Driving
Cannon Beach to San Francisco
Updated: 28 May 2026
The drive from Cannon Beach to San Francisco is a legendary 700-mile journey down the Pacific Coast. You will primarily follow US-101 South, which winds through the Oregon Coast, the Redwood National and State Parks, and the California wine country. This trip takes approximately 13 to 15 hours of driving time. It is best broken into two days to fully appreciate the coastal scenery.
Total Distance: 1,125 km driving distance; 950 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via US-101 is the most direct route, taking 13-14 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective for this long-distance trip.
Compare Cannon Beach to San Francisco Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
14 hours
Avg Price
$120-$180 in fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
US-101 S.
Take your time through the Redwoods; the road is winding.
Travel Tips
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PacingPlan for an overnight stop in Eureka or Crescent City.
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FuelGas up in larger towns; prices in remote coastal areas are high.
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TrafficAvoid entering San Francisco during weekday rush hours.
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NavigationUS-101 is well-marked, but keep a GPS for city navigation.
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WeatherExpect fog along the coast; keep headlights on.
Safety Tips
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Winding RoadsThe road is very curvy; take breaks to avoid driver fatigue.
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WildlifeWatch for elk and deer, especially in the Redwood forest sections.
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Cell ServiceExpect long stretches without signal in Northern California.
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EmergencyCarry extra water and snacks for the remote stretches.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train?No direct train exists; you would need to drive to Portland for Amtrak.
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How long is the drive?It takes about 13 to 15 hours of driving time.
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Are there tolls?The Golden Gate Bridge has a toll for southbound traffic.
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What is the best route?US-101 South is the most scenic and direct route.
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Can I fly?You can drive to Portland (PDX) and fly to San Francisco (SFO).
Quick Info
- From Cannon Beach, Oregon, United States
- To San Francisco, California, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May to October for the best weather and coastal visibility.
Things to Do in San Francisco
1
Redwood National Park
Walk among the tallest trees on Earth in Northern California.
2
Golden Gate Bridge
Drive across this iconic landmark upon entering San Francisco.
3
Fisherman's Wharf
Visit the famous waterfront area for seafood and views of Alcatraz.
4
Alcatraz Island
Take a ferry to the historic federal prison located in the bay.
Tags
Cannon Beach to San Francisco drive
US-101 South road trip
driving the Pacific Coast
fastest way to San Francisco
road trip Oregon to California
scenic drive to San Francisco
California travel guide
Pacific Coast Highway tips
