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San Diego, CA, USA to Carlsbad, CA, USA from $2: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Diego to Carlsbad: 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.

$2 by trainBest price
57 kmDistance
37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Carlsbad 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
North County Transit
Train
Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$2-6
Recommended
Company
North County Transit
Train
Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$2-6
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 57 km
Duration: 37m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
1h  34m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Tram
Bus
Average Duration
2h  38m
Estimated price
$2-8
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$6-10
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$110-150
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Carlsbad

Traveling from San Diego to Carlsbad offers a smooth transition from the vibrant urban atmosphere of San Diego to the serene beaches and charming small-town vibe of Carlsbad.

Best Neighbourhoods in Carlsbad

Carlsbad boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct charm and atmosphere.

Carlsbad Village
• Lively shopping and dining options nearby.
• Stunning ocean views and sandy beaches.
La Costa
• Home to top golf courses and spas.
• Family-friendly parks and recreational activities.
Olde Carlsbad
• Rich history with charming vintage architecture.
• Close proximity to local markets and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Carlsbad's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience at Carlsbad's top attractions.

LEGOLAND California
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for smaller crowds and shorter lines.
Carlsbad Flower Fields
Plan your visit during mid-March to early May for the stunning blooms.
Carlsbad State Beach
Visit during weekday mornings for a tranquil beach experience and fewer visitors.

Carlsbad Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Carlsbad enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, making it an attractive destination for travelers. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as the weather is typically comfortable and ideal for outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Carlsbad

Try the fish tacos at Blue Ocean Robata, which showcase a distinctive take on this classic dish with fresh, local ingredients and an open-flame grilling technique. The relaxed seaside atmosphere and focus on high-quality, sustainable seafood create a dining experience that sets it apart from the more fast-paced culinary scene in San Diego.

San Diego - Carlsbad operators

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

Train Show train routes
Website
gonctd.com

Train from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot to Carlsbad Village Station

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$2-6
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Santa Fe Depot, CA to Oceanside Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$0-0
Website
gonctd.com

Bus from La Jolla Village Dr & Genesee Av to Carlsbad Bl & Oak Av

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 619-291-3333

Taxi from San Diego to Carlsbad

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$110-150
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from San Diego to Carlsbad

