San Diego, CA, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $95: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$95 - OtherBest price

740 kmDistance

5h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe 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.

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Traveling From San Diego to South Lake Tahoe

Traveling from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe offers a striking contrast between the sunny beaches of Southern California and the serene, snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

Best Neighbourhoods in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with unique attractions for visitors.

Stateline

• Close to major casinos and nightlife

• Stunning views of Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe City

• Offers a range of dining options

• Convenient access to beaches and parks

Pioneer Trail

• Quaint, residential feel with easy access to trails

• Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families

Best Times To Visit South Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in South Lake Tahoe's attractions.

Heavenly Mountain Resort

Visit on weekdays during winter for shorter lift lines and fewer crowds.

Emerald Bay State Park

Early mornings in spring or fall offer stunning views with minimal visitors.

South Lake Tahoe Beaches

Late afternoon visits during the weekdays ensure a peaceful atmosphere.

South Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

South Lake Tahoe experiences a typical mountain climate, with warm summers and snowy winters that create distinct seasonal activities. Planning your visit around these conditions can greatly enhance your outdoor experiences, whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying summer hikes.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of the region, try the lamb shank at The Lake House, a restaurant featuring cozy mountain ambiance and locally sourced ingredients that reflect the hearty flavors of the Sierra Nevada. This contrasts with the fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine commonly found in San Diego, offering you a unique culinary experience that emphasizes comfort and bold taste.

San Diego - South Lake Tahoe operators

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

Plane

Website

southwest.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$200-1010

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration

1h 37m

Estimated price

$1011-550

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration

1h 46m

Estimated price

$140-1012

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Fresno (FAT)

Average Duration

1h 18m

Estimated price

$1013-550

Website

united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Reno via Los Angeles

Average Duration

3h 31m

Estimated price

$1014-1015

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Fresno via Los Angeles

Average Duration

3h 30m

Estimated price

$1016-1012

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 56m

Estimated price

$1019-5230

Train from Bakersfield to Sacramento

Average Duration

5h 23m

Estimated price

$1210-1013

Train from Los Angeles to Sacramento

Average Duration

13h 58m

Estimated price

$1212-1216

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration

12h 45m

Estimated price

$10195-1013

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$4355-1211

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Berkeley

Average Duration

11h 40m

Estimated price

$1217-140

Bus from Berkeley to Sacramento

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$4356-1211

Contact phone

866-898-2463

Website

southtahoeairporter.com

Bus from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Ltrh

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

$4350-5236

San Diego to South Lake Tahoe: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Diego and South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe, covering a distance of 532 miles. The journey promises around 9 hours and 37 minutes of picturesque views and open roads. ⛽️ Fuel your adventure with budget-friendly options ranging from $95 to $140 for the entire trip. Make pit stops at charming towns and eateries along the way to experience the diverse landscapes and local flavors of California.

Average price

$95 - $140

🛫 Start your trip from San Diego Airport with a quick 1 hour and 30-minute direct flight to Reno Airport, the nearest airport to South Lake Tahoe. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines both operate this route for your convenience. 🏔 Upon landing in Reno, you can either rent a car for a scenic drive to South Lake Tahoe, which takes around 1.5 hours, or opt for a shuttle service. Enjoy the beautiful views along the way as you head towards the stunning Lake Tahoe region.

Departure Point

San Diego Airport

Arrival Point

Reno Airport

🌲 The journey by bus from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe, operated by Flixbus USA and Amtrak, takes approximately 17 hours and 52 minutes, including transfers along the way. ❄️ Arriving at the South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station after an 18-hour and 16-minute bus ride from San Diego offers travelers the chance to explore the beautiful surroundings and activities the area has to offer.

Departure Point

San Diego station

Arrival Point

South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe.

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The distance between San Diego and South Lake Tahoe is 460 miles. By flying to Reno and then taking a bus, it typically takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes to travel from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe. If driving, the travel time is approximately 9 hours and 37 minutes. Taking a bus from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe can take around 18 hours and 16 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe is to drive, which usually costs around $95-$140 for fuel and takes approximately 9 hours and 37 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly to Reno and then take a bus to South Lake Tahoe. This route typically takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $120 and $420. Evaluating both factors, choosing the fastest option may be a good balance between cost and time efficiency.

To get from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe by car, you would need to drive approximately 532 miles, which takes around 9 hours and 37 minutes. The driving route can be enjoyable, as it takes you through scenic areas and allows for flexibility along the way. The cost of fuel and tolls is estimated to range from $95 to $140, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

To travel from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus route via Bakersfield. This journey takes approximately 16 hours and 29 minutes. However, the specific cost may vary depending on the current fares. It is recommended to check the schedules and prices before planning your trip.

The flight between San Diego and South Lake Tahoe is relatively short, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes on a direct flight from San Diego Airport to Reno Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but the average price is usually between $150 to $300 for a round-trip ticket. It's recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal.

There are several options for accommodation near South Lake Tahoe. You can choose from over 640 hotels that are available in the area. Prices start at $35 per night, so you have a range of options to fit your budget. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly motels, there is something for everyone near South Lake Tahoe.

San Diego, CA, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $95: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from San Diego to South Lake Tahoe: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Diego to South Lake Tahoe

Best Neighbourhoods in South Lake Tahoe

Best Times To Visit South Lake Tahoe's Attractions

South Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

San Diego - South Lake Tahoe operators

San Diego to South Lake Tahoe: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

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