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San Diego, CA, USA to Puerto Vallarta from $100: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Diego, United States of America
to
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

How to Get from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta: 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.

$100 by busBest price
1801 kmDistance
4h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta 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
4h  12m
Estimated price
$82-222
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
31h  7m
Estimated price
$100-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1801 km
Duration: 4h 12m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
31h  26m
Estimated price
$103-820
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$147-370
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
34h  11m
Estimated price
$147-821
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  13m
Estimated price
$192-491
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
36h  1m
Estimated price
$822-823
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
37h  6m
Estimated price
$824-821
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
25h  12m
Estimated price
$825-826
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Puerto Vallarta

Your journey from San Diego's sunny beaches and vibrant urban life to Puerto Vallarta's rich Mexican culture and picturesque coastal views offers an enticing contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct vibe for visitors.

Romantic Zone
• Lively nightlife with vibrant bars and clubs
• Charming cobblestone streets and local markets
Marina Vallarta
• Upscale waterfront dining and shops
• Scenic marina with luxury yachts
Downtown
• Cultural landmarks like the Malecón boardwalk
• Bustling local markets and artisan shops

Best Times To Visit Puerto Vallarta's Attractions

Timing your visits to Puerto Vallarta's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Los Muertos Beach
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning sunsets.
Malecon Boardwalk
Weekdays are ideal for leisurely strolls, avoiding weekend busyness.
Botanical Gardens
Visit on weekday mornings for tranquility and vibrant plant life in bloom.

Puerto Vallarta Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Puerto Vallarta enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an appealing destination. The best times to visit are from December to March when rainfall is minimal, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and local attractions.

Dining Recommendation

For an authentic taste of Mexico, try the shrimp tacos at Mariscos El Reyezuelo, a bustling eatery known for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh, local ingredients. This culinary experience contrasts with San Diego's seafood scene by offering bold flavors and unique spices that truly reflect the region's rich culinary heritage.

San Diego - Puerto Vallarta operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
volaris.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
5h 13m
Estimated price
$192-491

Plane from Tijuana (TIJ) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
222-2221
Website
vivaaerobus.com

Plane from Tijuana (TIJ) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
222-2225
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$2223-8270
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 664 299 0487
Website
sites.miticket.mx

Bus from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
36h 1m
Estimated price
$100-110

Bus from Tijuana to Tepic

Average Duration
30h 30m
Estimated price
827-19250
Contact phone
+52 668 396 8212
Website
timpremier.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
31h 7m
Estimated price
$100-110
Contact phone
800 507 5500
Website
estrellablanca.com.mx

Bus from Santiago Ixcuintla to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
1920-1929
Contact phone
+52 644 410 2444
Website
tufesa.com.mx

Bus from Mexicali Carranza to Tepic

Average Duration
25h 10m
Estimated price
110-22290
Contact phone
+52 55 5141 4300
Website
odm.com.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
31h 30m
Estimated price
1928-2225
Contact phone
+52 664 104 7400
Website
abc.com.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Mexicali

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
1921-1922

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

Traveling between San Diego and Puerto Vallarta 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 unforgettable road trip from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta, covering a distance of 1467 miles. The journey spans roughly 25 hours and 12 minutes, offering scenic views and exciting pit stops along the way. 💰 Prices for the drive from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta range from $260 to $390, making it a budget-friendly adventure for those seeking a mix of exploration and relaxation. Plan your trip wisely to ensure you get the best deals and maximize your travel experience.
Average price
$260 - $390
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with the quickest direct flight from Tijuana Airport taking just 2 hours and 35 minutes. ✈️ 🏝️ Airlines such as Viva Aerobus and Volaris provide flights from Tijuana Airport to Puerto Vallarta Airport, offering multiple options for travelers. The journey from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta by plane typically takes around 4 hours and 12 minutes. 🕒 💸 Prices for flights between Puerto Vallarta and San Diego can range from $82 to $222, providing flexibility for different budgets when planning your trip. Whether for a relaxing vacation or a quick getaway, flying between these two destinations offers a seamless travel experience. 🌞
Departure Point
Tijuana Airport
Arrival Point
Puerto Vallarta Airport
🚌 Starting from San Diego it takes approximately 36 hours to reach Puerto Vallarta by bus with transfers through Tijuana, Tepic, and Bucerias. The journey is operated by ACN Autobuses and Pacífico. 🌊 The route covers a distance of 1,340 miles with a total of 3 transfers, including stops in Tijuana, Culiacán, and Guadalajara before reaching Puerto Vallarta. Prices for the bus ticket range from $100 to $110.
Departure Point
Tijuana station
Arrival Point
Bucerías station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta.

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The distance between San Diego and Puerto Vallarta is approximately 1119 miles by air. By taking a flight, the typical travel time is around 4 hours and 21 minutes. Alternatively, by driving, the road distance is approximately 1462 miles and it takes approximately 25 hours and 5 minutes. Another option is to travel by bus, which takes approximately 35 hours and 57 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta is by flying. Flying takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes and costs between $60 and $200. This option allows you to reach your destination quickly and without much hassle. Considering both the cost and time factors, flying is the best choice for this journey.
The bus ticket prices between San Diego and Puerto Vallarta vary from $95 to $190. It is important to note that these prices may fluctuate depending on the time of year or any ongoing promotions. It is recommended to check with the specific bus company for the most accurate and up-to-date prices before planning your trip.
To travel from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta without using public transportation, you can drive the 1461-mile distance. It will take approximately 25 hours and 5 minutes, depending on the driving conditions. You can expect to pay around $260 to $390 for fuel and tolls, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
To travel from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 26 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $170 and $330. You can take the train from San Diego to Tijuana, then transfer to a bus that will take you to Puerto Vallarta. This is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the two destinations without a car.
No, there is no direct link between San Diego and Puerto Vallarta by bus. However, it is possible to travel between the two cities with transfers. The journey typically takes about 35 hours and 57 minutes, including transfers in Tijuana, Tepic, and Bucerías. Bus services operated by ACN Autobuses and Pacífico are available for this route.
The flight duration between San Diego and Puerto Vallarta is approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes on a direct flight from Tijuana Airport to Puerto Vallarta Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities typically ranges from $62 to $198, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal for your travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Puerto Vallarta. You can choose from over 1383 hotels in the area, with prices starting at $82. There are a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences, ranging from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly hotels. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Puerto Vallarta