- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major contemporary art museum with an outstanding modern and contemporary collection, large-scale installations, and strong photography holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$139
Average price
$139
Fastest journey
12 h 37 m
Average duration
12 h 37 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
702 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $139.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least once.
6:38 PM12h37Encinitas, CA7:15 AMSan Francisco, CA$1391One-way1 transfer
- 6:38 PM12h37Encinitas, CA7:15 AMSan Francisco, CA$1391One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $70. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, and a flight costs an average of $218.
Distance: 436 miles (702 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$71 Average price Cheapest | $79 Average price | $279 Average price | $97 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 10m Average total duration 10h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 15m Average total duration 12h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 6m Average total duration Fastest 4h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $8 (€6) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $79 (€64).
A bus is $208 (€170) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $279 (€228).
The fastest way to travel from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 6m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 40m.
Train takes on average 12h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Encinitas, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $71 (€58) compared to roughly $97 (€80) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€22). The journey takes 10h 40m versus 7h 47m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 05:40AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator North County Transit | Departure Time 06:38PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 12h37 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $139 |
Operator North County Transit | Departure Time 07:14PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 12h01 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $139 |
Live departures
Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:38 PM Encinitas, CA | 12h37 | 7:15 AM San Francisco, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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.
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Why should you book Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as North County Transit offer buses services from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, 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 North County Transit to find the best option for your trip from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 10h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 (€58) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:55, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 436 miles (702 km) distance in 13h 0m.
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 436 miles (702 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€58) |
Buses per day 21 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 13h 0m |
First bus 4:55 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Bus providers: FlixBus, North County Transit from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA with FlixBus, North County Transit for as low as $70 (€58). 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
FlixBus frequency
6 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.
North County Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 1m
Cheapest Price
$139 (€114)
North County Transit frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to San Francisco
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Interactive science and art museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for hands-on exhibits and bayfront setting.
- Recommended
de Young Museum
Fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park known for American art, textiles, rotating exhibitions, and its panoramic observation tower.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
The famously crooked block lined with flowers and city views, one of San Francisco's most photographed streets.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Massive urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and broad walking space that rewards both short visits and full-day exploration.
- Must visit
Twin Peaks
High viewpoint with sweeping panoramic views over the city and bay, especially popular at sunset and on clear mornings.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian fishermen in San Francisco, usually filled with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish. It is one of the city’s signature dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco sourdough is famous for its tangy flavor and chewy crust, shaped by the city’s historic baking culture and local wild yeast tradition.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large burrito associated with the Mission District, typically packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and extras. It is a defining San Francisco street food.
Sotto Mare
North Beach favorite specializing in cioppino and classic seafood in a lively, casual setting.
La Taqueria
Iconic Mission District taqueria celebrated for Mission-style burritos and tacos with a no-frills local vibe.
The Buena Vista
Classic waterfront cafe famous for Irish Coffee, hearty breakfasts, and historic cable-car-adjacent charm.
United States Dollar
One of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, parking, and taxes add up quickly, though transit and casual food can help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or food trucks.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 18-22% is standard before or after tax depending on the screen shown. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshare: 10-15% or round up. Hotel staff: USD 2-5 for porters, a few USD nightly for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $70 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA is $71 (€58) ; 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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA is 13h 0m to travel the 436 miles (702 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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:25 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA, you can count on FlixBus, North County Transit for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Encinitas, CA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Encinitas, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 13h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Encinitas, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
- Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
- Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
- Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
- Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
- Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
- Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
- Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
- Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
- Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- 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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, 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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Encinitas, CA nor San Francisco, 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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA
Most Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 station pair, with some services arriving at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Use this guide to compare Encinitas, CA and San Francisco, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Encinitas
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
More options for your journey from Encinitas, CA to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Francisco, CA and Encinitas, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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