San Francisco, CA, USA to Playa del Carmen from $244: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$244 by busBest price

3914 kmDistance

8h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen 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 Francisco to Playa del Carmen

Embarking on a journey from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen reveals a striking contrast, where the bustling streets and iconic landmarks of the Bay Area give way to serene beaches and vibrant nightlife in the Caribbean.

Best Neighbourhoods in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering something special for visitors.

Centro

• Lively atmosphere with shops and restaurants.

• Close to the beach and nightlife options.

Playacar

• Upscale resorts and golf courses.

• Peaceful, gated community with private beaches.

Aldea Zama

• Eco-friendly vibe with local cafes and boutiques.

• Perfect blend of nature and modern living.

Best Times To Visit Playa del Carmen's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Playa del Carmen by visiting attractions at the right times.

Cenote Dos Ojos

Arrive early in the morning to enjoy tranquility and avoid crowds.

5th Avenue

Visit during weekdays or late afternoon for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Xcaret Park

Plan your visit on weekdays for shorter lines and a better experience.

Playa del Carmen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Playa del Carmen enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures and humidity throughout the year, making it an appealing destination for sun-seekers. The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is more pleasant and rainfall is minimal, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Playa del Carmen

Savor the flavors of cochinita pibil at El Fogón, where this slow-cooked pork dish, wrapped in banana leaves, offers a burst of rich, smoky taste that contrasts with San Francisco's farm-to-table offerings. The lively atmosphere, infused with local culture and vibrant ingredients, creates a dining experience that immerses you in the heart of Yucatan's culinary traditions.

San Francisco - Playa del Carmen operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Playa del Carmen, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights

Website

united.com

Plane from San Francisco to Cancun

Average Duration

5h 12m

Estimated price

$2448-8704

Plane from San Francisco to Cancun via Houston

Average Duration

7h 35m

Estimated price

$2448-8704

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco to Cancun

Average Duration

5h 25m

Estimated price

$250-8222

Website

aa.com

Plane from San Francisco to Cancun via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

7h 19m

Estimated price

$8706-8707

Plane from San Francisco to Cancun via Phoenix

Average Duration

7h 26m

Estimated price

$8706-8707

Website

southwest.com

Plane from San Francisco to Cancun via Phoenix

Average Duration

8h 25m

Estimated price

$2445-8704

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Tijuana

Average Duration

14h 35m

Estimated price

$8210-8214

Bus from Tijuana to Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte

Average Duration

23h 35m

Estimated price

$2509-2445

Contact phone

+52 555 784 4652

Website

ado.com.mx

Bus from Puebla to Playa del Carmen

Average Duration

23h 15m

Estimated price

$82250-8708

Bus from Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte to Terminal de Autobuses ADO Cancún

Average Duration

27h 38m

Estimated price

$25070-2445

Contact phone

800 507 5500

Website

autobuseselite.com.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte

Average Duration

23h 35m

Estimated price

$2509-2445

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Sacramento

Average Duration

1h 38m

Estimated price

$8227-82265

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration

10h 45m

Estimated price

$2508-2509

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$8224-8225

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration

1h 10m

Estimated price

$8226-8225

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

caltrain.com

Other from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to San Jose Diridon Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration

1h 41m

Estimated price

$8211-8229

San Francisco to Playa del Carmen: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Francisco and Playa del Carmen 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 an epic road trip from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen spanning a driving distance of 3281 miles. This journey offers a mix of scenic landscapes and diverse cultural experiences along the way. 💰 The cost to drive from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen ranges from $550 to $900, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking an adventurous and wallet-friendly travel experience. With proper planning, you can make the most of your road trip without breaking the bank. ⏳ Prepare for a thrilling 2-day, 8-hour drive from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen, filled with exciting pit stops, delicious food discoveries, and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and hit the open road for an unforgettable journey from the West Coast to the sunny beaches of Mexico.

Average price

$550 - $900

🛫 The quickest flight from San Francisco Airport to Cancun Airport is a direct 5-hour and 10-minute journey served by airlines like Alaska Airlines, Inc., Southwest Airlines, and Aeroméxico. 🏝️ From Cancun Airport, it takes approximately 8 hours and 49 minutes to reach Playa del Carmen by plane, offering travelers a seamless transition from the airport to their beachfront destination. 💸 The prices for flights between Playa del Carmen and San Francisco generally range from $308 to $870, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and travel preferences.

Departure Point

San Francisco Airport

Arrival Point

Cancun Airport

🛣️ The bus route from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen involves stops at Tijuana City, and Cancún, offering diverse experiences and landscapes throughout the approximately 2 days and 21 hours of travel time. While there is no direct service, the journey allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of both countries. 💰 Prices for the San Francisco to Playa del Carmen bus ticket range from $328 to $610, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a unique and memorable way to explore the scenic route. Pack your essentials and embark on this extended bus journey for an unforgettable travel experience.

Departure Point

San Francisco Bus Station

Arrival Point

Playa del Carmen Alterna station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen.

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The distance between San Francisco and Playa del Carmen is approximately 2432 miles or 3281.4 miles by road. The typical travel time from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen is around 8 hours and 58 minutes by flying from San Francisco and then taking a bus. However, the travel time from Playa del Carmen to San Francisco by car or bus is not provided.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen is to fly and take a bus. This option costs between $210 to $650 and takes approximately 8 hours and 58 minutes. It provides the quickest way to reach your destination without having to worry about driving long distances.

The prices of bus tickets between Playa del Carmen and San Francisco range from $341 to $605. These prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, availability, and the type of bus service chosen. It's important to check with different bus companies or online booking platforms to find the best deals and compare prices. Additionally, prices for flights can also vary depending on the airlines and the time of booking.

To travel from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 3281 miles, which would take approximately 2 days and 8 hours of driving. However, it is important to note that the costs of this journey can vary, with prices ranging from $550 to $900 for the entire trip.

To travel from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen without a car, the best option is to take a combination of night buses and regular buses. This journey typically takes around 2 days and 19 hours and costs between $340 and $650. The exact travel times and prices may vary depending on the bus schedules and availability. It is advisable to research and plan the journey in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience.

There is no direct link between San Francisco and Playa del Carmen by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey takes approximately 2 days 19 hours, including transfers at various locations such as Los Angeles, Tepic, and Puebla. The bus service is operated by Flixbus USA and ADO.

The flight duration from San Francisco to Cancun is approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes. This is the fastest option to travel between the two cities. However, keep in mind that additional travel time will be required to reach Playa del Carmen from Cancun. As for the cost, ticket prices for this route can vary depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. It is recommended to check with different airlines or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Playa del Carmen with over 1442 hotels available. Prices for hotels in the area start at $105 per night. It is recommended to do some research and book in advance to find the best option that suits your preferences and budget. Whether you are looking for a luxury resort, a boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly stay, Playa del Carmen offers a wide range of accommodation choices for every type of traveler.

San Francisco, CA, USA to Playa del Carmen from $244: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from San Francisco to Playa del Carmen: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Francisco to Playa del Carmen

Best Neighbourhoods in Playa del Carmen

Best Times To Visit Playa del Carmen's Attractions

Playa del Carmen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Playa del Carmen

San Francisco - Playa del Carmen operators

San Francisco to Playa del Carmen: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Playa del Carmen

Popular routes