 140 miles. The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes, promising an adventure-filled road trip. 🌲 Experience the diversity of landscapes as you cruise along the coastal highways, with prices ranging from $25 to $40 for the journey. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and towering cliffs along the way.
Average price
$25 - $40
🛫 Flying from Oakland to Big Sur involves a connecting flight from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport, with the quickest direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 15 minutes. United Airlines provides flights on this route. 🚗 After landing in Monterey, a scenic drive along the coastline is the best way to reach the stunning destination of Big Sur, which takes approximately 3 hours and 43 minutes by plane. The journey offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. 💸 Prices for flights between Big Sur and Oakland can vary, with ticket costs ranging from $244 to $541. Booking in advance and being flexible with travel dates can help find the best deals for this picturesque trip.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Oakland and Big Sur is 110 miles, with a road distance of 140 miles. The typical travel time varies depending on the mode of transportation. By taking the bus and then a taxi, it takes approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes to reach Big Sur from Oakland. Alternatively, by plane, the travel time is around 3 hours and 20 minutes. If driving, it takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes to reach Oakland from Big Sur.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Oakland to Big Sur is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes to drive the 110-mile distance between the two locations. This option is also relatively inexpensive, with costs ranging from $25 to $40 for fuel and tolls. Taking a bus and then a taxi or flying to Big Sur are other options, but they typically take longer and may be more expensive.
To get from Oakland to Big Sur without public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is around 140 miles and it takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes. You can expect to spend between $25 - $40 on fuel and tolls for the journey.
To travel from Oakland to Big Sur without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then a taxi. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 41 minutes and the cost ranges from $150 to $230. Alternatively, you can take a flight from Oakland to Big Sur which takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights to Big Sur, and you would need to transfer at another airport.
The flight between Oakland and Big Sur typically takes around 52 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two destinations can vary, with prices ranging from $254 to $541. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deals and compare prices for this route.
There are several options for accommodations near Big Sur. There are over 11 hotels available in the area for travelers to choose from. Prices for hotels in Big Sur start at around $119 per night, providing a range of options for different budgets. Travelers can find various types of accommodations, including luxury resorts, cozy bed and breakfasts, and rustic cabins, ensuring there is something for everyone's preferences and needs.

Trips from Oakland