How to Get to Anaheim From San Diego [2025-2026 Guide]
Planning a trip to Disneyland or an event in Anaheim? If you’re starting in San Diego, there are several convenient ways to travel. Whether you prefer driving, taking a train, riding a bus, or flying into a nearby airport, this San Diego to Anaheim travel guide (2025-2026) covers the fastest, cheapest, and most comfortable routes.
🚗 Driving from San Diego to Anaheim
Driving is the most flexible way to get from San Diego to Anaheim. The distance is about 95 miles (153 km) via I-5 North, and the trip takes around 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
- Best for families or groups visiting Disneyland Resort or Anaheim Convention Center.
- Parking at Disneyland costs around $35 per day, so plan ahead.
- Weekday rush hours may add 30–45 minutes to your trip.
👉 Driving is the fastest way to Anaheim from San Diego if you avoid peak traffic times.
🚆 Train: Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is a popular and scenic option. Trains run from San Diego’s Santa Fe Depot (Downtown) to Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC).
- Travel time: ~2 hours.
- Ticket prices: $30–$45 one way.
- Amenities: Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, food service, and beautiful coastal views.
- From ARTIC, you can take a short Uber/Lyft or Anaheim Resort Transit (ART) shuttle to Disneyland.
👉 This is the best choice for those who want a stress-free, car-free trip from San Diego to Anaheim.
🚌 Bus from San Diego to Anaheim
Budget travelers can take a Greyhound or FlixBus directly from San Diego to Anaheim.
- Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Cost: $15–$25 one way.
- Departure: San Diego Downtown bus terminal.
- Arrival: Near Anaheim bus stations (you may need a rideshare to reach Disneyland).
👉 Taking the bus is the cheapest way to get from San Diego to Anaheim, but less flexible.
✈️ Flying from San Diego to Anaheim
There are no direct flights from San Diego to Anaheim since the cities are so close. However, if you’re combining your trip with other destinations, you could fly into:
- John Wayne Airport (SNA) – 13 miles from Anaheim.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – 34 miles away.
- Long Beach Airport (LGB) – 19 miles away.
👉 Flying is not recommended just for this trip, but it’s useful if you’re connecting from other U.S. cities.
🚖 Rideshare & Shuttles
- Uber/Lyft from San Diego to Anaheim costs $120–$180 one way.
- Private shuttles are available for larger groups or Disney packages.
👉 This is the most convenient option if you don’t want to worry about driving or parking.
✅ Summary: Best Ways to Get from San Diego to Anaheim
| Option | Travel Time | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Driving | 1 hr 40 min–2 hr | Gas + Parking ($35/day at Disneyland) | Families, flexibility |
| 🚆 Train (Amtrak) | ~2 hr | $30–$45 | Comfort, scenic trip |
| 🚌 Bus | 2.5–3 hr | $15–$25 | Budget travel |
| ✈️ Flight + Transfer | N/A | Varies | Long-distance combos |
| 🚖 Rideshare | 1 hr 40 min–2 hr | $120–$180 | Door-to-door ease |
🔎 Final Tips
- Best overall choice: Take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner for a stress-free ride.
- Cheapest way: Bus services like FlixBus or Greyhound.
- Most flexible: Driving your own car.
- Plan extra time if traveling during Disneyland peak season (summer and holidays).
❓ FAQs on Getting to Anaheim from San Diego
What is the fastest way to get to Anaheim from San Diego?
The fastest way is to drive via I-5 North, which takes around 1 hour 40 minutes without heavy traffic.
Is there a train from San Diego to Anaheim?
Yes, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner runs daily from San Diego to Anaheim in about 2 hours, offering comfort and scenic views.
How much is a bus ticket from San Diego to Anaheim?
Bus tickets with FlixBus or Greyhound cost between $15 and $25 one way, making it the cheapest travel option.
Does Anaheim have an airport?
No, Anaheim doesn’t have its own airport, but nearby airports include John Wayne Airport (SNA), Long Beach (LGB), and Los Angeles (LAX).