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Salinas, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $20: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Salinas, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Salinas 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.

$20 by trainBest price
685 kmDistance
2h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Salinas 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  10m
Estimated price
$173-416
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
12h  59m
Estimated price
$20-224
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 685 km
Duration: 2h 10m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  34m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
11h  40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
FlixBus USA / Greyhound Mexico
Bus
Average Duration
10h  50m
Estimated price
$45-133
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  12m
Estimated price
$75-1730
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  58m
Estimated price
$78-328
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Traveling From Salinas to San Diego

The journey from Salinas to San Diego offers a fascinating contrast, where Salinas showcases the charm of agricultural landscapes and rich history, while San Diego entices with its stunning coastlines and vibrant urban life.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego's neighborhoods each offer their own unique vibe and attractions.

La Jolla
• Stunning ocean views and beautiful beaches.
• Upscale shopping and dining options nearby.
Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic architecture and lively nightlife.
• Variety of restaurants and art galleries.
Little Italy
• Authentic Italian cuisine and local markets.
• Vibrant atmosphere with art and culture events.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Planning your visits to San Diego’s attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Balboa Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and peaceful strolls.
San Diego Zoo
Arrive right when it opens to see animals during feeding times.
USS Midway Museum
Explore in the morning for a quieter and more engaging experience.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a delightful destination year-round. While the best times to visit are spring and fall for pleasant temperatures, the consistent weather allows for enjoyable outdoor activities no matter the season.

Dining in San Diego

Try the fish tacos at The Fish Market, a local favorite that highlights San Diego’s coastal flavors with fresh, locally sourced seafood, offering a culinary experience distinctly different from the agricultural fare of Salinas. The vibrant atmosphere and innovative takes on traditional recipes create an engaging dining experience that reflects the Southern California lifestyle.

Salinas - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Salinas and San Diego, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$200-736
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$1735-736

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$1737-733
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salinas to Los Angeles

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$4169-734

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$4168-735
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to Millbrae Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$4165-166
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$203-738

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$202-162
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$202-4162
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from Meridian Spur / Prunedale Park & Ride to San Jose International Airport

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$41675-4162

Salinas to San Diego: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Salinas and San Diego 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 an exciting road trip from Salinas to San Diego, spanning 426 miles of picturesque California landscapes. Drive south for approximately 7 hours and 12 minutes to reach your sunny destination. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $75 to $120 for the journey by car from Salinas to San Diego. Choose the best route and time to fit your budget and travel preferences.
Average price
$75 - $120
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Salinas to San Diego with a transfer in Los Angeles. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 12 hours and 59 minutes. 🎟️ Enjoy the convenience of Amtrak services for a comfortable ride from Salinas to San Diego. Prices for the train tickets can range from $20 to $224, offering flexibility for different budgets. 🌴 Experience the diverse landscapes of California as you cover a distance of 483 miles on this train adventure. With two steps involving the Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner trains, savor the journey towards the sunny destination of San Diego.
Departure Point
Salinas station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Make sure to enjoy the onsite catering services offered by Amtrak on this route. You can expect a café car that features a variety of snacks and beverages for purchase, including sandwiches, salads, and specialty coffees. Additionally, the onboard dining options may include local specialties that could enhance your trip.
• When booking your trip, consider the different seating options available on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which runs this route. You can choose from three classes: Standard Economy seating, which is comfortable and budget-friendly; Business Class, offering more spacious seating and complimentary snacks; or First Class, which provides premium amenities and a dedicated service experience.
• Upon arrival at the San Diego Amtrak Station, be informed that luggage storage services are available through the Amtrak Express Shipping service. The station also offers restrooms but does not provide shower facilities. For navigating the station, look for the signage indicating taxi and transit services, making it easy to find your way to local transport options upon arrival.
🛫 Flying from Salinas to San Diego is a convenient way to travel, with a direct flight from Monterey Airport to San Diego Airport taking just 1 hour and 22 minutes with Alaska Airlines, Inc. 🌴 Once you land in San Diego, you'll be ready to explore the vibrant city. The total travel time from Salinas to San Diego by plane is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between San Diego and Salinas can range from $173 to $416, so it's worth comparing fares to find the best deal for your trip.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🛤️ The total travel time from Salinas to San Diego is approximately 10 hours and 50 minutes, depending on the route and transfers chosen. 💰 Bus fares for this trip can range from $45 to $133, offering travelers various options for budget and convenience.
Departure Point
Salinas Train Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Salinas to San Diego.

