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Sunnyvale, CA, USA to Big Sur, CA, USA from $18: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Sunnyvale, United States of America
to
Big Sur, United States of America

How to Get from Sunnyvale 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.

$18 - OtherBest price
164 kmDistance
2h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sunnyvale 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
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  39m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$87-147
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 164 km
Duration: 2h 3m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  10m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  3m
Estimated price
$18-27
Company
Amtrak
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$146-255
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  1m
Estimated price
$249-547
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sunnyvale to Big Sur

The journey from Sunnyvale brings you from the bustling tech hub of Silicon Valley to the breathtaking coastal cliffs and natural beauty of Big Sur, offering a stark contrast between urban life and serene landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Big Sur

Big Sur features neighborhoods that showcase its stunning natural beauty and charm.

Carmel Highlands
• Offers breathtaking ocean views from cliffside homes.
• Close proximity to scenic hiking trails.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
• Known for its towering redwoods and beautiful waterfalls.
• Ideal spot for camping and nature enthusiasts.
Gorda
• A tranquil retreat with stunning coastal views.
• Perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Best Times To Visit Big Sur's Attractions

Planning your visit to Big Sur can enhance your experience of its stunning attractions.

Pfeiffer Beach
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for quieter reflections and stunning light.
Bixby Creek Bridge
Early mornings on weekdays offer a peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Spring showcases vibrant wildflowers, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Big Sur Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Big Sur enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making spring and fall the best times to experience the area with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. However, weather changes can impact outdoor activities, so being prepared for coastal fog and occasional rain is essential for enjoying your visit.

Dining in Big Sur

A visit to Big Sur wouldn’t be complete without trying the signature dish at Nepenthe, where you can savor a hearty, locally sourced burger while overlooking the stunning coastline. Unlike Sunnyvale's tech-influenced dining scene, Big Sur offers an immersive experience with fresh ingredients and breathtaking views that elevate every meal into a memorable occasion.

Sunnyvale - Big Sur operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from San Jose to Salinas Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
http://www.vta.org

Bus from Sunnyvale-Saratoga & El Camino to San Carlos & Convention Center

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from El Camino & Sunnyvale-Saratoga to Santa Clara & 1st

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Jose Downtown to Salinas Train Station

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
1-888-678-2871
Website
https://www.mst.org

Bus from Salinas Transit Center / Gate 7 to Monterey Transit Plaza / Gate 4 Tyler

Average Duration
53m
Estimated price
0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Salinas

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$872-873
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from Sunnyvale Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$1474-1475
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 831-424-1234
Website
http://yellowcab1234.com

Taxi from Salinas Amtrak Station to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$8770-180
Contact phone
+1 831-422-7276

Taxi from Salinas Amtrak Station to Big Sur

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$8770-180
Plane Show flights
Website
http://united.com

Plane from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$870-871

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

Traveling between Sunnyvale 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque drive from Sunnyvale to Big Sur, covering a scenic distance of 102 miles. The journey promises around 2 hours and 3 minutes of beautiful views along the way. 🌲 Explore the diverse landscapes as you traverse towards Big Sur, with driving costs ranging from $18 to $27. Witness the changing scenery unfolding before your eyes, from coastal highways to lush forests.
Average price
$18 - $27
🛫 Experience a convenient and efficient journey from Sunnyvale to Big Sur by taking a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to Monterey Airport with United Airlines, lasting just 1 hour and 15 minutes. 🏞️ Upon landing in Monterey, you can enjoy a picturesque drive that takes approximately 2 hours to reach the stunning coastal destination of Big Sur, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean along the way. 💸 Prices for flights between Big Sur and Sunnyvale typically range from $249 to $547, providing flexibility to choose a fare that suits your budget for this memorable travel experience.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
Monterey Airport
🚌 Departing from Sunnyvale you can enjoy a scenic bus ride to Big Sur that takes approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes. 🎟️ The prices of the bus tickets between Big Sur and Sunnyvale typically range from $87 to $147, making it an affordable option for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Sunnyvale to Big Sur.

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The distance between Sunnyvale and Big Sur is 77 miles, while the road distance is 102 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. For example, it takes approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes to reach Big Sur from Sunnyvale by first taking a bus and then a taxi. Alternatively, flying between the two locations takes around 4 hours and 1 minute. Driving from Big Sur to Sunnyvale directly by car typically takes about 2 hours and 3 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Sunnyvale to Big Sur is by driving, which takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes and costs between $18 to $27. Driving offers the best balance of affordability and speed compared to other modes of transportation available for this route. Additionally, driving allows for flexibility in terms of exploring various sights and attractions along the way, making it a convenient choice for travelers heading to Big Sur from Sunnyvale.
When traveling between Sunnyvale and Big Sur the prices for a bus ride typically range from $87 to $147. The cost may vary based on factors such as the time of booking, type of service, and any available discounts. It's advisable to check with the bus company or booking platform for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information before planning your trip. Additionally, considering alternative modes of transportation like driving or flying could provide different cost options for your journey.
To travel from Sunnyvale to Big Sur without using public transportation, you can drive the 102-mile distance which takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes. The cost of driving from Sunnyvale to Big Sur can range between $18 to $27 depending on factors like fuel efficiency and toll fees. This option allows you to have flexibility in your travel schedule and the freedom to explore at your own pace while enjoying the scenic drive along the coast towards Big Sur.
The best way to travel from Sunnyvale to Big Sur without a car is by taking a bus and then a taxi, which typically takes around 3 hours and 39 minutes. The cost of this option would also be more budget-friendly compared to flying or alternative modes of transportation. Taking the bus is a convenient and scenic way to reach Big Sur, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey without the stress of driving.
The quickest direct flight between San Francisco Airport and Monterey Airport, the closest airport to Big Sur, takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of a flight between Sunnyvale and Big Sur typically ranges from $249 to $547, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It's advisable to compare prices across different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals for your travel between Sunnyvale and Big Sur.
There are 11+ hotels in Big Sur offering accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury stays with prices starting at $119 per night. Some popular options for places to stay near Big Sur include the iconic Post Ranch Inn, Ventana Big Sur, and Big Sur River Inn. Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodations including cozy cabins, upscale resorts, and charming bed and breakfasts to suit their preferences and budget. It is recommended to book in advance due to the popularity of Big Sur as a travel destination.