1map logoGo to main page

San Diego, CA, USA to Salinas, CA, USA from $20: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Salinas: 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
686 kmDistance
3h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Salinas 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
3h  3m
Estimated price
$171-420
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
12h  15m
Estimated price
$20-224
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 686 km
Duration: 3h 3m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  40m
Estimated price
$40-146
Company
Amtrak
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  30m
Estimated price
$40-202
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  10m
Estimated price
$75-1710
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$78-328

Traveling From San Diego to Salinas

Traveling from the sunny beaches and vibrant atmosphere of San Diego to the tranquil agricultural setting of Salinas offers a fascinating contrast between urban energy and serene countryside charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Salinas

Salinas offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its charm and attractions.

Oldtown Salinas
• Historic buildings and vibrant arts scene.
• Great dining options featuring local flavors.
East Salinas
• Family-friendly parks and recreational spaces.
• Close proximity to schools and community centers.
West Salinas
• Scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Access to shopping and local markets.

Best Times To Visit Salinas's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Salinas with these timely tips for popular attractions.

National Steinbeck Center
Visit on weekdays in the morning for a quieter atmosphere.
Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System Garden
Ideal time is spring when flowers bloom for a vibrant visit.
Laguna Seca Raceway
Attend events during off-peak periods for more space and ease.

Salinas Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Salinas enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it pleasant for outdoor activities throughout the year, especially during spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable. Seasonal variations, such as cooler evenings in summer and occasional rain in winter, can influence what to pack and how to plan your daily adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Salinas

Try the fresh clam chowder at The Steinbeck House, where you can savor local seafood in a historic setting that reflects the charm of Salinas. This dining experience contrasts sharply with San Diego’s vibrant taco scene, offering a quieter atmosphere and a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.

San Diego - Salinas operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

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

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$200-1715

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

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$1716-1717
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
3h 21m
Estimated price
$1718-1719
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$206-42015

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$4204-1716
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$4201-1714

Train from Los Angeles to Salinas

Average Duration
8h 19m
Estimated price
$4205-202
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

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

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$4207-40

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

Traveling between San Diego and Salinas 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 road trip from San Diego to Salinas spanning 426 miles, offering diverse landscapes and enchanting vistas along the way. 💸 Discover affordable travel options ranging from $75 to $120 for a drive that lasts about 7 hours and 10 minutes, promising a budget-friendly journey filled with experiences.
Average price
$75 - $120
🚆 Traveling from San Diego to Salinas by train requires a transfer in Los Angeles. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes. 🚆 The ticket prices for the train journey between San Diego and Salinas range from $20 to $224, offering a range of fare options to suit different budget preferences. Enjoy the relaxing ride through beautiful California landscapes on your way to Salinas.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Salinas station
🛫 The quickest way to travel from San Diego to Salinas by plane is to take a direct flight from San Diego Airport to Monterey Airport, which only takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Salinas and San Diego can vary from $171 to $420, offering flexibility for travelers to choose a fare that best fits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport
🚌 Traveling from San Diego to Salinas by bus involves a journey with one transfer at Los Angeles Union Station. The total travel time is approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes. 🚌 The bus service from San Diego to Salinas is operated by Flixbus USA, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option for transportation between the two cities. Prices for the bus tickets can range from $40 to $146, depending on the time of booking and availability.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Salinas Train Station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Diego and Salinas is 376 miles by air. The quickest way to reach Salinas from San Diego is by taking a flight to Monterey and then taking the line 20 bus, which takes approximately 5 hours and 12 minutes. If you prefer traveling by train, it takes around 12 hours and 15 minutes to reach Salinas. Driving by car takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, while taking the bus takes about 10 hours and 40 minutes.
If you are looking for a cost-effective option, taking the train from San Diego to Salinas would be your best choice. With ticket prices ranging from $20 to $230, it is a budget-friendly option. However, if time is a priority, then flying and taking the line 20 bus would be the quickest option, with a travel time of 5 hours and 12 minutes. Although it may be more expensive, costing between $110 and $350, it would save you a significant amount of time.
The prices for a train ticket from San Diego to Salinas range from $20 to $224, depending on the class and type of ticket. Bus fares between Salinas and San Diego vary from $40 to $146, depending on the bus company and time of travel. These prices may also vary based on the availability and demand. 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 Salinas without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance of approximately 426 miles can be covered in about 7 hours and 10 minutes by car. The cost of driving varies, with prices ranging from $75 to $120, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle type.
To travel from San Diego to Salinas without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey by bus takes approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $40 to $150. While it may be a longer travel time compared to other modes of transportation, taking a bus allows for a convenient and affordable way to reach Salinas from San Diego without needing a car.
No, there is no direct link between San Diego and Salinas. The train journey from San Diego to Salinas requires transfers and takes approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes. Similarly, the bus journey from San Diego to Salinas also requires transfers and takes approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes.
The flight between San Diego and Salinas typically takes around 1 hour and 28 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from San Diego Airport to Monterey Airport. However, the cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is always recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best prices for your desired travel dates.
There are several hotel options available near Salinas with over 163 choices to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $53 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Holiday Inn Express, Courtyard by Marriott, and Hampton Inn. It is recommended to research and book accommodations in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from San Diego