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San Diego, CA, USA to Malibu, CA, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Malibu: 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.

$16 by busBest price
236 kmDistance
2h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Malibu 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
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
5h  7m
Estimated price
$11-90
Recommended
Company
FlixBus, Metro Los Angeles
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$16-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 236 km
Duration: 2h 34m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  26m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  34m
Estimated price
$26-40
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  34m
Estimated price
$64-318
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Traveling From San Diego to Malibu

Your journey from San Diego to Malibu takes you from laid-back coastal vibes to glamorous beach scenes, offering a blend of sun-soaked relaxation and upscale allure.

Best Neighbourhoods in Malibu

Malibu's neighborhoods offer varied experiences, from serene beaches to vibrant communities.

Zuma Beach
• Stunning stretches of sand for sunbathing.
• Great for surfing and swimming activities.
Malibu Village
• Quaint shops and unique boutiques abound.
• Local dining options highlight fresh, coastal cuisine.
Point Dume
• Scenic cliffs provide breathtaking ocean views.
• Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Best Times To Visit Malibu's Attractions

Timing your visit to Malibu's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Malibu Pier
Visit early in the morning for stunning sunrise views and fewer crowds.
El Matador State Beach
Go during weekdays in the afternoon for a quieter beach experience.
Getty Villa
Early spring or fall weekends offer pleasant weather and less foot traffic.

Malibu Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Malibu enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it inviting year-round. Visiting during spring or fall provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer can bring crowds but plenty of sunshine for outdoor activities.

Dining in Malibu

For an unforgettable meal, try the lobster tacos at Nobu Malibu, which combine fresh coastal ingredients with a unique Japanese twist, creating a flavor profile distinct from San Diego’s traditional Mexican fare. The oceanfront dining experience, complete with stunning views and a lively atmosphere, elevates your culinary adventure in a way that's noticeably different from San Diego's casual beach eateries.

San Diego - Malibu operators

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

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

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
110-111

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
16-111
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
903-55

Bus from San Diego to Malibu

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
16-60
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Patsaouras Transit Plaza to 5th / Santa Monica

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
904-904

Bus from Cesar E Chavez / Alameda to 5th / Santa Monica

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
904-904

Bus from 5th / Colorado to Civic Center / Stuart Ranch

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
904-904
Plane
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
112-113
Website
https://www.delta.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
114-115
Other Show other routes

Other from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
5h 7m
Estimated price
11-90

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

Traveling between San Diego and Malibu 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.

🚗 Hit the road and embark on a picturesque journey from sunny San Diego to the coastal beauty of Malibu, covering a distance of 147 miles. ⏱️ After about 2 hours and 34 minutes of driving, you'll arrive in Malibu, where prices for the trip can range from $26 to $40. Get ready to unwind on the sandy beaches and immerse yourself in the laid-back luxury of this coastal gem.
Average price
$26 - $40
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Diego to Malibu, with a travel time of approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views along the way. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between San Diego and Malibu range from $11 to $90, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the California coast without breaking the bank.
🛫 Prepare for a quick flight from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport, with a direct route taking just 1 hour and 2 minutes. Choose from flights offered by United Airlines and Delta for a seamless journey.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus route from San Diego to Malibu, travelers can take a bus service operated by Flixbus USA with a journey time of approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes, including transfers. Departing from San Diego station and arriving at Civic Center / Stuart Ranch. 🌴 Route 1 takes 7 hours and 28 minutes to reach Malibu from San Diego, covering a distance of 184 miles with 3 transfers including stops at Tijuana, Los Angeles Union Station, and Broadway / Ocean before reaching Trancas Canyon / Pacific Coast Hwy. 🌊 Route 2 offers a faster option at 6 hours and 6 minutes, spanning 170 miles with 2 transfers via Los Angeles Downtown and Broadway / Ocean before ending at Trancas Canyon / Pacific Coast Hwy in Malibu. Greyhound and LACMTA are the main operators for this journey.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
5th / Santa Monica station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Diego and Malibu is approximately 128 miles or 146.9 miles by car. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes about 5 hours and 7 minutes to reach Malibu from San Diego. By flying and then taking a bus, the travel time is around 4 hours and 41 minutes. If driving from Malibu to San Diego, it usually takes about 2 hours and 34 minutes. Finally, by bus, the journey from San Diego to Malibu takes approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to Malibu is by train, with ticket prices ranging from $11 to $90. Despite taking longer, at 5 hours and 7 minutes, it offers a more affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. However, for those seeking a more time-efficient option, driving is the quickest way to reach Malibu, taking approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes. Though it may cost slightly more, with expenses ranging from $26 to $40, it offers a more expedient journey.
The prices for traveling from San Diego to Malibu by train range from $11 to $90. Alternatively, taking a bus from Malibu to San Diego can cost between $18 and $60. These prices may vary depending on the specific train or bus service chosen and any discounts or promotions available. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from San Diego to Malibu without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is approximately 147 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes to reach Malibu by car. The cost of driving can vary, with prices ranging from $26 to $40 depending on factors such as fuel consumption and tolls.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Malibu without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 7 minutes. The ticket prices range from $11 to $90. This mode of transportation allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views while reaching your destination safely and conveniently.
There is no direct link between San Diego and Malibu. However, there is a bus service operated by Greyhound Mexico that departs from San Diego and arrives at Civic Center / Stuart Ranch in Malibu. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. Another option is to take the train from San Diego to Malibu, which takes about 5 hours and 7 minutes.
The flight from San Diego to Malibu typically takes around 1 hour and 3 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking. Once you arrive at Los Angeles Airport, the best way to get to Malibu is to take a taxi, which takes approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can also take public transportation such as a train or bus, which may take longer but is a more affordable option.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Malibu. With over 139 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of prices starting at $69 per night. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone's preferences and budget. It's recommended to research and book in advance to secure the best available options.

Trips from San Diego