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San Francisco, CA, USA to Big Sur, CA, USA from $25: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
San Francisco, United States of America
to
Big Sur, United States of America

How to Get from San Francisco to Big Sur: 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.

$25 by carBest price
177.2 kmDistance
2h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Big Sur 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
FlixBus, various
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  16m
Estimated price
$151-228
Recommended
Company
Monterey Airbus
Drive
Average Duration
5h  14m
Estimated price
$135-168
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 177.2 km
Duration: 2h 41m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$25-40
Company
Caltrain, various
Train
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  57m
Estimated price
$151-228
Company
Caltrain, Amtrak, various
Train
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$152-262
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  27m
Estimated price
$243-540
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to Big Sur

The journey from vibrant San Francisco, with its bustling streets and iconic landmarks, to the serene, picturesque landscapes of Big Sur offers a remarkable contrast that showcases California's diverse beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Big Sur

Big Sur features stunning neighborhoods that blend nature with charm.

Carmel Highlands
• Breathtaking coastal views throughout the area.
• Upscale dining options and boutique shopping nearby.
Big Sur Village
• Offers a variety of cozy accommodations.
• Central access to top hiking trails and attractions.
Gorda
• Remote and secluded atmosphere for relaxation.
• Stunning cliffs perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Best Times To Visit Big Sur's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your Big Sur experience.

Pfeiffer Beach
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning sunset views.
McWay Falls
Weekdays in the fall offer a quieter atmosphere and vibrant fall colors.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Arrive during weekday mornings to enjoy peaceful trails and wildlife sightings.

Big Sur Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Big Sur enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with coastal temperatures rarely reaching extremes, making it inviting year-round. Visiting in the late spring and early fall offers sunny days without the summer crowds, while winter can bring rain, affecting hiking options but providing a lush landscape.

Dining Recommendation

For a true Big Sur experience, try the wood-fired pizza at Nepenthe, where the stunning views of the coastline enhances the rustic charm of the meal. This dining experience celebrates fresh, local ingredients in a relaxed setting, offering a distinctly different vibe from San Francisco's bustling culinary scene.

San Francisco - Big Sur operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$11-50
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$9-12
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2-70
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from SFO Airport International Arrivals to Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$50-60
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 831-424-1234
Website
yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Salinas Train Station to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$140-180
Contact phone
+1 831-422-7276

Taxi from Salinas Train Station to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$140-180
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$190-420

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Big Sur 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.

🚗 Drive along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Big Sur, covering a distance of 141 miles in just under 3 hours. Enjoy picturesque coastal views and breathtaking cliffs as you make your way south. 💰 Prices for the road trip to Big Sur from San Francisco range from $25 to $40, offering an affordable yet scenic journey through some of California's most iconic landscapes. Plan your budget accordingly and prepare for an unforgettable driving experience.
Average price
$25 - $40
Useful tips for train travellers
• When traveling from San Francisco to Big Sur, check the services offered by Amtrak's Coast Starlight route. Onboard catering includes a café car that offers a variety of snack items, hot meals, and beverages, including local wines. Make sure to bring your appetite and explore their menu options to enjoy a scenic meal as you travel along the coast.
• Amtrak's Coast Starlight offers different seating options: Economy Class for budget travelers; Business Class with wider seating and complimentary beverages; and First Class, which includes enhanced amenities like premium meals and more spacious seating. If you’re looking for comfort, choose Business Class where you can enjoy both comfort and additional perks without breaking the bank.
• The main operators for this route are Amtrak and Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST). For scheduling and fare details, visit Amtrak's website at amtrak.com and MST’s site at mst.org Additionally, check out the local transportation options available to get to various attractions in Big Sur after you arrive.
🛫 Flying from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport is a quick and convenient option for reaching Big Sur. The direct flight with United Airlines only takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. 🚗 Once you land in Monterey, it's a scenic 3-hour and 27-minute drive to reach the beautiful coastal destination of Big Sur. Enjoy breathtaking views along Highway 1 as you make your way south. 💸 Flight prices between Big Sur and San Francisco can range from $243 to $540, so it's worth checking for deals and booking in advance to secure the best fare for your trip.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Big Sur.

Or choose the category:
The distance between San Francisco and Big Sur is approximately 110 miles or 141.2 miles by car. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By bus and taxi, it takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes, by plane it takes approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes, and by ferry it takes around 5 hours and 14 minutes. If driving from Big Sur to San Francisco, it takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to Big Sur is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, with costs ranging from $25 to $40. This allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace and enjoy the scenic coastal drive. Other modes of transportation such as buses, taxis, planes, and ferries may take longer or be more expensive in comparison.
The prices for traveling from San Francisco to Big Sur vary depending on the mode of transportation. If you choose to take a ferry, the prices can range from $130 to $168 per person. However, if you decide to drive, there are no toll fees or additional charges, but you would need to consider the cost of gas. Taking into account the distance and the mode of transportation, it's important to consider your budget and preferences when planning your trip from San Francisco to Big Sur.
To travel from San Francisco to Big Sur without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 141 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes. The prices for a car rental vary but can range from $25 to $40. It is a scenic drive along the coastal Highway 1, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to Big Sur without a car is by taking a bus and then a taxi. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes. The cost of this route ranges from $150 to $230. It is a convenient and hassle-free option for those who do not have their own transportation.
The flight between San Francisco and Big Sur typically takes around 52 minutes. The price for a flight between the two locations can range from $253 to $540. However, it is important to note that there are no airports in Big Sur itself, and the nearest airport is Monterey Airport, which is about an hour's drive away.
There are several accommodation options near Big Sur. There are at least 11 hotels available in the area, offering a range of prices starting from $119. These hotels offer a comfortable stay and are conveniently located near the stunning Big Sur coastline and its attractions. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotel options to suit their preferences and budget while enjoying the beauty of Big Sur.

Trips from San Francisco