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San Diego, CA, USA to Wilmington, NC, USA from $152: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Wilmington: 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.

$152 - Train, BusBest price
3640 kmDistance
8h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Wilmington 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
8h  19m
Estimated price
$175-772
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
72h  4m
Estimated price
$152-962
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3640 km
Duration: 8h 19m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  20m
Estimated price
$176-1750
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  37m
Estimated price
$185-776
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
9h  55m
Estimated price
$311-925
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Train
Average Duration
58h  22m
Estimated price
$1751-1752
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
40h  32m
Estimated price
$1753-1754
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Traveling From San Diego to Wilmington

Traveling from San Diego to Wilmington takes you from sunny beaches and vibrant city life to charming historical districts and lush gardens, each offering distinct experiences that showcase the diversity of American landscapes.

Best Neighborhoods in Wilmington

Wilmington boasts vibrant neighborhoods that highlight its rich history and culture.

Historic District
• Stroll through beautifully preserved antebellum architecture.
• Home to numerous local shops and quaint eateries.
Riverwalk
• Scenic views of the Cape Fear River.
• Offers a lively atmosphere with restaurants and events.
Carolina Beach
• Known for its stunning shoreline and beachfront activities.
• A hub for water sports and outdoor adventures.

Best Times To Visit Wilmington's Attractions

Discover the ideal times to explore Wilmington's must-see sites without the rush.

Battleship North Carolina
Visit early in the morning or during the week for quieter tours.
Bellamy Mansion
Late afternoon tours provide a serene atmosphere and fewer visitors.
Wilmington Riverwalk
Enjoy early mornings or weekdays for a peaceful stroll along the river.

Wilmington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wilmington boasts a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters creating a pleasant backdrop for year-round visits. Spring and fall are particularly inviting, as comfortable temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Wilmington

Try the shrimp and grits at Front Street Brewery, where the rich flavors of Southern cuisine bring a hearty contrast to San Diego's lighter, coastal fare. This dish not only showcases local ingredients like fresh shrimp but also captures the warm, inviting atmosphere that Wilmington's dining scene is known for.

San Diego - Wilmington operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration
7h 27m
Estimated price
$7723-1759

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Jacksonville (OAJ)

Average Duration
8h 59m
Estimated price
$7723-1759

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Myrtle Beach (MYR)

Average Duration
7h 49m
Estimated price
$7724-7721

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Fayetteville Municipal (FAY)

Average Duration
7h 26m
Estimated price
$7723-1759

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration
8h 16m
Estimated price
$7725-7726
Website
delta.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration
8h 16m
Estimated price
$7725-7726

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Jacksonville (OAJ)

Average Duration
9h 38m
Estimated price
$1758-7726

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Myrtle Beach (MYR)

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$1758-7726

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Fayetteville Municipal (FAY)

Average Duration
7h 26m
Estimated price
$7725-1754
Website
united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration
13h 12m
Estimated price
$7724-1759
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$1528-1529

Train from Los Angeles Union Station to Dallas Bus Station

Average Duration
45h 40m
Estimated price
$9627-152850

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration
17h 21m
Estimated price
$1520-7720
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$3112-15285

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Dallas Bus Station

Average Duration
29h 45m
Estimated price
$9625-1526
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Dallas Bus Station

Average Duration
28h 15m
Estimated price
$1756-3113

Bus from Dallas Bus Station to New Orleans Bus Station

Average Duration
10h 40m
Estimated price
$15285-3114

Bus from Charlotte Bus Station to Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
$9621-3115
Taxi
Contact phone
+1-910-938-8989

Taxi from Jacksonville to Wilmington

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$3116-1758
Contact phone
+1-910-787-6556
Website
prestigetaxiservices.com

Taxi from Jacksonville to Wilmington

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$3116-1758

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

Traveling between San Diego and Wilmington 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 cross-country journey from the sunny shores of San Diego to the charming coastal city of Wilmington for an epic road trip spanning 2570 miles filled with diverse landscapes and exciting pit stops along the way. 💰 Plan your budget wisely as the cost of driving from San Diego to Wilmington ranges from $460 to $700, depending on gas prices, accommodation choices, and dining preferences. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and create lasting memories as you navigate through this epic journey across the United States.
Average price
$460 - $700
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Wilmington involves a flight duration of around 8 hours, including a layover, as there are no direct flights available between the two cities. United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines are the primary carriers offering this route. 🌍 The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 6 hours and 56 minutes, providing travelers with a convenient option to reach Wilmington from San Diego. These airlines ensure a smooth and efficient journey for passengers making this cross-country trip. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Wilmington and San Diego can range from $175 to $772, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. Passengers can choose from various fare options to suit their budget and preferences for this transcontinental travel experience.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Wilmington Airport. The quickest flight takes 6h 56m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• When booking your flight from San Diego to Wilmington, consider choosing a layover in cities like Atlanta or Dallas, as they often have the fastest connections and can significantly reduce your total travel time.
• Upon arriving at Wilmington International Airport (ILM), be prepared for a smaller airport experience; expect quicker baggage claim and a more streamlined exit process, but also check the airport's dining options in advance—there are limited selections.
• The approximate taxi fare from Wilmington International Airport to downtown Wilmington ranges from $20 to $30; consider using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft for potentially lower fares and convenience.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Wilmington is approximately 2262 miles. By train and bus, it takes a considerable amount of time to reach Wilmington from San Diego. Alternatively, a flight from San Diego to Wilmington takes around 8 hours and 12 minutes. Driving by car is the longest option, with a travel time of about 40 hours and 32 minutes. Unfortunately, specific travel times by bus were not provided.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Wilmington is by taking a train and then a bus, which costs between $150 and $1,000 and takes approximately 3 days and 4 hours. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which costs between $360 and $650 and takes around 8 hours and 12 minutes. Both options provide different trade-offs between cost and time, allowing travelers to choose according to their specific needs.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Diego and Wilmington can vary depending on several factors. On average, the prices for a bus ticket range from $368 to $788. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and prices. Factors such as time of year, demand, and availability can also affect ticket prices.
To get from San Diego to Wilmington without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 2570 miles, and it takes about 40 hours and 32 minutes to drive. The prices for gas and other expenses during the trip typically range from $460 to $700, depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
To travel from San Diego to Wilmington without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes about 3 days and 4 hours, with the cost varying between $150 and $1,000 depending on the specific route and accommodations chosen. This option provides a convenient and efficient way to make the cross-country journey, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery along the way.
No, there is no direct link between San Diego and Wilmington. However, there are bus services available that involve multiple transfers and take approximately 3 days and 9 hours. The journey starts from San Diego and includes transfers at Los Angeles Union Station, St Louis Bus Station, Philadelphia Bus Station, Raleigh Bus Station, and Forden Station before reaching Downtown Station in Wilmington. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA and Greyhound USA.
The flight duration between San Diego and Wilmington typically takes around 6 hours and 52 minutes, with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight between the two cities. The cost of a flight between Wilmington and San Diego can vary, with prices ranging from $365 to $622, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are 459+ hotels available in Wilmington that offer accommodations for different budgets. Prices start at $53 per night, providing affordable options for travelers. It is advisable to check for availability and rates through various hotel booking websites or contacting the hotels directly for the most updated information on availability and prices.

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