San Francisco, CA, USA to Costa Mesa, CA, USA from $35: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Francisco to Costa Mesa: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$35 by busBest price

681 kmDistance

3h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa

Embarking on a journey from San Francisco to Costa Mesa opens the door to a delightful contrast, where the vibrant city life and iconic architecture of the Bay Area meets the laid-back beaches and artistic vibe of Southern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa boasts vibrant neighborhoods rich in culture and activities.

The Triangle

• Home to eclectic shops and eateries.

• Frequent host for local events and live music.

Eastside Costa Mesa

• Known for its charming residential streets.

• Features trendy coffee shops and art galleries.

South Coast Metro

• Major shopping and dining hub.

• Venue for performing arts and upscale entertainment.

Best Times To Visit Costa Mesa's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Costa Mesa by timing your visits strategically.

South Coast Plaza

Visit during weekdays, especially in the morning, for a quieter shopping experience.

OC Fair & Event Center

Plan your visit on weekdays during the fair for fewer crowds and more enjoyment.

The Camp

Explore on weekdays or early in the day to enjoy the unique shops without the rush.

Costa Mesa Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Costa Mesa enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in spring or fall provides comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Costa Mesa

For a taste of something decidedly different from San Francisco, try the tacos at Taco María, where traditional Mexican flavors meet local California ingredients in a vibrant atmosphere. This culinary experience offers a more casual yet expertly crafted take on food, contrasting with the farm-to-table elegance typical of the Bay Area.

San Francisco - Costa Mesa operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center

Average Duration

10h 25m

Estimated price

$45-2450

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from San Francisco Bus Station to Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center

Average Duration

8h 45m

Estimated price

$35-120

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

http://www.caltrain.com

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

Average Duration

1h 41m

Estimated price

$1202-1203

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/

Train from Oakland to Los Angeles

Average Duration

12h 2m

Estimated price

$1205-2458

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Ana

Average Duration

50m

Estimated price

$1207-3565

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

http://www.bart.gov

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Coliseum

Average Duration

25m

Estimated price

$354-355

Train from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$356-357

Plane Show flights

Website

https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Oakland Airport to Long Beach Airport

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$2458-2459

Plane from Oakland Airport to Santa Ana

Average Duration

1h 28m

Estimated price

$4510-450

Website

https://www.alaskaair.com/

Plane from San Francisco to Santa Ana

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$2450-4518

Website

https://www.united.com/

Plane from San Francisco to Santa Ana

Average Duration

1h 42m

Estimated price

$4519-350

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

Traveling between San Francisco and Costa Mesa 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 exciting road trip from San Francisco to Costa Mesa, covering a picturesque distance of 423 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes and scenic views as you cruise down the California coast. 💰 Experience the flexibility of varied pricing options ranging from $75 to $120 for the journey by car from San Francisco to Costa Mesa. Plan ahead to secure the best deal and budget for any additional travel expenses along the way. 🛣️ Set out on a memorable 7-hour drive through beautiful towns and cities, immersing yourself in the charm of the California highways. Take breaks, enjoy local delicacies, and create lasting memories on this unforgettable road trip adventure.

Average price

$75 - $120

🚆 Traveling from San Francisco to Costa Mesa by train offers a scenic journey that takes approximately 15 hours and 32 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between these two cities range from $58 to $283, providing options for different budgets and preferences.

🛫 Flying from San Francisco to Costa Mesa involves a quick flight from Oakland Airport to Long Beach Airport, with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 25 minutes via Southwest Airlines. 🌴 Once you land in Long Beach, it's just a short flight of 3 hours and 26 minutes to reach the vibrant city of Costa Mesa, making it a convenient and efficient journey for travelers. 💰 The prices for flights between Costa Mesa and San Francisco can range from $245 to $451, allowing travelers to find a suitable option within their budget for this domestic trip.

Departure Point

Oakland Airport

Arrival Point

Long Beach Airport

🚌 The bus journey from San Francisco to Costa Mesa involves transfers at various stations, including Artic - Dock 5 and Harbor-Katella. The total travel time, with transfers, typically lasts around 12 hours and 6 minutes. 🚌 Greyhound USA operates the bus services between San Francisco and Costa Mesa, with departures from San Francisco Bus Station and arrivals at Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center station. The total duration of the bus ride usually amounts to 10 hours and 26 minutes. 🚌 The cost of a bus ticket between Costa Mesa and San Francisco ranges from $35 to $120, offering travelers an affordable and convenient option for transportation between these two cities in California.

Departure Point

San Francisco Bus Station

Arrival Point

Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Francisco to Costa Mesa.

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The distance between San Francisco and Costa Mesa is approximately 383 miles by air and 423 miles by road. Traveling by train from San Francisco to Costa Mesa takes about 15 hours and 32 minutes. By car, the journey takes approximately 7 hours and 1 minute, and by bus, it takes about 10 hours and 21 minutes. The fastest mode of transportation is by plane, which takes about 3 hours and 21 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Costa Mesa is to take a night bus, which can cost between $35 to $120 and takes approximately 10 hours and 21 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option would be to take the BART and fly, which typically costs between $210 to $550 and takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes. Both options provide affordable and time-efficient transportation for this route.

The prices for a train ticket between San Francisco and Costa Mesa can range from $58 to $283. Similarly, the cost of a bus ticket between Costa Mesa and San Francisco can vary from $35 to $120. It's important to check with the specific train or bus operator for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

To travel from San Francisco to Costa Mesa without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 423 miles. The journey typically takes around 7 hours and 1 minute, depending on traffic conditions. It's important to note that the cost of driving can vary between $75 to $120, considering factors such as gas prices and toll fees.

To travel from San Francisco to Costa Mesa without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 12 hours and 6 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $45 to $110. This is a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for those who do not have access to a car.

No, there is no direct link between San Francisco and Costa Mesa. However, there are bus services operated by Greyhound USA that can take you from San Francisco to Costa Mesa with transfers. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 12 hours and 6 minutes. The buses depart from San Francisco Bus Station and arrive at the Anaheim Bus Stop.

The flight between San Francisco and Costa Mesa typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $215 to $541.

There are plenty of options for accommodations near Costa Mesa. With over 718 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices start at $69, making it affordable for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, you will find a wide range of choices for your stay near Costa Mesa.