Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is faster, but driving allows for more flexibility and luggage space.

How long is the flight?

The flight time is typically around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

What is the best route to drive?

Interstate 5 is the most direct route between the two cities.

Amtrak offers the Coast Starlight, but it takes much longer than driving or flying.

Is LAX the only airport?

No, you can also fly into Burbank (BUR) or Long Beach (LGB) for easier access.

Redwood City

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

Redwood City to Los Angeles

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Redwood City to Los Angeles spans approximately 600 kilometers. You can fly from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to LAX in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, driving via Interstate 5 South takes roughly 6 to 7 hours depending on traffic. This route connects the San Francisco Bay Area to the Southern California metropolis. It is a major travel corridor for both business and tourism.

Total Distance: 600 km driving, 550 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from SFO to LAX is the fastest way to reach Los Angeles.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheaper if traveling with multiple passengers.

Compare Redwood City to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 15 minutes	6 hours 30 minutes
Avg Price	100 to 250 dollars	80 dollars in fuel
Operator	United Airlines, Alaska Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	SFO to LAX.	I-5 South through the Central Valley.
Tip	Book at least two weeks in advance to secure the best flight prices.	Stop in Kettleman City for a break; it has many food and charging options.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Avoid driving into Los Angeles during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM).
Airport Transit
Use the FlyAway bus from LAX to reach various parts of the city affordably.
Car Rental
If driving, consider renting a car at the airport for easier city navigation.
Weather
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between the coast and inland areas.
Booking
Use flight comparison sites to find the best deals on SFO-LAX routes.

Safety Tips

Driving
Stay alert on I-5, as it is a long, monotonous drive with heavy truck traffic.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bags secure in crowded tourist areas like Hollywood.
Navigation
Use GPS apps to navigate LA's complex freeway system.
Emergency
Keep a roadside emergency kit in your car if you choose to drive.