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The cheapest way to travel from Salinas to San Diego is by train. Depending on the type of train service and the time of booking, tickets can range from $20 to $230. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 59 minutes. Taking a train allows you to enjoy scenic views along the way and can be a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Salinas to San Diego is to take a shuttle to the nearest airport and then fly. This option usually takes around 4 hours and 58 minutes. The cost of this journey can vary between $75 and $300, depending on the airline and the time of booking. Make sure to check for any connections or layovers when planning your trip.
The best way to travel from Salinas to San Diego without a car is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, such as Greyhound and Flixbus. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 50 minutes and ticket prices can range from $40 to $140, depending on the time and date of travel. It is recommended to book your bus tickets in advance to secure the best rates and seats.
To get from Salinas to San Diego the most affordable option is to take the train. The train journey takes approximately 12 hours and 59 minutes and the ticket prices range from $20 to $230, depending on the class and type of ticket. Other modes of transportation, such as flying or driving, may be faster but generally more expensive. It is recommended to check the train schedules and ticket prices in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in San Diego start at $53 per night, making it suitable for various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of options to cater to different preferences and needs.
Yes, you can drive from Salinas to San Diego. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 426 miles. It usually takes around 7 hours and 12 minutes to complete the journey by car, depending on traffic and road conditions. This option gives you the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore different attractions or cities.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Salinas and San Diego. However, you can take a bus from Salinas Train Station to Los Angeles Union Station and then transfer to a bus heading to San Diego. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 10 hours and 50 minutes. Please note that bus schedules and availability may vary, so it's recommended to check for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.
You can catch the bus from Salinas to San Diego at Salinas Train Station. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA. Make sure to check the schedule and arrive at the station on time to catch your bus.
The bus from Salinas to San Diego arrives at the San Diego station. This is the main bus terminal in San Diego and is located in downtown. From the station, you can easily access other parts of the city through public transportation options such as buses and taxis. Additionally, the station is conveniently located near various attractions and hotels, making it a convenient endpoint for your journey.
Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines offer flights from San Jose Airport to San Diego Airport. These airlines provide regular service between Salinas and San Diego. Passengers can check the airlines' websites or use online travel booking platforms to find available flights, compare prices, and make reservations. Flight durations may vary depending on the airline and specific flight schedule.
The fastest way to travel from Salinas to San Diego is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from San Jose Airport to San Diego Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines such as Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines offer flights from San Jose Airport to San Diego Airport. It is recommended to check for the best deals and availability of flights before booking.
The flight from Salinas to San Diego typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is the quickest option for traveling between the two cities. It is important to note that flight durations may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airline schedules. It is recommended to check with the airline for the most up-to-date flight times and schedule information.
Trains from Salinas to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This is the main station in San Diego and is located downtown, making it convenient for passengers to access various attractions and accommodations in the area. The station is well-equipped with amenities such as ticket counters, waiting areas, restrooms, and transportation connections to make your travel experience seamless. Upon arrival, you can easily explore the vibrant city of San Diego and enjoy all it has to offer.
Yes, there is no direct train from Salinas to San Diego. However, you can take a train from Salinas to San Diego with a transfer in Los Angeles. The journey will take approximately 12 hours and 59 minutes. Trains depart from Salinas and arrive at San Diego via Los Angeles. Be sure to check the train schedules and plan your transfers accordingly.
The cost of a train ticket from Salinas to San Diego can vary depending on various factors such as the type of ticket and the time of travel. Generally, prices range from $20 to $224 for this journey. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure lower fares. Additionally, some discounts may be available for students, seniors, and military personnel.
The cost of a bus ticket from Salinas to San Diego ranges from $43 to $133. The price variation is due to factors such as the bus company, time of booking, and any additional amenities offered. It is recommended to check different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost of driving from Salinas to San Diego typically ranges from $75 to $120. This estimate includes expenses such as fuel, tolls, and parking, but it may vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. It is advisable to consider these costs and plan accordingly before embarking on your road trip to San Diego.

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