1map logoGo to main page

San Francisco, CA, USA to Arcata, CA, USA from $29: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
Arcata, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to Arcata: 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.

$29 by busBest price
451 kmDistance
4h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Arcata 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
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  21m
Estimated price
$189-613
Recommended
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
8h  14m
Estimated price
$29-84
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 451 km
Duration: 4h 17m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
7h  25m
Estimated price
$30-1890
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  17m
Estimated price
$114-243
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  20m
Estimated price
$185-440
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  9m
Estimated price
$1891-1892

Traveling From San Francisco to Arcata

The journey from San Francisco's bustling cityscape to Arcata's serene coastal charm offers you a striking contrast between urban vibrancy and laid-back small-town living.

Best Neighbourhoods in Arcata

Arcata features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinctive charm and character.

Downtown Arcata
• Vibrant hub for local shops and restaurants.
• Hosts the popular Arcata Farmers Market.
Greenview
• Surrounded by lush parks and hiking trails.
• Known for its peaceful residential atmosphere.
Westside
• Close proximity to pristine beaches.
• Features eclectic art galleries and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Arcata's Attractions

Planning your visit to Arcata's attractions at the right time can enrich your experience.

Redwood National and State Parks
Visit in early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Arcata Plaza
Weekdays are quieter, allowing for a more leisurely stroll and exploration.
Humboldt Botanical Gardens
Spring showcases vibrant blooms; visit on weekdays for a peaceful outing.

Arcata Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Arcata enjoys a cool coastal climate with mild temperatures and frequent fog, making summer the most pleasant time to visit. Understanding the weather can help you pack appropriately and plan activities that align with the local conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Arcata

Try the seafood chowder at Ramsay's, where the cozy atmosphere and focus on locally sourced ingredients create a comforting experience that contrasts sharply with San Francisco's upscale dining scene. This dish embodies the hearty flavors of Northern California's coastal bounty, offering a taste of Arcata's unique culinary identity.

San Francisco - Arcata operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and Arcata, 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 Airport (SFO) to Arcata/Eureka Airport (ACV)

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$1896-1898

Plane from San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Redding Airport (RDD)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$1896-1899
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Arcata Bus Stop

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$30-1890

Bus from Larkin St & Grove St to Santa Rosa Transit Mall

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$6134-6135

Bus from Santa Rosa Bus Stop to Arcata Bus Stop

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$6132-6133
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 415-921-5858
Website
goldengatetransit.org

Other from Larkin St & Grove St to Santa Rosa Transit Mall

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$6134-6135
Drive

Drive from San Francisco to Arcata

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
$1891-1892

San Francisco to Arcata: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Francisco and Arcata 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 picturesque road trip from San Francisco to Arcata, covering 280 miles of scenic Northern California landscape. The journey takes around 5 hours and 9 minutes, offering ample opportunities to explore charming towns along the way. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel with car prices ranging from $50 to $75 for the trip from San Francisco to Arcata. Enjoy the flexibility of road travel and discover hidden gems as you navigate through the diverse terrain of the region.
Average price
$50 - $75
🛫 The quickest way to travel from San Francisco to Arcata is by taking a direct flight, which only takes 1 hour and 24 minutes. United Airlines provides flights on this route. 🌲 The journey from San Francisco to Arcata by plane typically takes around 4 hours and 21 minutes. This scenic route offers beautiful views of Northern California landscapes. 💸 Prices for flights between Arcata and San Francisco can range from $189 to $613, depending on the airline and timing of booking.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Arcata/Eureka Airport
🚌 The bus trip from San Francisco to Arcata by Greyhound USA takes approximately 7 hours and 25 minutes, with services departing once daily. 🛣️ The route from San Francisco to Arcata covers a distance of 247 miles and involves a transfer in Santa Rosa, with a total journey time of 8 hours and 8 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Arcata and San Francisco can range from $29 to $84, providing an affordable and convenient travel option for those exploring Northern California.
Departure Point
San Francisco Bus Station
Arrival Point
Arcata Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Arcata.

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Francisco and Arcata is 233 miles by air or 280 miles by road. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. Flying from San Francisco to Arcata takes approximately 4 hours and 21 minutes. Driving from San Francisco to Arcata takes around 5 hours and 9 minutes. Taking a combination of flying and bus, with a layover in Crescent City, can take approximately 6 hours and 8 minutes. By bus alone, the journey can take up to 8 hours and 14 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Arcata is by bus. Taking the bus via Santa Rosa costs only $29-$85 and takes 8 hours and 14 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes 4 hours and 21 minutes at a cost of $180-$850. It is recommended to consider both the budget and time constraints when choosing the most suitable transportation option for your trip.
When traveling from San Francisco to Arcata, the prices for a bus ticket can range from $29 to $84. The exact price will depend on various factors such as the time of travel, type of bus, and any promotions or discounts available. It is advisable to check with different bus operators or online ticketing platforms to find the best deals and prices for your specific travel dates.
To get from San Francisco to Arcata without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is 280 miles, and it usually takes around 5 hours and 9 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Arcata. The cost of driving may vary, with prices ranging from $50 to $75 for the trip.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Arcata without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $30 and $80. The bus provides a comfortable and convenient option for travelers looking to reach Arcata without having to drive themselves.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Francisco and Arcata. Greyhound bus services offer a daily route from San Francisco Bus Station to Arcata Bus Stop, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes. This direct route is available every day, providing a convenient transportation option for travelers between the two cities.
The flight between San Francisco and Arcata usually takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary between $189 and $813, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel dates.
There are 148+ hotels available in Arcata. Prices for accommodations start at $55. Some popular hotel options near Arcata include the Hampton Inn & Suites Arcata, the Comfort Inn Arcata, and the Best Western Arcata Inn. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and amenities, making them convenient choices for visitors to the area.