- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
Orange County’s leading contemporary art museum, presenting rotating exhibitions and acclaimed modern artists near UC Irvine.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 26
Cheapest price on Sep 26
$17
Average ticket price on Sep 26
$20
Fastest journey on Sep 26
1 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 26
1 h 18 m
Buses on Sep 26
2
Distance
72 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around $20 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 26, we found 2 buses from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 26 the direct buses cover the 72 km distance in an average of 1 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .
On Sat, Sep 26 the slowest buses will take 1 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
3:20 AM1h15Carlsbad, CA4:35 AMIrvine, CA$171One-way0 transfers
8:25 PM1h20Carlsbad, CA9:45 PMIrvine, CA$231One-way0 transfers
- 3:20 AM1h15Carlsbad, CA4:35 AMIrvine, CA$171One-way0 transfers
- 8:25 PM1h20Carlsbad, CA9:45 PMIrvine, CA$231One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $20 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 1h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $20, while a bus costs an average of $34.
Distance: 44 miles (72 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$34 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $19 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 11m Average total duration Fastest 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 23m Average total duration 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA is a train with an average price of $20.
This is compared to other travel options from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA:
A train is $14 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average $34.
The fastest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 41m.
Other travel options to Irvine, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlsbad, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the quicker way to make this trip, and the time saved usually justifies the slightly higher cost.
You'll arrive about 10m sooner (41m by bus vs 51m by car). Tickets start at around $34 compared to roughly $19 in fuel and tolls — a bit more, but you're getting time back, skipping traffic and parking, and you can work or rest on board.
Direct coaches are operated by Infobus, Greyhound, Futura Net, FlixBus.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel splits across several people), want flexibility on timing, or plan to stop en route.
Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 04:35AM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $12 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 09:33AM | Duration 0h43 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 11:33AM | Duration 0h43 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 01:33PM | Duration 0h43 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 05:33PM | Duration 0h43 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 07:33PM | Duration 0h43 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 08:50PM | Arrival Time 09:33PM | Duration 0h43 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Live departures
Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 0 | 8:50 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h43 | 9:33 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 10:50 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h43 | 11:33 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 12:50 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h43 | 1:33 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 4:50 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h43 | 5:33 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 6:50 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h43 | 7:33 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:50 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h43 | 9:33 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA buses with Omio?
Infobus as well as Greyhound, Futura Net, FlixBus and more offer buses services from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Infobus tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Infobus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Infobus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound, Futura Net or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Infobus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA.
Why book with Omio over Busbud or Checkmybus?
- Official reseller: Infobus tickets can only be bought on Omio or Infobus's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Infobus tickets. Busbud or Checkmybus do not sell Infobus tickets as they are not official sellers.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:15, the last at 22:05. The fastest bus covers the 44 miles (72 km) distance in 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 44 miles (72 km) |
Average bus duration 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 35m |
First bus 6:15 AM |
Last bus 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Complete guide to Irvine, CA
Things to do in Irvine, CA
Discover the best of Irvine, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine, CA trip today.
- Recommended
University Art Gallery at UC Irvine
University art museum featuring exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, with thought-provoking programs and free admission.
- Recommended
Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Historic farm site with interpretive exhibits, original structures, and programs that bring Orange County’s agricultural past to life.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Major civic park with trails, sports areas, art spaces, and the iconic balloon, popular with both visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Irvine Spectrum Center
Lakeside shopping and entertainment district with landscaped plazas and a lively pedestrian setting day and night.
- Recommended
Aldrich Park
Circular park at the heart of UC Irvine with mature trees and paths, ideal for walking, picnics, and campus atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a Southern California staple: battered or grilled fish in corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and salsa. They reflect the region’s Baja and coastal influence.
California Roll
California rolls were popularized in Southern California sushi culture. Crab, avocado, and cucumber make them approachable and iconic to the region’s Japanese influence.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a modern California café classic. Fresh avocado on artisan bread showcases the state’s produce culture and everyday brunch habits.
Habuya Okinawan Dining
Established Japanese restaurant in Diamond Jamboree known for quality sushi, izakaya dishes, and a polished yet comfortable setting.
North Italia
Well-known upscale-casual venue serving seasonal Californian cuisine. Stylish room and dependable service make it a strong fine dining option.
85C Bakery Cafe
Highly regarded Taiwanese bakery café famous for sea salt coffee, breads, and desserts. Casual, busy, and representative of Irvine’s café culture.
US Dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is limited, so visitors often need taxis or rental cars, raising daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA can start from as little as $18 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA is $34 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA is 35m to travel the 44 miles (72 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 6:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 10:05 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA with Infobus, Greyhound, Futura Net, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA, you can count on Infobus, Greyhound, Futura Net, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Irvine, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Carlsbad, CA and Irvine, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Irvine, CA from Carlsbad, CA is worth doing with a journey time of 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlsbad, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA for bus company Infobus, Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Irvine, CA are:
- Orange County Great Park, a large public park offering sports facilities, a carousel, and a giant helium balloon ride for panoramic views
- Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options including a Ferris wheel
- Bommer Canyon, a nature preserve with hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding hills
- Pretend City Children's Museum, an interactive museum designed for children to explore and learn through play
- Irvine Museum, a museum dedicated to the preservation and display of California Impressionist art.
The best things to do in Irvine, CA include:
- Tanaka Farms, a family-friendly farm offering seasonal tours and fresh produce picking
- Irvine Barclay Theatre, a venue offering a variety of performances including music, dance, and theater
- San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, a peaceful place for bird watching and enjoying nature
- K1 Speed, an indoor go-kart racing track for thrill-seekers
- William R. Mason Regional Park, a large park with picnic areas, walking trails, and a lake for paddle boating.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Infobus, Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: Infobus, Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: Infobus, Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: Infobus, Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Carlsbad, CA nor Irvine, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA
Most Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA buses use the Carlsbad to Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr) station pair. Use this guide to compare Carlsbad, CA and Irvine, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Carlsbad
Arrival bus stations in Irvine
Which Carlsbad, CA station do buses to Irvine, CA leave from?
Buses from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA leave from Carlsbad. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Carlsbad, CA city centre at Carlsbad, CA, USA.
CarlsbadCarlsbad, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Carlsbad from Carlsbad city centre
Carlsbad is 1 km from Carlsbad city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Carlsbad bus station facilities and services
Carlsbad has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carlsbad. ATMs are available at Carlsbad.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carlsbad.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carlsbad: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carlsbad: Ramps available for wheelchairs.
Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr)Crawford Hall, 903 W Peltason Dr, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr) from Irvine city centre
Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr) is 3 km from Irvine city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr) bus station facilities and services
Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr). ATMs are available at Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Irvine, UCI Crawford Hall (West Peltason Dr): Accessible to persons with disabilities.
Most popular bus connections from Carlsbad, CA
More options for your journey from Carlsbad, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Irvine, CA and Carlsbad, CA
Most popular bus connections to Irvine, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