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$6-10

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

Traveling between San Diego and Carlsbad 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 lively San Diego to charming Carlsbad, spanning a mere 35 miles along the beautiful Southern California coastline. 💸 Experience affordability and flexibility with prices ranging between $6 and $10 for a comfortable ride towards the idyllic destination of Carlsbad. 🌴 Revel in the short 37-minute drive, relishing in the coastal views and anticipating the memorable experiences awaiting you in the vibrant city of Carlsbad.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚆 Experience a convenient and efficient journey on the train from San Diego's Santa Fe Depot to Carlsbad Village Station in approximately 57 minutes. Services run hourly every day. 🎫 Prices for this train ride vary from $2 to $6, offering an affordable transportation option between these two Southern California cities. The distance covered is approximately 44 miles.
Departure Point
San Diego - Santa Fe Depot station
Arrival Point
Carlsbad Village Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from San Diego to Carlsbad, consider using Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner service. This route offers convenient onboard catering options, including a cafe car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals during your journey. Pre-packaged foods and local beverages often highlight the Southern California region.
• Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner provides comfortable seating options with coach class and business class available on this route. Coach seats are spacious and come with overhead storage, while business class offers more legroom, complimentary snacks, and beverages. Be sure to book in advance, particularly if you prefer the more spacious business class seats, as they can fill up quickly.
• When you arrive in Carlsbad, be prepared to navigate the Carlsbad Village Station. There are no luggage storage facilities at the station, so plan accordingly. You can utilize public restrooms at the station, but showers are not available. For getting to the city center quickly, the Breeze bus route 101 connects you from the station to various points in downtown Carlsbad with frequent service.
🚌 If you're traveling from San Diego to Carlsbad by bus, be prepared for a journey with transfers. The route involves services departing from Santa Fe Depot and arriving at Carlsbad Village Station Stall 5 via Oceanside Transit Center Stall 8, taking approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes. 🛤️ Route 1 offers a 2-hour and 58-minute trip covering a distance of 44.1 miles with a transfer. The first step involves taking a bus towards UTC Express for about 40 minutes from I-15 Ramp & University Av to Genesee Av & La Jolla Village Dr. The second step is a 1-hour and 35-minute bus ride towards Oceanside, departing from La Jolla Village Dr & Genesee Av and arriving at Carlsbad Blvd & Oak Av. 🚍 Route 2 is a similar 2-hour and 56-minute journey spanning 44.0 miles with a transfer. Starting with a bus towards UTC Express for about 38 minutes from I-15 Ramp & El Cajon Blvd to Genesee Av & La Jolla Village Dr, the trip continues with a 1-hour and 35-minute bus towards Oceanside from La Jolla Village Dr & Genesee Av to Carlsbad Blvd & Oak Av.
Departure Point
Santa Fe Depot, CA station
Arrival Point
Oceanside Amtrak Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from San Diego to Carlsbad is by train. The fare for a one-way ticket ranges from $2 to $6, making it an affordable option for budget travelers. The journey takes approximately 57 minutes, providing a convenient and cost-effective transportation option.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Carlsbad is by taxi. The journey takes approximately 37 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, it is worth noting that taxi fares can range from $110 to $150. Alternatively, there are other transportation options available such as ride-sharing services or renting a car, which may provide a faster commute compared to public transportation.
The distance between San Diego and Carlsbad is approximately 33 miles. If you prefer to drive, the road distance is about 35 miles. The journey usually takes around 40 minutes by car, depending on the traffic conditions. Keep in mind that these distances and times may vary based on the specific route you take and the current traffic situation.
One can easily travel from San Diego to Carlsbad without a car by taking the Pacific Surfliner train. The journey takes approximately 57 minutes and offers a scenic ride along the coast. The ticket prices range from $2 to $6, making it a cost-effective mode of transportation. The train departs regularly from the Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego and arrives at the Carlsbad Village Station in Carlsbad.
The train journey from San Diego to Carlsbad takes approximately 57 minutes. The train departs from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot and arrives at Carlsbad Village Station. Trains operate hourly, providing convenient timing options for travelers. However, please note that travel times may vary depending on factors such as traffic and train schedules.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Carlsbad. With 589+ hotels to choose from, you can find a suitable place to stay based on your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Carlsbad start at $52 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly hotels, or cozy vacation rentals, Carlsbad offers a wide range of options to cater to different travelers' needs. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from San Diego to Carlsbad. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 35 miles, which can be covered in approximately 37 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The most common route is via Interstate 5 North. It is important to note that tolls may apply on certain sections of the route, so it is advisable to have some cash or a compatible transponder for electronic toll payment, if necessary
Yes, there is no direct bus between San Diego and Carlsbad. However, you can take a bus from San Diego Santa Fe Depot to the Oceanside Transit Center, and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Carlsbad Village Station. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes. Please note that the bus schedules may vary, so it's best to check the current timetable before planning your trip.
To catch the bus from San Diego to Carlsbad, you will need to go to the San Diego Santa Fe Depot station. This is where Amtrak operates the bus services between the two cities. The station is located at 1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego 92101. Make sure to arrive at the station a few minutes early to ensure a smooth departure.
The bus from San Diego to Carlsbad arrives at Oceanside Amtrak Station. This station is located in downtown Oceanside and is a transportation hub for various modes of travel. From there, travelers can easily access other areas of Carlsbad through local transportation options like taxis, rideshares, or rental cars. The station is conveniently located near several hotels, restaurants, and attractions in the area.
Trains from San Diego to Carlsbad arrive at Carlsbad Village Station. This station is conveniently located in the heart of Carlsbad Village, making it easy to access popular attractions, shops, and restaurants in the area. The station is served by North County Transit, ensuring a reliable and convenient transportation option for travelers.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Diego and Carlsbad. The train departs from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot and arrives at Carlsbad Village Station. The train service operates every day and departs hourly. The journey takes approximately 57 minutes.
To catch the train from San Diego to Carlsbad you will need to go to the San Diego - Santa Fe Depot station. This is where the train services, operated by North County Transit, depart from. The station is located in downtown San Diego, near the waterfront area. Make sure to arrive at the station a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth journey.
The cost of a train ticket from San Diego to Carlsbad varies depending on the specific train service and the ticket type you choose. Generally, prices range between $2 and $6 for a one-way journey. It is worth noting that fares can change, so it is advisable to check the current prices before planning your trip. You can purchase tickets at the train station, online, or through mobile apps provided by the regional transportation agency.
The cost to drive from San Diego to Carlsbad typically ranges from $6 to $10, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. The distance between the two locations is approximately 34 miles, and the travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to plan your trip accordingly and consider using a navigation app for real-time updates on the fastest and most cost-effective routes to Carlsbad.
Yes, you can ride a bicycle from San Diego to Carlsbad. The distance between the two cities is approximately 57 kilometers, and it takes about 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete the journey by bike. This option provides a scenic and eco-friendly way to travel, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful coastal views along the route. It's important to ensure you have a suitable bike, safety equipment, and enough water and snacks for the ride.

Trips from San Diego