1map logoGo to main page

San Diego, CA, USA to Santa Ana, CA, USA from $16: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Diego, United States of America
to
Santa Ana, United States of America

How to Get from San Diego to Santa Ana: 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 - DriveBest price
145 kmDistance
1h 32m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Santa Ana 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
1h  58m
Estimated price
$3-80
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  32m
Estimated price
$16-24
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 145 km
Duration: 1h 32m

See more options

Company
Various
Tram
Bus
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$9-48
Company
Greyhound Mexico
Bus
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$13-35
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Santa Ana

Your journey from San Diego to Santa Ana offers a delightful contrast, with San Diego’s laid-back beaches and sunny vibes giving way to Santa Ana’s vibrant urban atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Ana

Santa Ana boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Santa Ana
• Vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries and theaters.
• Diverse dining options featuring global cuisines.
South Coast Metro
• Home to upscale shopping at South Coast Plaza.
• Offers a variety of entertainment and dining venues.
Santa Ana Historic District
• Charming historic architecture that tells the city’s story.
• Rich in cultural landmarks and parks.

Best Times To Visit Santa Ana's Attractions

Planning your visit to Santa Ana? Timing can enhance your experience at these attractions.

Bowers Museum
Visit on weekdays for quieter exhibits and fewer crowds.
Santa Ana Zoo
Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and family-friendly vibes.
Discovery Cube Orange County
Weekdays outside of school holidays ensure shorter lines and more enjoyable exploration.

Santa Ana Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Ana enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Opt for spring and fall visits to experience comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Ana

Try the pozole at La Vida Cantina, a lively spot that showcases traditional Mexican flavors and local ingredients, contrasting with the seafood-focused cuisine of San Diego. The vibrant atmosphere and rich spices create a dining experience that feels distinctly authentic and immersive in the heart of Santa Ana.

San Diego - Santa Ana operators

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

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

Train from San Diego to Santa Ana

Average Duration
1h 58m
Estimated price
3-80
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.mx

Bus from San Diego to Santa Ana

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
13-35
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Santa Ana Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
8-31
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 619-233-3004
Website
https://www.sdmts.com

Other from Civic Center Station to UCSD Health La Jolla Station

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
3-3

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

Traveling between San Diego and Santa Ana 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 Santa Ana, covering a distance of 90 miles and taking around 1 hour and 32 minutes to reach your destination. Enjoy the journey as you cruise along the highways and soak in the beautiful California landscapes. 💰 Explore flexible options for your travel budget, with car travel costs ranging from $16 to $24 for the trip from San Diego to Santa Ana. Plan your expenses accordingly and make the most of your travel experience while saving on transportation expenses.
Average price
$16 - $24
🚆 Traveling from San Diego to Santa Ana by train is a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. The direct train service operated by Amtrak departs every two hours and takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes. 🚆 The journey covers a distance of 92.1 miles, offering scenic views along the route. With services running daily, passengers can easily plan their trip and enjoy a comfortable ride on the Pacific Surfliner train from San Diego to Santa Ana. 🚆 Ticket prices for the train journey between San Diego and Santa Ana vary from $3 to $80, providing travelers with affordable options to explore the beautiful cities of Southern California. Whether you're commuting for work or leisure, the train route offers a convenient and stress-free travel experience.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Santa Ana station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner operates on the route from San Diego to Santa Ana, offering onboard food and drink services through their Café car. You can enjoy a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, including California wines. Consider bringing a small cooler with your favorite snacks for the journey too!
• On the Pacific Surfliner, you have a choice of seating in Business Class or Coach Class. Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, while Coach Class provides comfortable but standard seating. If you're looking for a bit more comfort and quieter atmosphere, consider upgrading to Business Class.
• After arriving at Santa Ana Station (SNA), you can leave your luggage at the station's luggage storage service for a small fee. The station has clean restrooms but does not have shower facilities. To get to downtown Santa Ana quickly, take the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus route 60, which provides regular service to the city center.
🚌 Traveling by bus from San Diego to Santa Ana is convenient and efficient. Departing five times a day, the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes with direct service between the two cities operated by Greyhound Mexico. 🛣️ The distance of the route from San Diego to Santa Ana is around 94 miles. There are multiple bus routes available, with varying durations ranging from 2 hours and 20 minutes to 3 hours and 6 minutes, offering travelers flexibility in their travel plans. 💰 Bus fares between Santa Ana and San Diego can range from $13 to $35, making this an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore the Southern California region.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Santa Ana station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to Santa Ana.

