If you’re planning a road trip from Portland to San Francisco, there are plenty of sights to see and stops to make along the way. The drive is about 635 miles long, and it can take around 10 hours to get there if you go directly without making any stops. However, the drive can be much more enjoyable if you take your time to see some of the beautiful scenery that the West Coast has to offer.
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Portland to San Francisco Drive
The fastest way to drive from Portland to San Francisco is to take I-5 South, which is a direct route that will take you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. This route is around 634.6 miles (1021.2 km) long, and it can take around 10 hours and 3 minutes to get there if you drive straight through. However, if you want to take your time and see some of the sights along the way, it’s best to plan for a longer trip.
Portland to San Francisco: How far is Portland from San Francisco?
Portland is approximately 634.6 miles (1021.2 km) away from San Francisco. If you take I-5 South, it’s the most direct route, and it will take you about 10 hours and 3 minutes to get there.
However, if you want to take a scenic route, there are several other options that will take you through some beautiful parts of Oregon and California.
How far is Portland to San Francisco by plane?
The flight distance from Portland to San Francisco is approximately 551 miles (886.7 km), while the flight time from Portland to San Francisco is approximately 2 hours.
If you’re short on time or don’t want to drive, taking a flight can be a good option. There are several flights that depart from Portland International Airport (PDX) and arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), so be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
What is the time difference between Portland and San Francisco?
The fact that Portland and San Francisco are both in the Pacific Time Zone means that visitors can easily adjust to their new surroundings without having to worry about jet lag or time differences.
This is particularly beneficial for those who are traveling for business or who have a limited amount of time to explore the area. It also means that visitors can enjoy longer daylight hours during the summer months, which is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, the lack of a time difference can make planning and coordinating activities with locals or other travelers much easier, as there is no need to constantly calculate time zone differences. Overall, the lack of a time difference between Portland and San Francisco is just one of the many conveniences that make these two cities such popular destinations for travelers from around the world.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Portland
The cheapest way to get from Portland to San Francisco is to take a bus. There are several bus companies that operate in the area, including Greyhound, BoltBus, and Megabus. The bus ride can take around 16-20 hours, but it can be much cheaper than flying or renting a car.
Portland to San Francisco Drive – Rent A Car In Portland
If you want to rent a car in Portland, there are several rental car companies to choose from. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Alamo: starts at $67 per day
- Avis: starts at $67 per day
- Budget: starts at $61 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $67 per day
- Hertz: starts at $67 per day
- National: starts at $67 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $50-$60 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.25 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Portland to San Francisco – Driving Stops Along The Way
There are several driving stops you can make along the way from Portland to San Francisco. Here are some of the best:
Crater Lake National Park (Klamath Falls, OR)
Crater Lake National Park is a must-see attraction if you’re driving from Portland to San Francisco. This stunning park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, and it’s surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains. There are several hiking trails and scenic drives that you can take to
see the park’s stunning vistas, including the Rim Drive, which offers incredible views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Redwood National and State Parks (Del Norte and Humboldt Counties, CA)
The Redwood National and State Parks are located in northern California and are home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. The park features several hiking trails and scenic drives that will take you through the heart of the redwood forests. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these incredible trees up close and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Cannon Beach (Cannon Beach, OR)
Cannon Beach is a charming seaside town located on the northern Oregon coast. The town is home to a stunning stretch of beach that features a famous rock formation known as Haystack Rock. Take a stroll along the beach, explore the town’s quaint shops and restaurants, and soak in the laid-back coastal vibe of the area.
Bandon (Bandon, OR)
Bandon is a small town located on the southern Oregon coast, known for its beautiful beaches and unique rock formations. Take a walk along the beach and admire the stunning sea stacks and cliffs that dot the coastline. The town is also home to several art galleries and restaurants, making it a great place to stop for a meal or a souvenir.
Best Driving Route from Portland to San Francisco
The best driving route from Portland to San Francisco will depend on your interests and the amount of time you have. If you want to take a scenic route, consider taking Highway 101, which will take you along the coast of Oregon and California. This route will take you through several charming towns and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
If you’re short on time or want to take the most direct route, take I-5 South, which will take you through the heart of the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. This route is faster but still offers plenty of beautiful scenery and attractions to see along the way, including Crater Lake National Park and the Redwood National and State Parks.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the road trip from Portland to San Francisco is a beautiful and scenic journey with many options for stops along the way. Whether you choose to take the direct route on I-5 or a more scenic route through Oregon and California, there are many breathtaking sights to see and experiences to have. From Crater Lake National Park to the Redwood National and State Parks, the trip is full of natural wonders that should not be missed. If you have the time, it’s worth taking a few days to explore the area and make the most of your journey. Whether you’re driving, flying, or taking a bus, this trip promises to be a memorable experience.