San Clemente, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $24: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Clemente to San Francisco: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$24 by trainBest price

717 kmDistance

6h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

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Traveling From San Clemente to San Francisco

The journey from the sunny beaches of San Clemente to the vibrant urban energy of San Francisco offers a striking contrast between laid-back coastal living and dynamic city life.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco’s neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions for visitors.

Mission District

• Known for its vibrant street art and murals.

• Home to amazing taquerias and diverse food spots.

Fisherman's Wharf

• Famous for fresh seafood and waterfront views.

• Features attractions like Pier 39 and sea lions.

Haight-Ashbury

• Historic center of the 1960s counterculture movement.

• Filled with vintage shops and eclectic cafes.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge

Early morning or late afternoon offers stunning views and less foot traffic.

Alcatraz Island

Midweek visits generally have fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere.

Chinatown

Explore in the early afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy local shops.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco boasts a mild maritime climate, with cool summers and foggy, temperate winters, making it enjoyable to visit any time of year. However, knowing the best times to experience sunshine and avoid unpredictable weather can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Culinary Delights in San Francisco

For a truly unique experience, try the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf. This dish captures the essence of San Francisco's coastal culture and offers a contrast to the fresh seafood tacos typical of San Clemente, highlighting local ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere.

San Clemente - San Francisco operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration

9h 55m

Estimated price

$2583-2586

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center to San Francisco

Average Duration

8h 45m

Estimated price

$636-819

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Clemente Pier Amtrak to Los Angeles

Average Duration

1h 40m

Estimated price

$247-70

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration

11h 15m

Estimated price

$6309-63070

Train from San Juan Capistrano Amtrak Station to Los Angeles

Average Duration

1h 23m

Estimated price

$247-70

Train from San Juan Capistrano to Tustin station

Average Duration

23m

Estimated price

$247-248

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to San Francisco Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration

1h 39m

Estimated price

$639-6302

Plane Show flights

Website

https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2581-2582

Plane from Southern California to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration

1h 22m

Estimated price

$242-243

Website

https://www.alaskaair.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2587-25800

Website

https://www.united.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration

1h 39m

Estimated price

$2586-244

Website

https://www.spirit.com/

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

$2583-246

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

Traveling between San Clemente 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 scenic journey from San Clemente to San Francisco spanning 445 miles of diverse California landscapes. Enjoy approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes of driving time filled with breathtaking coastal views and inland vistas. 🛣️ Experience the freedom of the open road and the flexibility to stop at charming towns and eateries along the way. With prices ranging from $80 to $120 for the trip, budget-conscious travelers can still savor the adventure without breaking the bank.

Average price

$80 - $120

🚆 Despite there being no direct train from San Clemente to San Francisco, travelers can embark on a scenic 14.5-hour journey with Amtrak, including transfers. Departing from San Clemente Pier Amtrak, passengers will make stops in Los Angeles and Lake Merritt before reaching their destination. 💰 Ticket prices for the San Clemente to San Francisco train route typically range from $24 to $243, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and travel preferences. Whether for a leisurely adventure or a convenient commute, this train journey provides a unique way to experience the beauty of California.

Departure Point

San Clemente Pier Amtrak station

Arrival Point

Oakland station

🛫 The journey from San Clemente to San Francisco by plane typically begins with a quick direct flight from Santa Ana Airport to San Francisco Airport, lasting only 1 hour and 29 minutes. Two popular airlines that operate this route are Alaska Airlines, Inc. and United Airlines.

Departure Point

Santa Ana Airport

Arrival Point

San Francisco Airport

🚌 Starting your journey from San Clemente to San Francisco by bus involves multiple transfers along the way, making the trip an estimated 12 hours and 54 minutes in duration. 🚌 Prices for the bus tickets between San Clemente and San Francisco typically range from $49 to $114, providing a cost-effective way to travel between these two California cities.

Departure Point

Santa Ana Bus Stop station

Arrival Point

San Francisco Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Clemente and San Francisco is 406 miles by air. The typical travel time by train is 14 hours and 30 minutes, by car it takes about 7 hours and 20 minutes, and by bus it takes approximately 12 hours and 54 minutes. For a faster option, you can take a train to Santa Ana and then fly to San Francisco, which typically takes around 5 hours and 58 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Clemente to San Francisco is by train and night bus, which typically takes 10 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $40 and $140. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a train and fly, which takes approximately 5 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $80 and $240. These options provide a good balance between cost and time efficiency for traveling between the two cities.

The prices of a train ticket from San Clemente to San Francisco range from $24 to $243, depending on factors such as the class of service and how far in advance the ticket is purchased. The prices of a bus ticket from San Francisco to San Clemente vary between $49 and $114, again depending on factors such as the bus company and the time of travel. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals for both modes of transportation.

To travel from San Clemente to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The distance between the two cities is about 445 miles and it takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes to drive. The cost of a one-way trip by car can range from $80 to $120, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.

The best way to travel from San Clemente to San Francisco without a car is by bus. The journey typically takes around 12 hours and 54 minutes, and the ticket price ranges from $45 to $120. Taking the bus allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenic views along the way. Additionally, you can use this time to read, work, or simply unwind.

Yes, there are transportation options available between San Clemente and San Francisco but there is no direct link. You can take a train, which takes approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes with transfers, or a bus, which takes around 12 hours and 54 minutes with transfers. Alternatively, you can opt for a combination of train and flight, which takes about 5 hours and 58 minutes. The availability of different modes of transportation allows for flexibility when planning your journey.

The flight time between San Clemente and San Francisco typically takes 1 hour and 25 minutes if you take a direct flight from Santa Ana Airport to San Francisco Airport. However, the cost of the flight may vary depending on several factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of deals or discounts. It is recommended to check with different airlines and travel websites to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight costs.

There are multiple options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, travelers can choose from a wide range of options to fit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in San Francisco start at $74 per night. It is recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best deal and ensure availability.