- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$26
Average price
$26
Fastest journey
1 h 15 m
Average duration
1 h 15 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
125 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Costa Mesa, CA for San Diego, CA on Tue, Aug 04, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct buses cover the 125 km distance in an average of 1 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest buses will take 1 h 15 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.
3:30 AM1h15Costa Mesa, CA4:45 AMSan Diego, CA$261One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 AM1h15Costa Mesa, CA4:45 AMSan Diego, CA$261One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 33 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
There are 32 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 77 miles (125 km) distance in 1h 15m.
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 77 miles (125 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Buses per day 33 |
Direct buses 32 |
Fastest bus 1h 15m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 04:45AM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 06:24AM | Arrival Time 08:04AM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 06:29AM | Arrival Time 08:04AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 08:39AM | Arrival Time 10:19AM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 08:44AM | Arrival Time 10:19AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 10:39AM | Arrival Time 12:49PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 10:44AM | Arrival Time 11:49AM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 02:39PM | Arrival Time 03:49PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 02:44PM | Arrival Time 04:19PM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 05:09PM | Arrival Time 07:19PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 05:14PM | Arrival Time 06:49PM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 07:09PM | Arrival Time 08:49PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 07:14PM | Arrival Time 09:19PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 09:09PM | Arrival Time 10:49PM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Futura Net | Departure Time 09:14PM | Arrival Time 10:19PM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 1h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Live departures
Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:05 AM Costa Mesa, CA | 1h45 | 6:50 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 PM Costa Mesa, CA | 1h30 | 9:40 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, August 3 | |||||
| 3:30 AM Costa Mesa, CA | 1h15 | 4:45 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound or OCTA offer buses services from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound or OCTA to find the best option for your trip from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound or OCTA to find the best option for your trip from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound, OCTA from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Greyhound, OCTA for as low as $16 (€13). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 15m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
FlixBus frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Greyhound frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
OCTA
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 26m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
OCTA frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range 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 or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
FAQs: Bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is $23 (€19) ; 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 Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA is 1h 15m to travel the 77 miles (125 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 Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 32 direct buses a day from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound, OCTA for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Costa Mesa, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Costa Mesa, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
- 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 FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA:
- 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 Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA
Most Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the to San Diego station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. Use this guide to compare Costa Mesa, CA and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Costa Mesa
Arrival bus stations in San Diego
San Diego
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego from San Diego city centre
Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre
BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $2
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre
BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min
Most popular bus connections from Costa Mesa, CA
More options for your journey from Costa Mesa, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Costa Mesa, CA
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