DriveWindow route answer
How long is the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
The drive is typically 6.5 hours and covers 380 miles via California coast and US-101. Allow extra time when coastal rain or fog near lowlands affects the corridor.
Route facts
San Francisco → Los Angeles
- Distance
- 380 miles
- Typical drive
- 6.5 hours
- Planning baseline
- Midday
- Main weather risks
- coastal rain · fog near lowlands · wind near exposed water crossings
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Time and distance
Why the trip can take longer than the baseline
6.5 hours is a typical planning estimate for the 380 miles drive. It does not include fuel, charging, food, border, park-entry, or weather-related stops.
Build extra time into the plan when coastal rain reduces visibility or when fog near lowlands affects a comfortable driving speed.
What to check before leaving
Coastal fog, rain, and wind can vary across the California corridor. Key weather factors: coastal rain, fog near lowlands, wind near exposed water crossings.
- coastal rain
- fog near lowlands
- wind near exposed water crossings
Route planning answers
Common questions about this drive
Sources and methodology
How this answer is produced
Drive time and distance are planning baselines, not live traffic estimates. Website guidance combines route-specific research, representative corridor points, and official source links; the app completes the forecast for your date and departure time.
US National Weather Service Environment and Climate Change Canada Route weather methodology Data-source policy