San Francisco to San Simeon

from $35: ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to San Simeon 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.

Train, Taxi

6h 52m

$127-247

Drive

4h 5m

Fastest

$35-55

Bus

9h 30m

Cheapest

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Traveling From San Francisco to San Simeon

The journey from San Francisco to San Simeon takes you from a bustling urban landscape filled with iconic landmarks to a serene coastal retreat, offering a striking contrast between vibrant city life and tranquil seaside charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Simeon

San Simeon offers charming neighborhoods with diverse attractions and activities.

Main Street

• Vibrant shops and eateries line the street.

• Close proximity to Hearst Castle attractions.

Cavalier Cove

• Scenic ocean views and beachfront access.

• Ideal for a peaceful retreat near nature.

San Simeon State Park

• Great for hiking and exploring coastal trails.

• Rich wildlife viewing opportunities in natural settings.

Best Times To Visit San Simeon's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in San Simeon.

Hearst Castle

Aim for early morning tours to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

San Simeon State Park

Visit during weekdays for a quiet hike and peaceful wildlife encounters.

Elephant Seal Vista Point

Late winter and early spring offer prime viewing of elephant seal pups.

San Simeon Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Simeon enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Visiting during spring or fall often provides pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Simeon

For a true taste of San Simeon, indulge in the fresh clam chowder at the historic Sebastian's Restaurant, where local seafood takes center stage in a cozy, rustic setting. This experience contrasts sharply with the diverse culinary scene in San Francisco, offering a simpler menu that highlights the rich flavors of the Central Coast, all while you savor stunning ocean views.

How to Get from San Francisco to San Simeon: 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.

$35 - OtherBest price

338 kmDistance

4h 5mFastest

San Francisco - San Simeon operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco and San Simeon, with prices starting at $35. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon Caltrain

Average Duration

1h 41m

Estimated price

$2-3

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Paso Robles Amtrak Station

Average Duration

3h 31m

Estimated price

$4-705

Bus

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Oakland to San Luis Obispo Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

5h 45m

Estimated price

$0-0

Website

https://www.slorta.org

Bus from Harbor St at Piney Way entering Morro Bay Park to Castillo Drive at Otter Way NB

Average Duration

44m

Estimated price

$1-2

Taxi

Website

Taxi from Paso Robles Amtrak Station to San Simeon

Average Duration

40m

Estimated price

$12750-35140

Plane

Website

united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

$1276-1277

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Fresno Airport

Average Duration

1h 9m

Estimated price

$1276-1278

Plane from San Francisco Airport to San Luis Obispo County Apt

Average Duration

1h 16m

Estimated price

$1279-12730

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Bakersfield Airport

Average Duration

1h 16m

Estimated price

$1279-550

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

Traveling between San Francisco and San Simeon 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.

🚗 Discover the scenic beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway as you embark on a 210-mile road trip from San Francisco to San Simeon. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and charming small towns along the way. 🌊 Make a pit stop at iconic spots like Monterey and Big Sur to appreciate the rugged coastline and maybe catch a glimpse of playful sea otters or majestic whales. The journey takes around 4 hours and offers a perfect balance of drive time and sightseeing opportunities. 🏰 Arrive in San Simeon, home to the magnificent Hearst Castle, after a picturesque drive and soak in the rich history and stunning architecture of this landmark. With car travel costs ranging from $35 to $55, this road trip promises a delightful mix of adventure and relaxation.

Average price

$35 - $55

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Francisco to San Simeon with two transfers along the way. Enjoy the roughly 10-hour trip covering a distance of 251 miles.

🛫 Begin your adventure from San Francisco Airport with a smooth and quick direct flight to Monterey Airport, only lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes. Choose United Airlines for a convenient and comfortable journey to your destination.

Departure Point

San Francisco Airport

Arrival Point

Monterey Airport

🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from San Francisco to San Simeon, taking approximately 9 and a half hours by bus. Enjoy the 254-mile route with 2 transfers along the way.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and San Simeon is 166 miles or 209.8 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 6 hours and 51 minutes by taking Caltrain, then a train, and finally a taxi. By car, the travel time is approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. If taking a bus, the travel time is around 8 hours and 33 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Francisco to San Simeon is to drive. It takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes to drive the 166 miles between the two cities, and the cost is estimated to be around $35-$55 for fuel. Taking public transportation, such as using Caltrain, train, and taxi, can take significantly longer, with a travel time of 6 hours and 51 minutes. Overall, driving offers the quickest and most affordable means of transportation from San Francisco to San Simeon.

To travel from San Francisco to San Simeon without using public transportation, you can opt for a car rental or drive your own vehicle. The driving distance is approximately 210 miles, and the journey takes around 4 hours and 5 minutes. Car rental prices range from $35 to $55, depending on the type of vehicle and company you choose. This option allows you the freedom to explore the beautiful coastal scenery along the way at your own pace.

To travel from San Francisco to San Simeon without a car, you can take the Caltrain and train combination followed by a taxi. This journey takes approximately 6 hours and 51 minutes, and the cost varies between $120 and $250. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while avoiding the stress of driving.

There is no direct link between San Francisco and San Simeon by bus. However, there are bus services available. The journey includes transfers and takes approximately 8 hours and 33 minutes. The bus services are operated by Amtrak and San Luis Obispo RTA, and they depart from San Francisco station and arrive at Castillo Drive at Otter Way NB station in San Simeon.

The flight between San Francisco and San Simeon typically takes 1 hour and 5 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300. It is recommended to check with airlines or online travel agencies for specific pricing and options.

There are plenty of options for accommodations near San Simeon. With over 49 hotels available, travelers have a range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at $43 per night, offering affordable options for those on a budget. Whether you're looking for a beachfront property or a cozy inn, there are plenty of choices to choose from near San Simeon.

San Francisco to San Simeon

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

San Francisco - San Simeon operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to San Simeon

Popular routes