San Rafael, CA, USA to Los Angeles, CA, USA from $26: 12 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from San Rafael to Los Angeles: 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.

$26 by trainBest price

586 kmDistance

4h 39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Rafael to Los Angeles 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From San Rafael to Los Angeles

Traveling from San Rafael to Los Angeles offers a striking contrast between the serene beauty of Marin County's lush landscapes and the vibrant urban energy of a bustling city filled with entertainment and cultural diversity.

Best Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Hollywood

• Iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

• Thriving nightlife with countless entertainment options.

Santa Monica

• Beautiful beaches and stunning ocean views.

• Vibrant shopping at Third Street Promenade.

Downtown LA

• A hub for arts, dining, and culture.

• Features historic architecture and modern skyscrapers.

Best Times To Visit Los Angeles's Attractions

Planning your visits to Los Angeles attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Griffith Observatory

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning views.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons, offer a more relaxed experience.

The Getty Center

Go on weekdays to enjoy art and gardens without the weekend rush.

Los Angeles Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Los Angeles boasts a Mediterranean climate characterized by sunny days and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. While spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, be prepared for the occasional heat wave in summer and occasional rain in winter.

Dining Recommendation in Los Angeles

For a true taste of LA, try the Korean BBQ at Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong, where the lively atmosphere and interactive grilling elevate your meal into a social experience. This vibrant culinary scene contrasts with the more laid-back, farm-to-table offerings in San Rafael, showcasing bold flavors and diverse local ingredients.

San Rafael - Los Angeles operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Rafael and Los Angeles, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 24m

Estimated price

$262-263

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

$264-265

Website

united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$2404-265

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$2401-474

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 32m

Estimated price

$2405-2406

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

$2874-28710

Website

delta.com

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 27m

Estimated price

$2872-2407

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 32m

Estimated price

$262-2406

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Oakland to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration

8h 35m

Estimated price

$260-261

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Oakland to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration

9h 20m

Estimated price

$2877-2872

Bus from El Cerrito del Norte BART to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration

9h 10m

Estimated price

$2873-2401

Website

ridelbt.com

Bus from Del Amo & Lakewood Nw to Del Amo Station

Average Duration

17m

Estimated price

803-0

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Richmond to Bakersfield

Average Duration

6h 2m

Estimated price

$8042-2874

Train from Oakland to Los Angeles

Average Duration

12h 2m

Estimated price

$8049-80470

Contact phone

+1-323-466-3876

Website

metro.net

Train from Del Amo Station to Historic Broadway Station

Average Duration

45m

Estimated price

803-0

Contact phone

(800) 371-LINK (5465)

Website

metrolinktrains.com

Train from Rancho Cucamonga station to L. A. Union Station

Average Duration

1h 17m

Estimated price

$806-26

Subway

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Subway from El Cerrito Del Norte to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 14m

Estimated price

$805-8040

San Rafael to Los Angeles: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between San Rafael and Los Angeles 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 scenic road trip from San Rafael to Los Angeles covering 394 miles of diverse landscapes, from coastal views to sprawling cities. The journey offers a mix of relaxation and excitement behind the wheel. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with car travel costs ranging between $70 to $110, making the trip an affordable and convenient way to experience the beauty of the California coast. From gas stations to roadside diners, there are plenty of opportunities to make memorable pit stops along the route. 🏖️ Arrive in vibrant Los Angeles after approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the city's iconic attractions, from Hollywood to the beaches. The journey by car promises a blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for those seeking a memorable West Coast experience.

Average price

$70 - $110

🚆 Departing from San Rafael the train journey to Los Angeles takes approximately 14 hours and 59 minutes, offering passengers a scenic route through the beautiful California landscapes. 💵 Prices for a train ticket between San Rafael and Los Angeles can range from $26 to $240, depending on the class of service and time of booking, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to travel within the state.

🛫 For a quick and convenient journey from San Rafael to Los Angeles, consider taking a direct flight from Oakland Airport to Los Angeles Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Los Angeles and San Rafael can range from $47 to $287, offering budget-friendly options for those looking to explore the vibrant city of Los Angeles from the San Rafael area.

Departure Point

Oakland Airport

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Airport

🚌 Traveling from San Rafael to Los Angeles by bus is a convenient option, although there is no direct route available. The journey involves transfers in Oakland and takes approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes. 🚌 Ticket prices for the bus trip between San Rafael and Los Angeles typically range from $32 to $138, offering budget-friendly travel options for those looking to explore California by road. Make sure to check the schedule and plan your journey accordingly.

Departure Point

Oakland station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Union Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Rafael to Los Angeles.

Or choose the category:

The distance between San Rafael and Los Angeles is approximately 364 miles or 393.5 miles by car. Typically, it takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes to fly from San Rafael to Los Angeles, or 6 hours and 29 minutes by car. If you prefer train travel, it takes approximately 15 hours to reach Los Angeles from San Rafael. However, taking a bus would take the longest, with an approximate travel time of 11 hours.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Rafael to Los Angeles is by taking the bus via San Francisco. This option can cost between $40 and $140 and takes approximately 11 hours. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option would be to fly and then take a tram. This option can cost between $50 and $290 and takes around 4 hours and 35 minutes. Consider your budget and time constraints when choosing the best mode of transport for your journey.

The prices for a train ticket from San Rafael to Los Angeles range from $26 to $240, depending on the class and type of ticket chosen. Alternatively, the prices for a bus ticket from Los Angeles to San Rafael range from $42 to $128, depending on the bus company and the type of ticket selected. It is recommended to check the specific prices and availability with the respective train or bus service providers before making a booking.

To get from San Rafael to Los Angeles without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance is approximately 394 miles and it takes around 6 hours and 29 minutes to complete the journey. The cost of gas for this trip ranges from $70 to $110, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

If you do not have a car, there are several options available to travel from San Rafael to Los Angeles. The best way is to take a bus, which takes approximately 11 hours and costs between $40 and $130. Another option is to fly, with a travel time of 4 hours and 46 minutes and costs ranging from $80 to $440. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes approximately 15 hours and costs between $25 and $240.

Yes, there is a direct link between San Rafael and Los Angeles. However, there is no direct bus service between the two cities. The journey can be made by taking a bus from San Rafael to the San Francisco Bus Station and then transferring to another bus that goes to Los Angeles Union Station. This journey takes approximately 11 hours. Alternatively, other modes of transportation such as driving, taking a train, or flying may offer more convenient and faster travel options between San Rafael and Los Angeles.

The flight from San Rafael to Los Angeles typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. However, flight prices can vary and range between $80 and $433. It is best to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

There are numerous options for accommodations near Los Angeles. With over 1604 hotels available, there is a wide range of choices to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $87 per night, making it possible to find affordable options as well. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly motels, Los Angeles offers a diverse selection of places to stay for visitors.