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego to Santa Ana is by driving. The approximate cost of gas for this journey is $16 to $24, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This option provides flexibility and allows you to explore other attractions along the way.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Santa Ana is to drive. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is recommended to take Interstate 5 North to reach Santa Ana. The cost of driving includes fuel and toll expenses, which typically range between $16 and $24 for a one-way trip.
The distance from San Diego to Santa Ana is approximately 83 miles. However, the road distance is slightly longer at 89.8 miles. The estimated travel time by car is around 1 hour and 32 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is important to note that the actual travel time may vary.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Santa Ana without a car is by train. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers frequent service between the two cities, taking approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes. Tickets on the train can range from $3 to $80, depending on the class of service and time of travel. Alternately, you can also consider taking a Greyhound bus, which takes around 2 hours and costs $10-$16.
The train journey from San Diego to Santa Ana takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes, including transfers. Trains depart every two hours, providing a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride while avoiding the hassle of traffic congestion on the roads.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Santa Ana. There are over 779 hotels to choose from in the area, catering to various budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Santa Ana start at $69 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you will find a suitable place to stay near Santa Ana.
Yes, you can drive from San Diego to Santa Ana. The driving distance between San Diego and Santa Ana is approximately 90 miles. It takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to drive from San Diego to Santa Ana, depending on traffic conditions. The most common route is to take Interstate 5 North.
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Diego and Santa Ana. The bus service operates five times a day, every day. The journey usually takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. This option provides a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the two cities without the need for driving or dealing with traffic.
You can catch the bus from San Diego to Santa Ana at the San Diego station. The bus service is operated by Greyhound Mexico. They have regular departures from this station to Santa Ana. Be sure to check the schedule and purchase your ticket in advance to secure your seat.
The San Diego to Santa Ana bus operated by Greyhound Mexico arrives at the Santa Ana station. The station is located at 1000 W Santa Ana Blvd, Santa Ana 92703. Upon arrival, passengers can easily access the surrounding areas of Santa Ana and continue their journey. The bus station is conveniently located and offers various transportation options to explore the city and its attractions.
Trains from San Diego to Santa Ana arrive at Santa Ana station. This is the final destination for the train service operated by Amtrak. Santa Ana station is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it easy to access local attractions and accommodations. It is advisable to check the Amtrak schedule for the specific train times and availability when planning your trip.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Diego and Santa Ana. The train departs from San Diego and arrives in Santa Ana, with services running every two hours, seven days a week. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes.
To catch the train from San Diego to Santa Ana you can go to the San Diego station. Train services for this route are operated by Amtrak. From there, you can board the train that will take you to Santa Ana. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The cost of a train from San Diego to Santa Ana can vary depending on factors such as the type of ticket and time of travel. Generally, prices range from $3 to $80. It is advisable to book in advance, as prices tend to be lower for tickets purchased ahead of time. Additionally, discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, students, and military personnel. The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is the main train service provider for this route.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Diego to Santa Ana ranges from $12 to $35. The price may vary depending on the bus company, the time of day, and the type of ticket purchased. It is always recommended to check the websites or contact the bus companies directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost to drive from San Diego to Santa Ana ranges from $16 to $24. This estimate takes into consideration factors such as gas prices and tolls, which may vary. The total travel time for this journey is approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes. It is recommended to check current gas prices and any possible toll fees before embarking on the trip.

Trips from San Diego